Netherlands vs Germany: Best Country for Indian Students
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Thinking about studying in Europe but not sure whether to choose Netherlands or Germany? Both countries are popular for international students in 2025. They have good universities, post-study work options, and fun culture. Here is a simple Netherlands vs Germany guide to help you decide.
Germany and Netherlands are the top study abroad destinations for students planning for Europe. Both have good universities, rich culture, and a better job prospects. Studying in Germany is growing fast. In 2024, about 34,702 Indian students chose Germany to study abroad. Most public universities in Germany have no tuition fees, so education is cheaper. After studies, students can stay up to 18 months to find work. Study in Netherlands also has many international students. There were over 128,000 students, about 15% of all students in 2023-2024. Tuition fees in Netherlands are higher for non-EU students. Candidates planning to study in Europe and confused about Germany vs Netherlands, read the details comparison.
- Country Highlights: Netherlands vs Germany for International Students
- Popular Courses in Netherlands vs Germany
- Top University Rankings 2025: Netherlands vs Germany
- Admission Requirements to Study in Netherlands vs Germany
- Intakes in Netherlands vs Germany
- Cost of Studying: Netherlands vs Germany
- Cost of Living in Netherlands vs Germany
- Student Visa in Netherlands vs Germany
- Popular Jobs in Netherlands vs Germany
- Netherlands vs Germany: Which Country is Better for You?
Country Highlights: Netherlands vs Germany for International Students
Both the Netherlands and Germany are popular destinations for international students due to their high-quality education systems and welcoming environments. However, one can check the Netherlands vs Germany overview from the below mentioned table.
| Parameters |
Netherlands |
Germany |
|---|---|---|
| Area |
41,543 sq. km |
357,021 sq. km |
| Capital |
Amsterdam |
Berlin |
| Currency |
Euro (EUR) |
Euro (EUR) |
| Total Indian students in Netherlands in 2024 |
3.5 K |
43 K |
| Total number of universities or colleges |
34+ |
178+ |
| Tution Fees |
€1,600 to €20,000 p.a. for international students |
|
| Average Cost of Living |
€800 to €1,200 per month |
€800 to €1,200 per month |
| Permitted Part-Time Working Hours |
16 hours/week (max) |
20 hours/week (140 full days or 280 half days per year) |
| Top Universities |
University of Amsterdam, Delft University of Technology, Utrecht University |
Technical University of Munich, University of Berlin, University of Heidelberg |
| Popular Job Sectors |
Technology, Logistics, Healthcare, Finance |
Automotive, Engineering, IT, Finance |
| Language of Instruction |
English (widely available) |
German (primary), English (increasingly available) |
| Post-Graduation Work Opportunities |
One-year orientation visa |
18-month job seeker visa |
Popular Courses in Netherlands vs Germany
Both the Netherlands and Germany offer a wide range of courses that attract international students. Here are some of the most popular courses in each country, Germany and Netherlands
Popular Courses in the Netherlands
The Netherlands is known for its diverse academic programs, many of which are taught in English. Some of the most popular courses among international students include:
- Engineering
- Computer Science
- Big Data and Analytics
- AI & Robotics
- Business and Management
- Natural Sciences
- Healthcare
- Fashion and Design
Popular Courses in Germany
Germany is known for its technical excellence and offers a variety of courses that appeal to international students:
- Engineering
- Computer Science and IT
- Big Data and Analytics
- Business and Management
- Natural Sciences
- Medicine
- Environmental Sciences
Also Check: Top 10 Universities Shaping the Future of AI
Top University Rankings 2025: Netherlands vs Germany
Both countries have some of the world's top universities.
Predict your IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE in just 4 steps!
Top Universities in Netherlands
| Universities |
QS - WUR 2025 |
|---|---|
| 49 |
|
| 55 |
|
| 105 |
|
| 136 |
|
| 141 |
|
| 155 |
|
| 158 |
|
| 159 |
|
| 221 |
|
| 230 |
The Netherlands boasts some of the world's top universities. Learn more about the best universities in the Netherlands and their offerings.
Top German Universities: QS World University Rankings 2025
| Universities |
Ranking |
|---|---|
| 28 |
|
| 59 |
|
| 84 |
|
| 97 |
|
| 99 |
|
| 102 |
|
| 126 |
|
| 147 |
|
| 191 |
|
| 212 |
Check the top universities in Germany and how they rank globally.
Admission Requirements to Study in Netherlands vs Germany
Students who want to study in Netherlands or Germany need to meet admission requirements. These rules are different for undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
Admission Requirements for Netherlands
Undergraduate Courses:
- Age and Education: Must be at least 17 years old and have a secondary school diploma or equal.
- Language Proficiency: The English test score requirements are generall IELTS 6.5–7 or TOEFL 100–110.
- Other Documents: The document requirements are recommended to check with the universities you are applying for.
- Visa: Non-EU students need a student visa and residence permit.
Postgraduate Courses:
- Education: Must have a bachelor’s degree from a recognized school.
- GPA: Usually 7.0 or more.
- Language and Other Tests: The English language proficiency test like IELTS or TOEFL are required. Some may need GMAT or GRE.
Admission Requirements for Germany
Undergraduate Courses:
- Education: Must finish secondary school with recognized certificate.
- Language: Many courses need German, but some are in English. For English programs, IELTS or TOEFL needed.
- Other Requirements: Some universities ask for entrance exams.
Postgraduate Courses:
- Education: Must have bachelor’s degree.
- Language: Many programs need German, English programs also available.
- Other Requirements: Some may need GRE or GMAT.
Intakes in Netherlands vs Germany
If you want to study in Netherlands or Germany, you should know about intakes.
