Cuts to education are looming. Long-term students will probably have to pay an additional 3,000 euros in tuition fees in the long term. Therefore, it may be interesting to consider studying in another European country where study costs are lower. For students who run a high risk of having to pay an extra 3,000 euros in two years, and future students who do not want to take any risks, I break down the costs of studying in other countries in this article.
South Europe
Southern Europe seems an attractive alternative to study. Enjoy the sun and a glass of wine while studying. Financially speaking, Italy is the least attractive option here. Living expenses are a lot more expensive than in the Netherlands. The tuition fee is 800 to 1000 euros, cheaper than the Dutch 1800 euros, which may be supplemented with 3000 euros. Tuition fees in Portugal are comparable to those in Italy, but living expenses are much cheaper here. In Spain you pay per credit point. The tuition fee here is a maximum of 1300 euros and the living expenses are also low. Living expenses in France are slightly more expensive than in Portugal and Spain, but tuition fees are only 300 euros. However, financially speaking, Greece seems to be the best option. The cost of living is much lower than in the Netherlands and following a bachelor’s degree is free! In terms of money, Southern Europe is a good option for Dutch students. However, language problems may occur. The number of English-taught courses is very limited.
North Europe
For those who only speak English, Scandinavia may be a better option. The range of English-taught courses is very wide. In addition, Scandinavian education is very highly regarded, Scandinavian universities are often high in international rankings. A disadvantage is that the costs of living in Scandinavia are slightly higher than in the Netherlands. On the other hand, no tuition fees are charged in Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Finland. A study in Scandinavia therefore seems to be a good alternative for Dutch students.
Neighboring countries
The neighboring countries are of course also worth considering. Great Britain is known for highly ranked universities such as Oxford, Cambridge, University College London and The London School of Economics. From next year, English universities will be allowed to charge tuition fees of up to £9,000, which is more than €10,000. This is therefore not an affordable alternative. However, universities in Scotland are exempt from this arrangement. European students do not have to pay tuition fees here. In addition, there are several highly ranked universities in Scotland. However, the costs of living are higher than in the Netherlands. In Belgium and Germany the costs of living are about the same as in the Netherlands. In Germany you pay 1000 euros in tuition fees, so you save here compared to the Netherlands. However, Belgium is cheaper. Here you only pay 570 euros in tuition fees. In addition, there is no language barrier, you can simply follow education here in Dutch.