Studying medicine in the Netherlands

Studying medicine in the Netherlands - The advantages

Once you have decided to study outside of Germany, there are numerous universities for you to choose from. We have summarised the special features of studying medicine in the Netherlands for you here:

Admission to medical studies in the Netherlands: NC-free study programme

There is no numerus clausus (NC) for the Medicine degree programme in the Netherlands. This means that everyone among the many applicants has a chance of admission and therefore a place on the degree programme. However, as there are a large number of applications from high school graduates for a limited number of places on medical degree programmes, the so-called numerus fixus system was introduced there. More on this later. It is important to adhere to the application deadline in order to be allowed to take part in the selection test at all. But here, too, we can help you make the most of your chances of getting a place on one of the most popular degree programmes.

Studying medicine in the Netherlands: studying in English possible

At three universities in the Netherlands, it is possible to study medicine in English. The others teach in Dutch. However, as Dutch is similar to German, you have a good chance of learning Dutch quickly. There are numerous preparatory courses so that you can understand the lessons in physics, chemistry, biology and other subjects right from the start and are quickly able to ask questions.

Modern healthcare system and high-quality training

The medical universities in the Netherlands excel in terms of their degree programmes, particularly with their high-quality education. The medical programmes are very well structured and offer state-of-the-art learning methods and innovative research opportunities. There is a strong focus on practical training.

The Netherlands is one of the countries known for its advanced healthcare system. During your medical studies, you will gain in-depth insights and learn about the latest medical practices in patient care.

International recognition of your degree if you study medicine in the Netherlands

Although medical studies in the Netherlands are very different from German studies, they are recognised in Germany and other EU countries in accordance with the Professional Recognition Directive.

Due to the differences, it is difficult to transfer to Germany during your studies, but you do have the opportunity to complete parts of your studies in Germany in the form of a semester abroad or an internship. These study achievements from Germany are recognised at universities for the Bachelor's degree, among other things, but should be carefully coordinated with the requirements of your university.

Fascinating landscape and lively student cities

The student cities in the Netherlands have a vibrant international community. Numerous clubs and societies offer a wide range of activities and social programmes. In your free time, you can get to know the cultural richness of the cities, as numerous museums, galleries and concerts invite you to visit. 

There is also plenty to experience outside the cities. There is always a reason for a trip to the beach, a hike in the Wadden Sea or a bike ride through the tulip fields in spring - there are countless ways to enjoy the beautiful Dutch countryside in your free time in addition to studying medicine.

Studying medicine in the Netherlands - At which universities can you study medicine?

If you would like to study medicine in the Netherlands, there are a large number of universities for this degree programme, but not all of them allow you to study in English. Here you will find an overview with further information about studying medicine at the individual universities, depending on where you are studying:

Rijksuniversiteit Groningen

At the Rijksuniversität in Groningen, in the north of the Netherlands, you can study medicine in English or Dutch. Approximately 400 new places in human medicine (Geneeskunde) and 50 new places in dentistry will be offered in the winter semester. Medical studies at the University of Groningen are based on the concept of "problem-based learning" and are very student-centred.

Groeningen is a popular and lively student city. You can quickly make friends in the international community. The city is compact, so you can easily explore the cultural offerings and the beautiful countryside around Groeningen on foot or by bike.

Maastricht University

The medical degree programme at Maastricht University begins in the winter semester, so students usually start in September. Lessons are taught in English or Dutch.

The degree programme is very practice-oriented and you will have contact with patients from the first semester. The teaching here is also based on "problem-based learning", which encourages active learning and critical thinking. Thanks to numerous collaborations with other universities and hospitals, you can complete parts of your degree programme abroad.

You can enjoy your free time in a lively city atmosphere and a multicultural environment. Maastricht is located on the border with Belgium and Germany, so you can easily make trips to other cities and neighbouring countries.

University of Amsterdam (Holland)

With over 30,000 students enrolled, the University of Amsterdam is the largest university in the Netherlands where you can study medicine abroad. Around 350 new study places are offered for the winter semester. The human medicine and dentistry degree programmes are offered in Dutch.

As the beautiful capital of the Netherlands, Amsterdam offers you countless leisure activities. You can stroll through the well-preserved historic streets, visit the numerous sights and museums or enjoy the active nightlife in the many clubs and bars. A visit to Germany is also always possible due to the short distance.

Leiden University

Leiden University is the oldest university in the Netherlands. Approximately 330 new study places in human medicine are offered in the winter semester. The language of instruction is Dutch. There are block courses. Each block consists of one subject taught over six weeks. Thanks to numerous international co-operations, you have the opportunity to spend parts of your training abroad, for example in France, Belgium, Scotland, Indonesia or Cuba.

Utrecht University (Universiteit Utrecht/ UMC Utrecht)

Utrecht offers degree programmes in human medicine and dentistry in Dutch. The course starts on 1 September each year.

Utrecht University is a renowned university. It offers a high-quality education and access to state-of-the-art teaching and research facilities. 

As a historic city with its old canals and many cultural attractions, Utrecht exudes a charm all of its own. Numerous leisure activities and an international community provide you with an exciting student life.

