Intakes for Masters in Netherlands: Types, Timelines, Suitability & More

Did you know that 8 Dutch Universities rank among the top 200 in the QS World University Rankings 2026? That’s a clear sign of the Netherlands’ academic excellence. When it comes to pursuing a Master's degree, timing plays a significant role. It is not just about picking a course and applying on a whim. You need proper planning! Therefore, understanding the intakes becomes your first major step.

In the Netherlands, Universities don’t accept applications year-round. Instead, they follow specific intake cycles; some intakes offer a full range of courses, while others may have limited program availability. That’s why it’s so important to check whether your preferred program is available in a particular intake before you start the application process.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the intakes for Masters in Netherlands, their timelines, and which intake might suit you best. So, if you’re ready to take the first step toward your academic journey in the Netherlands, let’s dive right in!

Table of Content

1. Popular Intakes for Masters in Netherlands
2. Timeline for Intakes in Netherlands for Masters
3. Intakes for Masters in Netherlands at Top Universities
4. How to Choose a Suitable Intake for Masters in Netherlands?
5. Benefits of Choosing September Intake for Masters in Netherlands
6. Application Process for all Academic Intakes in Netherlands
7. FAQs

Popular Intakes for Masters in Netherlands

Dutch Universities generally offer two major intakes for international students: Fall and Spring. Each intake comes with its own advantages and course availability. To help you make an informed decision, let’s take a closer look at what both intakes have to offer.

✅ Major Intake for Masters in Netherlands

September intake, also known as the Fall intake, is the major and most popular intake for international students. This is when most Top-Ranked Universities open admissions for a wide range of Master’s programs, giving you plenty of options to choose from. This leads to a higher chance of receiving scholarships to support your studies. Applications for the September intake usually open around December and close by April.

✅ Minor Intake for Masters in Netherlands

February intake, also known as the Spring intake, is the smaller of the two. Fewer Universities in Netherlands participate in this session, and only limited programs are available. However, it’s a great option if your desired course is offered and you don’t want to wait for the next academic year. For this intake, you should aim to submit your application by September of the previous year.

Now that you’re familiar with the intakes offered for Master’s programs in the Netherlands, the next step is planning your application timeline wisely. Let’s explore it in detail in the section ahead.

Timeline for Intakes in Netherlands for Masters

It doesn’t matter whether you’re going for the September intake or planning to start in February; what really makes the difference is how well you plan things out. If you follow the timeline and tick off each step on time, your chances of getting into your dream University in the Netherlands go way up.

To make your planning easier, we’ve laid out everything you need to do, month by month, for both intakes. So, grab your calendar and start mapping out your application process the smart way.

Now that you have a clear idea of the overall timeline, it’s important to note that each University in the Netherlands follows its own set of deadlines for every intake. To help you plan even better, let’s check the Top Universities offering Master’s Programs in the Netherlands.

Intakes for Masters in Netherlands at Top Universities

While most Universities in the Netherlands offer two main intakes, September and February, some institutions may also have rolling intakes, or alternate start dates for specific courses. However, these are relatively rare and usually apply to niche or executive programs.

To give you a clearer picture, here’s a quick table showing the intake availability at top Universities in the Netherlands for Master’s programs.

University	September Intake	February Intake
Delft University of Technology (TU Delft)
University of Amsterdam (UvA)
Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e)
Leiden University
Utrecht University
Erasmus University Rotterdam
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam)
Wageningen University & Research
University of Groningen
University of Twente, Enschede
Radboud University

Now that you have a better understanding of the intakes offered for Master’s programs in the Netherlands, you might still be wondering which intake is the right fit for you. Don’t worry, the answer to that is just ahead.

How to Choose a Suitable Intake for Masters in Netherlands?

Both September and February intakes in the Netherlands come with their own advantages, but the right one for you depends on various factors. Here are a few smart factors to consider when deciding.

1. Check University Calendars: Start by reviewing the academic calendars of your shortlisted Universities. See which intake fits better with your personal and academic timeline.
2. Think Ahead: Choose an intake that aligns with your long-term goals, whether it's to graduate sooner, start internships early, or sync with job markets.
3. Match your Program: Make sure your preferred course or specialization is available in that intake. Go through the curriculum, teaching approach, and faculty expertise.
4. Plan Your Budget: Look into tuition fees, living expenses, and scholarship options specific to each intake so you can make a financially sound decision.
5. Stay Open & Flexible: Sometimes your first-choice intake or course may not be available. Keep a backup plan ready and be open to alternative options without compromising on quality.

