Keystone logo

Study in the Netherlands: Language & Culture

The Netherlands has a very diverse and culturaly exciting place. Find ot what to expect below!

Jun 17, 2025
Amsterdam, the Netherlands

Fun tradition: Kiss and greet ๐Ÿ˜˜

In the Netherlands, locals like to greet with three kisses, starting with the right cheeck, then the left and one more to the right. There is an exeption when two men part take. They often go in for a simple handshake instead.

Historical evidence suggests that for decades foreigners have settled in the Netherlands bringing with them their own ideas and cultures. Moreover, this led to a very open-minded and tolerant attitude within Dutch society. Moreover, the Dutch society is not easily offended and prefers direct talk.

The Netherlands is generally safe as well with friendly and helpful police. The police in the Netherlands take their duty to protect everyone seriously and talking to them should not be a problem. Moreover, they are often proficient in English.ย 

Find a program

Do you feel like having a plate of world-famous cheese๐Ÿง€ at your side while you catch up on coursework? The Netherlands is the place to be! Check out our programs to find the one for you!

Browse programs โ†’

English proficiency in the Netherlands

The official language of the Netherlands is Dutch but many people are fluent in English and often German or French additionally. Additionally, the Netherlands has been named as the highest proficiency in English among non-native speaking countries in the world with about 90 to 93% of the inhabitants speaking English.ย 

Currently, international students can choose over 1500 courses that are taught in English be it bachelor'sย or postgraduateย programs.

Learning Dutch in the Netherlands

There are several ways to learn Dutch, and it is usually offered at different levels: beginner, intermediate or advanced. If you want to take your Dutch language skills further, consider taking a course at an evening school, or summer courses, ask your universityโ€™s international office for Dutch language courses, and look for free online courses.

Culture in the Netherlands

Respect for each individual's opinions and convictions is a national virtue that strengthens the fabric of the Netherlands' diverse and plural society. This is the foundation of the teaching method used atย Dutch educational institutions.

Learn more about studying in the Netherlands:

Study in the Netherlands - Overview

Over 122,000 international students choose the Netherlands as their study-abroad destination every year. Click here to learn why.

Education System

Want to learn about how the higher education system works in the Netherlands? Given its diverse programs, the Netherlands is a popular destination for students. Take a minute to find out more about the structure of the education system in the Netherlands!

Student Visas

Do you need a visa to enter the Netherlands to study? Learn more about the student visa process, and what you need to enter the country, depending on your citizen status.

Housing & Living Costs

No matter where you study abroad, it's important to create a budget in advance to be prepared. Therefore, we've detailed average living and housing costs so that you can better understand what you would be paying as a student in the Netherlands.

No matter where you study abroad, itโ€™s important to create a budget in advance so that youโ€™re prepared. Therefore, weโ€™ve detailed average living and housing costs so that you can get a better idea of what you would be paying as a student in the Netherlands.

Tuition Fees & Scholarships

Tuition fees for degree programs in the Netherlands may vary. To cover the rest of the costs, some scholarship opportunities are available.

Application Process

Learn more about the ins and outs of admission to programs in the Netherlands, and what you need to apply, depending on your citizenship.

Programs

Ready to explore education in the Netherlands? Use our search engine to find and compare top programs today!

educations.com team

Author

The educations.com team consists of hundreds of dedicated individuals who share a passion for studying abroad. We combine our diverse strengths to guide millions of students in over 250 countries toward finding their dream education.

About us โ”ƒ Authors and contributors | Our editorial standards