Top 10 Public Universities in Netherlands in 2026

Looking at admissions to public universities in Netherlands soon? If yes, you would need to shortlist some of the publicly funded universities before applying. Here we will give you all the details around top public universities in Netherlands and why shoudld you study there.

If you plan to apply to government held universities in Netherlands, you can look at the options available. Shortlist Dutch universities based on your interests in a particular course at a certain level. Also check out the overall cost of studying in Netherlands and calculate your living costs too. Upon calculation you will find that these universities are more affordable than any other European country. There are English taught programs available and the Dutch academic excellence is globally recognised. Majority of Netherlands university rankings are competitive and at par with other leading EU universities.

While there is lots to discuss about public universities of Netherlands, here is an article which will give you all information on public universities in Netherlands. So check it out and decide which university suits you the best to start your education in Netherlands. 

Top 10 Public Universities in Netherlands

If global ranking is your criteria to choose public universities in Netherlands for admissions, then here are the top rankers as per QS 2026 World University Rankings below:

Apart from these top ranking public universities in Netherlands, there are a few more. However, these have been ranked consecutively year over year so they are the best options in general.

What are Public Universities in Netherlands?

Public universities in Netherlands are publicly funded institutions held and run by the Dutch government. These universities are ranked among the top 100 universities in the world and are renowned for their quality education along with research. There are multiple benefits of enrolling in government supported universities of Netherlands as international students. If you plan to study in Netherlands soon, try shortlisting some of its publicly funded universities for admission. You will find your preferred courses across its popular intakes of September and February.

What are the Types of Public Universities in Netherlands?

There are two types of public universities Netherlands - research based and applied sciences universities. To know more about them, check out the table below:

We will discuss the globally ranked public universities in Netherlands in this article. However, both categories of these Dutch public universities hold great importance for admissions abroad for studemts.

Why Study at Top Public Universities of Netherlands?

Public universities in the Netherlands are some of the best and most affordable options for Indian students. You can consider studying at some of the top government funded universities in the Netherlands for the following reasons:

• Dutch higher education system is globally renowned and ranks at #3 as per World Education Rankings 2025.
• Consider government funded universities in Netherlands for English taught research based programs.
• There are ample number of fully funded scholarships available for international students to study in Netherlands.
• Research programs are relatively cheaper at Netherlands's public universities in comparison to its private universities.
• If you plan to settle and get PR in Netherlands you can easily obtain one after graduating from a public university in Netherlands.

Keeping these points in check, make your decision on studying at Dutch public universities.

Studying at Top 10 Public Universities in Netherlands

Based on Netherlands university ranking, here are the top five public universities that you must consider to study in Netherlands. We have elaborated about these public universities for reference:

Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) is the Netherlands' largest and oldest public technical university, globally renowned for its leadership in engineering, technology, and design. Established in 1842 in the historic city of Delft, the university consistently ranks highly worldwide, offering programs across eight faculties including Aerospace Engineering and Industrial Design. Known for its extensive modern campus and vibrant international community of over 26,000 students, TU Delft focuses on cutting-edge research and innovation, fostering notable student projects like solar racing teams.

University of Amsterdam

The University of Amsterdam (UvA) is a public research university located in Amsterdam. It is also one of the largest and oldest research universities in Europe. The University of Amsterdam ranks among top 100 universities consistently year over year. Also it offers courses in humanities and social sciences which are popularly opted.

Utrecht University

Utrecht University (UU) is another public research university in the Netherlands. It is recognized as one of Europe's leading academic and research institutions. Established in 1636, Utrecht University is known for its high-quality, innovative approach to research and teaching, and has produced 12 Nobel Prize laureates.

Leiden University

Leiden University is the oldest university in the Netherlands, founded in 1575 by William, Prince of Orange, as a reward for the city of Leiden's resistance against the Spanish siege. It is a world-class public research university known for its rich history, commitment to academic freedom ("Praesidium Libertatis – Bastion of Freedom"), and strong international focus. Leiden University operates across campuses in two cities: the historic city of Leiden and The Hague, the international city of peace and justice.

Eindhoven University of Technology

Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) is a prominent public technical university located in the city of Eindhoven, in the southern Netherlands. Established in 1956, TU/e focuses heavily on engineering science & technology and is noted for its strong collaboration with local industry, particularly within the innovative Brainport region

Erasmus University Rotterdam

Named after the 15th century humanist Desiderius Erasmus Roterodamus, Erasmus University Rotterdam is also a public research university in Netherlands. It is known for its courses in business, economics, law and health sciences. This public university in Netherlands also ranks among the top 150 universities worldwide. Get more details below:

University of Groningen

The University of Groningen is another popular public university in Netherlands which is also second oldest. This is a top ranking university in Netherlands. Since it is a public research institution it offers various courses. It is education is strongly focused on innovation. Also, many of its alumni are Nobel Prize winners.

Wageningen University & Research

Specialising in the life and social sciences, Wageningen University & Research (WUR) is a world-class institution located at the heart of the Netherlands' "Food Valley". It is globally renowned for its pioneering research in agriculture, forestry, and environmental sciences, consistently ranking as the top university in the world for these subjects. 

