Living cost and expenses in Netherlands

Living costs and expenses for international students in the Netherlands are always a significant concern while planning to study abroad. The expenses can vary according to the city you live in, the college you choose, accommodation, etc. Compared to other western European locations, the cost of living in the Netherlands is relatively low.  

- The tuition fee in the Netherlands for European Union (EU) students is about 1800 to 4000 euros each year, while Netherlands university fees for international students are about 6000 to 20000 euros each year.  

- Fees for non-European Union/ non-European Economic Area students, the average tuition fee for bachelor's degree courses ranges from € 6,000 to € 15,000, and for a master's degree course ranges between € 8,000 and € 20,000. 

- The living expenses in the Netherlands are affordable compared to countries like the US, the UK, and some other European countries. In the Netherlands, an international student generally amounts to € 800 to € 900 per month.   

- Expenses may differ from big cities to small towns. On average, 400 to 500 euros is enough for accommodation, 150 to 200 euros for food, and keep aside 50 to 100 euros for other expenses.  

International students are eligible for some part-time jobs. International students can work in the university by assisting incoming students, the IT department, the science lab, etc. You can compensate for living expenses and fund your studies with part-time jobs. If you wish to pursue a Bachelor's or Master's degree in the Netherlands, thanks to its highly regarded academic institutions, extensive offerings of English-taught courses, and welcoming multicultural atmosphere, this Land of Tulips draws a sizable number of international students each year. 

Your monthly costs will cover lodging, food, transportation, books, clothing, and recreational activities. 800 to 1,200 EUR each month is what you'll need to pay for these costs. 

Cost of Food and Beverages in the Netherlands 


Students who live alone spend between 150–170 EUR per month on groceries and food. Some of the least expensive supermarkets are Lidl, Aldi, and Albert Heijn. Your lifestyle and the city you live in will determine how much money you spend. Shopping in bigger cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam should cost more than in smaller ones like Groningen or Eindhoven. You may get meals at reasonably priced eateries for between 10 and 20 euros if you'd rather eat out. 

The average cost of accommodations in the Netherlands 


In the Netherlands, one can rent a room for between 300 and 600 euros per month. Student housing is more reasonably priced, and some universities even provide on-campus housing. If you get in touch with your school after being accepted, they can help you find a room. Renting a single apartment or sharing a bigger apartment is another choice, although the costs are higher. 

Typical expenses based on the type of lodging: 

  • Studio apartment rent ranges from 500 to 1,000 euros per month. 
  • 400-700 EUR per month for two people sharing a rental flat 
  • 350 to 600 euros per month for student housing 


The cost of living in a different city in the Netherlands 


The following list of major Dutch student cities' typical housing costs: 


Transportation costs in the Netherlands 


The cost of transportation for international students in the Netherlands ranges from 35 to 70 EUR per month. Renting a bike, a standard mode of transportation in the nation will save you money; day rates begin at 10 EUR. Additionally, there are several affordable ways to purchase a used bike, which may be a wiser financial decision in the long run. 

Means of transportation 


For longer distances, trains are the main form of public transit in the Netherlands. Where there are long-distance bus routes, only a few additional train connections are required. Regional and local public transit is provided by buses, while certain municipalities also have metro and tram systems. Ferries are another option.