MBA in Netherlands - Cost, Eligibility for Indian Students

MBA in Netherlands: Studying for an MBA in the Netherlands provides students with a unique and interesting experience. Students pursuing an MBA in the Netherlands have access to top-ranked colleges and business institutions that provide comprehensive programmes designed to build leadership abilities, business acumen, and a global perspective. In this article, we will cover all the aspects of pursuing an MBA in Netherlands including top universities, cost, admissions, job prospects, etc.

Why Study in Netherlands?

Before we move on to the finer details of studying MBA in Netherlands, let us first look at some of the top reasons to study in the Netherlands:

• Renowned Universities and Quality Education: Universities in the Netherlands are well-known for providing high-quality education and intellectual excellence. Many Dutch universities consistently rank among the best in Europe and the world. A high-quality education that is recognised and appreciated around the world can be obtained by studying in the Netherlands.
• Value for Money: Studying in the Netherlands can be a wise investment. In comparison to other European countries, tuition and living expenditures in the Netherlands are comparatively low. As a result, it is a tempting choice for students seeking to further their education without breaking the bank.
• Jobs and Entrepreneurship: The Netherlands is known for being an inventive and entrepreneurial hotspot. The country promotes creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities, making it a great environment for those looking to develop their entrepreneurial spirit. The Netherlands is home to numerous start-ups, technological firms, and research institutions, providing students with excellent job opportunities.
• Strong Economy: The Netherlands has a strong and stable economy, which is considered to be one of the most competitive in Europe. The country has a high GDP per capita.
• Safety and Happiness: The Netherlands is routinely ranked as one of the world's safest and happiest countries. The Netherlands provides a safe and comfortable environment for overseas students due to its high level of living, well-developed infrastructure, and progressive social policies. This contributes to a rewarding and enjoyable study experience.

Why MBA in Netherlands?

Here are some benefits and opportunities related to pursuing MBA in Netherlands:

• High-Quality Management Education: As mentioned above, universities in the Netherlands provide high-quality education, which includes management education as well.
• Strong Business Environment: The business landscape in the Netherlands is robust and dynamic, with a focus on entrepreneurship and innovation. It is home to a plethora of international corporations, startups, and research organisations, providing MBA graduates with networking possibilities, internships, and future employment chances.
• Networking Opportunities: With numerous business events, conferences, and professional organisations, the Netherlands has a thriving networking sector. Participating in these events during your MBA programme will assist you in developing a strong professional network, which can be beneficial for post-study work in the Netherlands.

All of these factors combine to make earning an MBA in the Netherlands an appealing option for students seeking a high-quality education, expanding their professional networks, and exploring career options in a dynamic and international business environment.

MBA in Netherlands Highlights

The table given below provides highlights of MBA in Netherlands:

Head	Details
Course Name	MBA (Master of Business Administration)
Duration	1-2 Years
Netherlands MBA Fees	€8,000 to €64,000
Top Specializations	General Management, International Business, Agri-Business Management, Operations Management, Supply Chain Management, Human Resources Management, Healthcare, etc.
Top Universities for MBA in Netherlands	University of Amsterdam, University of Groningen, Wageningen University & Research Center, Erasmus University Rotterdam, etc.
Average Salary after MBA in Netherlands	€1,12,482 (Source: Glassdoor)

MBA Colleges in Netherlands

The table given below provides the best MBA colleges in Netherlands along with the QS University Rankings 2024, QS Subject Rankings 2023 (Business & Management Studies), and tuition fee:

University	QS World University Rankings 2024	Tuition Fees
University of Amsterdam (QS Subject 2023: 85) (Shiksha Grade: A++)	53	€46,000
University of Groningen (QS Subject 2023: 124) (Shiksha Grade: B+)	139	€17,800
Wageningen University & Research Center (QS Subject 2023: 351-400) (Shiksha Grade: A)	151	€53,600 (Executive MBA in Food & Agribusiness)
Erasmus University Rotterdam (QS Subject 2023: 18) (Shiksha Grade: B)	176	€64,000
VU University Amsterdam (QS Subject 2023: 151-200) (Shiksha Grade: C++)	207	€35,000 (MBA International Business)
University of Twente (QS Subject 2023: 201-250) (Shiksha Grade: C)	210	€14,000
Radboud University (QS Subject 2023: 501-550) (Shiksha Grade: C++)	222	€16,500 (International Business)
University of Maastricht (QS Subject 2023: 151-200) (Shiksha Grade: C+)	256	€33,000
Tilburg University (QS Subject 2023: 63) (Shiksha Grade: C)	371	€15,100
Hanze University of Applied Sciences	n/a	€8,276

