Studying abroad is a life-changing decision, and understanding the cost of living in the Netherlands is one of the most important steps for international students—especially Indian students—before planning their education journey.
The Netherlands is known for its world-class universities, high quality of life, English-taught programs, and strong post-study work opportunities. While it is slightly more expensive than some European countries, smart budgeting, scholarships, and student discounts can make studying in the Netherlands affordable and worthwhile.
This guide breaks down realistic living expenses, city-wise costs, universities, courses, scholarships, and practical money-saving tips to help you plan confidently.
The Netherlands consistently ranks among the top study destinations for international students, and for good reasons:
Over 2,100+ English-taught programs
Globally ranked universities (QS & THE rankings)
Strong focus on practical learning and research
Multicultural, welcoming environment
High employability and Orientation Year (post-study work visa)
Excellent public transport and student facilities
For Indian students, the Netherlands offers a perfect balance between education quality, career outcomes, and global exposure.
The average monthly cost of living in the Netherlands for an international student is approximately:
➡️ INR 86,000 (€952) per month
This includes accommodation, food, utilities, transportation, and basic personal expenses.
| Expense Category | Average Cost |
| Accommodation (City Centre) | INR 1.2L (€1,352) |
| Transportation (Monthly Pass) | INR 7,200 (€80) |
| Utilities (Electricity, Water, Gas) | INR 20,000 (€224) |
| Food Expenses | INR 14,500 (€160) |
| Mobile Plan | INR 2,073 (€23) |
| Internet | INR 3,605 (€40) |
Note: Costs may vary depending on city, lifestyle, and housing choice (shared vs private).
Living costs in the Netherlands vary significantly from city to city. Larger cities like Amsterdam and Utrecht are more expensive, while student-friendly cities like Groningen and Tilburg are more affordable.
| City | Miscellaneous Expenses | Avg Rent Per Month |
| Tilburg | INR 79,500 (€882) | INR 1L (€1,135) |
| Rotterdam | INR 81,400 (€903) | INR 1.2L (€1,414) |
| Groningen | INR 83,300 (€925) | INR 90,800 (€1,008) |
| Utrecht | INR 85,000 (€946) | INR 1L (€1,293) |
| Amsterdam | INR 92,500 (€1,026) | INR 1.67L (€1,857) |
Tip: Indian students looking to save money should consider Groningen, Tilburg, or shared accommodation in major cities.
The Netherlands is home to globally recognised universities offering excellent education across engineering, business, humanities, and sciences.
| University | UG Tuition Fees | PG Tuition Fees |
| Delft University of Technology | INR 14.4L (€16,000) | INR 19.4L (€21,500) |
| University of Amsterdam | INR 12L (€13,420) | INR 15.3L – 24.3L (€17,000 – €27,000) |
| Utrecht University | INR 11.3L – 24L (€12,598 – €26,868) | INR 18L – 27.5L (€20,043 – €30,580) |
| Leiden University | INR 11.2L (€12,500) | INR 17.4L – 25.5L (€19,300 – €28,500) |
| University of Groningen | INR 11.8L – 29L (€13,100 – €32,000) | INR 17L – 29L (€18,700 – €32,000) |
Dutch universities offer more than 1,700 international programs, most of them taught in English.
Engineering
Business Administration
Computer Science & IT
Medicine
Economics
Law
Psychology
Environmental Studies
Social Sciences
Arts & Humanities
These courses are highly valued due to industry exposure, innovation-driven teaching, and strong job outcomes.
Scholarships play a crucial role in reducing tuition and living expenses.
NL Scholarship
Utrecht Excellence Scholarship
Leiden University Excellence Scholarship
Amsterdam Merit Scholarship
These scholarships can cover partial to full tuition fees, significantly easing the financial burden.
Here are some practical, student-tested tips to manage expenses:
Choose shared accommodation or student housing
Cook meals at home instead of eating out
Use student travel discounts
Buy groceries from budget supermarkets
Work part-time (up to 16 hours/week)
Apply early for scholarships
Track monthly expenses with a budget plan
Confused about tuition fees, living costs, or choosing the right Dutch university?
Get personalised counselling for admissions, scholarships, visa process, and budgeting.
The cost of living varies by city and lifestyle. On average, international students spend €800–€1,200 per month. Indian students can live comfortably with INR 86,000 (€952) per month.
Compared to countries like the UK or USA, the Netherlands is moderately affordable, especially with shared housing, part-time work, and scholarships.
Q. What is the Netherlands’ living cost per month?
The average monthly cost is INR 86,000 (€952), covering rent, food, transport, and basic expenses.
An Indian family may need around INR 3L (€3,327) per month depending on city, housing, and lifestyle.
A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre costs around INR 1.2L (€1,352). Outside the city centre, rent averages INR 96,900 (€1,075).
Yes. The Netherlands offers high-quality education, strong job prospects, safety, and a welcoming international environment.
Delft University of Technology
University of Amsterdam
Utrecht University
Leiden University
University of Groningen
The average salary is approximately INR 2.8L (€3,196), varying by industry and experience.
Groningen and Leiden are affordable and student-friendly, while Amsterdam offers more job opportunities but higher living costs.
Yes. Scholarships like NL Scholarship, Utrecht Excellence Scholarship, and Amsterdam Merit Scholarship are available for international students.
By opting for shared housing, using student discounts, cooking at home, working part-time, and maintaining a monthly budget.
The Netherlands is an excellent study destination for international and Indian students who want global exposure, quality education, and strong career prospects. With proper financial planning, scholarships, and smart living choices, studying in the Netherlands can be both affordable and rewarding.
Cost of Living in Netherlands for International Students
Study MBBS in India: Admission Process, Eligibility Criteria, Fees & Top Medical Colleges
Top MBA Colleges in Singapore: Fees, ROI & Jobs for Indian Students
70+ Happy New Year Wishes : Quotes, Messages, Greetings
120+ Heart-Touching Merry Christmas Wishes, Messages & Quotes
USA vs Australia: Which Is Better for Indian Students?
Study in Poland for Indian Students | Visa, Fees, Universities & Scholarships
ISIC Card: Benefits, Eligibility, Cost & Application Guide
Kota’s Biggest Study Abroad Fair 2026 | Free Entry & Expert Counselling
Cost of Living in Ireland for International Students
Welcome to Pacific Educational Consultant and Classes, your trusted partner in unlocking a world of educational opportunities and personal growth.
© 2025 Pacific Educational Consultant. All rights reserved
Canada
United States
United Kingdom
Australia
Germany
France
Netherlands
New Zealand
PTE
IELTS General Training
TOEFL iBT
Duolingo English Test
SAT
GRE
GMAT
SPOKEN ENGLISH
SOP Writing
Air Tickets
Accommodation
SIM Cards
Visa Assistance