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Netherlands, one of Europe’s bustling countries attracts a large volume of student population from across the world. With the average monthly costs ranging between €1,800 – €1,200, planning finances well as a student in Netherlands gets tricky. From tuition fees and accommodation expenses to daily living costs, this guide will provide an in-depth look at what you can expect the total cost of living in Netherlands for students.
Cost Of Living Calculator
| Description | Cost (£) |
|---|---|
| Total Cost of Accommodation | 100 |
| Total Cost of Transport | 50 |
| Total Cost of Utilities | 30 |
| Total Cost of Food | 70 |
| Total Estimated Cost | 250 |
Cost of Living In Netherlands
The cost of living in the Netherlands for students is determined by a range of expenses such as housing, meals, groceries, and other miscellaneous costs. Below is a table showing the average monthly expenses per person to help you better understand these expenses:
| Expense | Monthly Cost (€) |
| Off-Campus Accommodation | 600 |
| On Campus Accommodation | 800 |
| Transportation | 80 |
| Food | 660 |
| Entertainment | 50 |
| Groceries | 96 |
| Clothes | 100 |
| Total Cost of Living with Off Campus Accommodation (Per month) | 1,811 |
| Total Cost of Living with On Campus Accommodation (Per month) | 2,011 |
Note: The costs mentioned above may fluctuate and are subject to change.
Cost of Living In Netherlands For Indian Students
The major student living cost in Netherlands consists of food, housing, transportation, and additional costs besides tuition fees. Below is an illustration of the average total expenses that Indian students will need to cover during their academic pursuits:
| Expense | Monthly Cost (INR) |
| Off-Campus Accommodation | 54,291 |
| On Campus Accommodation | 72,388 |
| Transportation | 7,238 |
| Food | 59,720 |
| Entertainment | 4,524 |
| Groceries | 8,686 |
| Clothes | 9,048 |
| Total Cost of Living with Off Campus Accommodation (Per month) | 163,866 |
| Total Cost of Living with On Campus Accommodation (Per month) | 181,963 |
Note: The costs mentioned above may fluctuate and are subject to change.
Cost Of Tuition Fees
Some of the leading universities like the University of Amsterdam, Delft University of Technology, and Erasmus University Rotterdam charge tuition fees of around €15,000 – €18,000 annually for most bachelor’s and master’s levels. It’s important to note that certain specialised programmes, such as medicine, dentistry, and veterinary science, tend to be more expensive, sometimes exceeding €30,000 per year.
Cost Of Student Accommodation In Netherlands
Accommodation contributes towards the major expense in the overall cost of living in Netherlands. The prices of student accommodation in Netherlands can vary depending on factors such as location, amenities, and the type of housing. Purpose-built student accommodations, which often come furnished and include utilities, can range from approximately €75 to €200 per week, depending on the property type.
| Netherlands Accommodation | |||
| Student Accommodation | Private Accommodation | University Accommodation | |
| Cost | €75 to €200 per week | €270/ Week + Utility bills (If not inclusive of the rent) | €140 per week |
| Safety | These are gated communities with utmost safety & all facilities included like CCTV, biometric entrance, etc | Depends on the landlord and area | These are on the university campus with all the safety precautions |
| Utility Bills | Included | Not Included | Included |
| Home Insurance | Included in rent | €150 per year | Included in rent |
| Proximity University | Walking distance to campus | Depends on area | Inside/nearby Universities |
| Other Amenities | Mostly all amenities are included like Wi-Fi, microwave, electric stove, fridge etc. | Based on landlord/location | Mostly all amenities are included like Wi-Fi, microwave, electric stove, fridge etc. |
Student Accommodations In Netherlands
Student accommodation prices in Netherlands for purpose-built student residences range between €75 to €200 per week. However, for private rentals, students can estimate the costs to be around €270. University accommodation can cost around €140 per week. The prices can vary depending on the locality, the type of property and the proximity to major university campuses.
