Everything you need for your study abroad journey, from planning and preparation to living abroad and staying connected after graduation.
All in one place.
12–18 months before departure
This is where your study abroad journey truly begins. The goal of this phase is to explore your options, define your goals, and build a realistic plan that fits your future.
Before applying anywhere, take time to reflect and research carefully.
Research phase
What do you want to study?
Research university (WO) or university of applied sciences (HBO)?
Are you studying abroad to improve career opportunities?
Define Your "why"
First, decide:
Do you want international exposure or adventure?
Is there a specific field or university known for your program?
Need to know:
- Check admission requirements
- Check application deadlines
- Apply through Studielink
- Create a Studielink account
- Link your DigiD (if you have one)
- Choose your program
- Submit your application
- Complete university-specific requirements
If you’re studying in the Netherlands:
You must apply through Studielink
Without Studielink → you are NOT officially applying.
Register in Studielink
Steps
For a student loan to study in the Netherlands, you must apply through DUO
Arrange Student Finance (DUO)
If you have a Dutch passport, you may qualify for:
- Basic student finance
- Loan
- Public transport product
- Supplementary grant
Finance
⚠️ Never transfer money without a contract.
⚠️ Watch out for scams.
You must arrange housing EARLY.
Options:
- University housing (limited spots)
- Private student housing
- Shared apartments
- Temporary housing
Start searching 3 years before departure.
- Kamernet
- Pararius
- HousingAnywhere
- University housing portals
Websites often used:
Housing
You are required to get Dutch basic health insurance.
If you don’t work:
You may stay insured through Caribbean insurance (depending on rules).
Always check before departure.
If you move to the Netherlands and work part-time:
Health insurance
Register at the Municipality (Gemeente)
When you arrive in the Netherlands:
- Register at the local municipality
- Get your BSN number
Within 5 days of moving into your housing, you must:
- You cannot work
- You cannot receive student finance
- You cannot open a Dutch bank account
Without a BSN:
- Passport
- Rental contract
- Birth certificate (sometimes required)
You need:
Open a dutch bank account
BANK
- Passpoort
- BSN
- Proof of address
Bring:
- ING
- ABN AMRO
- Rabobank
- Bunq
Popular banks:
- Receiving DUO
- Paying rent
- Getting paid from work
Needed for:
