collageThe Netherlands is a popular destination for foreign students who are after a degree in medicine. But let’s face it, studying abroad in another country can be daunting. To make things simpler, we’ve put together some tips on studying medicine in English in the Netherlands for you.
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Medicine In Netherlands For International Students
In summary, studying medicine in the Netherlands is possible but can only be done partly in English. You would need to commit to not just learning Dutch but studying in Dutch.
There are a few very obvious reasons why the Netherlands is one of the favorite destinations for international students. First of all, education is modern, high-quality and in small groups, focused on practical experience. Most universities offer classes in the English language, as the Netherlands was the first country to enable education in English to attract international students. Furthermore, over 95% of people speak English, making it even easier for foreigners to assimilate.
On top of the premium education and the presence of the universal language, the Netherlands offers a multicultural and open-minded society. Along with warm and welcoming people, amazing travel opportunities, and proximity to many European countries that only emphasize the Netherland’s charm. Medical education is especially promoted as one of the best globally, with multiple offers for research and clinical programs.
If you want to study medicine in the European continent, consider going to the Netherlands. You’ll surely gain quality education and training as a future doctor. But what university should you enter? In this article, we will be looking at the best medical schools in the Netherlands.
Can International Students Enroll in Medical Schools in the Netherlands?
Yes, according to the official site of the University of Amsterdam you can enroll in medical schools in the Netherlands as an international student. There are however a few things to remember, most universities will demand a test in English or Dutch proficiency, possibly both, depending on the language that classes are taught in. Most Bachelor’s programs are in Dutch, and Master’s are usually English.The Netherlands is also a good opportunity for international students to cost vise. The relation between the tuition costs and quality of education is more than fair. Also, in the Netherlands, you can work while you study and even reduce some of the expenses on taxes. Another amazing thing is the ability to be a part of scholarships offered by the government that will cover some or all tuition expenses.
What is the Medical Curriculum Like in Medical Schools in the Netherlands?
The University of Amsterdam site states that medical education in the Netherlands lasts for (six) 6 years. Three out of those years are dedicated to getting the Bachelor’s degree, and then additional three (3) years are needed to get the Master’s degree and be able to practice medicine.
The Bachelor’s program is usually in the Dutch language, so students have to know the language before applying, although preparatory courses do exist. The first three years are usually focused more on academic education, and the last three years are clinical and research-based, along with mandatory internships.
Best Medical Schools in the Netherlands
1. University of Amsterdam
The University of Amsterdam was founded in 1632, and it’s one of the oldest universities in the Netherlands. It’s also the biggest university with over 30,000 students enrolled, with international students from over 100 countries. This university has (seven) 7 faculties, and medicine is one of the most popular. With the university’s excellent curriculum, prestige, and success of its alumni, this institution is considered the best medical school in the Netherlands.
Medical education in this university is oriented around the patient and organized in small groups. With this, proper learning and transfer of knowledge is achievable, making it even more obvious why this university, in particular, is so popular. The curriculum is divided into three years of theoretical education and three years of clinical education, after which the students receive the Master’s degree and are able to practice medicine in the Netherlands or worldwide.
2. Erasmus University Rotterdam
The Erasmus University Rotterdam was established in 1913, and Erasmus University Rotterdam is one of the best medical schools in the Netherlands and worldwide. Placed on many lists in the top 100 universities, it comes as no surprise that this university is one of the most popular ones for international students.
Erasmus University Medical Center is the official location of the medical faculty and represents one of the most prestigious places to get your medical degree. This is one of the best-equipped and most pristine research facilities in Europe. The university also cooperates with Sophia children’s Hospital and Cancer Institute.
3. Vrije University Amsterdam
The Vrije Univesity Amsterdam was founded in 1880 and today, it represents one of the best universities in the world that always ranks in the top 150. They are more than welcoming to international students and provide Master’s programs in English and preparatory classes in Dutch.
Vrije University Amsterdam is one of the best medical schools in the Netherlands, offering education based on critical thinking and research opportunities. The research is dedicated to five focus areas: cancer & immunology, neurosciences, cardiovascular disease, public health, primary care & long-term care, and movement sciences. Students have the opportunity to learn in the University Hospital, with over 45.000 admissions and more than 400.000 outpatient consultations per year, ensuring high-quality clinical education.
4. University of Groningen
The University of Groningen was established over 400 years ago, in 1614. The same year medical faculty was established, and in 1797, Groningen University Hospital was opened and became a vital part of medical education.
They offer Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Pre-master Medicine programs, and they are open to international students. The University of Groningen is especially known for its research program, which is considered to be one of the top programs in Europe. As an international student here, you’ll be widely exposed for research and learning opportunities during your studies. Since they have a reputation for research and training, you’ll be widely exposed to an outstanding level of research.
