Living in the Netherlands
The Netherlands is a study destination that is becoming increasingly popular among Luxembourgish students. Here you can find information that is important to know for studying in the Netherlands!
Prerequired Tests
Language certificate
In order to be able to study in the Netherlands, it is important to have a good level of English. This applies to speaking, reading, and writing. In order to prove these skills, some universities may require a language test. Most often, Dutch universities accept the IELTS or TOEFL test (including the TOEFL iBT Home Edition). However, other tests may also be requested, such as the Cambridge English Test.
It is best to check in advance with the university of your choice whether they require such a test, and if so, which of the different tests are accepted — and also which ones are not accepted.
You can find more information about the different tests here:
Proof of other skills
Depending on which bachelor’s programme you apply for, you may need to provide proof of other skills. For example, for a Bachelor of Science you may be required to take a mathematics test. This depends on the respective university, so make sure to check early enough with the university of your choice.
Registration at the municipality
EU students do not need to apply for a separate residence permit in the Netherlands. A valid passport or identity card is sufficient. However, if you stay in the Netherlands for more than four months, you must register in the Basic Registration of Persons (“Basisregistratie Personen” or BRP) at the municipality where you live. You can easily do this with your identity card or passport. You will then receive a so-called “citizen service number” (“burgerservicenummer”), which you need in order to carry out administrative procedures in the Netherlands.
You can find more information on the website of the municipality where you live or under:
Health Insurance
As a student, you do not need to take out health insurance in the Netherlands, even if you receive a letter requesting you to do so. However, you should inform the relevant authority that you are insured from Luxembourg; otherwise, you may risk having to pay a fine.
If you work in the Netherlands, however, you must take out Dutch health insurance.
Bicycle
Because public transport is quite expensive in the Netherlands, it is almost an absolute must to get around your university town by bike. It is also important to get a good lock to prevent your bike from being stolen by dishonest people.
In general, this is an advantage for students in the country, since the cycling infrastructure in Dutch cities is very well developed.