MBA in Netherlands: Specializations

For students, who want to pursue MBA in Netherlands, there are various specializations available as per their career interests and goals. Here are some top MBA specializations in Netherlands:

• Finance: Financial management, investment analysis, risk evaluation, and corporate finance are the focus of this specialisation. It teaches students how to make strategic financial decisions and manage financial operations.
• Marketing: This specialisation focuses on market research, brand management, consumer behaviour, and digital marketing. Students learn how to create effective marketing plans and how to recognise consumer trends.
• Entrepreneurship: This specialisation is intended for prospective entrepreneurs, and it includes themes including business planning, innovation, venture capital, and strategic management. It gives students the knowledge and skills they need to create and run their own enterprises.
• International Business: Worldwide business strategies, international trade, cross-cultural management, and worldwide market dynamics are all covered in this specialisation. It teaches students how to negotiate the intricacies of doing business in a globalised society.
• Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility: This specialisation investigates the incorporation of environmental and social factors into business strategies. It discusses issues such as sustainable business practises, ethical decision-making, and assessing social effects.
• Agri-Business Management: The application of business principles and management practices in the agricultural sector is referred to as agri-business management. In the context of agriculture, it includes farm management, agro-processing, marketing, supply chain management, financing, and international trade.
• Human Resource Management: This specialisation is concerned with the management and development of an organization's human capital. Talent acquisition, performance management, employee development, and organisational behaviour are among the themes covered.

These are only a few of the specialisations offered by MBA programmes in the Netherlands. It is critical to explore specific colleges and their offers in order to discover a specialisation that matches your career goals and interests.

Eligibility for MBA in Netherlands

In this section of the article, we will look at the eligibility criteria for pursuing an MBA in Netherlands:

• Formal Schooling: Students must complete their formal schooling. Certain universities might ask for a minimum percentage; typically, it is more than 70%.
• Bachelor’s Degree: A bachelor's degree from a recognised university or institution is required for Indian students applying for an MBA in the Netherlands. The degree should be equivalent to a bachelor's degree in the Netherlands.
• Standardized Tests: Some MBA programmes in the Netherlands may need GMAT or GRE scores from Indian students. These standardised assessments evaluate your abilities in areas including verbal reasoning, mathematical reasoning, and analytical writing.
• English Proficiency: Because the majority of MBA programmes in the Netherlands are taught in English, international students, including Indian students, are usually needed to demonstrate their English competence. This can be accomplished by scoring well on English language proficiency tests such as IELTS or TOEFL.
• Work Experience: Many MBA programmes in the Netherlands require applicants to have relevant job experience, including Indian students. Work experience requirements vary, but are often between 2 and 5 years. This prerequisite ensures that candidates have relevant business experience and can contribute to class discussions.
• Application documents: Application documents such as a statement of purpose for an MBA in Netherlands, 2-3 letters of recommendation, admission essays, etc. form an integral part of your MBA application.

Admission Process for MBA in Netherlands

• Formal Schooling with a certain minimum percentage
• Bachelor’s degree with a certain CGPA (vary as per the university requirements)
• Academic or Professional experience (depends on the university requirements)
• GRE or GMAT scores
• English language proficiency: IELTS or TOEFL
• Latest resume
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• LORs (Letters of recommendation)

• Admission Essays

It is crucial to note that exact criteria may range from one university to the next or even between MBA programmes within the same university. As a result, it is advised to visit the universities' official websites.

MBA in Netherlands without GMAT

MBA in the Netherlands that do not require the GMAT are growing more popular. Several Dutch colleges offer MBA programmes that do not require GMAT scores. Here are a few universities that offer MBA programmes without requiring the GMAT:

• Wageningen University & Research Center (Executive MBA in Food & Agribusiness)
• VU University Amsterdam
• University of Twente
• University of Maastricht (If your GMAT score is above 600, preparatory courses are waived off)

MBA in Netherlands Intakes

MBA intakes in Netherlands can vary depending on the university and the programme you are applying for. Broadly speaking, there are two MBA intakes in Netherlands:

• September Intake (Fall Intake): In the Netherlands, the primary admission for MBA programmes occurs in September, often known as the Fall intake. Many universities start MBA programmes in September, which is the most popular intake for international students.
  • MBA in Netherlands deadlines for the September Intake 2024 extend until 1 June 2024. However, certain universities such as the University of Amsterdam offer early bird discounts. To avail of this, you must apply earlier, i.e. by 1 December 2023 (€5,000 discount) and 1 March 2024 (€2,000 discount).
  • It is important for students to be aware of study abroad intakes, deadlines, and other important dates to avoid last-minute hassles.
• February Intake (Spring Intake): Some universities in the Netherlands also offer MBA programmes in February. This intake is less common than the September intake, but it provides students with an additional option to begin their MBA studies.

