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Study and Work in the Netherlands - Best Courses & Career Paths

Jun 20, 2025

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When you study in Netherlands, it's not just about academics, it's a chance to embark on a journey filled with exciting career opportunities. Picture yourself gaining practical experience through internships and networking with industry leaders in innovation hubs. The Netherlands offers a globalised economy with opportunities in sectors like tech, sustainability, and healthcare, all looking for fresh talent. With world-renowned universities focused on critical thinking, you'll graduate prepared to succeed in a dynamic job market. The welcoming atmosphere and strong international student community make it easier to settle in and build professional connections.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about studying and working in the Netherlands as an international student, including the top courses and universities, career paths, and how to make the most of your experience.

Table of Content

  1. Best Universities to Study in Netherlands
  2. Top Courses to Study in Netherlands
  3. Cost of Education in Netherlands
  4. Best Sectors and Job Opportunities in Netherlands for International Students
  5. Tips to Find the Best Jobs in Netherlands After Studies
  6. Find the Right Opportunities in Netherlands with KC Overseas
  7. FAQs

Best Universities to Study in Netherlands

One of the most interesting facts about the Netherlands is that it adopted the bachelor’s and master’s degree system quite early, leading to a wide range of course options. In the 2023–24 academic year, approximately 128,000 international students were enrolled in degree programs at publicly funded higher education institutions - a 5.4% increase from the previous year. With such growing interest, it’s no surprise that many global aspirants aim to study at some of the best universities in Netherlands. So, let’s explore a few of the most popular ones below.

  • University of Twente
  • Radboud University
  • Wittenborg University of Applied Sciences
  • TIO University of Applied Sciences

Now a question might arise, what courses do these universities offer? Well, for that you need to roll down your eyes and read further.

Suggested : List of Top Universities in Netherlands for International Students

Top Courses to Study in Netherlands

As we all know Netherlands is one of the best countries to study abroad and is a storehouse of umpteen course options, however, to help you get a better understanding we have given some of the popular ones below.

Popular Course Options for Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree
Electrical & Electronic EngineeringArtificial Intelligence
Industrial Engineering & ManagementBiology
Mechanical EngineeringBusiness Administration
Automotive EngineeringEconomics
Civil EngineeringInternational Tourism Management
Business and ManagementInternational Hospitality Management
Sports Business ManagementFinance and Accounting
Business EconomicsLLM
Logistics ManagementComputer Science

Now that you know the top courses in Netherlands, let us discuss the cost of education in Netherlands.

Cost of Education in Netherlands

Tuition fees in the Netherlands vary based on the program and university. For a bachelor’s degree, you can expect to pay between €9,000 and €15,000 per year, while for a Masters in Netherlands, fees range from €12,000 to €23,000 annually. Living expenses, including housing, food, and transport, typically come to around €15,000 per year, depending on your lifestyle and city of residence.

Now that you have an idea of the cost of education in Netherlands, let’s explore the career prospects that await you after your studies.

Best Sectors and Job Opportunities in Netherlands for International Students

The Netherlands, with its vibrant economy, innovative spirit, and welcoming atmosphere, offers top-notch education and promising career prospects. But what specific opportunities await after graduation? Let us explore the exciting career prospects post-study, helping you chart your future course.

1. Tech & Engineering

Tech and engineering study in Netherlands for international students brings a plethora of career opportunities. The country is a global leader in technology and innovation hosting renowned companies like Philips, ASML, and Booking.com. Thus, skilled professionals in software development, data science, cybersecurity, and engineering, especially renewable energy and water management are in high demand.

Tentative Salary Values: €50,000 - €70,000

To give you a clearer picture, here are some top tech and engineering roles along with their average salaries in the Netherlands:

Job TitleIndicative Average Annual Salary (€)
Data Scientist€50,000 – €70,000
Cybersecurity Analyst€42,000 – €60,000
Software Developer€45,000 – €65,000

2. Finance and Banking

Amsterdam, the financial capital of Netherlands, offers promising prospects for students interested in finance and banking. With a strong presence of international banks, financial institutions, and fintech startups, there are opportunities in areas such as investment banking, risk management, financial analysis, and fintech innovation.

Tentative Salary Values: €50,000 - €80,000

There are numerous jobs in Netherlands for international students in the finance sector. Here are some top roles along with their average annual salary ranges:

Job TitleIndicative Average Annual Salary (€)
Investment Banker€55,000 - €80,000
Financial Analyst€49,000 - €61,000
Risk Manager€50,000 – €72,000

3. Logistics and Supply Chain Management

As a gateway to Europe, Netherlands is one of the most advanced logistics and supply chain networks globally. International students with expertise in logistics management, supply chain optimization, and transportation can find rewarding careers in companies like DHL, FedEx, and Maersk, which have significant operations in the country.

