How much money do I need to study in the Netherlands?
Beyond tuition, the immigration service (IND) asks you to show 12 months of its study norm, currently €13,569 (about ₹14.4 lakh) for the year. Usually you pay this to your university or show your own account, scholarship or a sponsor statement. Your university applies for the permit for you, so follow its instructions closely.
"The process looks complicated and in another language."
Your Dutch university guides you through it. You mostly follow their steps and send the money on time.
- 1Accept the offerUniversity starts the process
- 2Show fundsIND study norm for 12 months
- 3University appliesPermit request to IND
- 4Collect permitAfter arrival
Ways to show funds
- Deposit with the university.
- Your own bank account.
- A scholarship.
- A financial support statement from a sponsor.
Netherlands funds checklist
Common mistakes
- Missing the university’s payment deadline.
- Using last year’s norm.
- Sending money without the university’s reference.
Questions families ask
Do I apply for the permit myself?
Usually the university applies on your behalf. Check its international office pages.
Can I stay after graduating?
The IND has an orientation year route for graduates. See its official page.
Sources
- IND: Required amounts income requirements (checked 31 Oct 2026)
- IND: Income requirements study (checked 31 Oct 2026)
Rules change. Always confirm on the official page before you act.
Want a counsellor to look at your case?.
The first consultation is free. Leave your number and a counsellor will call you back, usually the same working day (Monday to Saturday).
Prefer WhatsApp? Message a counsellor →