Are you looking for cheap nursing schools in Netherlands to attend, then you are just on on the right post. Nursing is a noble and rewarding profession that involves caring for the health and well-being of patients. Nurses play a vital role in the healthcare system, as they provide direct and indirect care, education, advocacy, and research. Nursing is also a diverse and dynamic field that offers many opportunities for specialization, career advancement, and personal growth.
If you are interested in pursuing a nursing career, you might want to consider studying in the Netherlands. The Netherlands is a small but prosperous country in Western Europe, known for its high quality of life, social welfare, cultural diversity, and innovation. The Netherlands has a well-developed and internationally recognized healthcare system, which ranks among the best in the world. The Netherlands also has a strong tradition of nursing education and research, which dates back to the 19th century.
In this blog post, we will look at some of the benefits of studying nursing in the Netherlands, as well as some of the requirements and costs involved. We will also introduce you to the top 10 cheap nursing schools in the Netherlands for international students, where you can get a high-quality and affordable nursing education.
Is Netherlands good for nursing?
The Netherlands is a great place to study nursing for several reasons. Here are some of the advantages of choosing the Netherlands as your nursing destination:
- High standards of education and accreditation: The nursing programs in the Netherlands are accredited by the Dutch-Flemish Accreditation Organization (NVAO), which ensures that they meet the national and international standards of quality and relevance. The nursing programs are also aligned with the European Qualifications Framework (EQF), which facilitates the recognition and transfer of credits across the European Union. The nursing programs are also recognized by the International Council of Nurses (ICN), which is the global voice of nursing.
- Practical and competency-based learning: The nursing programs in the Netherlands follow a practical and competency-based approach, which means that you will learn by doing and applying your knowledge and skills in real-life situations. You will have ample opportunities to gain hands-on experience in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, community health centers, and home care. You will also work with diverse and multicultural patients and professionals, which will enhance your intercultural and communication skills.
- English-taught programs: The nursing programs in the Netherlands are taught in English, which is the lingua franca of the healthcare sector. This means that you will not have to learn Dutch to study nursing in the Netherlands, although it is advisable to learn some basic Dutch for everyday life and social interaction. Studying in English will also improve your language proficiency and prepare you for the international job market.
- Affordable tuition fees and living costs: The nursing programs in the Netherlands are relatively cheap compared to other European countries, especially for students from the European Economic Area (EEA). The tuition fees for EEA students range from 2,168 to 2,789 euros per year, depending on the program and institution. The tuition fees for non-EEA students are higher, but still reasonable, ranging from 7,500 to 12,000 euros per year. The living costs in the Netherlands are also moderate, averaging around 800 to 1,200 euros per month, depending on your lifestyle and location.
How Many years is nursing school in Netherlands?
The nursing school in the Netherlands typically lasts four years, leading to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) degree. The BScN degree is equivalent to level 6 of the EQF and qualifies you to work as a registered nurse (RN) in the Netherlands and other EU countries. The BScN degree also enables you to pursue further education, such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MScN) or a PhD in Nursing.
The BScN program consists of 240 European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) credits, which are divided into 60 credits per year. The program is structured into two phases: the propaedeutic phase and the main phase. The propaedeutic phase covers the first year of the program and provides you with the basic knowledge and skills of nursing. The main phase covers the remaining three years of the program and allows you to specialize in a specific field of nursing, such as acute care, mental health, gerontology, community health, or pediatrics.
The BScN program combines theoretical and practical learning, with a balance of 50% theory and 50% practice. The theoretical learning takes place in the classroom, where you will study subjects such as anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, psychology, sociology, ethics, law, research, and management. The practical learning takes place in the clinical setting, where you will apply your knowledge and skills in real-life situations under the supervision of a mentor. You will also have to complete a final project and a thesis in the last year of the program.
How much does it cost to study nursing in Netherlands?
The cost of studying nursing in the Netherlands depends on several factors, such as your nationality, the program, the institution, and the location. Here are some of the main costs that you should consider when planning your budget:
- Tuition fees: The tuition fees for nursing programs in the Netherlands vary depending on your nationality and the institution. As mentioned earlier, the tuition fees for EEA students range from 2,168 to 2,789 euros per year, while the tuition fees for non-EEA students range from 7,500 to 12,000 euros per year. Some institutions may offer scholarships or discounts for international students, so it is advisable to check their websites for more information.
