It probably hasn't escaped your notice: almost daily, the austerity plans for higher education pass by in the news. Fortunately, the long-study fine is off the table for now. However, there are still plans for the International Students (Balanced Internationalisation) Act.
The HZ is making every effort to get this law off the table or to adapt it so that it does not disadvantage Zeeland. This has led to Zeeland being exempted as a region in the law. What that exception will look like has yet to be determined in The Hague. It is understandable if you have questions about the consequences of the law. Through this page, we want to answer your possible questions.
The bill aims to better regulate the intake of international students and create a balance between Dutch and international students in higher education. The aim of the bill is to harness the benefits of internationalisation, while keeping the quality and accessibility of higher vocational education (hbo) and academic education (wo) the same.
With the Law on Internationalisation in Balance (WIB), the Minister of Education, Culture & Science wants, among other things, to make the Dutch language the norm again and limit the number of international students. This could result in stricter admission requirements for new students. The plans have been widely criticised. At our regional colleagues University College Roosevelt, among other things, this law has caused a drastic reorganisation. The HZ is making efforts to get this law off the table or adapted so that it does not disadvantage Zeeland. This has resulted in Zeeland being exempted as a region in the law, but this exception is still being discussed in The Hague.
The law is not yet final, but is under development. It is not yet clear exactly when it will take effect. The law will be debated by the House of Representatives in 2025 and must then go to the Senate.
Yes, English-language study programmes will remain, but there will be stricter rules to determine which English-language programmes will be allowed.
English-language programmes remain an important part of HZ's offer. It is not yet clear whether study programme may have to be adapted. We expect that HZ can meet the criteria for exceptions.
As HZ, we consider internationalisation very important. About 750 students from all over the world (with more than 100 nationalities!) study at HZ, which creates a truly international atmosphere.
In all programmes, you learn about internationalisation, for example through literature, assignments and projects. You can also give your own studies an international dimension through the international internship and study opportunities. We encourage you to gain international experience. Our International Office supports you in this. Furthermore, we organise numerous events and activities for the HZ community that focus on encounters, such as cultural, sports and music activities.
The Internationalisation in Balance Act aims to ensure the quality of education and a balanced ratio of students. This does not mean that international students are no longer welcome. The Netherlands remains a popular destination for international students. At HZ, our doors remain open to students from all over the world. This is also widely supported from Zeeland.
The law ensures that the number of international students remaining in the Netherlands after their studies is well aligned with labour market needs. The minister's wish is precisely that international students stay in the Netherlands more often after graduation and thus contribute to our economy. The HZ also welcomes this. The labour market in Zeeland, HZ's region, is eager for well-trained (international) professionals. The HZ will pay extra attention to language lessons and building a network in Zeeland during your studies.
The HZ remains committed to providing affordable and accessible tuition for international students, including scholarships and financial support. Should anything change in tuition fees for international students, we will communicate this via www.hz.nl.
Can't find the answer to your question in the FAQ? Your study career coach (SLC) will be happy to discuss it with you. You can also send an e-mail to study@hz.nl. We are ready to help you.