Education in the Netherlands – schools, universities and Dutch courses

123 in NL › Education · Last checked: 24 October 2026

Children and language

From online courses to intensive classes – Dutch helps at work, in daily life and for integration.

Education is compulsory from age 5. Children can start at a Dutch school or an international school.

English-language primary and secondary education, often with a waiting list.

A cultural exchange of up to one year with a Dutch host family.

Research universities and universities of applied sciences offer many bachelor’s and master’s programmes in English.

PhD candidates are often employees of the university; researchers have their own permit route.

Check the scholarship database and your university’s exchange programmes before you apply.

Admission to a recognised institution comes first – then the residence permit.

Need a residence permit?Work, family, study or business – Yari Immigration Services handles every route. First 30 minutes free.

General information, not legal advice. Rules and amounts change – always check the official source before you decide.