- Living costs: The living costs in the Netherlands include expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, health insurance, books, and personal expenses. The living costs in the Netherlands are moderate compared to other European countries, averaging around 800 to 1,200 euros per month. However, the living costs may vary depending on your lifestyle and location, as some cities are more expensive than others. For example, Amsterdam is the most expensive city in the Netherlands, with an average monthly cost of 1,400 euros, while Groningen is the cheapest city, with an average monthly cost of 800 euros.
- Visa and residence permit fees: If you are a non-EEA student, you will need a visa and a residence permit to study nursing in the Netherlands. The visa fee is 174 euros and the residence permit fee is 192 euros. You will also need to prove that you have sufficient financial means to support yourself during your stay, which is 10,800 euros per year. You can prove your financial means by showing a bank statement, a scholarship letter, or a sponsor letter.
Top 10 cheap nursing schools in Netherlands for international students
Here are the top 10 cheap nursing schools in the Netherlands for international students, based on their tuition fees, accreditations, rankings, and programs:
1. Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences
Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences (RUAS) is a public university of applied sciences located in Rotterdam, the second-largest city in the Netherlands. RUAS offers a BScN program in English, which is accredited by the NVAO and the ICN. The program covers topics such as nursing theory, research, ethics, leadership, and interprofessional collaboration. The program also includes practical training in various healthcare settings in Rotterdam and abroad. The tuition fee for the BScN program is 2,168 euros per year for EEA students and 7,500 euros per year for non-EEA students. RUAS is ranked 51st in the Netherlands and 801-1000 in the world by the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2022.
2. Inholland University of Applied Sciences
Inholland University of Applied Sciences (Inholland) is a public university of applied sciences with campuses in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Haarlem, Alkmaar, Delft, and Diemen. Inholland offers a BScN program in English, which is accredited by the NVAO and the ICN. The program focuses on the development of professional, personal, and intercultural competencies of nursing students. The program also provides opportunities for international exchange and internship in various countries. The tuition fee for the BScN program is 2,168 euros per year for EEA students and 7,500 euros per year for non-EEA students. Inholland is ranked 54th in the Netherlands and 1001+ in the world by the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2022.
3. Windesheim University of Applied Sciences
Windesheim University of Applied Sciences (Windesheim) is a public university of applied sciences located in Zwolle, the capital of the province of Overijssel. Windesheim offers a BScN program in English, which is accredited by the NVAO and the ICN. The program aims to prepare nursing students for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century healthcare system. The program also emphasizes the importance of evidence-based practice, innovation, and entrepreneurship. The tuition fee for the BScN program is 2,168 euros per year for EEA students and 7,500 euros per year for non-EEA students. Windesheim is ranked 56th in the Netherlands and 1001+ in the world by the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2022.
4. Hanze University of Applied Sciences
Hanze University of Applied Sciences (Hanze) is a public university of applied sciences located in Groningen, the largest city in the north of the Netherlands. Hanze offers a BScN program in English, which is accredited by the NVAO and the ICN. The program follows a problem-based learning approach, which encourages nursing students to work in small groups and solve real-life cases. The program also offers a variety of electives and minors, such as global health, palliative care, and health promotion. The tuition fee for the BScN program is 2,168 euros per year for EEA students and 7,500 euros per year for non-EEA students. Hanze is ranked 58th in the Netherlands and 1001+ in the world by the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2022.
5. NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences
NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences (NHL Stenden) is a public university of applied sciences with campuses in Leeuwarden, Emmen, Meppel, and Groningen. NHL Stenden offers a BScN program in English, which is accredited by the NVAO and the ICN. The program adopts a design-based learning approach, which involves nursing students in co-creating solutions for complex healthcare problems. The program also integrates international and intercultural perspectives, as well as social and ethical responsibility. The tuition fee for the BScN program is 2,168 euros per year for EEA students and 7,500 euros per year for non-EEA students. NHL Stenden is ranked 60th in the Netherlands and 1001+ in the world by the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2022.
6. Fontys University of Applied Sciences
Fontys University of Applied Sciences (Fontys) is a public university of applied sciences with campuses in Eindhoven, Tilburg, Venlo, and Sittard. Fontys offers a BScN program in English, which is accredited by the NVAO and the ICN. The program is based on the concept of person-centered care, which puts the patient at the center of the nursing process. The program also fosters the development of critical thinking, communication, and collaboration skills among nursing students. The tuition fee for the BScN program is 2,168 euros per year for EEA students and 7,500 euros per year for non-EEA students. Fontys is ranked 61st in the Netherlands and 1001+ in the world by the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2022.