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam) is also a public university in Netherlands. VU Amsterdam is a research university located in Zuidas which is a business district in Amsterdam. Check out more about VU Amsterdam which is also a top public university in Netherlands below:

University of Twente

Known as a pioneer in "High Tech Human Touch," the University of Twente (UT) is a leading Dutch public research university. This university is popular because it integrates social sciences with engineering and technology. Located in Enschede, it features the only all-in-campus in the Netherlands and is globally recognised for its expertise in nanotechnology and technical medicine.

These are some of the popular public universities in Netherlands. If you wish to take admission in one of these affordable universities in Netherlands, you will have to shortlist your courses, universities and check for admission requirements. Based on the intake and deadlines, apply for admissions. The public universities in Netherlands offer lots of opportunities while and after studying, so you never doubt your choice.

How to Apply to a Public University in Netherlands

International or non-EU applicants can apply in two ways at public universities in Netherlands. One option is to apply directly through the university website. The other one is through StudieLink which is the centralised application portal. Details of application acceptance will be posted on the course page of the Dutch public university.

Majority of top universities in Netherlands including public universities accept applications via Studielink. If you are a first time international applicant and have to submit an application through Studielink without a DigiD, then you can follow these steps:

• Go to Studielink.nl and select your preferred language.
• Look for Create a Studielink account near Log in without DigiD section.
• Upload a clear photo of your passport, scanned or clicked. Non-European students must use a passport.
• Enter your name (same as your ID), birth details and your current home address outside Netherlands.
• Check your inbox for a verification email from Studielink. Click the activation link to finalise your account.

• Use your email and password to log in via the "Without DigiD" portal.

• Enter details about your high school or previous university degrees, including graduation dates and the country where you obtained them.

• Search for your desired course by name or public university in Netherlands you want to attend.

• Answer any specific questions required by the university and review your entries.

• Once you click confirm, your application is officially sent to the university. 

Applicants can apply for four courses including two fixed courses that have a capped or set number of admissions.

Admission Requirements at Public Universities in Netherlands

The admission requirements at public universities in the Netherlands will usually vary based on the course of application. However, a common set of requirements level wise for international students are as follows:

For UG Applicants

For undergraduate admissions, applicants will have to fulfil these basic admission requirements to study at government funded universities in Netherlands:

• Applicants must complete AISSC - CBSE Board or CISCE Board exams with 75% in XII (on average)
• There should be atleast 5 main or core subjects for which Indian students should have appeared for in class XII (e.g. Maths, Physics, Bio, Chem and English).
• Each of these core subjects should not have a score below B1 grade.
• SAT or ACT scores may be accepted.
• English proficiency proof is must through TOEFL or IELTS score submission.
• Applicants from other state board may or may not be eligible. They must check admission criteria before applying. 

For PG Applicants

Postgraduates applying for publicly funded Dutch universities will also have certain basic admission requirements to fulfil before applying. Some of these are as follows:

• A bachelor's degree with 75% or equivalent CGPA (may vary per course or even university)
• Bachelor's should be in a single discipline, preferably.
• Either GRE or GMAT scores may be required.
• English proficiency with TOEFL score or IELTS submission
• Essays may be needed.

Documents Required

Commonly, the following documents will be required for admission to Dutch public universities:

• Certificate of secondary school completion (translated in English).
• Academic transcripts of secondary school  (for UG admissions) or bachelor's degree (for PG courses)
• A valid Passport (include major pages to upload where - DOB, place of birth, all stamped pages, date of expiration are mentioned)
• Dutch Residence permit
• CV
• Proof of language proficiency scores - TOEFL / IELTS scores (scores will vary per course)

Cost of Studying at Public University in Netherlands

The cost of studying at public universities in Netherlands on average is € 22,200. This is approximately ₹24,42,200 per annum for Indian applicants. Here is a course wise breakdown of study costs at public universities in the Netherlands for 2026 aspirants:

Note: Tuition fees can be higher, with some estimates ranging up to €30,000 for specialised or research programs.

Things to Know Before Applying to Public Universities in the Netherlands

As a first time applicant, applying to public universities in Netherlands requires some prior knowledge. These things are essential to know because they will help applicants know how to apply, when to apply and for how many to apply. Here are some things to know before applying to public universities in Netherlands:

• Public education is split into WO (theory/research) and HBO (practical/professional). Most private institutions follow the HBO model.
• Indian diplomas must be evaluated by Nuffic (the Dutch organisation for internationalisation in education) to determine their Dutch equivalent.
• All applicants must first register through Studielink, the central national database, before following the specific instructions of their chosen university.
• Numerus Fixus programs have limited seats (e.g., Psychology, Medicine, Computer Science) and use a competitive selection process rather than a first-come-first-serve basis.
• Non-Fixus guarantees admission if applicants meet the minimum academic and English requirements they are automatically accepted, as there is no cap on student numbers.
• Applications for high-demand Numerus Fixus programs close on January 15, while regular deadline for other programs for is April 1 or May 1.
• All students must register on Studielink before completing the university's specific internal application.

Public vs Private Universities in the Netherlands

There is quite a difference between studying at private universities or public universities in Netherlands. This includes the type of degree programs they offer, the fee structure they follow and how education is split into two for public universities and not for private universities in the Netherlands. Let us have a closer look at them both in the following table, showing how they differ from one another:

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