Step-by-step plan for studying abroad | Netherlands Worldwide (2024)

If you are going abroad to do vocational training or a higher education course, this step-by-step plan tells you what arrangements you will need to make with the Dutch authorities.

1. Before you leave

6-12 months before you leave

Do you need a visa?

This will depend on your host country.

  • Within the EU or Schengen area: you do not need a visa.
  • If you are going to a country outside the EU or Schengen area: you might need a visa. Check this with the embassy of your host country.

Applying for a visa

If you need a visa to study abroad, you should apply for one in good time. The documents needed for a visa application and how long an application takes vary from country to country. Apply for a visa at the embassy of your host country in the Netherlands.

Student finance

Find out whether you can get student finance from DUO (the Education Executive Agency) or can keep your student finance while abroad.

  • Find out whether you can get student finance
  • Find out whether you can keep your student finance

Scholarship

A scholarship might be a useful source of extra funding during your study abroad.

The educational institution where you will be studying may be able to help you find accommodation.

You will need to be vaccinated against certain diseases before going to some countries. If that is the case, get your jabs on time.

2-6 months before you leave

If you don’t already have one, apply for a DigiD before deregistering from your municipality. It’s easier to apply for a DigiD from the Netherlands than from abroad. You can use your DigiD to log in to Dutch government websites, even from abroad.

When you are abroad, you cannot always receive the SMS DigiD verification code needed to log in to the websites of Dutch government organisations. With the DigiD app you can log in without an SMS verification code. So download and activate the app before you leave. Then you will be sure that you can log in.

Check when your passport or identity card is due to expire. Some countries have specific requirements for the validity of your passport or identity card. You will find this information in the travel advice for the country in question.

You can apply for a new passport or identity card through your municipality.

Check whether you can enter your host country with a Dutch identity card. If that is not the case, you will need to apply for a passport through your municipality.

  • Countries you can enter with a Dutch identity card

Find out whether you can get student finance to study abroad or keep it while you’re there. And because you cannot use your student travel product outside the Netherlands, you can probably get a public transport allowance.

Educational institutions abroad often ask for more information about your Dutch diplomas or certificates. You may have to get them legalised or provide a description of their contents.

  • Find out how to prepare your Dutch diplomas and certificates for use outside the Netherlands

1 month before you leave

If you are going to study abroad for more than 8 months you will need to deregister from your municipality. Do this in the last 5 days before you leave.

  • Find out how to deregister from your municipality

Attention: If you end up staying abroad for longer than originally planned, so for more than 8 months, you will then have to deregister from your municipality.

Dutch health insurance

If you go abroad to study, you will usually keep your Dutch health insurance. Remember to inform your health insurer that you will be living abroad for a while.

Whether you can keep your Dutch health insurance will depend on how long you stay abroad, and whether you work while you study.

  • Find out whether you can keep your Dutch health insurance

Healthcare benefit

If you have Dutch health insurance during your stay abroad, you can usually keep your healthcare benefit. Go to the Mijn Toeslagen portal on the Tax Administration website to inform the tax authorities of your new address. You will need your DigiD. If you do not have a DigiD, apply for one before you leave.

European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)

If you are going to study within Europe, you should apply for a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). This card will entitle you to essential medical care abroad. You will receive the card by post within 7 working days of applying.

  • Find out how to apply for a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)

You cannot use your student travel product outside the Netherlands, but you can apply to DUO for a public transport allowance. Before you leave, you will need to cancel your public transport smart card at a ticket machine. If you don’t, you may receive a fine.

To make sure you do not miss any messages from DUO, check that it has an email address you use regularly.

Look at the checklist for travelling abroad or download the Travel App. Here you will find information on your baggage, your bank card and carrying medicines, for example.

Travel advice

Regularly check the travel advice for your destination. A change in colour code may have consequences for your studies abroad.

Keep up to date on the security situation in your country

2. When you’re abroad

If you need help in an emergency, find out what you need to do.

If you study abroad, there are still some things you will need to arrange with the Dutch authorities. Find out what you can arrange with the Dutch authorities from abroad.

  • Living and working outside the Netherlands

If you end up staying abroad for longer than originally planned, you will need to arrange a number of things.

Deregister from your municipality

If you are going to be outside the Netherlands for more than 8 months you will need to deregister from your municipality.

