Study English in the Netherlands

Discover the best programs to study English in the Netherlands. Quality education, international environment, and job opportunities await you. Fulfill your linguistic ambition today!

Official languages ​​of the Netherlands

The official language in the Netherlands is Dutch. Dutch is spoken by about 90% of the population. Dutch is a West Germanic language, closely related to English.

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In addition to Dutch, there are also recognized regional languages ​​in the Netherlands. These languages ​​are:

  • Frisian Language: The Frisian language is spoken in the province of Friesland in the northern Netherlands. The Frisian language is spoken by about 450.000 people.
  • Cenomanian Language: The Cenomanian language is spoken in the province of Drenthe in the northeastern Netherlands. The Cenomanian language is spoken by about 30.000 people.
  • Zealandic Language: The Zealandic language is spoken in the province of Friesland in the northern Netherlands. The Zealand language is spoken by about 20.000 people.

In addition to these languages, many people in the Netherlands speak English fluently. English is the second most common language in the Netherlands.

Read also: Studying computer science in the Netherlands

The cost of studying English

Language typeAgeObjectivesDuration of the coursethe cost
English for children6-12 yearsLearn the basics of the English language1-2 weeks500-1000 euros
English for teenagers12-18 yearsImprove English language skills1-2 weeks1000-2000 euros
English for adults18 years and overImprove English language skills for academic or professional purposes1-12 weeks2000-5000 euros

English for children

  • Courses focus on basic language skills, such as listening, speaking, reading and writing.
  • Courses use fun and interactive activities to help children learn the language.
  • Students can choose from a variety of courses, including general courses and language test preparation courses.
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English for teenagers

  • Courses focus on advanced language skills, such as grammar and vocabulary.
  • Courses include interactive activities aimed at helping students practice the language in real-life situations.
  • Students can choose from a variety of courses, including general courses, test preparation courses and business motivations.

English for adults

  • Courses focus on language skills that students need for academic or professional purposes.
  • Courses use a variety of teaching methods to suit the needs of adult students.
  • Students can choose from a variety of courses, including general courses, test preparation courses, and specialized courses in professional or academic fields.

Read also: Learn Dutch in just a few days for free

Advantages of learning English in the Netherlands

The Netherlands is a popular destination for learning English, for many reasons. The Netherlands has a long history of higher education, and many educational institutions offer high-quality English language courses. In addition, most Dutch people speak English to a good level, which provides students with the opportunity to practice and speak the language every day.

English-speaking environment

The Netherlands has a strong English-speaking environment. Most Dutch people speak English to a good level, which means you will have plenty of opportunities to practice the language every day. You can speak English in schools, universities, companies, and even in shops and cafes.

quality of education

Dutch educational institutions have a good reputation in the field of education. Many schools and universities offer English language courses that meet the needs of students of all levels. General English courses, language test preparation courses, and business English courses are available.

cultural diversity

The Netherlands is a culturally diverse country. People from all over the world live in the Netherlands. By learning English in the Netherlands, you will meet people from different cultures. This can be a great way to learn more about other cultures and broaden your horizons.

In addition to the advantages mentioned above, learning English in the Netherlands can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience. The Netherlands is a beautiful country with a lot to offer visitors. By learning English, you can make better use of your time in the Netherlands and connect with locals on a deeper level.

Here are some additional benefits of learning English in the Netherlands:

  • Improve job opportunities: Speaking English is an essential skill for many jobs, especially in the business sector. By learning English in the Netherlands, you can improve your chances of finding a good job.
  • Travel with ease: English is the lingua franca in many countries around the world. By learning English, you can travel more easily and understand other cultures.
  • Expand your horizons: Learning English can help you learn about other cultures and broaden your horizons. This can be beneficial in your personal and professional life.

Read also: Study medicine in the Netherlands

Types of English courses in the Netherlands

There are many types of courses available to learn English in the Netherlands, including:

Types of English courses in the Netherlands:

  • General English Courses.
  • Exam preparation courses.
  • Specialized English Courses.
  • Speaking and Conversation Classes.
  • Online English Courses.

There are many types of English language courses available in the Netherlands, which vary depending on the student's level and goals. Here are some of the most common types of courses:

General English language courses

General English courses are the most popular option for learning English in the Netherlands. These courses are intended for students of all levels, from beginners to advanced. General courses focus on all aspects of the English language, including speaking, listening, reading and writing.

General English courses in the Netherlands vary in length and cost. Courses usually range from 12 to 500 weeks in length, and the cost ranges from €2000 to €XNUMX.

Language test preparation courses

Language test preparation courses are a good option for students who want to earn a degree in English. These courses focus on preparing students for standardized language tests, such as IELTS or TOEFL.

Language test preparation courses in the Netherlands vary in length and cost. The duration of courses usually ranges from 2 to 12 weeks, and the cost ranges from €1000 to €5000.

