The Netherlands , home to over 100,000 international students—including around 3,500 from India—has long been a magnet for global talent, thanks to top-tier institutions like the University of Amsterdam and Universiteit Leiden among others. With tightening visa rules in countries like Canada, the UK, and Australia, the Dutch higher education sector has seen a surge of interest from students seeking alternatives. But a seismic shift is on the cards. In a recent move to curb the overwhelming influx of international students, the Dutch government is proposing strict limits on the use of English language in its universities. This landmark policy could redefine the appeal of the Netherlands as a global academic hub, sending ripples across the international education sector.
Limited usage of English in Dutch universities : All about the proposed legislationEducation Minister Eppo Bruins has recently proposed new measures to reduce the use of English in Dutch educational institutions, aiming to restore Dutch as the primary language of instruction. In a letter to parliament, Bruins outlined legislation requiring that at least two-thirds of bachelor’s programmes be taught in Dutch. Up to one-third of the curriculum can be delivered in another language to accommodate international lecturers and researchers.
For a bachelor’s programme to be conducted entirely in a non-Dutch language, institutions must seek approval through the Test for Other-Language Education (TAO). This test evaluates whether the programme meets one of four strict conditions: being located in shrinking or border regions, addressing labor shortages in fields like science and technology, being the only programme of its kind offered at a specific location, or having a strong international focus.
Bruins has called for tighter enforcement of the last two conditions to ensure Dutch remains the dominant language in higher education, preventing the widespread use of exceptions. The minister's goal is to safeguard the cultural and linguistic integrity of Dutch universities while allowing for limited flexibility in specific cases.
Motive behind the moveThe Dutch government plans to curb the influx of international students by 2026, aiming to reduce spending on their education. To do this, the government is working with educational institutions, which will retain control over the implementation. From the 2025/2026 academic year, institutions can set a separate numerus fixus (limited enrollment) for non-Dutch-language courses within specific programs. Minister Bruins also intends to establish agreements with these institutions to ensure they actively manage and limit international student numbers, in line with budgetary constraints.
Despite these measures, the minister emphasized that education and science will remain inherently international pursuits. In an official statement, Bruins said, "We see that with the major shortages in the labor market, attracting talented international students, particularly in sectors facing shortages and in shrinking or border regions, remains necessary. Also to maintain education in those regions. With this approach, this remains possible. We want to attract the right international students here and, with more Dutch language skills, increase their chances of staying so they can work here after their studies."
“Currently, the retention rate of international students after five years is around 25%. For students from the European Economic Area (EEA), who pay the same tuition fees as Dutch students, this rate drops to 19%,” he added.
Impact on international students The limited usage of English in Dutch universities will affect international students’ careers in more ways than one. Take a look at the changes that one might expect after these policies.
Language Barrier Challenges
The new legislation requiring two-thirds of the curriculum in Dutch may create hurdles for non-Dutch speakers, making it difficult to engage with the material and participate fully in academic discussions.
Increased Learning Demands
Students may need to dedicate additional time and effort to learn Dutch, potentially increasing stress levels and complicating their academic experience.
Limited English-Taught programmes
With stricter regulations on English-language instruction, the availability of fully English-taught programmes could diminish, impacting students' choices for higher education.
Diverse Student Body at Risk
The reduction in English-medium courses might deter prospective students who prefer studying in English, leading to a less diverse international student population.
Enhanced Integration Opportunities
On a positive note, the emphasis on learning Dutch could facilitate better integration into Dutch society, improving cultural understanding and community engagement.
Improved Job Prospects
Acquiring Dutch language skills could enhance graduates' employability in the local job market, addressing labor shortages in critical sectors.
Potential for Stress
Adjusting to a new language and academic expectations may lead to increased stress for international students, especially those already facing language barriers.
Retention Rates
With better language skills, international students may have improved chances of staying in the Netherlands after graduation, as they can navigate the local job market more effectively.
Breaking the language barrier: Way forward for international students
To effectively navigate the impending changes in the Dutch education system, international students can take several proactive steps:
Limited usage of English in Dutch universities : All about the proposed legislationEducation Minister Eppo Bruins has recently proposed new measures to reduce the use of English in Dutch educational institutions, aiming to restore Dutch as the primary language of instruction. In a letter to parliament, Bruins outlined legislation requiring that at least two-thirds of bachelor’s programmes be taught in Dutch. Up to one-third of the curriculum can be delivered in another language to accommodate international lecturers and researchers.