  • Find out how to deregister from your municipality

Check your visa

If you have a visa and wish to stay longer than expected, check that your visa allows this. Find out more from the embassy or consulate of your host country.

If you did not initially require a visa, you may require one to stay longer. Find out more from the embassy or consulate of your host country.

Student finance and student travel product

If you initially informed DUO of the date you would return to the Netherlands and you now wish to stay abroad for longer, you will need to provide DUO with your new return date.

If you are finished – or almost finished – studying or if you will be leaving your course, there are a number of things you will need to arrange.

  • Find out what you need to arrange with DUO when you stop studying

Check the validity of your passport or ID card

If you are staying abroad for longer, check that your passport or ID card is valid for long enough. Some countries have special requirements in this regard. You can apply for a new Dutch passport or new Dutch ID card in your host country.

  • Find out how to apply for a new Dutch passport or ID card in your host country

3. Returning to the Netherlands

  • Check what you need for travel to the Netherlands

If you deregistered from your municipality before you left, you should register with the municipality where you are going to live within five days of your return to the Netherlands.

  • Check how to register with the municipality

Student finance

Inform DUO of your return to the Netherlands.

Student travel product

If before you went abroad you informed DUO of the date of your return to the Netherlands you can activate your student travel product as soon as you get back.

If you did not inform DUO of this date, or if you have returned earlier or later than planned, you will need to re-apply for a student travel product.
Once you have re-applied through Mijn DUO for a student travel product, you can activate it at a ticket machine. Your public transport allowance will stop automatically.

Preparing your diploma or certificate for use in the Netherlands

If you were awarded a diploma or certificate abroad, Dutch educational institutions and employers will often ask for more information about it. You might need to have it legalised or evaluated.

  • Find out what arrangements you need to make to use a foreign diploma or certificate in the Netherlands

If you have finished or almost finished your studies you will need to arrange a few things with DUO.

  • Find out what you need to arrange with DUO

Dutch health insurance

If you kept your Dutch health insurance while you were abroad, inform your insurer of your return to the Netherlands.

If you cancelled your Dutch health insurance before you left, you will have to take out new insurance.

Healthcare benefit

If you received healthcare benefit during your stay abroad, log in to the Mijn Toeslagen portal on the Tax Administration website to inform the tax authorities of your new address.

  • Find out whether you can claim healthcare costs incurred abroad

If you registered with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs information service, you will need to deregister on your return so that the embassy or consulate knows you are no longer in the country in question.

Also useful

  • Doing an internship abroad
Step-by-step plan for studying abroad | Netherlands Worldwide (2024)

FAQs

How do I write a study plan for studying abroad? ›

What to Write in a Study Plan Essay?
  1. Identify the Reason to Study the Respected Program Overseas. ...
  2. Specify the time required to accomplish your Academic Goals. ...
  3. Identify the Reasons for Not Studying in Your Own Country. ...
  4. Conduct a Research on Studying in Your Home Country. ...
  5. The Future of Your field in Your Country.
May 12, 2020

What is the first step of the process to study abroad? ›

Choose the right study abroad program.

This is the most important step. You'll have to decide what program is best for you — not what program is best for your twenty closest friends in college. You'll have to pick the program you want to do, and the city where you'll be studying.

Where do I start when studying abroad? ›

5 Ways to Study Abroad for Free or Cheap
  • Choose a country with an affordable cost of living. You don't have to break the bank just to take your studies overseas. ...
  • Enroll directly in a foreign university or language school. ...
  • Complete a work-study. ...
  • Opt for a cheap study abroad program. ...
  • Apply for scholarships & grants.

How long is the process to study abroad? ›

Academic Year (10 months): This is the most well-known and popular program length. After spending 10 months overseas, you'll have a better understanding of certain cultural aspects of your host country than you do your home country.

When should I start planning for study abroad? ›

We recommend that students start planning for their program abroad around 9-12 months in advance. Give yourself plenty of time to plan ahead so you are not rushed through the process.

How do you write a good statement of purpose for study abroad? ›

What should be included in the Statement of Purpose?
  1. Personal background.
  2. Financial background.
  3. Academic details.
  4. Professional experience (full/part-time, voluntary)
  5. Immediate and long-term goals.
  6. Reasons why you wish to study at this particular institution.
  7. Reasons for being interested in the chosen field.

