If you’re studying in the Netherlands, one of the most important questions is: how do I finance my studies and living expenses? The Dutch government offers a system of student finance (studiefinanciering) through DUO (Dienst Uitvoering Onderwijs). Many international students are unaware that they might qualify too.
In this article, we explain what student finance in the Netherlands is, who can apply, how much you can get, and the exact steps to apply in 2026.
What Is Student Finance in the Netherlands?
Student finance (in Dutch: studiefinanciering) is financial support from the Dutch government to help cover:
- Tuition fees
- Rent and living expenses
- Travel costs
It is mainly designed for Dutch students, but some international students also qualify depending on their situation.
Types of Student Finance
- Tuition Fee Loan (Collegegeldkrediet)
- Available to EU/EEA and Swiss students.
- Covers your full tuition fee (statutory or institutional).
- Must be repaid after graduation.
- Basic Grant (Basisbeurs)
- Reintroduced in 2023.
- A fixed monthly amount to help with living costs.
- For EU/EEA students, eligibility usually requires working at least 56 hours per month in the Netherlands or having Dutch residency rights.
- Supplementary Grant (Aanvullende beurs)
- Based on your parents’ income.
- Can be partially converted into a gift if you graduate within 10 years.
- Travel Product (Studentenreisproduct)
- Free weekday or weekend public transport.
- Available for qualifying EU/EEA students under similar conditions as the grant.
Who Can Apply for Student Finance in the Netherlands?
You may qualify if you meet one of the following:
- You are a Dutch national.
- You are an EU/EEA or Swiss student and:
- Work at least 56 hours per month in a Dutch job, OR
- Have lived in the Netherlands for 5+ years, OR
- Have a Dutch partner or parent.
Non-EU students generally do not qualify, except in special residence situations.
How Much Can You Receive in 2026?
The amounts vary, but here are estimates:
- Tuition fee loan: up to €2,530 per year (statutory tuition).
- Basic grant: around €110–€300 per month.
- Supplementary grant: up to €450 per month.
- Travel product: unlimited public transport during your chosen free period.
👉 Combined, some students receive over €800 per month in support.
How to Apply for Student Finance
Applications are done via DUO (duo.nl).
- Go to the DUO student finance page.
- Log in with your DigiD.
- Fill in your details (education, rent, income, parents’ income if relevant).
- Select which components (loan, grant, travel product) you want.
- Submit your application.
💡 Applications can be backdated to the start of the academic year, so don’t delay.
Risks and Things to Know
- Loans must be repaid after graduation, but DUO offers flexible repayment terms.
- If you wrongly apply without meeting the requirements, you may be forced to pay everything back.
- The Basic Grant is only converted into a gift if you graduate within 10 years.
Conclusion
For students in the Netherlands, student finance (studiefinanciering) can make a huge difference in covering living costs. In 2026, opportunities remain strong for both Dutch and qualifying international students — especially those who work in the Netherlands.
At Domakin.nl, we guide international students not only with housing and rent allowance (huurtoeslag) but also with understanding Dutch student finance options.
👉 Need help setting up your housing and financial support? Contact Domakin today.
