Cost Of Living In Netherlands In for International Students 2024

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Are you curious about the cost of living in the Netherlands? Whether you are considering moving there or already residing in the country, it’s natural to want to know how much it costs to live there.

The Netherlands is a popular destination for international students and professionals due to its high standard of living and excellent quality of life. However, it’s important to note that the cost of living in the Netherlands is lower than in some other European countries.

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For Indian students, the average cost of living in the Netherlands is approximately INR 86,000 (€ 952) per month, which is 2.5% lower than in Ireland. However, the cost of living may be higher or lower depending on the city and lifestyle you choose.

The average cost of living for international students in the Netherlands can vary depending on factors such as location and lifestyle. Accommodation is a significant expense, with shared apartments and student residences being more budget-friendly options.

Travelling can also be costly, but students can take advantage of discounts to keep expenses down. It’s essential to budget for essentials like food, utilities, and academic materials. Overall, the Netherlands is a friendly and secure destination for international students.

In this article, we’ll delve into the factors that affect the cost of living in the Netherlands, including some specific details for Indian students. Keep reading to learn more!

Get a quick overview of the blog’s key highlights and unlock valuable information about the cost of living in the Netherlands for Indian students.

Blog Highlights:

ParametersCosts
Avg Cost Of LivingINR 86,000 (€ 952)
Avg Rent In City CentreINR 1.2L (€ 1352)
Avg Transportation Cost Monthly PassINR 7,200 (€ 80)
Avg Utilities Cost INR 20,000 (€ 224)
Avg Tuition FeeINR 11L (€ 12,202)  to INR 30L (€ 33,280)
Top Universities-Delft University of Technology
-University of Amsterdam
-Utrecht University
Scholarships-NL Scholarship
-Utrecht Excellence Scholarship
Avg SalaryINR 2.8L (€ 3196)

Why Choose the Netherlands?

The Netherlands is a popular destination for international students due to its excellent education system, multicultural environment, and vibrant student life. 

The country’s higher education institutions offer a range of internationally recognised programmes taught in English, making it easy for international students to integrate and succeed in their studies.

Additionally, the Dutch education system is known for its innovative teaching methods, practical approach, and emphasis on critical thinking, which prepares students for the ever-changing job market.

 Some unique features of the Netherlands’ education system include:

  • A wide range of programmes are taught in English, including Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD degrees.
  • Relatively Affordable Education Compared to Other European Countries
  • A focus on interdisciplinary studies, allowing students to explore multiple fields of interest.
  • Strong ties between universities and industries, providing students with opportunities for internships and networking.
  • Interactive classroom discussions and projects that encourage critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
  • A welcoming and inclusive environment that celebrates diversity and encourages students to engage in extracurricular activities.

These features make the Netherlands an attractive destination for students seeking a high-quality education and a fulfilling experience.

Cost of living in Netherlands for International Students

Understanding the cost of living in a foreign country is very important, especially for international students who are on a tight budget. It’s essential to manage your finances and create a budget in advance to ensure that you have enough money to cover your expenses. 

To do this, you need to research the cost of living in the country, including accommodation, food, transportation, and other essential expenses. This will help you create a realistic budget and avoid financial difficulties. 

Below is a table of costs of living in the Netherlands that can help you plan your finances better. 

ParametersCosts
Avg Transportation Cost (Monthly Pass)INR 7,200 (€ 80)
Avg Basic Utilities CostINR 20,000 (€ 224)
Mobile Phone Monthly Plan CostsINR 2073 (€ 23)
Internet Plan CostsINR 3,605 (€ 40)
Avg Food CostINR 14,500 (€ 160)
Avg Rent In Netherlands In City CentreINR 1.2L (€ 1352)
Sourced By: Numbeo
Note: The costs mentioned in the table are approximate and may vary by location and currency exchange rates.

If you need further guidance and information on the cost of living in the Netherlands, download our app to get all your queries answered.

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City-wise Cost Of Living in Netherlands

When considering living in the Netherlands, it’s essential to understand that the cost of living can vary significantly between cities. 

Knowing the costs of different cities can help you decide where to live and plan your budget accordingly. 

For example, Amsterdam and Utrecht are generally more expensive than other cities, while cities like Groningen and Rotterdam have a lower cost of living. 

Here’s a table of the average costs of living in some popular Dutch cities:

CitiesMiscellaneous Avg Rent per month
TilburgINR 79,500 (€ 882)INR 1L (€ 1135)
RotterdamINR 81,400 (€ 903)INR 1.2L (€ 1414)
GroningenINR 83,300 (€ 925)INR 90,800 (€ 1008)
UtrechtINR 85,000 (€ 946)INR 1L (€ 1293)
AmsterdamINR 92,500 (€ 1026)INR 1.67L (€ 1857)
Sourced By: Numbeo
Note: The costs mentioned in the table are approximate and may vary by location and currency exchange rates.

