FAQs

Am I eligible for the basic health insurance in the Netherlands?

I want to study in the Netherlands, what do I need to know?

Which vitamins are important for my health during my studies in the Netherlands?

What kind of clothes should I have in the Netherlands?

I’ve never had a bank account and have never managed my own finances. Who can help me with this?

How do I arrange insurance before I leave for the Netherlands?

How do I register with the municipality?

How do I apply for my BSN number and DigiD?

How do I apply for a DUO loan?

How do I apply for a student loan in Aruba?

I’ve never lived on my own before, what should I learn or know?

My Dutch is not very good, how can I improve it before I go to study in the Netherlands?

I’m not sure what I want to study in the Netherlands, who can help me with this?

How long is the waiting or registration time for a room in the Netherlands?

I am depressed and feel lonely, I need help, who should I turn to?

I have been discriminated against, who should I turn to?

I want to study in the Netherlands, what do I need to know?

Getting rooms in the Netherlands, especially single studios, is very difficult; you have to register more than 4 years in advance. The culture is very different, people are very direct, and sometimes this can feel quite harsh. The Dutch language level of a Dutch student is approximately B1, while for most Aruban students it is around C2, which can negatively affect your academic success. Start early with extra Dutch courses.

The weather is very different, it is cold, it often rains, and the sun shines little, so make sure you take the necessary vitamins to stay healthy. You are eligible for both the Aruba student loan and the DUO loan. Read up carefully about both loans. According to the Student Loan Ordinance, you are only allowed to switch once, so it is good to take a study choice test before you start your studies.

Living on your own is not easy, and spending money can go very quickly if you do not keep good records of your expenses and income. Make sure you have some knowledge of cooking, planning, and budgeting.

How long is the waiting or registration time for a room in the Netherlands?

Depending on the city where you plan to study and live, the waiting time can be between 3 and 5 years. Housing in the Netherlands is a major problem, not only for Aruban students but also for Dutch students.

Register as early as possible, preferably five years in advance. If you are not sure where you will study, register in multiple cities where you might want to study. The Ministry of Education and Sports created a website with information about how and where to register for student housing:

ArubaHuisKamernet

I’m not sure what I want to study in the Netherlands, who can help me with this?

In Aruba, students choose their study package in VWO 4 or HAVO 3, which is a major decision at a young age. Many students still do not know what they want to study or what career they want.

It is recommended to take a career or study choice test and take another one before leaving Aruba. Gathering as much information as possible before starting your studies helps prevent switching programs later because the program does not suit you. This is important because you are only allowed one switch if you want to remain eligible for a student loan.

A career or study choice test helps you discover professions or studies that match your interests, skills, and personality, allowing you to make a well-informed decision about your future.

qompas keuze teststudiekeuze 123

My Dutch is not very good, how can I improve it before I go to study in the Netherlands?

Many Aruban students underestimate how difficult Dutch can be. Remember that Dutch students speak it as their native language.

Start preparing at least two years in advance by:

  • Watching Dutch news on TV
  • Listening to Dutch podcasts
  • Speaking Dutch at home or with classmates
  • Reading books in Dutch
  • Taking additional Dutch language lessons

Most schools in the Netherlands also offer extra Dutch lessons for international students.

I’ve never lived on my own before, what should I learn or know?

Many students travel far from home for the first time and have never had to cook, do laundry, or manage their own budget.

Start preparing one year before leaving Aruba:

  • Learn basic cooking
  • Help with household chores
  • Learn to wash your own clothes
  • Learn to clean and maintain a home
  • Practice managing your own budget

These skills will help you adjust more easily when you live independently.

How do I apply for a student loan in Aruba?

You can apply for the Aruban student loan through the Arubalening portal. Make sure to submit all required documents on time and register with your mentor. Your mentor’s contact details can be found in the guide.
Aruba lening portal

How do I apply for a DUO loan?

Aruban students may also qualify for the Dutch DUO student loan. Depending on the program, this loan is usually between €600 and €1000 per month.

You can apply through the DUO student finance portal.
DUO Portal

How do I apply for my BSN number and DigiD?

Students applying for a DUO loan can request their BSN (Citizen Service Number) and DigiD while still in Aruba.

These are required for:

  • Registering with the municipality
  • Opening a bank account
  • Applying for student financing
  • Make sure to arrange these before leaving Aruba.
Activate and sign up DigiDov chip kaart

How do I register with the municipality?

If you travel together with scholarship students, your mentor will arrange an appointment with the municipality for registration.

If you travel independently, you must make an appointment yourself through the municipality’s website.

How do I arrange insurance before I leave for the Netherlands?

Students must be insured before traveling to the Netherlands. Insurance is required in case of illness, accidents, or other unexpected situations.

Because students can only apply for basic Dutch health insurance after registering with the municipality, they must first take out a temporary student insurance.

Two companies that offer this are:

  • InsureToStudy
  • AON Student Insurance

These cover medical costs, liability, accidents, travel insurance, and more.
Insure to studyAON sTUDENT INSURANCE

Am I eligible for basic health insurance in the Netherlands?

Students from the Caribbean parts of the Kingdom studying in the Netherlands can qualify for Dutch basic health insurance.

Eligibility may apply if:

  • You study in the Netherlands for more than three years
  • You receive DUO student financing
  • You have a part-time job and pay taxes
  • Your internship compensation exceeds the Dutch minimum wage

Eligibility is determined by the SVB Wlz assessment.

What kind of clothes should I have in the Netherlands?

Because it rains often, you should have:

  • A good rain jacket
  • Rain pants

Winters can be cold, so bring:

  • A warm winter coat
  • Warm clothing
  • Sturdy waterproof shoes

Which vitamins are important for my health during my studies in the Netherlands?

Because the Netherlands has less sunlight than Aruba, you should ensure you get enough Vitamin C and Vitamin D.

  • Vitamin C supports the immune system and helps prevent colds.
  • Vitamin D supports strong bones and immune health.

Vitamin C can be found in fruits and vegetables such as oranges and bell peppers. Vitamin D can be found in foods like fatty fish and eggs, or through supplements, especially in winter.

I am depressed and feel lonely. Who should I turn to for help?

Many students find it difficult to adjust to life in the Netherlands, especially being far from family and friends and dealing with cold weather.

If you feel depressed or lonely:

  • Talk to your mentor.
  • Use the student wellbeing services offered by your school.
  • Seek professional help from a psychologist through your doctor or healthcare provider.

I have been discriminated against. Who should I turn to?

If you experience discrimination, report it to your mentor and your school, especially if it occurred there. You can also seek external support if necessary.

Reporting discrimination is important to protect your rights and ensure a safe and fair learning environment.