Netherlands confirms further reductions in English-taught bachelor's programmes
New legislation limits the share of English-taught bachelor programmes at Dutch universities, with exceptions for labour-market needs and specific fields.
The Dutch government has passed legislation that will further restrict the number of English-taught bachelor's programmes at public universities. The measures aim to reduce international student numbers and protect Dutch-language education.
- Published
- Location
- Netherlands
- Reading time
- 5 min
- Category
- Policy & Regulation · Higher Education
What the new rules say
The Dutch legislation sets a framework for the proportion of bachelor's programmes that may be taught in English. Universities must justify English-taught programmes on the basis of labour-market needs, internationalisation objectives or specific programme requirements.
The measures also affect tuition and numerus fixus programmes in some fields. The government has stated that the policy is intended to manage growth in international student numbers and ensure the sustainability of Dutch higher education.
For prospective students
- Check the language of instruction: Confirm whether a programme will be offered in English or Dutch for the start date you are applying for.
- Tuition status: Some programmes may change tuition categories depending on student nationality and programme language.
- Deadlines: Numerus fixus and rolling-admission deadlines remain in force; verify dates on Studielink.
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