Business English courses

Business English courses are a good option for students who want to use English in an English-speaking business environment. These courses focus on the English language skills that professionals need, such as speaking in meetings and writing reports.

Business English courses in the Netherlands vary in length and cost. The duration of courses usually ranges from 4 to 12 weeks, and the cost ranges from €1500 to €7500.

Summer English courses

English summer courses are a good option for students who want to learn English in a fun and interactive environment. These courses focus on fun and educational activities.

English summer courses in the Netherlands vary in length and cost. Courses usually last from 4 to 1000 weeks, and the cost ranges from €3000 to €XNUMX.

Online courses for English

Online English courses are a good option for students who want to learn English at home. Many schools and universities offer online English courses.

cycle TypeDifficultythe costfocus on
General coursesmediummediumAll aspects of the English language
Preparatory courses for examsDifficultHigh Preparing students for international examinations
Specialized coursesmedium to highHighOn a specific field of English
Speaking and conversation lessonsMedium to easyMedium to lowImprove speaking and conversation skills 
Online English lessonsmediumlow to medium It allows students to learn English from anywhere in the world

Read also: Study business administration in the Netherlands

Language schools in Netherlands with average cost

The cost of English courses in the Netherlands varies depending on the type of course, duration of the course and the institute offering it. In general, the cost of one course ranges from 1000 to 1500 euros.

School nameLocation Average cost
ELS Language CentersAmsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague1490 euros per week
Intensive English SchoolAmsterdam, The Hague1495 euros per week
Krokus International SchoolsAmsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague1500 euros per week
LinguapolisAmsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague1500 euros per week
Oxford House InternationalAmsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague1500 euros per week
The Language HouseAmsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague1500 euros per week
The Language CentreAmsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague1500 euros per week
The Language CompanyAmsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague1500 euros per week
The Language StudioAmsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague1500 euros per week

Read also: Preparing the Dutch scholarship application

Conditions for registration in language institutes in the Netherlands

  • Age: The student must be 16 years of age.
  • Language Level: The student must pass a language placement test to ensure that he or she qualifies for the course level in which he or she wishes to enroll.

The required documents: 

The student must submit the following documents upon registration:

  • A valid passport.
  • Entry visa to the Netherlands (if necessary).
  • birth certificate.
  • Disease-free certificate.
  • Health insurance certificate.
  • Educational Diploma: Some schools may require a high school graduation certificate.
  • Resume: Some schools may require the student to submit a resume.
  • Motivation letter: Some schools may require the student to write a motivation letter explaining why he or she wants to study in the Netherlands.

For more information about enrollment requirements in language schools in the Netherlands for foreign students, please visit the website of the school you wish to enroll in.

Here are some tips for foreign students who want to enroll in language schools in the Netherlands:

  • Start your search early: Some language schools in the Netherlands start accepting applications several months before the start of the course.
  • Compare different schools: There are many language schools in the Netherlands, so it is important to compare different schools before making a decision.
  • Read Student Reviews: Student reviews can help you get a better idea of ​​the school and its programs.
  • Contact the School: If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the school directly.

Read also: Specializations of study in the Netherlands

Tips for learning English in the Netherlands

Here are some tips for learning English in the Netherlands:

  • Start from a basic level: If you do not speak English well, it is better to start from a basic level. This will help you build the foundation you need to progress in language learning.
  • Find a suitable institute: There are many English language institutes in the Netherlands, so it is important to search for one that suits your needs. Make sure to read the reviews before enrolling in any institute.
  • Practice the language constantly: The best way to learn a language is to practice it constantly. Find opportunities to speak English with friends and family or join a language club.

Read also: Immigration to the Netherlands How to register and travel now

What are the most important universities that offer preparatory courses in the English language in the Netherlands?

Many universities in the Netherlands offer English language preparatory courses for international students who do not meet the English language requirements for admission to academic programmes. Here are some of the top universities that offer these courses:

  • University of Amsterdam.
  • Leiden University.
  • Erasmus University Rotterdam.
  • Utrecht University.
  • University of Technology Delft.
  • Maastricht University.
  • Radboud University Nijmegen.
  • University of the Free State Amsterdam.

These universities offer a variety of preparatory courses in English, which vary in length and cost. The duration of courses usually ranges from 6 to 12 months, and the cost ranges from €5000 to €15000.

University of Amsterdam

The University of Amsterdam is one of the most prestigious universities in the Netherlands and Europe. The university offers an outstanding English language preparatory program for international students. This program aims to develop students' language skills and prepare them for academic study in English.

  • Program name: English for Academic Purposes
  • Number of credit hours: 60 hours
  • Focus: Academic English skills

Leiden University

Leiden University is one of the oldest universities in the Netherlands and has an outstanding international reputation. The university offers a preparatory program designed specifically for postgraduate students. This program focuses on developing the language skills necessary for success in master's programmes.