5. Maastricht University
The Maastricht University was founded in 1976, and it’s one of the youngest universities in the Netherlands. This top medical school in the Netherlands has a different approach to education because they are constantly improving the curriculum and rapidly incorporating the latest developments and insights. Maastricht University Medical Centre is the first academic medical center combining the functions of an academic and regional hospital.
Education at Maastricht University’s Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences takes pride in their innovative research and education. They take a multidisciplinary approach in their programs and as they continuously provide education to local and foreign students, they ensure the highest quality of learning.
6. Leiden University
Leiden University was established in 1575, and it’s one of the best medical universities in the Netherlands. The university has seven faculties and over 30,000 students, with medical faculty being one of them. Innovative technologies and a modern approach to education make this university a great place to get your medical degree.
The Leiden University Medical Center focuses on academic care for patients, meaning they are orientated on highly specialized tertiary referral care delivered to patients with severe or rare diseases or disorders that are difficult to treat.
7. Utrecht University
The Utrecht University was founded in 1636, making it one of the oldest universities in the Netherlands. This is a public research university with over 35,000 students enrolled and seven faculties. The education at the Utrecht University is high-quality, as among the lecturers, 12 of them are Nobel prize winners and 13 Spinoza Prize winners.
The Faculty of Medicine of Utrecht University and the Utrecht Medical Center work closely together to achieve premium-quality education. This way, students are a part of clinical research from day one, which offers them a unique opportunity to learn practical knowledge, making Utrecht University one of the best medical universities in the Netherlands. This can mean an upper hand in future job hunting.
With amazing learning facilities and education centers, it is no surprise that the Netherlands is one of the most popular destinations for international students. This multicultural country is working hard on keeping up with modern technologies and ways of transferring knowledge, making the patient the center of attention.
They are known worldwide for top-notch research centers that provide the students with the actual empiric experience. This is one of the reasons why diplomas acquired here are recognized across the globe. Besides, the Netherlands presents a country worth visiting and exploring, with amazing places and great people to meet.
study medicine in netherlands fees
A further complication for British nationals is that tuition fees for non-EU nationals are significantly higher for medicine at around €32,000 per year instead of €2,209 (2022/23) for EU nationals. This is close to the price international students pay to study medicine in the UK. British nationals who were not already resident in the Netherlands before Brexit will have to pay these higher fees.
How to apply to Dutch medical schools?
You can only apply to one of the two medical schools in any one year. The deadline for doing so is 15th January. Admission for British students is made even harder by the fact that you will have to have studied maths, physics, biology and chemistry until the end of school, ie to A’ level. If you haven’t done that, you will need to take an exam in the Netherlands to demonstrate competency in these subjects. For each subject that you need, you will probably have to allow between 200 and 300 hours of self-study before you are ready to take the exam. (University of Groningen insists on Maths A level for all science subjects and this additional exam will not help you if you don’t have A level Maths.)
Assuming you meet the entry requirements you will then have to take part in the university’s own selection process. Details of these will be communicated to you once your application has been judged to meet the minimum entry requirements. This selection process will involve additional tests and assessments. These have been conducted online during the pandemic but you cannot assume that this will be true in the future. Once you have completed the assessment process you will need to wait until 15th April to find out if you have been accepted. All candidates are ranked against each other and the highest-ranked students will be made offers. it is possible that that you will get a place slightly later if you are just outside the required rank.
Can You Study Medicine In English In Netherlands
Studying Medicine in the Netherlands
Medicine in the Netherlands is taught differently than in the United Kingdom, both in terms of the approach to the subject and the timeline to qualification. While a Dutch medical degree will be afforded the same respect as one from a British medical school, the way in which students are educated means that transferring between the two countries midway through your studies will be almost impossible.
The route to qualification as a doctor in general practice in the Netherlands consists of three main phases:
- BSc in medicine (3 years)
- MSc in medicine (an additional 3 years)
- Training (one year)
The first three years can be taught in English at Dutch universities but only two have this option and very few of the places are available to international students. The University of Groningen offers a BSc degree in medicine in global health. Maastricht University has a similar programme in English. Both of these degrees would constitute the first step to becoming a doctor.There are a total of 410 places for medicine in Groningen every year but from 2021 only about 100 of these are available to non-Dutch-speaking students. This is fewer than in previous years. It was already hard to get a place on an English-taught programme. From 2021 it will be even harder.
While these degrees are taught in English it is imperative that you learn Dutch alongside your other studies; Dutch language is an integral part of the degree and you must pass exams in the language if you are to graduate.