7. Saxion University of Applied Sciences
Saxion University of Applied Sciences (Saxion) is a public university of applied sciences with campuses in Enschede, Deventer, and Apeldoorn. Saxion offers a BScN program in English, which is accredited by the NVAO and the ICN. The program is designed to prepare nursing students for the changing and complex healthcare environment. The program also incorporates the principles of sustainability, diversity, and digitalization. The tuition fee for the BScN program is 2,168 euros per year for EEA students and 7,500 euros per year for non-EEA students. Saxion is ranked 62nd in the Netherlands and 1001+ in the world by the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2022.
8. Avans University of Applied Sciences
Avans University of Applied Sciences (Avans) is a public university of applied sciences with campuses in Breda, Tilburg, Den Bosch, and Roosendaal. Avans offers a BScN program in English, which is accredited by the NVAO and the ICN. The program is structured around four themes: health, care, professional, and international. The program also emphasizes the importance of research, innovation, and entrepreneurship in nursing. The tuition fee for the BScN program is 2,168 euros per year for EEA students and 7,500 euros per year for non-EEA students. Avans is ranked 63rd in the Netherlands and 1001+ in the world by the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2022.
9. HAN University of Applied Sciences
HAN University of Applied Sciences (HAN) is a public university of applied sciences with campuses in Arnhem and Nijmegen. HAN offers a BScN program in English, which is accredited by the NVAO and the ICN. The program is based on the concept of evidence-based practice, which involves using the best available evidence to inform nursing decisions. The program also offers a range of specializations, such as acute care, chronic care, mental health, and community health. The tuition fee for the BScN program is 2,168 euros per year for EEA students and 7,500 euros per year for non-EEA students. HAN is ranked 64th in the Netherlands and 1001+ in the world by the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2022.
10. The Hague University of Applied Sciences
The Hague University of Applied Sciences (THUAS) is a public university of applied sciences located in The Hague, the seat of the Dutch government and the International Court of Justice. THUAS offers a BScN program in English, which is accredited by the NVAO and the ICN. The program is focused on the development of professional, personal, and intercultural competencies of nursing students. The program also provides opportunities for international exchange and internship in various countries. The tuition fee for the BScN program is 2,789 euros per year for EEA students and 9,500 euros per year for non-EEA students. THUAS is ranked 65th in the Netherlands and 1001+ in the world by the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2022.
How to Become a Nurse in Netherlands
To become a nurse in the Netherlands, you will need to meet the following requirements:
- Complete a BScN program: You will need to complete a four-year BScN program at an accredited institution in the Netherlands or abroad. The BScN program will provide you with the theoretical and practical knowledge and skills of nursing, as well as a specialization in a specific field of nursing.
- Register with the BIG register: You will need to register with the Individual Healthcare Professions Act (BIG) register, which is the official register of healthcare professionals in the Netherlands. The BIG register ensures that you meet the legal requirements and standards of competence and conduct for your profession. The registration fee is 85 euros and the registration is valid for five years. You will also need to renew your registration every five years by completing a re-registration form and providing evidence of your continuing education and professional development.
- Apply for a job: You will need to apply for a job as a nurse in the Netherlands, either in the public or private sector. You will need to prepare a resume and a cover letter, highlighting your education, skills, experience, and motivation. You will also need to attend an interview, where you will be asked questions about your qualifications, competencies, and suitability for the position. You may also need to provide references and a certificate of good conduct.
Nursing assistant course in Netherlands
If you are interested in becoming a nursing assistant in the Netherlands, you will need to complete a nursing assistant course, which is a vocational training program that lasts one to two years. The nursing assistant course will provide you with the basic knowledge and skills of nursing, such as hygiene, nutrition, infection control, wound care, vital signs, and communication. The nursing assistant course will also include practical training in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, and home care.
The nursing assistant course is equivalent to level 3 or 4 of the EQF and leads to a diploma or a certificate. The nursing assistant course is offered by various vocational schools and colleges in the Netherlands, such as ROC, MBO, and HBO. The admission requirements and tuition fees for the nursing assistant course may vary depending on the institution, but generally, you will need to have a secondary school diploma or equivalent, a good command of Dutch and English, and a health declaration.
After completing the nursing assistant course, you will be able to work as a nursing assistant in the Netherlands, under the supervision of a registered nurse or a physician. You will also be able to pursue further education, such as a BScN program, if you wish to advance your career.
Frequently asked questions on cheap nursing schools in Netherlands for international students
How can I apply for a nursing program in the Netherlands?