Cost Of Transport
Transportation is one of the major contributing factors to the cost of living in Netherlands for students. Here are some of the popular modes of commute that can be opted for while travelling to your university campus and exploring areas within and around the city:
- Trains: Train fares vary depending on the distance and time of travel. For example, a one-way ticket from Amsterdam to Rotterdam can range from €15 to €25.
- Buses and trams: Bus and tram fares are similar to those of other forms of public transportation, with prices ranging from €2 to €4 for a single journey. However, the fares can vary depending on the time and distance.
- Bike: Cycling is also a popular and cost-effective mode of transport, with good bike paths and rental/sharing services available in most cities. Weekly bike rentals could cost €10-15.
Cost Of Food And Groceries
A reasonable estimate for a student’s monthly grocery budget would be around €250-€300. This accounts for buying basic items like fruits, vegetables, dairy, grains, and household supplies from supermarkets like Albert Heijn or Jumbo.
Eating out or ordering food can quickly increase costs, with an average meal at an inexpensive restaurant costing €12-€18.
Is Netherlands Expensive To Live For Students?
While the Netherlands is generally considered an affordable study destination compared to other European countries, the cost of living can still be relatively high for international students, especially in major cities like Amsterdam. However, many scholarships offer financial assistance for students to cover their educational expenses which contribute to a major chunk of the living costs in Netherlands.
Factors like the availability of multiple affordable accommodation options, discounted student rates for transportation, and the presence of budget-friendly supermarkets contribute to making the Netherlands a strategic choice.
Factors Influencing Cost Of Living In Netherlands
For students, the cost of living is influenced by a variety of factors specific to their lifestyle and needs. Here are some key factors that can impact the cost of living for students in Netherlands:
- Accommodation
- Transportation
- Food & Groceries
- Entertainment & Leisure
- Health care expenses
- Study supplies
- Miscellaneous costs
- Personal care expenses
How To Save Money As A Student In Netherlands?
Saving money as a student in the Netherlands can seem to be difficult due to the higher living costs and several associated expenses. However, with some careful planning and mindful spending habits, there can certainly be scope for savings. Here are some helpful and practical tips:
- Go for purpose-built student accommodations as they are inclusive of the utility bills in the property pricing, which makes them cost-effective and convenient.
- Travel through public transportation to reach your university campus and explore areas within and around the city.
- Leverage your university library resources, such as textbooks and online study materials.
- Always ask for student discounts and deals at restaurants, retail outlets, and gym memberships.
- Avoid eating out frequently and opt for home-cooked meals to adapt to a healthy lifestyle along maximising savings.
While the cost of living may seem challenging at first, careful planning and budgeting can go a long way in making the most of the available resources. By leveraging student discounts, exploring affordable housing options, and adopting cost-saving strategies for essentials like food and transportation, students can live a comfortable life in the Netherlands.
FAQs
How much are the tuition fees at leading universities in Netherlands?
Some of the leading universities like the University of Amsterdam, Delft University of Technology, and Erasmus University Rotterdam charge tuition fees of around €15,000 – €18,000 annually for most bachelor’s and master’s programmes.
How much does student accommodation cost in the Netherlands?
Purpose-built student accommodations in the Netherlands can range from approximately €75 to €200 per week, depending on the property type and amenities included.
What is the average cost of groceries and food for students in the Netherlands?
A reasonable estimate for a student’s monthly grocery budget would be around €250-€300. Eating out or ordering food can quickly increase costs, with an average meal at an inexpensive restaurant costing €12-€18.
How expensive is transportation for students in the Netherlands?
Transportation costs can vary depending on the mode of travel. Train fares can range from €15 to €25 for a one-way ticket, while bus and tram fares are typically €2 to €4 for a single journey. Cycling is a cost-effective option, with weekly bike rentals costing around €10-€15.
Is the Netherlands expensive for international students?
While the Netherlands is generally considered an affordable study destination compared to other European countries, the cost of living can still be relatively high for international students, especially in major cities like Amsterdam.
What are some ways to save money as a student in the Netherlands?
Some tips for saving money include opting for student accommodations with utilities included, using public transportation with student discounts, leveraging university library resources, asking for student deals at restaurants and shops, and cooking meals at home instead of eating out frequently.
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