Top Universities In the Netherlands

The Netherlands is home to some of the world’s top universities, with 6 of them ranking among the top 100 and 12 among the top 300. In recent years, more than 1,22,000 students have been enrolled in Netherlands universities, and this number is increasing yearly.

The average tuition fees of Netherlands Universities for International students are in the range of INR 11L (€ 12,202)  to INR 30L (€ 33,280). The universities in the Netherlands offer a wide range of courses in various fields, including:

  • Engineering
  • Law
  • Business
  • Humanities

Here is a table of the top universities in the Netherlands, along with their average tuition fees:

Top UniversitiesAvg Tuition Fees for UGAvg Tuition Fees for PG
Delft University of TechnologyINR 14.4L (€ 16,000) INR 19.4L (€ 21,500)
University of AmsterdamINR 12L (€ 13,420)INR 15.3L (€ 17,000) – INR 24.3L
Utrecht UniversityINR 11.3L (€ 12,598) – INR 24L (€ 26,686)INR 18L (€ 20,043) – INR 27.5L (€ 30,580)
Leiden UniversityINR 11.2L (€ 12500) – INR 23.4L (€ 20,000)INR 17.4L (€ 19,300) – INR 25.5L
University of GroningenINR 11.8L (€ 13,100) – INR 29L (€ 32,000)INR 17L (€ 18,700) – INR 29L (€ 32,000)
Note: The fees mentioned in the table are approximate and may vary by course.

Top Courses To Study In Netherlands

The Netherlands is home to some of the best universities in the world, offering a wide range of courses to choose from. Dutch universities offer more than 1,700 international study programmes taught in English, which is the second-highest number of English-taught courses in Europe. 

The most famous course in the Netherlands is undoubtedly the field of Law, Education, and Trade & Business Services, which attracts both Dutch and international students worldwide.

Centraal Bureau voor de Statistiek states that more than 10,200 international students are enrolled in Law, Education, and Trade & Business Services UG courses in the Netherlands. 

Apart from this, there are many other popular courses in the Netherlands, such as Engineering, Computer Science, and Medicine. 

Here is a list of the top 10 courses to study in the Netherlands:

  • Engineering
  • Business Administration
  • Computer Science
  • Medicine
  • Economics
  • Law
  • Psychology
  • Environmental Studies
  • Social Sciences
  • Arts and Humanities

International students highly seek these courses due to their quality education, innovative teaching methods, and excellent job opportunities.

Scholarships to Reduce Cost of Living in Netherlands

International students can apply for various scholarships to help reduce the cost of living in the Netherlands. 

These scholarships are offered by the Dutch government, universities, and private organisations. They can cover tuition fees, accommodation expenses, and other living costs. 

Scholarships can be highly competitive, and students are encouraged to apply early and provide all the necessary documentation. Some scholarships are based on academic merit, while others are awarded based on financial need, nationality, or other criteria. 

By applying for scholarships, international students can reduce their financial burden and focus on their studies and personal growth.

Here is the list of available scholarships for International students in the Netherlands:

ScholarshipsBenefitsType
NL Scholarship (for UG & PG)Give INR 4.5L (€ 5000) for the first year.Merit-based
Amsterdam Merit ScholarshipsCovers a part of the tuition feesMerit-based
Utrecht Excellence Scholarship (for PG)Covers Tuition FeeMerit-based
Leiden University Excellence Scholarships (for PG)INR 9L (€ 10,000) of the tuition feeINR 13.5L (€ 15,000) of the tuition feeMerit-based
University of Twente Scholarships (for PG)Give INR 2.7L (€ 3000) to INR 19.8L (€ 22,000) for the first yearMerit-based

Many other scholarships and financial aid options are available for international students in the Netherlands. It is essential to note that this is not an exhaustive list. 

Tips To Reduce Cost Of Living In Netherlands

The Cost of Living in the Netherlands can be expensive for Indian students, but there are ways to reduce your costs. By making smart choices and being mindful of your spending, you can save money while still enjoying your time in this beautiful country. 

Here are some tips to help you reduce your cost of living in the Netherlands:

  • Cook your meals at home instead of eating out 
  • Buy groceries in bulk and look for deals 
  • Use public transportation instead of taxis or renting a car 
  • Take advantage of student discounts for entertainment and travel 
  • Share accommodation with other students to reduce rent costs 
  • Look for part-time work to earn extra income 
  • Use free resources provided by your university, such as libraries and sports facilities 
  • Avoid unnecessary expenses, such as expensive clothing or gadgets 

By following these tips, international students can enjoy their time in the Netherlands without breaking the bank.