Netherlands Intakes
Two main intakes – Autumn (Feb/March) and Winter (July/August).
- Most courses start in Autumn, fewer in Winter.
- Some universities allow rolling applications, so start dates can change.
Germany Intakes
Two main intakes – Summer (March/April) and Winter (Sept/Oct).
- Winter intake is very popular with many courses for bachelor, master, and PhD.
- Some universities have rolling applications, but Winter is more busy and has more scholarships.
Cost of Studying: Netherlands vs Germany
For studying in these countries of Europe, the fees is very important. Check the cost of studying in Netherlands vs Germany
Netherlands:
- For EU/EEA students, fees are about €2,530 per year (2024-2025).
- For non-EU students, fees are higher: €9,000–€20,000 per year for bachelor, €12,000–€30,000 per year for master programs.
Germany:
- Most public universities have no tuition fees for all students.
- Students pay a semester fee of about €150–€350, sometimes covering transport.
- Exception: Baden-Württemberg state charges €1,500 per semester for non-EU students.
Netherlands vs Germany Study Cost
| Course Level |
Average Fee in Netherlands |
Average Fee in Germany |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor's |
₹15 K – ₹29 L |
₹0 – ₹25 L |
| Master's |
₹2 L – ₹60 L |
₹0 – ₹53 L |
Also Check: Cost of Studying in Germany
Fees of Top Universities in Netherlands
| Universities |
Ranking |
1st year tuition fees |
|---|---|---|
| Utrecht University |
1 |
₹9.8 L - 21.2 L |
| Delft University of Technology |
2 |
₹12.9 L - 19.2 L |
| University of Amsterdam |
3 |
₹8.1 L - 41 L |
| Wageningen University and Research Center |
4 |
₹14 L - 18.9 L |
| Leiden University |
5 |
₹2.3 L - 18.9 L |
| University of Groningen |
6 |
₹7.2 L - 28.5 L |
| Erasmus University Rotterdam |
7 |
₹3.8 L - 59.7 L |
| Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam) |
8 |
₹3.7 L - 32.8 L |
| Maastricht University |
9 |
₹8.2 L - 28.5 L |
| Eindhoven University of Technology |
10 |
₹10 L - 17.8 L |
Fees of Top Universities in Germany
| Universities |
Ranking |
1st year tuition fees |
|---|---|---|
| Technical University of Munich |
1 |
₹0 - 21.7 L |
| Ludwig Maximilians University Munich |
2 |
₹0 - 40.1 L |
| Heidelberg University - Germany |
3 |
₹0 - 4.5 L |
| University of Bonn |
4 |
No Fees |
| RWTH Aachen University |
5 |
₹0 - 34.8 L |
| University of Hamburg |
6 |
₹0 - 10.7 L |
| Albert Ludwigs University of Freiburg |
7 |
₹0 - 3 L |
| Free University of Berlin |
8 |
No Fees |
| Dresden University of Technology |
9 |
₹0 - 5 L |
| Humboldt University of Berlin |
10 |
₹0 - 11.5 L |
Financing your education is crucial, and Germany provides various funding options. Learn about German student loans and how they can support your education abroad.
Cost of Living in Netherlands vs Germany
Both countries have different prices, Germany is cheaper for housing, food and transport than Netherlands.
Netherlands
- Annual Cost: €9,600 – €13,200 (about €800 – €1,100 per month)
- Housing: One-bedroom apartment in city center costs about €1,395 per month
- Food and Dining: Meal at cheap restaurant costs about €19
- Transportation: Monthly public transport pass costs about €80
Check more details on Cost of Living in the Netherlands.
Germany
- Annual Cost: €9,500 – €12,000 (about €800 – €1,000 per month)
- Housing: One-bedroom apartment in city center costs about €880 per month
- Food and Dining: Meal at cheap restaurant costs about €15
- Transportation: Monthly public transport pass costs about €49
Check more details on Cost of Living in Germany.
Student Visa in Netherlands vs Germany
Check German Student Visa and Netherlands Student Visa for more details.
Netherlands
- You need an MVV (provisional residence permit) and a residence permit for studying.
- You must show admission letter, enough money, and health insurance.
Germany
- You need a student visa.
- You must show admission letter, money for living, and health insurance.
One can check German Student Visa and Netherlands Student Visa to know more detailed information for the same.
Popular Jobs in Netherlands vs Germany
It is important to check which sector is better for job prospects in the Netherlands vs Germany.
Netherlands
- Good jobs in logistics, finance, agriculture, and green technology.
- Cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam have many international companies.
Germany
- Many jobs in engineering, IT, healthcare, and automobiles.
- Good for skilled workers because some jobs need more people.
Netherlands vs Germany: Which Country is Better for You?
If you are thinking of studying STEM courses, always go to Germany for low-cost education, and longer post-study work visas. Choose Netherlands for English courses. Netherlands might be little expensive. Your choice depends on what is most important to you.
For Students:
- Germany is good for cheap education with low tuition fees and many international students.
- Netherlands is good for English-taught courses and fun, interactive learning.
For Professionals:
- Germany gives higher salaries in fields like IT and engineering.
- Netherlands has better work-life balance and a friendly work environment.
For Families:
- Netherlands is more family-friendly and inclusive.
- Germany has cheaper housing and good living standards.
Yes, Germany is generally cheaper due to free tuition at public universities and lower rent costs.
Yes. Germany offers an 18-month job-seeker visa, while the Netherlands provides a 12-month orientation year.
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Both countries have good education. The choice depends on what you want. Germany is good for cheap education with no tuition fees in public universities and many job opportunities after studies. Netherlands is better for English courses and easy-going learning environment.