The cost of living as a student in the Netherlands varies depending on the city and your lifestyle. According to the Study in NL website, an initiative by Nuffic, you can expect to spend between €800 and €1,100 per month on average.
These main expenses you will have include:
- Accommodation
The average rent for a room in the Netherlands is between €300,- and €600,- per month, but it can be higher or lower depending on the location, size and facilities of the accommodation. - Food
You can save money by cooking at home or buying groceries at discount supermarkets. The average cost of food for a student is between €150,- and €200,- per month. - Transportation
The Netherlands has an efficient and affordable public transport system that covers buses, trams, metros and trains. You can also use a bike, which is eco-friendly, cheap and the most popular way of getting around in the Netherlands.
Tuition fees do not form part of living costs.
Apeldoorn versus Amsterdam
Experience has shown that students living and studying in Apeldoorn tend to spend less than those in Amsterdam, where the overall cost of living is generally higher. The estimated monthly budget is needed to cover daily expenses, meals, accommodation costs, insurance, study materials and more. It does not include tuition fees and unforeseen costs and should be used as a general indication of the costs of living.
Your actual expenses will vary based on your lifestyle. Housing costs, in particular, can differ significantly. Additionally, if you are thinking of traveling during your stay in the Netherlands, you will naturally need an extra budget.