Tentative Salary Values: €60,000 - €90,000

Below is a table covering a few top job roles in this sector along with their indicative average annual salaries:

Job RoleIndicative Average Annual Salary (€)
Supply Chain Analyst€40,000 - €55,000
Logistics Coordinator€30,000 - €45,000
Operations Manager€50,000 - €75,000

4. International Law and Diplomacy

The Netherlands is home to numerous international organizations, including the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court, making it an ideal destination for students interested in law and diplomacy. Careers in international law, human rights advocacy, diplomatic service, and international arbitration are available for those with relevant qualifications and language skills.

Tentative Salary Values - €50,000 - €88,000

Following is a table covering some of the top job roles in this field along with their indicative average annual salaries:

Job RoleIndicative Average Annual Salary (€)
International Lawyer €84,000 – €90,000
Legal Advisor€50,000 – €75,000
Compliance Officer €48,000 – €70,000

5. Consulting and Management

Consulting firms like McKinsey, Boston Consulting Group, and Deloitte have a significant presence in the Netherlands, offering opportunities for students interested in management consulting, strategy, and business analysis. Additionally, multinational corporations across various industries seek talented individuals for roles in project management, operations, and business development.

Tentative Salary Values - €50,000 - €65,000

The Netherlands provides numerous career opportunities in management and consulting. Below are some of the key roles along with their indicative average annual salaries:

Job RoleIndicative Average Annual Salary (€)
Management Consultant€50,000 – €65,000
Business Analyst€45,000 – €60,000
Project Manager€53,000 – €63,000

6. Creative Industries

The country is known for its vibrant creative picture, encompassing advertising, design, fashion, and media. International students with talents in graphic design, digital marketing, fashion design, and filmmaking can find opportunities in creative agencies, fashion houses, media companies, and design studios throughout the Netherlands.

Tentative Salary Values - €60,000 - €90,000

The Netherlands offers a range of career paths for creative professionals. Below are a few prominent roles along with their indicative average annual salaries:

Job RoleIndicative Average Annual Salary (€)
Digital Marketing Specialist€40,000 - €60,000
Graphic Designer€30,000 - €45,000
Fashion Designer€30,000 - €45,000

Tips to Find the Best Jobs in Netherlands After Studies

Although the Netherlands offers varied opportunities for international graduates, knowing how to navigate the job market and find roles that match your skills can be challenging. With the right approach, you can land a rewarding position that leverages your unique background. Here's how you can do that:

  • Start early – Begin your job search 3-6 months before graduation to explore options while still eligible for the "orientation year" visa.
  • Use university resources – Take advantage of career services, job fairs, and alumni networks designed to help international students connect with potential employers.
  • Optimize your LinkedIn profile – Create a strong presence in both English and Dutch, as many Dutch recruiters actively use this platform to find candidates.
  • Network strategically – Attend industry meetups and join professional associations, as Dutch business culture values personal connections and many jobs are filled through referrals.

Find the Right Opportunities in Netherlands with KC Overseas

The Netherlands combines quality education with excellent post-study prospects, making it a smart choice for international students. From in-demand courses to promising career opportunities, it offers a well-rounded study abroad experience.

At KC Overseas, we help you make the most of these opportunities, from choosing the right course to navigating applications and visa processes. Connect with us to begin your journey to study and work in the Netherlands.

FAQs

Q1. What are the major intakes for studying in the Netherlands?

The primary intake in the Netherlands is the September (Fall) intake, which offers the widest range of programs. Some universities also offer a February (Spring) intake, but the course options may be fewer. It's important to check individual university deadlines and apply early to secure your spot.

Q2. Can I stay in the Netherlands after graduation to look for a job?

Absolutely, the Dutch government offers a one-year “Orientation Year” residence permit for international graduates. This allows you to stay in the Netherlands and search for employment related to your field of study. It’s a great opportunity to explore job markets, attend interviews, and secure a long-term role.

Q3. Do I need to know Dutch to get a job in the Netherlands after graduation?

While many international companies operate in English, knowing Dutch is a definite plus, especially if you're applying to local firms or client-facing roles. Some job postings are in Dutch, so learning the language (even at a basic level) can widen your job options and help you integrate better into the workplace.

Q4. Can I work while studying in the Netherlands as an international student?

Yes, international students can work part-time up to 16 hours a week during classes and full-time in the summer. Non-EU/EEA students will need a work permit.

Q5. How can I get permanent residency after completing my studies in the Netherlands?

To get permanent residency in the Netherlands after studying, you generally need to live in the country for at least 5 years on a valid residence permit, such as a work visa, and meet integration requirements like language proficiency.

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