For a bachelor’s programme to be conducted entirely in a non-Dutch language, institutions must seek approval through the Test for Other-Language Education (TAO). This test evaluates whether the programme meets one of four strict conditions: being located in shrinking or border regions, addressing labor shortages in fields like science and technology, being the only programme of its kind offered at a specific location, or having a strong international focus.
Bruins has called for tighter enforcement of the last two conditions to ensure Dutch remains the dominant language in higher education, preventing the widespread use of exceptions. The minister's goal is to safeguard the cultural and linguistic integrity of Dutch universities while allowing for limited flexibility in specific cases.
Motive behind the moveThe Dutch government plans to curb the influx of international students by 2026, aiming to reduce spending on their education. To do this, the government is working with educational institutions, which will retain control over the implementation. From the 2025/2026 academic year, institutions can set a separate numerus fixus (limited enrollment) for non-Dutch-language courses within specific programs. Minister Bruins also intends to establish agreements with these institutions to ensure they actively manage and limit international student numbers, in line with budgetary constraints.
Despite these measures, the minister emphasized that education and science will remain inherently international pursuits. In an official statement, Bruins said, "We see that with the major shortages in the labor market, attracting talented international students, particularly in sectors facing shortages and in shrinking or border regions, remains necessary. Also to maintain education in those regions. With this approach, this remains possible. We want to attract the right international students here and, with more Dutch language skills, increase their chances of staying so they can work here after their studies."
“Currently, the retention rate of international students after five years is around 25%. For students from the European Economic Area (EEA), who pay the same tuition fees as Dutch students, this rate drops to 19%,” he added.
Impact on international students The limited usage of English in Dutch universities will affect international students’ careers in more ways than one. Take a look at the changes that one might expect after these policies.
Language Barrier Challenges
The new legislation requiring two-thirds of the curriculum in Dutch may create hurdles for non-Dutch speakers, making it difficult to engage with the material and participate fully in academic discussions.
Increased Learning Demands
Students may need to dedicate additional time and effort to learn Dutch, potentially increasing stress levels and complicating their academic experience.
Limited English-Taught programmes
With stricter regulations on English-language instruction, the availability of fully English-taught programmes could diminish, impacting students' choices for higher education.
Diverse Student Body at Risk
The reduction in English-medium courses might deter prospective students who prefer studying in English, leading to a less diverse international student population.
Enhanced Integration Opportunities
On a positive note, the emphasis on learning Dutch could facilitate better integration into Dutch society, improving cultural understanding and community engagement.
Improved Job Prospects
Acquiring Dutch language skills could enhance graduates' employability in the local job market, addressing labor shortages in critical sectors.
Potential for Stress
Adjusting to a new language and academic expectations may lead to increased stress for international students, especially those already facing language barriers.
Retention Rates
With better language skills, international students may have improved chances of staying in the Netherlands after graduation, as they can navigate the local job market more effectively.
Breaking the language barrier: Way forward for international students
To effectively navigate the impending changes in the Dutch education system, international students can take several proactive steps:
- Embrace Language Learning: Students should prioritize learning Dutch to ease their transition into a predominantly Dutch-speaking academic environment. Many universities offer language courses that can help students build their proficiency.
- Research Programmes Thoroughly: Prospective students should thoroughly investigate available programmes and their language requirements. Identifying institutions that offer a balanced curriculum in both Dutch and English can help in making informed decisions.
- Engage with Academic Institutions: Students should reach out to university representatives for clarification on the proposed changes and how they may affect specific programmes. This engagement can provide insights into the institution's plans for accommodating international students.
- Participate in Orientation Programmes: Students should take advantage of orientation sessions offered by universities, which can provide valuable information about adjusting to academic life in the Netherlands, including language support services.
- Network with Fellow Students: Building connections with both local and international peers can help students share resources and strategies for adapting to the language shift, as well as offer emotional support during this transition.
- Stay Informed: Students should remain updated on the latest developments regarding the Dutch government's policies and institutional responses. This can be done through university communications, government announcements, and student forums.
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