Studying as a French student in the Netherlands
French student
Each year, thousands of students from across Europe and beyond choose to study in the Netherlands. The busy student life, wide range of English-taught programmes, and the opportunity to build an international network are just some of the reasons French students are increasingly making this choice. And Maastricht, in particular, is a fantastic place to study.
What you need to know about studying in Maastricht, the Netherlands
Maastricht is one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands and this is reflected in its charming streets, historic buildings, and cosy squares. You can get a cup of coffee in a medieval monastery transformed into a bookshop, study in one of the many cafés and enjoy Burgundian dinners along the Meuse.
With thousands of international students, Maastricht feels like a second home for anyone coming to study from abroad. You’ll hear English spoken everywhere and the city is used to a multicultural vibe. You can join one of the many student unions, have a night out with friends or join a local sports club. You’ll make connections with other students easily.
Why choose the Netherlands as a French student?
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You’ll feel at home in no time.
The Netherlands is a welcoming country where it’s easy to settle in and get your academic journey off to a great start.
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Almost everyone speaks English – and often a bit of French too
Whether you’re in a lecture hall, out shopping, or just walking around, communicating is rarely a problem. In the south, near the Belgian and French borders, many people also understand or speak French.
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A diverse, international society
As a long-standing trading nation, the Netherlands has a multicultural population. In the major cities and student towns, you’ll meet people from all over the world. It’s easy to make new friends and build an international network.
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Excellent quality of life
The Netherlands consistently ranks highly in terms of well-being, healthcare, and safety. Cities are clean, efficient, and student friendly. The balance between study and leisure time is also good.
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Small country, big possibilities
The Netherlands is small in size and has excellent transport links. By train, you can travel quickly between cities – or even pop over to Belgium, Germany, or France for a visit! Ideal if you want to visit family or friends or explore Europe.
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Well-organised student support
The Dutch government actively supports international students. There are funding options available, and as an EU citizen, you can work while studying. There are also affordable healthcare options and student discounts on public transport.
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Internationally education system
Studying in the Netherlands as a French student means joining a well-organised, internationally minded education system. Want to study at Zuyd as a French student? You are choosing a university of applied sciences where personal support, hands-on teaching and collaboration are key.
Why study at Zuyd?
Zuyd has several campuses in and around Maastricht. You’ll study in a city known for its international network and you will immediately be a part of a diverse community of students and professionals. At Zuyd, you’ll enjoy small-group teaching. No crowded lecture halls, but a personal approach where lecturers know you and guide you. We value theory, but practical experience is at the heart of our approach. From the start, you’ll work on real-world projects, internships, and collaborations with businesses, giving you the tools and confidence to succeed in your future career.
Which study programmes are popular among French students?
Music
Do you dream of an (international) music career? At Conservatorium Maastricht, you will develop your passion for music and prepare yourself for a successful future in the music world. In the Bachelor of Music, you choose either Classical or Jazz, both of which are English-taught. You will study in a vibrant international environment, among students and teachers from all over the world. Conservatorium Maastricht is firmly established in the region and offers a dynamic and inspiring atmosphere that is not only reflected in our classes, but also during concerts and projects.
You will be taught by active professionals who support you in developing your own artistic identity. Through hands-on experience on a variety of stages, you’ll be thoroughly prepared for a career in the music industry. The broad and multifaceted curriculum offers room for your own creative projects and input, helping you grow into a versatile musician with a distinctive artistic voice.
Interdisciplinary Arts
At iArts, you combine art, science, and entrepreneurship to devise creative solutions for social issues.
Circular Cities & Communities
You learn how to use energy and resources smartly in cities and neighbourhoods. You develop circular solutions and advise municipalities and businesses.
International Business
You’ll learn to think creatively and critically, spot opportunities, and collaborate internationally. From day one, you’ll work in English on real-world projects.
Hotel Management
Hotel Management School Maastricht trains future hospitality leaders with a focus on entrepreneurship, gastronomy, global mindset and practical experience.
European Studies
The English-taught bachelor’s programme European Studies teaches you to work together on solutions for societal challenges in Europe.
