01Bachelor's Admission
Bachelor's programmes generally require a secondary-school diploma that meets the academic level expected by the institution. The university may assess your school qualification, subjects studied, grades and whether your education provides sufficient preparation for the chosen course.
If you plan to Study in Netherlands at bachelor's level, check whether your school-leaving qualification is accepted directly or whether additional study or other conditions may be required.
Some selective programmes may have additional selection procedures, subject prerequisites or earlier application deadlines.
02Master's Admission
Master's programmes usually require a relevant bachelor's degree or an equivalent qualification. Universities assess the level of your previous degree, subject knowledge, academic performance and how closely your background matches the master's curriculum.
Depending on the programme, you may need particular undergraduate subjects, a minimum grade, professional experience, a research proposal, a portfolio or other supporting materials.
Some programmes may recommend a pre-master's route if your academic background does not fully meet their entry requirements. Availability and eligibility depend on the institution.
03Academic Qualifications
Your qualification must meet the institution's academic entry standard. Universities may consider the awarding institution, programme length, qualification level, subjects completed and overall academic record.
To Study in Netherlands, international applicants may need to provide information that helps the university evaluate their diploma against the required Dutch qualification level.
The university may consult credential-evaluation guidance or request additional academic information. Do not assume that a qualification will be accepted solely because it permits university entry in another country.
04English-Language Requirements
English-taught programmes normally require evidence that you can understand lectures, participate in discussions, complete written assignments and meet academic communication standards.
Accepted evidence varies by institution and programme. Some universities accept specific English tests, while others may consider particular previous studies or other forms of proof under their published policies.
Check the minimum overall score, any minimum score for individual skills and the validity period of your result before registering for a test.
05IELTS and TOEFL Requirements
IELTS Academic and TOEFL iBT are examples of English-language tests that may be accepted by Dutch institutions. The required test, minimum score and accepted test format depend on the course and university.
There is no universal IELTS or TOEFL score for every programme. Some courses set separate minimum scores for reading, writing, listening and speaking. Certain programmes may accept alternative tests or exemptions if their conditions are met.
Before booking a test, check the official requirements for your exact programme and make sure your result will be valid when the institution evaluates your application.
06Transcripts and Certificates
Universities commonly ask applicants to provide academic transcripts and certificates showing their previous studies. Depending on your qualifications and the application stage, you may need final certificates, marksheets, provisional documents or certified copies.
Documents that are not in an accepted language may need an official translation. The university may also specify rules for certification, file formats or submitting documents directly from your school or university.
Prepare clear, readable copies and ensure that your name and academic details are consistent across your application documents.
07Programme-Specific Prerequisites
Some courses have additional entry conditions beyond a general academic qualification. Engineering and science programmes may require particular mathematics or science subjects, while art and design courses may request a portfolio.
Research-based programmes may ask for relevant research experience, a thesis, a proposal or evidence of subject expertise. Business programmes may have their own requirements for prior study or work experience.
Review the course page carefully so you can identify extra assessments, interviews, portfolios or subject prerequisites before submitting your application.
Where to Verify Your Eligibility
Start with the university's official programme page and admissions office. These are the most relevant sources for current course-specific entry requirements.
You can also use the official Study in NL website to explore programmes and general study information.
For application procedures, check Studielink where applicable, while remembering that some institutions require extra steps through their own application portals.
Entry Requirements Checklist
Before applying to Study in Netherlands programmes, use this checklist to organise your eligibility documents and confirm what your chosen university requires.
Confirm the qualification required for your chosen degree.
Review academic grades and subject prerequisites.
Check the accepted English-language tests.
Verify IELTS, TOEFL or alternative score requirements.
Prepare transcripts and completed certificates.
Arrange translations or certified copies if requested.
Check for interviews, portfolios or other assessments.
Confirm the application deadline with the institution.
Check Your Course Requirements Before Applying
Every university and programme may have different eligibility criteria. Verify your academic qualification, English-language evidence and supporting documents directly with the institution before submitting your application.
Explore Official Study InformationVisit Studielink
This guide provides general information, not a guarantee of admission. Requirements can change, and the university's current official programme page takes priority.