The Dutch language is not just important for when you are dealing with patients. It is necessary because you cannot complete the MSc phase of your studies in English anywhere. There are Masters degrees in medical research and technology that are taught in English but these are not designed for you to qualify as a doctor.
The final training year requires future doctors to work in Dutch hospitals and here, communication in the Dutch language will be of vital importance.
university of amsterdam medicine entry requirements
Requirements: To be considered for admission, international students need to have an IELTS score of 6.5 and 7.0 for UG and PG courses respectively. Other tests required to study in the Netherlands include Dutch language tests. For postgraduate courses, students need to have a GMAT score of at least 550.
University of Amsterdam International Admissions
The UvA is a habitat for students from over 100+ nationalities across the world. UG and PG courses at UvA are available for all international students, no matter the language of instruction. However, the University of Amsterdam has a 4% acceptance rate for international students. The admission requirements for the international students UvA include:
Admission Requirements:
- Language proficiency- English and Dutch
- Student visa and passport
- Academic transcripts and certifications
- Statement of Purpose
- Recommendation letters
- Resume
Language Proficiency Requirements
| Tests | Selected Programs | General Requirements | Dutch-taught Programs |
|---|---|---|---|
| TOEFL-iBT | Overall score 100 | Overall score 92 | – |
| Cambridge | Level C1: 190 | Level C1: 180 | – |
| IELTS | 7.0 (subscore: 6.5) | 6.5 (subscore: 6.0) | – |
| NT2 (Dutch) | – | – | NT2 state exam |
Netherlands Student Visa
If the students are required to study in the Netherlands for more than 90 days, then there is a need for both a visa (MVV) and a residence permit (VVR). The visa can be obtained after an inquiry at the Dutch Embassy. The following points should be noted before applying for the Netherlands Student Visa.
- Application for a residence permit can only be made via Maastricht University.
- The application starts automatically after you have been admitted to a program
- The service is free of charge.
- Statutory cost of 171 Euro has to be paid for the Residence cost.
- The Dutch Immigration will never contact anyone by phone nor will it ask any applicant to transfer money.
University of Amsterdam Undergraduate Admissions
UvA offers a wide range of undergraduate courses to students to choose from. Currently, the university offers around 100+ UG programs to international students. The admission process and guidelines are mentioned below:
Application Fee:100 EUR
Admission Requirements:
- Academic transcript
- CV/Resume
- Passport
- English language test results
- Motivation letter
- Qualification equal into Dutch VWO
University of Amsterdam Graduate Admissions
The university offers 180-200 master’s level courses to international students. Some of the popular PG-level courses include Accountancy, Business Administration, Data Science, and Information Systems. The application process and requirements for international students are:
Application Fees: 100 EUR
Admission Requirements for Amsterdam MBA Program
The University of Amsterdam MBA program is offered as a 12-month course taught in English. Designed as a mix of theoretical and practical curriculum, the program consists of study trips, electives, and Amsterdam leadership program. For international students, the cost of the Amsterdam MBA program is 39,900 EUR.
| Category | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Deadline | June 1 for full-MBA August 1 for part-time MBA |
| Resume | Required |
| Work Experience | 3+ year |
| Academic Qualification | Bachelor degree |
| SOP | Required |
| LORs | 2 references |
| IELTS/TOEFL Score | IELTS Score of 7.0 or TOEFL- iBT: 100 |
| GRE/GMAT Score | Recommended GMAT score of 650 |
| Additional Requirements | ABS Video Assessment; Admission Interview |
Admission decisions for Amsterdam Business School MBA program are notified within 10 working days. There are only 30 spots available in the MBA programs, therefore, ABS urges students to apply at the earliest opportunity.
Requirements for Postgraduate Courses at University of Amsterdam
| Requirements | MSc Accountancy and Control | Masters in Business Economics | Masters in Medical Informatics | MSc Business Administration | MSc Finance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fees (in EUR) | 13,516 | 14,291 | 13,516 | 14,291 | 14,291 |
| TOEFL-iBT | Overall 92 | Overall 92 | Overall 100 | Overall 92 | Overall 92 |
| Transcripts | Required | Required | Required | Required | Required |
| Resume | Required | Required | Required | Required | Required |
| GMAT Score | 650+ | 550+ | – | 600+ | 640+ |
| SOP/essay | Required | Required | Required | Required | Required |
| Additional Requirements | Interview | – | Interview, Research proposal | Interview | Iinterview |
The admission committee of the University of Amsterdam will only review the complete application once that Biggins application has been reviewed, you will receive an email notifying whether you have been conditionally admitted to the program or not. Once The applicant has been conditionally admitted to the university the applicant will have to confirm their place in the program for some programs the applicant will automatically receive a link to the acceptance form for the others the applicant will need to log in to the digital system of Studielink.
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