While we’ve just covered how to choose the right intake, it’s also worth highlighting why the September intake stands out for many students. Let’s explore the key benefits of opting for the September intake in the next section.

Benefits of Choosing September Intake for Masters in Netherlands

If you're aiming for a smooth and rewarding start to your study journey in the Netherlands, the September intake is your best bet. Here's why.

1. More Course Options

Most Dutch Universities offer a wide variety of Master’s programs during this intake, giving you the flexibility to choose the one that suits your goals.

2. Higher Chances of Getting In

Since more seats are available during this intake, your chances of getting into your preferred course are much better.

3. Better Scholarship Opportunities

Most Need-Based and Merit-Based Scholarships are released for the September intake, giving you a better shot at reducing the cost.

4. Internships & Job Opportunities

Many companies align their internship and recruitment drives with this intake, so you'll be entering the market at the right time.

5. A Complete Campus Experience

Since it’s the main intake, Universities organise Orientations, Networking Events, and Student Activities that help you settle in and connect easily.

Though the September intake has its own set of advantages, the February intake comes with its own perks. Since fewer students apply during this time, there’s less competition and more flexibility, perfect if you need extra time to plan or happen to miss the Fall deadline. The smaller class sizes also mean more personalised attention and a better learning experience.

With that in mind, let’s now move ahead and explore the application process for Academic Intakes in Netherlands for Masters.

Application Process for all Academic Intakes in Netherlands

Earlier, we walked you through the month-by-month timeline for each intake to help you plan better. When it comes to the application process, the good news is that it remains more or less the same, regardless of whether you’re applying for the September or February intake. To make things simpler, we’ve outlined the step-by-step process below, so you know exactly what to expect.

Step 1: Check Entry Requirements & Deadlines

Visit the official websites of your shortlisted Universities to review the eligibility criteria, language requirements, and intake-specific deadlines.

Step 2: Create an Online Application

Most Universities require you to apply through their official online student portals. Some programs may also need you to register via Studielink, the centralized application system in the Netherlands.

Step 3: Upload the Required Documents

While applying, make sure to upload all necessary documents such as:

• Academic Transcripts
• English Language Proficiency Test Scores (IELTS/TOEFL/Duolingo)
• Statement of Purpose or Motivation Letter (If Required)
• Resume/CV
• Valid Passport Copy
• Letters of Recommendation

Step 4: Track Your Application

Some Universities also use platforms like OSIRIS for application tracking. Make sure you save your login credentials and check for updates regularly.

Step 5: Apply for Scholarships

If you're planning to apply for University scholarships, you can usually do so through the same portal or by submitting a separate form as instructed. Once your application is submitted, keep an eye on your email and the University portal for interview invites or admission decisions.

FAQs

1. Can I stay in the Netherlands after my Masters if I don’t get a job right away?

Yes, you can. After completing your Masters, you’re eligible to apply for the Orientation Year Visa (zoekjaar). This one-year stay-back option allows you to live in the Netherlands and search for a job without the need for an employer-sponsored work permit during that time.

2. Is Accommodation Guaranteed for International Students Pursuing Masters in Netherlands?

Not always. While some Universities do offer reserved housing options for first-year international students, it’s not guaranteed, especially in popular student cities like Amsterdam or Rotterdam. It’s best to apply for housing as early as possible, as options tend to fill quickly.

3. Can I Work Part-Time during my studies, regardless of the intake I choose?

Yes, whether you begin in September or February intake, you’re allowed to work up to 16 hours per week during the academic term. During scheduled holidays, like summer or winter breaks, you can work full-time, provided you have the necessary work authorization.

4. Are Scholarships Available for International Students applying for the February Intake?

Yes, several Dutch Universities offer scholarships options even for the February (Spring) intake. However, these are often limited in number and may have earlier deadlines, so make sure you check the University’s scholarship section well in advance.

5. Is the Netherlands a Safe Place to Study for International Students?

Absolutely. The Netherlands consistently ranks as one of the safest countries in Europe. Dutch cities are student-friendly, and most Universities have dedicated support services to help you with everything from safety to cultural adjustment.