-

Higher education in the Netherlands

Higher education in the Netherlands comprises two tracks:

1. 
   Universities of applied sciences (HBO). At the HBO, students can obtain a Bachelor’s degree. HBO usually lasts 4 years. To be able to register with an HBO school an HAVO or MBO (middle-level applied education) diploma is required.
   
2. 
   Research universities (WO).  The research universities provide students with the opportunity to obtain a Bachelor’s as well as a Master’s degree. To study at a research university a VWO diploma is required.  Higher education in the Netherlands is not free of charge. Tuition fees are approx. €1,700 per year. Books and study material are not included in these fees. Students from countries outside of the EU/EEA usually pay higher tuition fees.
   

As one of Europe’s leading research universities, Utrecht is renowned for its innovative interdisciplinary research and emphasis on high-quality education. These two factors make the university a particularly attractive place for (guest) researchers, (prospective) PhD-candidates and other visitors throughout the world.