Conclusion

The Netherlands is an excellent destination for international students who want to experience a high-quality education system, a multicultural environment, and a vibrant student life. 

While the cost of living in the Netherlands may be lower than in some other European countries, it’s still essential to budget for essentials like accommodation, food, and transportation. 

At Leapscholar, we understand that studying abroad can be overwhelming, so we offer various services to help make the process easier for you. From application assistance to visa guidance and more, we are here to support you every step of the way. 

So, if you’re considering studying in the Netherlands, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’ll help you maximise your study abroad experience and ensure a safe, enjoyable, and affordable stay in the Netherlands.

And if you’re considering other options like the UK, USA and Australia, we’ve got you covered, too. Schedule a free consultation with our experts today for personalised guidance and advice.

Here are some related Articles:

Cost of Living in Canada
Cost of Living in the USA
Cost of Living in the UK
Cost of Living in Australia
Cost of living in Ireland

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Q. What are the living expenses in Netherlands?

    A. The cost of living in the Netherlands can vary depending on the city and lifestyle. On average, a single person may spend around €800-€1,200 per month on accommodation, food, transport, and other expenses. Students can expect to live comfortably in the Netherlands with a monthly budget of INR 86,000 (€952).

  • Q. Is Netherlands expensive for Indian students?

    A. The cost of living in the Netherlands for Indian students is relatively affordable compared to some other European countries. However, the expenses may still vary depending on the city and lifestyle chosen. On average, Indian students can expect to spend around INR 86,000 (€ 952) per month on living costs in the Netherlands.

  • Q. What is the Netherlands’ living cost per month?

    A. Netherlands’ living cost per month is INR 86,000 (€952). This amount can cover expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, and other basic necessities. However, the cost may vary depending on the location and lifestyle. 

  • Q. What is the cost of living in Netherlands for an Indian family?

    A. The cost of living for an Indian family in the Netherlands can vary depending on their lifestyle and location. However, with an average monthly budget of INR 3L (€ 3327), a family can comfortably afford basic necessities such as housing, food, transportation, and healthcare. 

  • Q. How much is the rent in the Netherlands per month?

    A. The cost of rent in the Netherlands can vary depending on the location and type of housing. On average, a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre can cost approximately INR 1.2L (€1,352) per month, whereas a similar apartment outside of the city centre can cost around INR 96,900 (€1,075) per month.

  • Q. Is the Netherlands a good option for Indian students to study?

    A. Yes, the Netherlands is a great option for Indian students to study. The country has a high standard of living, excellent quality of life, and a welcoming and inclusive environment. Additionally, the Dutch education system is known for its innovative teaching methods, practical approach, and emphasis on critical thinking, which prepares students for the ever-changing job market. 

  • Q. What are the top universities in the Netherlands where Indian students can pursue higher education?

    A. Some of the top universities in the Netherlands where Indian students can pursue higher education are:
    – Delft University of Technology
    – University of Amsterdam
    – Utrecht University
    – Leiden University
    – University of Groningen

    These universities offer a wide range of internationally recognised programs taught in English, making it easy for international students to integrate and succeed in their studies.

  • Q. What is the average annual salary in the Netherlands?

    A. The average annual salary in the Netherlands is approximately INR 2.8L (€ 3,196). It is worth noting that the actual average salary may vary depending on various factors such as industry, job type, and experience level.

  • Q. Which city is best for Indian students to live in the Netherlands?

    A. When it comes to choosing a city to live in the Netherlands as an Indian student, Amsterdam and Leiden are popular options. Amsterdam has a vibrant student life and plenty of opportunities for part-time work, but it can be expensive. On the other hand, Leiden is a smaller city with a more relaxed atmosphere and lower living costs.

  • Q. Do the Netherlands’s Universities offer scholarships to International students?

    A. Yes, the Netherlands’ Universities offer scholarships to international students. Some of the popular scholarships are the NL Scholarship, Leiden University Excellence Scholarship, Utrecht Excellence Scholarship and Amsterdam Merit Scholarship. These scholarships are designed to support outstanding students worldwide in pursuing their academic goals in the Netherlands. Each scholarship has its eligibility criteria and application process, so students should check the websites for more information.

  • Q. How can Indian students cut down the cost of living in Netherlands?

    A.  Indian students in the Netherlands can reduce their living expenses by opting for shared apartments and student residences rather than renting a private apartment. They can also take advantage of discounts on transportation and groceries and cook meals at home instead of eating out. Additionally, they can apply for scholarships and part-time jobs to support their finances. Finally, it’s essential to create a budget and stick to it to ensure that they spend their money wisely.

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Saket Kohli

An International Higher Ed professional with 7+ years of experience studying, working, and living across three geographies, currently on a mission to share his journey as an International Student.

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