Surely you’ve heard about the Netherlands and what it’s famous for, but there are many reasons as to why this country has one of the highest number of international students! There are 10 things you need to know about studying in the Netherlands:
1. Everyone speaks English
Although the official language is Dutch, almost 95% of the population speaks English. Therefore, not knowing Dutch isn’t an issue! Learning Dutch is difficult because the Dutch people are eager to speak English. There isn’t a language barrier, and this makes life more comfortable for those coming from another country. As nervous as you might be, the people in Holland welcome all internationals and you can easily have interesting conversations with the locals.
It's your future!
If you would like to know more about studying in the Netherlands and at HZ, you can read all about it in the special brochure that is made for international students.
2. The Dutch are very straightforward
The Dutch have a direct communication style - speaking openly and without confusion. This can be misinterpreted as impolite at times, especially if one is not used to frankness. Direct communication, on the other hand, is regarded as a highly valued type of openness among the Dutch. It’s just their way of “being real” with you.
3. Gateway to Europe
HZ University of Applied Sciences is nearby all the quirky European cities! Referring to its central geographic and economic position in central Europe, the Netherlands is often described as the gateway to Europe. It takes only about an hour to fly from Amsterdam to Paris, Berlin, Venice, or London. It’s also possible to go away for the weekend with your friends and drive up to different cities within a few hours!
4. Diversity
The international atmosphere makes you feel right at home! Without a doubt, you would find people from your home country, but you also encounter a variety of cultures. There are 143 different nationalities that live in this country, and everyone is equal! Meeting different people is a way to build a network, work on your communication skills and learn about different ethnicities, so it’s very useful for when you work in companies. It’s also an advantage to make friends from different parts of the world, so you can go visit their hometown.
5. Export products
Did you know Dutch design and dance music are our number one export products? Electronic dance music, or EDM, is the most popular genre in the Netherlands. Dance music by DJs like Afrojack, Tiësto, Armin van Buuren, and Martin Garrix (my personal favourite) account for about 75% of foreign revenue.
6. Orange is the national colour
The Dutch don’t let any opportunity pass by to dress up in the colour orange. If you're unfamiliar with King's Day, it's a Dutch national holiday in which the entire country dresses in orange, drinks beer, and celebrates the birthday of the king. And boy, do they have a good time! The legendary William of Orange, who was anointed Prince of Orange in 1544, started the dynasty. The colour orange became a symbol of the Dutch Royal family under his rule.
7. They travel by bike
Cycling is very popular in the Netherlands because of the flat landscape, the Dutch prefer it over driving cars. Not only does it help the environment but it’s good exercise too! The bike paths are very well structured and stretches to 35,000 km so technically it’s like taking a bike ride 3 times around the moon. The Netherlands' infrastructure is designed with bicycles in mind, making it a safe mode of transportation.
8. Practical approach
In the Netherlands there a different types of uni's: an universities of applied sciences (hogeschool in Dutch) and research universities. At HZ University of Applied Sciences you will be combining theoretical classes with practical skills and experience. This makes studying in the Netherlands a great springboard for your professional life.
9. Bad weather?
The weather in the Netherlands is, well, unpredictable. It changes so frequently that whatever you wear in the morning might feel completely unsuitable by midday. However, this also means you get to experience all four seasons—rain, wind, snow, and sunshine. Did you know that Zeeland is the sunniest region in the Netherlands? Fortunately, HZ University of Applied Sciences is located in Middelburg and Vlissingen, where there are an average of 1,889 hours of sunshine each year!
10. Open-minded
The Netherlands is known for being open-minded and accepting. The Dutch are relaxed about different ways of life and believe everyone should be treated equally. It’s a country where people from all backgrounds feel welcome, and where same-sex marriage has been legal for years—long before many other places. At HZ, there is also a Gender and Sexuality Alliance that organises afternoon get-togethers and other activities. Do you have a condition or limitation or another reason why you need extra support? HZ is a personal university that offers guidance and help whenever you need it.
Here were 10 things to know about the Netherlands, I hope this has made you more curious for more information about studying in the Netherlands. Here is an infographic that helps you visualise all these wonderful facts.
Hope to welcome you soon.
