As an EU student, you may be eligible for student finance from the Dutch government. There are of course various conditions to meet, so read on to find out more.

Basic grant reinstated in higher education

The basic grant has been reinstated in higher education (HBO and university) from 1 September 2023. The basic grant is a performance-related grant and will remain a grant if you obtain your degree within 10 years.

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Student finance by the Dutch government

You may be eligible for student finance (provided by the Dutch government to students in higher education) if you meet the following requirements:

  • You are under the age of 30
  • You are registered as a full-time or dual student in the Netherlands
  • You hold a Dutch passport or have similar rights depending on nationality or residence permit
  • You have lived in the Netherlands for at least 5 consecutive years or be employed for at least 32 hours a month 

More information about eligibility 

How does it work?

Student finance consists of different components, such as the basic grant, the supplementary grant, the interest bearing loan, the student travel product and the tuition fees loan (for HBO and university only). The basic grant, supplementary grant and student travel product do not have to be repaid if you obtain your degree within 10 years. The supplementary grant depends on your parents' income.

DUO calculator

To check the loan amount you would be eligible to receive, we recommend using the DUO calculator (Dutch only).

DUO calculator

How to apply

Be sure to apply in time, as it may take several months for your application to be processed. You will need a Dutch BSN number (Citizen Service Number) and a DigiD account, which provides access to online services provided by Dutch government agencies.

Student finance: Apply - DUO

There’s more to explore

Get more practical information about finances. Simply click on one of the tiles below.