Applied Data Science & Artificial Intelligence
Help doctors detect and predict diseases early. Or accelerate the energy transition by developing intelligent systems that predict our energy needs. We dive into data and algorithms, but also look at the impact of AI on society.
Good to know: the Artificial Intelligence bachelor is taught entirely in English, preparing you right from the start for an international working environment.
Living in Maastricht as a French student
A new city, a new country – an exciting new chapter. Living in Maastricht as a French student not only means studying, it also means becoming part of a vibrant international community. It’s a city where you’ll quickly feel at home, make new friends, enjoy an active student life, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
How can you find a place to live? Can you work while studying? And what do you need to know about costs? We will help you on your way!
Your choice: university of applied sciences or university
If you come to study in the Netherlands, you can choose to do so at a university of applied sciences (HBO) or a university (WO). Both routes lead to a full degree, but the path towards it differs.
A university focuses mainly on theoretical and scientific education. You do a lot of research, read academic literature, and learn to critically analyse. Independent study is the norm here. A university of applied sciences is hands-on and directly applicable. You will learn by doing, working on real-life assignments and internships early on in your studies.
What suits you?
Are you someone who prefers learning by doing – working on real-world projects from day one? Looking for a programme that prepares you directly for your future career? Then a university of applied sciences like Zuyd could be the perfect fit. Prefer diving deep into theoretical concepts and academic research? Then a research university might be a better match for you.
Why choose Zuyd University of Applied Sciences?
At Zuyd, we believe in learning through doing. Our programmes are developed in close collaboration with industry partners, ensuring you gain relevant, hands-on experience from the start. You’ll benefit from small-scale, personal teaching, with lecturers who truly get to know you. And with our strong international focus, you’ll feel right at home here as a French student in the Netherlands.
Tuition fees in the Netherlands
If you’re coming to study for a full degree at Zuyd, you’ll need to pay Dutch tuition fees each year. The amount depends on your nationality and the type of programme you follow.
Get prepared
Once you’ve decided to study at Zuyd, it’s time to get started with your preparations. There’s quite a lot to arrange, so don’t wait too long. Some things, like your visa or residence permit, can take time.
Admission and registration
We hope you've found plenty of inspiration to join us here at Zuyd. Before applying, make sure to check the admission requirements. This page outlines everything international students need to know about our bachelor and master requirements.
Study choice support
Study help at Zuyd: Choose the support that suits you.
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).
Studying in Maastricht
Maastricht is the ideal city for those looking for an international and welcoming place to study in the Netherlands. With its rich history, vibrant student life, and location near the borders of Belgium and Germany, Maastricht has everything you need. In this compact city, it’s easy to find your way around, with scenic squares and modern study facilities just minutes apart.
Exchange programs at Zuyd
Zuyd University offers a variety of exchange programs designed for students enrolled at our partner universities worldwide. These partnerships are formalized through agreements, ensuring a smooth and recognized exchange experience. If your university has an exchange agreement with Zuyd, you may be eligible to become an exchange student here.
International Introduction week at Zuyd
Each year in August and February the International Office organises an International Introduction to welcome international students from all over the world. Participation is free.
Student housing Maastricht
Are you looking for a room in the Maastricht Region? We strongly recommend starting your search as early as possible and following our tips to secure (temporary) accommodation at least 1 month before your study programme begins. Demand for student housing in the Netherlands is rising, and while the situation in our region is currently less critical than in cities like Amsterdam, Eindhoven, Rotterdam, and Utrecht, early preparation is still essential.
Read the information below to help you find suitable housing in time.
Netherlands student visa and residence permit
As an international student planning to study in the Netherlands, you'll need to follow Dutch immigration procedures. These depend on your nationality.
Scholarships for international students Netherlands
Looking for Dutch scholarships to finance your stay in the Netherlands? Zuyd offers several scholarships for talented and highly motivated non-EU students enrolling in a government-funded bachelor’s or master’s programme taught entirely in English.
Dutch study finance: managing your budget in the Netherlands
If you are preparing to study in the Netherlands it's important to plan how you will manage your budget during your studies. Many international students explore Dutch study finance to help cover tuition fees and living expenses while studying abroad.