  • Program Name: Pre-master English for Academic Purposes
  • Number of credit hours: 30 hours
  • Target group: graduate students

Erasmus University Rotterdam

Erasmus University Rotterdam is located in the vibrant city of Rotterdam. The university offers a comprehensive English language preparatory program for international students. The program aims to enhance students' academic English skills.

  • Program name: English for Academic Purposes
  • Number of credit hours: 60 hours
  • Focus: English language skills for academic study

Utrecht University

Utrecht University is considered one of the largest universities in the Netherlands. It offers an integrated English language preparatory program for international students. The program focuses on developing the language skills necessary to succeed in the academic environment.

  • Program name: English for Academic Purposes
  • Number of credit hours: 60 hours
  • Focus: Academic English skills

University of Technology Delft

The University of Technology Delft is one of the most prominent technical universities in Europe. It offers an English language preparatory program designed to meet the needs of students in technical and scientific fields. The program focuses on the language skills required in technical academic studies.

  • Program name: English for Academic Purposes
  • Number of credit hours: 60 hours
  • Focus: English language skills for technical and scientific studies

Maastricht University

Maastricht University is distinguished by its innovative educational approach. It offers an English language preparatory program intended for graduate students. The program aims to develop the language skills necessary for success in master's programmes.

  • Program Name: Pre-master English for Academic Purposes
  • Number of credit hours: 30 hours
  • Target group: graduate students

Radboud University Nijmegen

Radboud University Nijmegen is located in the historic city of Nijmegen. It offers a comprehensive English language preparatory program for international students. The program focuses on developing the academic language skills necessary for success in university study.

  • Program name: English for Academic Purposes
  • Number of credit hours: 60 hours
  • Focus: Academic English skills

University of the Free State Amsterdam

The University of the Free State Amsterdam is one of the leading universities in the Netherlands. It offers an integrated English language preparatory program for international students. The program aims to enhance students' academic English skills and prepare them to study in an international environment.

  • Program name: English for Academic Purposes
  • Number of credit hours: 60 hours
  • Focus: English language skills for study in an international academic environment

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Dutch universities

Read also: Details of studying in the Netherlands for free | Dutch universities and visa

Conditions for a visa to study English in the Netherlands

In general, most Dutch embassies and consulates require international students to submit the following documents when applying for a study visa:

  • A passport valid for a period of not less than 6 months after the course end date.
  • birth certificate.
  • A medical certificate proving that the student is fit to study.
  • A motivational letter explaining the student’s goals for studying English.
  • English proficiency test.
  • Acceptance letter from a Dutch educational institution.
  • Health insurance covers the student during his stay in the Netherlands.
  • Proof of financial ability to cover study and living expenses in the Netherlands.

Here are some details about each of these documents:

Valid Passport: The student’s passport must be valid for a period of not less than 6 months after the course end date.

Birth certificate: The birth certificate must be translated into English or Dutch.

Medical Certificate: It must be a medical certificate issued by a licensed doctor. The certificate must show that the student is fit to study.

Motivational letter: The motivational letter should explain the student's goals for studying English. The student must explain why he or she has chosen to study English in the Netherlands.

English language placement test: Most Dutch embassies and consulates require students to pass an English language placement test. This test helps the embassy or consulate determine the student's English level and place him in the appropriate course.

Letter of acceptance from a Dutch educational institution: The student must obtain a letter of acceptance from a Dutch educational institution before applying for a study visa.

Health insurance that covers the student during his stay in the Netherlands: The student must obtain health insurance that covers him during his stay in the Netherlands. Insurance must cover all possible medical expenses.

Proof of having the financial ability to cover study and living expenses in the Netherlands: The student must prove that he is able to cover study and living expenses in the Netherlands. This can be proven by submitting a bank statement or a letter from the parents or sponsor.

In addition to these documents, some Dutch embassies and consulates may ask students to provide other documents, such as a high school diploma or university degree.

Steps to apply for a visa to study English in the Netherlands

The steps for applying for an English language study visa in the Netherlands vary depending on the country in which the student resides. In general, students should follow these steps:

  1. Apply for a letter of acceptance from a Dutch educational institution.
  2. Collect the required documents.
  3. Fill out the visa application form.
  4. Pay visa fees.
  5. Submit the application to the Dutch embassy or consulate in the student’s country.

The validity period of an English language study visa in the Netherlands

A visa to study English in the Netherlands is issued for a period of between 3 and 12 months. The validity period of the visa depends on the duration of the course the student will study.

Residence in the Netherlands while studying English

International students studying English in the Netherlands must obtain a residence permit. A residence permit can be obtained from the Netherlands Immigration Service.

Work while studying English in the Netherlands

International students studying English in the Netherlands can work part-time for up to 16 hours per week. Students can work in any field, but they must obtain a work permit from the Netherlands Immigration Service.

Transfer to an academic program in the Netherlands

International students studying English in the Netherlands can transfer to an academic program in the Netherlands. Students can apply for transfer after successfully completing the English language course.

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