Bon bini na NHL Stenden!
Thinking about studying in the Netherlands, far away from your Caribbean home? Or have you already been admitted to NHL Stenden? Then check out this page. We’ve packed it with info you need as a prospective student from Aruba, Curaçao, Sint Maarten, Bonaire, Saba or Sint Eustatius. Check out:
practical information about studying
tips on housing, finance and insurance
ideas for getting around, joining sports clubs and filling your free time
insights into Dutch culture, making new friends and settling in
students’ own stories for inspiration
Moving abroad to study is an adventure, and we get that it can feel both exciting and overwhelming. So let us help you get ready. We'll take you through what you need to organise step by step so your transition to student life at NHL Stenden is as smooth as possible. And if you’ve got questions, just get in touch or chat with one of our students.
Choose and apply for your degree
Before your departure
Before you arrive in the Netherlands, there are a few things you can sort out:
Your BSN is your personal identification number and you need it for almost all official contact in the Netherlands, from applying for student finance to opening a Dutch bank account. You apply for your BSN in the municipality where you live. Simply make an appointment with the city hall and take along your ID and a valid rental agreement.
If you live on one of the Caribbean islands, then you can probably apply for your BSN in advance. You can find more info here in Dutch, English, Papiamentu or Papiamento.
As a student from the Caribbean, you could get Dutch student finance. There are a few conditions and you need to apply in plenty of time.
Health insurance is mandatory in the Netherlands so make sure your health insurance covers you properly. Otherwise, you could be fined.
You’ll also need liability insurance, so you’re covered for any damage you unintentionally to others and for which you are legally responsible.
Check out the Nuffic website first for more information. And if you need help arranging your insurance, get in touch with Student Info.
Download the Goin’ app and link up with other students who are going to join the same study programme, come from the same country or have the same hobbies. And you can join smaller groups sharing the same interests or start up your own community
Finding accommodation in the north of the Netherlands is fairly easy – and NHL Stenden has official accommodation partners so you know you’re going to get a certain quality and service. For instance, in Leeuwarden we work with StudentStay.Their accommodation is right next campus and offers a choice of student dorms, apartments and studios.
What’s going in the suitcase? Think:
warm clothing (layers)
official documents
an international debit card
your favourite snacks from home 😉
The first weeks in the Netherlands
The first weeks may feel overwhelming, but don't worry – you're not alone!
Get to know fellow students, your lecturers and the city. It’s a week of exploring the campus and city so you get to feel at home more quickly.
Register at your local city hall so you become a resident in the Netherlands. You need to do this within 5 days of arrival at City Hall.
You’ll need to register with a GP once you’ve arrived in the Netherlands. They're the first port of call if you have any medical issues, so it’s pretty important. Student Info can help you with registration – just make sure your health insurance is valid.
Getting yourself a personal public transport card (OV chip card) makes using public transport really easy. And check whether you are entitled to the student travel product.
Check what your phone provider offers but you might find getting a Dutch SIM card is more affordable.
And check your bank options. You’ll probably find setting up direct debits to pay your rent and insurance is much easier with a Dutch bank account
Did you know that we have a buzzing Caribbean community here? Whether it’s a game night or cultural evening, it's the perfect place to meet people who, like you, have a connection with the Caribbean. Come along and laugh together, make memories and make new friendships!
Check out our international website for more info and tips about your first days in the Netherlands.
Studying at NHL Stenden
Studying in the Netherlands may be different to what you are used to. The Dutch are pragmatic, open-minded and fairly relaxed. And when it comes to studying at NHL Stenden, we value our community and how we share individual views and talents. It’s a community where you’re known by your name, learn to think and act from different perspectives and pool your knowledge with others as you work together to explore different ideas. A place where you can be you, where you feel safe to fall, brush yourself off and stand up again. A community where very different worlds come together.
At NHL Stenden, we aim to help you quickly feel comfortable in your new environment, so you feel at home. We believe that when you feel at home, you’re more able to get the best out of your studies, be confident in seizing the opportunities that come your way, and become more sure of yourself and who you are.
Study in a community where you’re known by your name – and call your lecturers by their first name too
Draw on the guidance and experience of your personal study coach
Look after your physical wellbeing and keep fit, join a team doing your favourite sport or discover new sports with our student sport options
Get advice on finances, disability guidance, diversity & inclusion and personal matters affecting your studies through our student counselling office
Check out ways to make sure you’re on the right track or boost your studies through Study Choice Advice
Contact & support
If you have questions or just want to spar with someone who understands your situation, then simply contact Student Info or stop by our office:
