The Netherlands in brief

‘The rest of the world is a big place’, say the Dutch, well aware of how small their country is with its 41,000 square kilometres. It comes as no surprise then to learn that for centuries the Netherlands has had an attitude of openness towards the rest of the world, not only in business, but also in social life and culture. The Netherlands is a place where knowledge, skills, ideas and cultures from all over Europe come together.

The Netherlands is a country that offers global services and has an attitude of openness towards the rest of the world. It is open to do business, but it is also open socially and culturally. The Dutch have always represented a variety of religious and political viewpoints. Respect for the other person's opinions and convictions is the national virtue that gives strength to the fabric of society, with its many strands. In one sense or another, everyone is a member of some minority, and understands that to be treated with respect requires treating others the same way. This makes the Netherlands ideally suited for people who seek to enrich their knowledge through study abroad.

Your gateway to Europe

Once you'll arrive in the Netherlands you'll discover that many European capitals are within easy reach. Brussels is two hours by train, and a one-hour flight from Schiphol Airport will take you to Paris, London or Berlin. Much of Europe’s economic development has taken place and still does in the Netherlands. Rotterdam is one of the world’s largest ports. And Schiphol International Airport is the fourth largest passenger and cargo airport in Europe, providing access to and from Europe for millions of people from all over the world.

Affordable education

According to the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), the Netherlands is not an expensive place to live when compared with other countries around the world. The EIU’s latest Worldwide Cost of Living Survey shows that the cost of living in Amsterdam is modest compared with cities like New York, London, Paris and Beijing, although it is slightly higher than Sydney and Montreal. Education in the Netherlands is not free, but tuition fees are reasonable. Experience shows that to live and study in the Netherlands for one year costs a student between €700 and €900 a month, which includes accommodation, meals and other daily expenses. Some students manage to spend less, but this of course depends on your own lifestyle.