If I take the intake next year, will I be able to learn the required language in time in France/Netherlands for a Master's?

Whether next year gives you enough time depends entirely on whether your target programme is taught in English or in the local language. If it is English-medium, you only need to clear an English test like IELTS, which is realistic within several months of focused prep. If it is taught in French or Dutch, you are looking at hundreds of hours of intensive study to reach the required level, so check the language of instruction before you plan your timeline.

Time Needed By Programme Type

What to Do Next

• Filter for English-taught programmes first, since both France and the Netherlands offer hundreds of them, sidestepping the language barrier for admission.
• Check your specific university's application deadline now, since non-EU applicants often face earlier cutoffs than EU applicants.
• Even in an English-taught programme, start basic A1 or A2 French or Dutch before you arrive to make housing and daily life easier.

My Advice

Confirm the language of instruction for every programme on your shortlist before you plan your prep schedule, since that single detail decides whether you need an English test or hundreds of hours of language classes. If you are set on a French or Dutch-taught programme, start structured lessons immediately and track your CEFR level every few months so you know early if you need to shift to an English-taught option instead.