At a glance
What a student from Maharashtra needs to know before deciding — clearly and honestly.
The education
Huge choice of English-taught master's. Research universities and applied-sciences universities both strong.
The true cost
Mid-range fees; housing is the main challenge and should be arranged very early.
Safety & visa
Check the latest MEA advisory before you travel. The 'orientation year' (zoekjaar) gives 12 months to find skilled work.
Top universities
A selection of universities popular with Maharashtra students, with indicative tuition.
After you graduate
Post-study work rights are the most important factor — and the most likely to change. Here is the position as of today.
After you graduate, you can apply for the orientation year (zoekjaar) residence permit. It is valid for one year, and during that year you can work without a work permit. You can apply up to three years after completing your studies.
Immigration rules, eligibility and salary thresholds change frequently and without notice. Always verify the latest official guidance before you apply, and never treat any figure here as a guarantee of future entitlement.
- Valid for 1 year — work without a work permit
- Apply up to 3 years after graduating
- Highly Skilled Migrant pathway
- English widely spoken
Visa, work & money rules
The official rules behind your visa, work, family and budget planning. Rules change often, so confirm each point on the official government or university website before you apply.
Visa & permit fees
The combined entry-and-residence (TEV/VVR) application fee for study is €243. It is normally paid by your sponsoring institution.
Work while studying
As a non-EU student you can either work up to 16 hours a week during the year, or full-time in June, July and August. In either case your employer needs a work permit (TWV) for you, and you need valid health insurance.
Family & dependants
Your partner or minor child may apply for a separate family residence permit if you, as the student sponsor, hold a valid Dutch residence permit and IND requirements are met. If your permit is temporary, their permit generally cannot extend beyond it.
Proof of funds
You must show sufficient means, broadly aligned to the statutory norm amount for living costs. An indicative figure of around €1,150 per month is commonly applied; your institution confirms the current amount. This is a visa requirement, separate from actual living costs.
ROI calculator
Enter your own numbers to see total investment and an indicative payback period. This is a guide only — not financial advice.
Netherlands — Master's ROI
Indicative · based on today's assumptions
Figures are indicative only and vary with fees, salaries, exchange rates and visa rules. Treat this as one data point — not conclusive evidence or financial advice.
Safety snapshot
Based on Ministry of External Affairs guidance — always check the latest official advisory before you travel.
Check the latest MEA advisory
Check the latest guidance from the Ministry of External Affairs and the Embassy of India in The Hague before you travel and during your stay, and register on MADAD (madad.gov.in). Housing shortages are real — secure accommodation before arriving.
Emergency contacts
Dial 112. MEA helpline: 1800 11 3090.
Register with the embassy
Register at madad.gov.in on arrival so the nearest Indian Mission can reach you in an emergency.
Food, culture & community
What to expect day-to-day — and how to feel at home far from home, as a student from Maharashtra.
Food & groceries
Indian groceries in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague and Eindhoven. English is spoken almost everywhere.
The Maharashtra community
Active Indian student community; Maharashtra Mandal events in the Randstad region.
Maha-Alumni Connect lets you speak with students from your own district who studied at these very universities.
Compare Netherlands with other destinations.
See the same degree across countries, or check the latest safety guidance before you commit.