Dutch Education System
Dutch Education System
In the Netherlands, education is compulsory until the age of 18. The system consists of primary education (ages 4–12) and secondary education (ages 12–18).
After primary school, students enter one of 3 tracks based on ability and interests:
- pre-vocational secondary education (vmbo): 4 years, prepares for vocational education
- senior general secondary education (havo): 5 years, prepares for universities of applied sciences
- pre-university education (vwo): 6 years, prepares for academic university education
Students can move between tracks if they meet the requirements, for example, from vmbo to havo, or havo to vwo.
Tertiary education
After secondary education, students continue to tertiary education
- Vocational education, typically after VMBO
- Universities of applied sciences, typically after HAVO or MBO
- Research universities, typically after VWO or HBO
The system is designed to provide flexible pathways based on students’ interests and abilities.
Dutch Higher Education System
The Dutch higher education system offers 2 main types of education:
- Profession-oriented
- Research-oriented
These cater to different student needs and career paths.
Higher professional education (universities of applied sciences)
Universities of applied sciences (hogescholen) provide profession-oriented education within the Dutch education system. These programmes focus on practical skills and prepare students for specific careers. The courses combine theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience through internships and projects in collaboration with companies, municipalities, and other organizations. Universities of applied sciences offer associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, and master’s degrees.
Research-oriented education (research universities)
This type of education is primarily offered by research universities (universiteiten). These programmes focus on the theoretical aspects of a field and are designed to prepare students for independent research. Students in these programmes develop critical thinking and research skills, with a strong emphasis on theory. The degrees offered are typically bachelor’s and master’s degrees.
Dutch Higher Education System
Dutch Higher Education System
The Dutch higher education system offers 2 main types of education:
- Profession-oriented
- Research-oriented
These cater to different student needs and career paths.
Higher professional education (universities of applied sciences)
Higher professional education (universities of applied sciences)
Universities of applied sciences (hogescholen) provide profession-oriented education within the Dutch education system. These programmes focus on practical skills and prepare students for specific careers. The courses combine theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience through internships and projects in collaboration with companies, municipalities, and other organizations. Universities of applied sciences offer associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, and master’s degrees.
Research-oriented education (research universities)
Research-oriented education (research universities)
This type of education is primarily offered by research universities (universiteiten). These programmes focus on the theoretical aspects of a field and are designed to prepare students for independent research. Students in these programmes develop critical thinking and research skills, with a strong emphasis on theory. The degrees offered are typically bachelor’s and master’s degrees.
Programmes offered by universities of applied sciences
Associate degree (hbo)
Associate degree (AD) programmes are practice-oriented and designed to prepare students for in-demand careers. Throughout the programme, students work on real-world projects with companies, municipalities, and other organisations to solve practical problems. The programmes last 2 years, carry a study load of 120 ECTS, and lead to an associate degree qualification. Access to this programme requires a diploma in higher vocational education, higher general secondary education, or pre-university education.
Bachelor degree (hbo)
Bachelor’s degree programmes at universities of applied sciences focus on practical skills and prepare students for high-demand careers. These programmes combine theoretical learning with hands-on experience through internships and collaborations with businesses and organizations. Students develop problem-solving skills by tackling real-world challenges. The programmes last 4 years, require 240 ECTS, and result in a bachelor's degree. For admission, students must hold a diploma of higher vocational education, higher general secondary education or pre-university education.
Master degree (hbo)
Master's programmes are designed for professionals looking to deepen their expertise and advance their careers. These programmes focus on practical, research-driven skills and are aimed at solving complex challenges in various fields. Students work closely with companies and organizations, applying advanced knowledge to real-world projects and research. The programmes last between 1 and 2 years and lead to a master’s degree that enhances career prospects. A relevant bachelor’s degree is required for admission.
Programmes offered by research universities
Bachelor degree (wo)
These provide students with a deep understanding of their field, combining theory and research. The aim is to develop students’ critical thinking, research and analytical skills. These programmes typically last 3 years, amounting to 180 ECTS and result in a bachelor’s degree that opens doors to both the job market and further academic study. A diploma in pre-university education or an equivalent qualification grants access to these programmes.
Master degree (wo)
University master’s programmes in Dutch higher education focus on advanced research and critical analysis. Students engage in in-depth study, often working on research projects or a thesis. These programmes last between 1 and 2 years, typically amounting to 60 to 120 ECTS, and result in a master’s degree. Admission requires a bachelor’s degree, typically from a research university.
Dutch university grading system
The Dutch university grading system ranges from 1 to 10 (10: Excellent 9: Very good 8: Good 7: Satisfactory 6: Pass (minimum passing grade) 5.5: Minimum threshold to pass 5 and below: Fail)
A 6 is the minimum passing grade, and 7+ is considered a good result. The Dutch education system is quite strict and based on exams, essays, and presentations.
ECTS and study progress
In the Dutch university system, students are expected to earn 60 ECTS per year to successfully complete their studies. To earn these credits, students must generally achieve a minimum grade of 5.5 in each course. If a student receives a grade below 5.5, they will not earn ECTS for that course and may need to retake it.
In addition to earning 60 ECTS annually, students must meet specific progress requirements, especially in the first year. This is often monitored through the Binding Study Advice (BSA), which typically requires students in Dutch education to earn at least 45 ECTS out of 60 in their first year to continue in the programme.
