Best Affordable Universities for Nigerian Students in the Netherlands

Studying abroad is a dream for many Nigerian students, but high tuition fees often make it challenging. The Netherlands, however, offers high-quality education at relatively affordable costs compared to the UK or the US. According to 2024 statistics, about 150,000 international students study in the Netherlands. With scholarships, part-time work opportunities, and budget-friendly universities, it is an excellent option for Nigerian students seeking international degrees. This article mentions the best affordable universities in the Netherlands and how students can thrive there.

Why Choose the Netherlands for Higher Education?

The Netherlands is home to the world’s best universities, attracting thousands of international students yearly. Here’s why it’s an excellent choice for Nigerian students:

• Affordable tuition fees compared to other European countries.
• English-taught programs across various fields.
• Work opportunities for students during and after their studies.
• Multicultural student environment that welcomes international learners.
• Scholarship options to reduce financial burden.

The following universities offer some of the best affordable programs for Nigerian students looking for quality education without excessive costs.

Top Affordable Universities in the Netherlands

Here is the list of affordable and worth-joining universities in the Netherlands.

1. Saxion University of Applied Sciences

Saxion is known for its practical approach to education, offering courses that prepare students for real-world careers.

• Tuition Fees: €7,800 – €9,500 per year
• Popular Programs: Business, IT, Engineering, Hospitality
• Scholarships Available: Saxion Talent Scholarship

2. Hanze University of Applied Sciences

Located in Groningen, Hanze University provides hands-on education with strong industry connections.

• Tuition Fees: €8,000 – €11,500 per year
• Popular Programs: Energy, Business, Media, Health Sciences
• Scholarships Available: Hanze Scholarship, Orange Knowledge Program

3. Fontys University of Applied Sciences

Fontys offers career-oriented programs in major Dutch cities, focusing on technical and business studies.

• Tuition Fees: €8,200 – €10,500 per year
• Popular Programs: IT, Business, Engineering, Creative Industries
• Scholarships Available: Fontys Talent Scholarship

4. Radboud University

A research-based institution, Radboud provides strong academic programs at affordable costs.

• Tuition Fees: €9,600 – €12,000 per year
• Popular Programs: Law, Medicine, Psychology, Business
• Scholarships Available: Radboud Scholarship, Orange Tulip Scholarship

5. University of Groningen

One of the top-ranked universities in the Netherlands, Groningen offers competitive tuition fees and a strong international student presence.

• Tuition Fees: €8,500 – €15,000 per year
• Popular Programs: Science, Law, Business, Engineering
• Scholarships Available: Holland Scholarship, Eric Bleumink Fund

6. University of Twente

Twente is known for its technology-driven education and research programs.

• Tuition Fees: €9,000 – €14,000 per year
• Popular Programs: Engineering, Social Sciences, Technology
• Scholarships Available: University of Twente Scholarship

How can you afford to study in the Netherlands?

Here is how you can afford to live in the Netherlands as an international student.

1. Apply for Scholarships

Many Dutch universities offer scholarships for Nigerian students, reducing tuition fees and living costs. Some of the top ones include:

• Holland Scholarship
• Orange Knowledge Program
• Eric Bleumink Fund

2. Work Part-Time While Studying

International students in the Netherlands are allowed to work up to 16 hours per week during studies and full-time during the summer.

3. Find Budget-Friendly Accommodation

• Student housing is the cheapest option (€300–€600 per month).
• Shared apartments cost €500–€900 per month in big cities.
• Look for accommodation outside Amsterdam to save money.

4. Use Smart Remittance Services

Sending money home should be fast, secure, and affordable. ACE Money Transfer provides low-cost, reliable transfers for students managing finances between Nigeria and the Netherlands.

Cost of Living for Nigerian Students in the Netherlands

The Netherlands is more affordable than the UK or the US, but students still need to budget wisely. Here’s an estimate of monthly expenses:

• Rent: €300–€900
• Food: €150–€300
• Transport: €40–€100
• Books & Study Materials: €50–€100
• Health Insurance: €80–€120
• Miscellaneous Expenses: €100–€200

Total Estimated Cost: €800 – €1,500 per month

Students can apply for a Dutch student public transport card to save on commuting costs.

Dutch Dreams, Nigerian Scholars: Affordable Education in the Netherlands!

The Netherlands is an excellent choice for Nigerian students looking for affordable education. Universities like Saxion, Hanze, Fontys, and Radboud offer quality programs at reasonable tuition fees.

To study affordably, students should apply for scholarships, work part-time, and budget wisely. If you need to send money to Nigeria from Netherlands, choose ACE Money Transfer for fast and secure transfers. By making smart choices, Nigerian students can enjoy a top-quality education without financial stress.

FAQs

Which is the cheapest university in the Netherlands for Nigerian students?

Saxion University of Applied Sciences offers some of the lowest tuition fees, starting at €7,800 per year.

Can Nigerian students work while studying in the Netherlands?

Yes! International students can work 16 hours per week during studies and full-time in the summer.

Are there full scholarships available for Nigerian students?

Yes, scholarships like the Holland Scholarship and Orange Knowledge Program cover tuition and living costs.

How much does it cost to live in the Netherlands as a student?

The average cost of living is €800 to €1,500 per month, depending on location and lifestyle.

What is the best way to send money from the Netherlands to Nigeria?

ACE Money Transfer is a secure, fast, and affordable way to send money online to Nigeria from Netherlands.