European Medical School Oldenburg-Groningen (EMS)

The European Medical School Oldenburg-Groningen offers around 400 places to study human medicine in the winter semester. Teaching is in English or Dutch. As the name suggests, there is a co-operation between Oldenburg and Groningen. The universities have a joint curriculum and the EMS utilises teaching staff, facilities and resources from both universities.

Radboud University Nijmegen (Radboud Universiteit)

This medical degree programme abroad, with courses in medicine or dentistry, takes place at Radboud University Nijmegen in Dutch. The university offers a high-quality education in modern teaching and research facilities.

Nijmegen is one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands and exudes a historic atmosphere. The numerous cafés, restaurants and bars ensure a lively city life. In your free time, you can enjoy the cultural diversity of the city and go to the theatre or attend a festival or music event.

Vrije University Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam, Netherlands)

Both human medicine and dentistry can be studied in Dutch at the Vrije Universiteit in Amsterdam. In international rankings, the medical faculty of the VU Amsterdam performs very well due to its high quality in research and education.

The university campus is very central, so you can enjoy the exciting student life of the vibrant capital.

Erasmus University Rotterdam (EUR)

At the medical faculty of Erasmus University in Rotterdam, the human medicine degree programme is offered in Dutch. The course starts every year on 1 September for 400 new medical students. The EUR is renowned for its medical research. Students have the opportunity to participate in exciting research projects. During the admissions process, greater emphasis is placed on extracurricular skills and voluntary work.

Studying medicine in the Netherlands: Requirements

Dutch universities do not have a specific numerus clausus, but they do have a numerus fixus. Very good A-level grades are therefore not obligatory for your application, but they are certainly helpful. The numerus fixus comes into effect when there are more applicants than study places. The places are then allocated by lottery. 

The natural science subjects biology, chemistry and physics are on the timetable for Dutch pupils up to the Abitur, so you should also be able to demonstrate good performance in these subjects. If you have not taken some of these subjects up to the Abitur, there are external institutes where you can catch up on the relevant subject as an alternative until the start of your studies.

There are also language requirements for applicants and future students. For an English-language degree programme, you should prove your English language skills with a TOEFL or IELTS certificate. If you are considering a degree programme, you can submit a certificate of a completed language course. There are also many universities that offer four to six-week intensive Dutch courses.

How is the medical degree programme structured in the Netherlands?

The structure of the medical degree programme in the Netherlands differs greatly from the German curriculum. The Duration of medical studies is also 6 years. In line with the Bologna Process, the degree programme is divided into three sections:  

Students must first complete a bachelor's degree in medicine (B.Sc.), which takes three years to complete. During the Bachelor's phase, a large emphasis is placed on scientific subjects such as anatomy, biochemistry and physiology.

This is followed by the Master's in Medicine (M.Sc.), also lasting three years. This focusses on the clinical application of the knowledge acquired. Students complete rotations in hospitals and clinics. These placements cover various medical specialisms, such as internal medicine, surgery, gynaecology or paediatrics. This allows you to gain practical skills and experience real patient cases.

Finally, you will complete a one-year internship, which is comparable to the practical year in Germany. During their medical studies in the Netherlands, students have many opportunities to take part in medical research and complete internships in the field of research.

In general, medical studies in the Netherlands are very practical and patient-orientated at every university. For example, students are allowed to watch operations on a voluntary basis or are presented with real patient situations in lectures.

Studying medicine in the Netherlands: Costs

Tuition fees are charged in the Netherlands, but these are significantly lower than in other European countries. On average, tuition fees are around 2,500 euros per year.

The cost of living varies depending on the region, but is comparable to that in Germany. You can find student flats or shared rooms in the range of 400 euros to 900 euros. With other expenses such as food, toiletries and leisure activities, you should plan on costs of around 1,200 euros per month.

To optimise the Costs of studying medicine in the Netherlands, you can find out in advance about possible Scholarships inform. There are partial and full scholarships for applicants with A-levels, for which the tuition fees are covered in full or in part.

What you didn't know about the Netherlands

1. Only the rich are allowed to cycle? This was true in the 19th century, when only wealthy citizens could afford the time and money to ride this popular means of transport. Nowadays, however, this is no longer the case and everyone can use the well-developed cycle paths.

2. More sheep than people live on the North Sea island of Texel. In spring, the lambs are born and the number of sheep rises to around 11,000. The largest North Sea island in the Netherlands is also known for its diverse and unique landscape.

3. Country of origin of the gin! The spicy schnapps was invented as a remedy by a doctor in the Netherlands around the middle of the 17th century.

Studying medicine in the Netherlands - Application

If you apply to study medicine in the Netherlands, you will go through a multi-stage application process, which is part of the comprehensive selection procedure. This takes place via a central admissions office and not directly at the universities.

As medical study places in the Netherlands, as in Germany, are very popular and the universities receive more enquiries or applicants than there are places available, you should start the application process in good time. It is also important that you Application deadlines of the individual universities. We can help you with this!

Are you ready to realise your dream of studying medicine in the Netherlands? Contact us today and start your journey with futuredoctor. We look forward to guiding you on your path to a place at university and working with you to realise your dream of a career in medicine.

And for all those who have not completed their A-levels but dream of studying medicine? There are even Countries where you can study medicine with a specialist school-leaving certificate.