Fewer International Students in Netherlands as English Restrictions Tighten

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Key Takeaways

• International undergraduate enrollment in the Netherlands dropped by 6% for 2024-25, with language programs seeing a 17% decline.
• A 2024 policy caps foreign language instruction at one-third of bachelor’s programs, requiring government approval for exceptions.
• Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam saw a 23.5% drop in international bachelor’s students due to these restrictions.

International student enrollment in the Netherlands 🇳🇱 has dropped notably after restrictions were placed on English-language programs. This change is sparking debate among universities, policymakers, and industry experts about the future of education and the economy in the country.

Recent figures from Universities of the Netherlands (UNL) show that international undergraduate enrollments fell by 6% in the 2024-25 academic year compared to the previous year. Fields like language and culture programs experienced a sharper drop of 17%, while natural sciences saw a 13% decrease. These reductions are linked directly to government policies aimed at reducing the number of international students, raising concerns from educators and industry leaders.

Fewer International Students in Netherlands as English Restrictions Tighten

Causes of the Decline

One of the key factors behind the decline is a policy shift that began in April 2024, when Dutch universities, under pressure from the government, agreed to limit the number of programs taught solely in English. Later in October 2024, Education Minister Eppo Bruins proposed stricter rules under a renewed “internationalisation in balance” plan.

This legislation seeks to prioritize Dutch as the main language used in undergraduate programs. According to the proposed rules, a maximum of one-third of a bachelor’s program can be taught in a foreign language, such as English. Exceptions are allowed only in specific cases, such as filling jobs in high-demand fields or for courses that are naturally global in scope. However, even in these cases, the government’s permission is required to offer an entire program in another language.

Supporters of these policies argue that they help preserve the Dutch language and address domestic problems like housing shortages. However, the direct impact on international enrollment is stark; some universities are seeing dramatic drops in foreign student numbers.

Effects at the University Level

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU) witnessed the largest reported drop in international students. The intake of international bachelor’s students at VU decreased by a staggering 23.5% in September 2024 compared to the previous year. This follows a similar decline in 2023 when VU saw a 17% fall, linked to a numerus fixus (a fixed cap on student numbers) for its Computer Science program.

The decrease isn’t limited to universities. Universities of applied sciences, known locally as HBO institutions, have also seen shrinking numbers. Enrollments from European Economic Area (EEA) students fell by 8%, while non-EEA student registrations dropped by 7%.

Broader Implications for the Netherlands

The decline in international students is causing concern for many, given the important role these students play in bolstering the economy and diversifying academic communities. UNL chairman Caspar van den Berg has been vocal in opposing the restrictions, stressing that limiting the influx of international talent harms not just universities but also the nation as a whole. “Anyone who follows developments in the world sees that keeping out international talent is outdated,” van den Berg said. He added that in challenging times when knowledge and innovation are highly valued, closing the door to global talent is counterproductive.

In regions like Limburg, which faces a shrinking population and workforce, attracting foreign students is a long-term necessity for economic growth. The population in Limburg is expected to decrease by 16% within 20 years. Experts warn that a decline in international talent means fewer opportunities to innovate and grow in such areas.

The country’s academic reputation is also being affected. Dutch universities have seen their global rankings fall in the Times Higher Education charts. Critics argue that the restrictions on English-language programs could further harm how Dutch institutions are viewed worldwide. Without international students, universities may struggle to maintain the level of cultural and intellectual exchange necessary for strong academic performance on a global scale.

Shifts in Government Policy

Some policymakers are beginning to take note of the potential downsides of these restrictions. In February 2025, the parliament passed a motion acknowledging that the Netherlands is “not a leader in attracting and retaining knowledge migrants compared to other countries.” This acknowledgment led to the introduction of a new “Orientation Year” residence permit, designed to help international graduates find jobs in the country. It reflects an understanding of how valuable skilled foreign graduates are, especially in sectors where there are labor shortages.

Yet, universities insist that focusing only on retaining graduates won’t solve the issue if fewer international students enroll in the first place. As UNL spokesperson Ruben Puylaert pointed out, “We can make plans to increase the stay rate, but if students stop coming at all – even in the sectors where there is a major labour market shortage – then this will be pointless.”

Addressing Domestic Concerns

The government’s restrictions on international student numbers are largely driven by domestic issues. Housing shortages are a key concern, often linked to the rapid growth of international student populations in major cities like Amsterdam and Utrecht. There is also an argument for protecting the Dutch language and culture in higher education, as increased use of English in programs has sparked fears of cultural erosion.

Despite these concerns, many argue that limiting the number of international students may not be the best solution. Balancing domestic priorities with the advantages brought by foreign students is proving to be a challenge. A slight rise in domestic enrollment, with bachelor’s programs seeing a 1% increase in Dutch student enrollments in 2024, has shown that local interest in higher education remains steady. However, experts warn that overly restricting international presence could end up weakening higher education overall.

Debates About the Future

The current situation highlights a difficult balancing act for Dutch policymakers. On the one hand, curbing the rapid growth of international enrollments may ease housing pressure and strengthen the local culture within universities. On the other hand, critics believe that filtering out international talent could hurt the Netherlands by reducing its ability to attract skilled workers and remain competitive in the global knowledge economy.

The issue has placed the Netherlands in a tough spot. As an interconnected world places more value on international collaboration and talent exchange, isolating from global trends may carry long-term risks. Many are calling on the government to rethink its approach, considering how policies intended to protect Dutch culture might inadvertently harm education and innovation.

Moving Forward

Universities, policymakers, and business leaders continue to debate how to address this issue. Those in favor of attracting more international students argue that higher education should be seen as a gateway to solving local problems rather than as a source of them. By designing thoughtful housing policies and creating incentives that keep Dutch graduates and talented foreign students in the country, they suggest a middle ground might be reached.

As it stands, the Netherlands faces significant challenges in adapting to a changing global education market. Decisions made now will shape not just how universities operate, but also how the Netherlands positions itself in the world. The hope is for a future where both local and international interests can thrive.

In conclusion, the fall in international student enrollment in the Netherlands after cuts to English-language programs has broader consequences. Universities of the Netherlands 🇳🇱 are navigating declining enrollment trends and growing criticism, while the government seeks to handle local concerns without damaging long-term prospects. A balanced approach is essential, as the country’s global competitiveness and ability to foster cultural exchange hang in the balance. For more information on these policies, visit the official Dutch government website: Government of the Netherlands.

Learn Today

Internationalisation in balance → Dutch policy aiming to limit English-taught programs to preserve Dutch language, culture, and address domestic challenges.
Numerus fixus → A fixed cap on the number of students allowed to enroll in certain university programs.
European Economic Area (EEA) → A region that includes EU countries and others allowing free movement of people, goods, services, and capital.
Orientation Year residence permit → A visa allowing international graduates to stay in the Netherlands and seek employment after completing studies.
Cultural erosion → The gradual loss or weakening of a culture’s traditions, language, or practices due to external influences.

This Article in a Nutshell

International student enrollment in the Netherlands has dropped after curbing English-language programs, stirring debate. Critics warn the policy risks academic reputation, economic growth, and innovation. Supporters cite housing shortages and cultural preservation. Striking a balance is crucial—can the Netherlands prioritize global talent while addressing local concerns? The future of education hangs precariously.
— By VisaVerge.com