You can apply for a nursing program in the Netherlands through the Studielink website, which is the official online portal for higher education applications in the Netherlands. You will need to create an account, fill in your personal and educational details, upload the required documents, and submit your application. You will also need to pay an application fee, which varies depending on the institution. You can apply for up to four nursing programs in the Netherlands per academic year. The application deadline is usually April 1 for EEA students and January 15 for non-EEA students, but it may differ depending on the institution and the program.
What are the admission requirements for a nursing program in the Netherlands?
The admission requirements for a nursing program in the Netherlands may vary depending on the institution and the program, but generally, you will need to have the following:
- A secondary school diploma or equivalent that grants access to higher education in your home country. You may need to provide a certified translation and an evaluation of your diploma by Nuffic, the Dutch organization for internationalization in education.
- A proof of English language proficiency, such as an IELTS, TOEFL, or Cambridge certificate. The minimum score required is usually 6.0 for IELTS, 80 for TOEFL, or 169 for Cambridge, but it may differ depending on the institution and the program.
- A letter of motivation, in which you explain why you want to study nursing in the Netherlands, what your goals and expectations are, and how you fit the profile of the program and the institution.
- A curriculum vitae (CV), in which you list your education, work experience, skills, hobbies, and achievements.
- A copy of your passport or identity card, which shows your personal details and your nationality.
- A health declaration, in which you state that you are physically and mentally fit to study and practice nursing in the Netherlands. You may also need to provide a medical certificate or a vaccination record, depending on the institution and the program.
What are the career prospects for nursing graduates in the Netherlands?
The career prospects for nursing graduates in the Netherlands are very good, as there is a high demand for qualified and skilled nurses in the Dutch healthcare system. According to the Dutch Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport, there will be a shortage of 100,000 to 125,000 nurses by 2030, due to the aging population, the increasing complexity of care, and the high turnover rate of nurses. Therefore, nursing graduates have a high chance of finding a job in the Netherlands, either in the public or private sector. The average salary for a nurse in the Netherlands is around 3,000 euros per month, depending on the level of education, experience, and specialization.
Nursing graduates can also work as nurses in other EU countries, as their BScN degree is recognized and transferable across the EU. However, they may need to meet some additional requirements, such as language proficiency, registration, and adaptation courses, depending on the country and the employer. Nursing graduates can also pursue further education, such as a MScN or a PhD in Nursing, if they want to advance their career or specialize in a specific field of nursing. There are many opportunities for nursing research and innovation in the Netherlands, as well as in other countries.
What are the challenges of studying nursing in the Netherlands?
Studying nursing in the Netherlands can also pose some challenges for international students, such as:
Cultural differences: The Netherlands has a different culture and society than other countries, which may require some adjustment and adaptation from international students. For example, the Dutch are known for being direct, pragmatic, and egalitarian, which may come across as rude, blunt, or informal to some students. The Dutch also value individualism, autonomy, and freedom, which may contrast with the collectivism, hierarchy, and conformity of some students. The Dutch also have a different approach to healthcare, which is based on shared decision-making, patient empowerment, and self-management, which may differ from the paternalistic, authoritative, and provider-centered approach of some students.
Language barriers: Although the nursing programs in the Netherlands are taught in English, the clinical practice and the everyday life in the Netherlands are mostly in Dutch. Therefore, international students may face some difficulties in communicating and interacting with patients, colleagues, and locals, especially if they do not speak or understand Dutch. Learning some basic Dutch can help international students overcome the language barriers and improve their integration and performance in the Netherlands.
Academic expectations: The nursing programs in the Netherlands have high academic expectations and standards, which may challenge some international students. For example, the nursing programs in the Netherlands use a variety of teaching and learning methods, such as problem-based learning, design-based learning, and competency-based learning, which may differ from the traditional lecture-based and exam-oriented methods of some students. The nursing programs in the Netherlands also require a lot of self-study, self-motivation, and self-reflection, which may demand a lot of time and effort from international students. The nursing programs in the Netherlands also assess the students on various aspects, such as knowledge, skills, attitudes, and behaviors, which may require a lot of preparation and feedback from international students.
Conclusion
Studying nursing in the Netherlands can be a rewarding and enriching experience for international students who want to pursue a nursing career.
If you are interested in studying nursing in the Netherlands, you can choose from the top 10 cheap nursing schools in the Netherlands for international students, which are listed above.
We hope that this article has provided you with useful and relevant information about studying nursing in the Netherlands.