MBA in Netherlands Cost

Netherlands MBA fees can range from €8,000 to €64,000 per year. This translates to Rs. 7 lakhs to Rs. 57 lakhs per year for Indian students. Now, this tuition fee is highly variable. In the table given above, we have mentioned the Netherlands MBA fees for the top universities. On average, students can expect to spend around Rs. 30 lakhs per year on tuition fees.

Students may apply for MBA scholarships and/or choose to work part-time in the Netherlands to offset their MBA in Netherlands fees.

Cost of Living in Netherlands

The cost of living in the Netherlands can vary depending on various factors such as location, lifestyle, and personal choices. The following table will help obtain an overview of the cost of living in the Netherlands for international students (data in the table has been taken from multiple sources):

Head	Monthly Cost of Living in Netherlands for International Students
Accommodation	€350 - €800
Meals	€150 - €200
Travel	€35 - €70
Utilities	€210
Mobile + Internet	€60

Based on the above table, it can be said that the cost of living in the Netherlands for international students can range from €805 to €1,340.

MBA in Netherlands: Scholarships

There are several scholarships in the Netherlands for MBA. Scholarships and financial help would be available to candidates with good academic records, impressive motivation letters, and extracurricular accomplishments. To take advantage of these possibilities, make sure to deliver all essential paperwork by the deadlines. Here are some important ones:

• Erasmus Mundus Scholarships in the Netherlands: Erasmus Mundus is a European Commission programme. The scholarships enable international students to enrol in Master's programmes.
• Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University - Diversity Scholarship: Erasmus University Rotterdam offers scholarships to candidates with diverse backgrounds, such as nationality, gender, or professional experience.
• Amsterdam MBA GMAT Scholarship: The Amsterdam Business School offers scholarships based on high GMAT scores, with amounts up to €12,000 for the highest scores.
• Wittenborg MBA Scholarship: Wittenborg University of Applied Sciences offers scholarships to outstanding candidates from outside the European Union interested in pursuing an MBA programme.
• Maastricht School of Management, Academic Excellence Scholarship: The scholarship is worth €12,000. The same scholarship amount is offered for the Women Ambassadorship Scholarship.
• University of Amsterdam Orange Tulip Scholarship: The University of Amsterdam Orange Tulip Scholarship offers a scholarship amount of €16,900.

It is crucial to keep in mind that scholarship availability and requirements can vary over time, so it is best to check the official websites of the universities and MBA programmes you are interested in for the most up-to-date information on scholarships and their application processes. Moreover, it is advised that students meet the scholarship deadlines and submit the necessary documents. Opportunities come once in a while, make the most of them.

Jobs after MBA in Netherlands

International students who complete their studies in the Netherlands are granted an orientation year (post-study work permit in the Netherlands). It essentially means that they will have full access to the Dutch employment market for an additional 12 months without the necessity for a work visa. After one year, you can transfer to a Highly Skilled Migrant (kennismigranten) visa and apply individually.

There are numerous job prospects accessible after finishing an MBA in the Netherlands. The Netherlands has a robust economy and a business-friendly climate, which makes it appealing to MBA graduates. Some possible employment roles and industries for MBA graduates in the Netherlands include:

• Financial Analyst: The Netherlands has a thriving financial sector, which includes banks and insurance businesses. MBA graduates with a finance specialisation may find work as financial analysts, providing insights and suggestions for investment decisions.
• Marketing Manager: The Netherlands, with a strong emphasis on innovation and creativity, provides chances for marketing professionals to create and implement strategic marketing strategies for both domestic and international companies.
• Project Manager: The country is well-known for its infrastructure initiatives and forward-thinking enterprises. There are project management positions available in a variety of industries, including construction, technology, and renewable energy.
• Consultant: MBA graduates are hired by consulting firms in the Netherlands to provide expert advice and solutions to clients in a variety of industries. This position frequently entails working on strategic projects and producing demonstrable results.
• Entrepreneurship: The Netherlands has a flourishing start-up ecosystem, with favourable legislation and funding available. MBA graduates with an entrepreneurial spirit should consider founding their own businesses or joining start-ups in a variety of industries.

It should be noted that employment availability and criteria can vary depending on the industry, location, and individual qualifications. Networking, internships, and relationships with local experts can all help to improve job prospects in the Netherlands.

Now that students are aware of all the aspects of studying for an MBA in Netherlands, it is vital for them to take their admission and scholarship applications very seriously. For help with university applications, students seeking to study abroad can contact our Shiksha Study Abroad Counsellors. The comments section below allows candidates to contact us as well.