14 Pros and Cons of study in Netherlands

As one of the most popular destinations for students, the Netherlands is an awesome with high-ranked universities and with an amazing and diverse international landscape. Before you think about to study in the Netherlands, we come up with a small guidance that makes you go through the advantages and disadvantages of having decided to pursue further education or studies in the Netherlands.

  1. Being a part of one of the best education systems in the world

Dutch universities are very forward-thinking in their approach to education and are well respected around the world and have similar global rankings to many British universities. The academic structure of Netherlands provides students with employability skills apart from a detailed in-depth knowledge and practical implementation. English, being the primary language makes you feel comfortable and study in Holland in English.

  1. Enriching self with International work experience

Gaining international work experience is essential, especially in today’s job scenario. Dutch Universities offer comprehensive support and advice when trying to arrange the best placement for the students.

  1. Personal attention and learning support

Dutch universities place a strong emphasis on a healthy personal relationship between faculties and students. The groups are small and encouraging for team works. There are mentors to address any day to day issue and guide you thoroughly. This immediate guidance and strong personal assistance help you adapting to a completely new environment and making the best of your university days.

  1. Practical learning in addition to theoretical knowledge

Universities in the Netherlands include many practical elements in their degree courses. This emphasis on relevant experience is designed to prepare you for entry into the job market upon completion of your degree. Working on local projects will also enhance the overall relevance of your coursework.

  1.  Soft-skills

Universities in Netherlands especially Dutch Universities of Applied Sciences place great emphasis on giving students the chance to develop their capabilities in areas such as teamwork, communication and presentation skills which seem very helpful in the long run.

  1.  Language skills

Here, in the Netherlands, more than three-quarters of the population in the Netherlands claim to be proficient in English. This is a great advantage if you are a foreigner and don’t speak any Dutch. The fact that English is everywhere will never make you struggle with the language barrier in the beginning and you can easily interact in English with people everywhere in and outside the university campus.

  1.  Living in an amazing country

This country might be a small in size but its importance on academics is widely spread. It offers quality access to a uniquely freethinking multicultural society at comparatively low prices. The spirit of diversity and a sense of connectedness with a global outlook and a terrific marketability are appreciated across the world.

  1. The Scholarship Programs

This country provides you with a plethora of options of scholarships to help you waive or cover the overall charges. Both public and private companies, associations and companies offer various scholarships and grant programs.

  1. The cost exemption

According to a state regulation, if you pay the statutory tuition fees for your first enrolment (in a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree), and decide to enroll for a second one at the same time, you will be exempted from paying any tuition for your second programs. This is only applicable for, public universities though.

  1. The traditional versus the modern outlook

If you come from a country where the education system is more traditional, you may feel lost here in the Netherlands, since the attitude is altogether different here. In the Netherlands, you need to be more proactive and active and independent learner.

Here there is no hierarchy in the system and you are expected to maintain very friendly terms with your professors and mentors.Many times people who always kept a distance between him and his professors tend to face difficulties to get accustomed to this globally modern system. People coming from a traditional background may get a tag of “shy” people.

  1. Restricted hours

The inconvenience caused by the shops closing by 6 or 7 pm is a great matter of concern. So you have no option left nu to plan accordingly and maintain a tight schedule for the things of daily requirements.

  1. Unpredictable weather

Even though the climate of Netherlands apparently seems to be soothing, it isn’t. Here, the weather changes rapidly especially in the summer, alternating between humid heat and thunderstorms several times a day. This might be a matter of concern if you are planning to stay back here for studies.

  1. Culture shock in the Netherlands

While the local residents always welcome the outsiders with English only, they have a logical pride of their language and expect others to learn it. This might be an issue in addition to the other burdens. The Dutch are known for their straightforwardness, which often can be misunderstood as rudeness.

  1. Expensive healthcare

Health insurance in the Netherlands is expensive and doesn’t always cover what expats might expect. It is the great matter of worry, health being of the primary importance.