What are three types of study abroad? ›

Types of Study Abroad Programs
  • Faculty-Led. A faculty-led program is usually 2-6 weeks long, but some may last an entire quarter or summer. ...
  • GEO Centers. ...
  • Language Learning. ...
  • Exchange Programs. ...
  • Research. ...
  • Internships. ...
  • Service-Learning. ...
  • Third-Party Sponsored Programs.

What should you do first before going abroad? ›

7 Things You Must Do Before Your Next International Trip
  • Make sure your passport and visa are up-to-date. ...
  • Check for health advisories and travel warnings and advisories. ...
  • Register your trip with the State Department. ...
  • Stock your wallet with acceptable methods of payment. ...
  • Buy travel insurance. ...
  • Pack appropriately.

What is the process of studying from America? ›

Take your passport and proof of financial support (bank statements, scholarship awards, etc.). You will be requesting student visa status, which is usually an F-1 visa. After you are interviewed and receive approval, a visa will be stamped on your passport. Then you are ready to come to the U.S. to begin your studies.

How much money should you have before studying abroad? ›

A semester abroad through a third-party provider will cost between $15,000 and $22,000 depending on location. These programs usually include housing and sometimes meals. Study abroad can be cheaper if you enroll directly in a foreign university.

What is the easiest country to study abroad? ›

Where can I easily study and settle down? The top countries for international students looking to study abroad and settle after graduation include Canada, Germany and Australia, among others.

What is the longest you can study abroad? ›

You can study abroad anywhere from a week or two to a full academic year or even longer. However, the answer to how long can you study abroad isn't always exactly the same as the answer to how long should you study abroad. The “right” decision depends on individual needs.

Is studying abroad stressful? ›

When you're studying overseas, it's normal to feel a little stressed or homesick once in a while. It is common for international students to feel anxious when coping with a completely new lifestyle, academic demands, financial difficulties, pressures of balancing work and study commitments and relationship issues.

What grade is the best to study abroad? ›

Studying abroad from grade 7 to 8, and from 8 to 9 are the most popular choices for students. They can go as early as grade 6, although I think they appreciate the experience more when they are older,” shares Ellen Bello, grade 8 counselor.

What is the best year of college to study abroad? ›

Junior year is a popular time to go abroad, particular for students who started as a freshman. This could be a perfect choice if you have a solid plan with how study abroad fits in with your major plan.

What year do most college students study abroad? ›

Statistically, most students study abroad junior year of college, allowing the foreign study to advantageously enhance their degree. Studying abroad early, however, has many advantages: You will have plenty of time at your home campus to complete required credits when you choose a major.

How do you start a personal statement for study abroad? ›

Introduce the personal statement by broadly describing your interest in the study abroad program and how you hope to benefit from the program. The first section in the body explains what you can bring to the program or internship. How will you benefit and reflect positively upon the institution you will represent?

What do you say when applying to study abroad? ›

Mention major academic accomplishments, work experience, or skills that you might find useful abroad, such as knowledge of a second language. The university knows you will learn a lot during your time abroad, but the more you can bring to the program, the better!

What are the goals for study abroad students? ›

Social and Emotional Development
  • Build independence.
  • Develop empathy.
  • Develop an increased tolerance for ambiguity.
  • Adapt effectively to cross-cultural settings.

What is the most popular type of study abroad? ›

The popular courses to study abroad are
  • Engineering. ...
  • Computer Science. ...
  • Information Technology. ...
  • Business Administration. ...
  • Medicine. ...
  • Law. ...
  • Social Sciences. ...
  • Hospitality and Tourism.

What are 2 advantages of studying abroad? ›

We hear it all the time: “study abroad changed my life.” And it's so true. Studying abroad teaches you leadership, cross-cultural communication, adaptability, and so much more. Mark this down as a key advantage to studying abroad.

What do you call students who study abroad? ›

International students, or foreign students, are students who undertake all or part of their tertiary education in a country other than their own and move to that country for the purpose of studying.

Which country is best for first time travel? ›

  • England. Source England is a great option for the first international travel, as you won't have to worry about communication barriers. ...
  • Greece. Source Greece is all about the white-washed bungalows and villas, clear-blue skies and black-pebbled beaches. ...
  • Japan. ...
  • South Korea. ...
  • Singapore. ...
  • Thailand. ...
  • United Arab Emirates. ...
  • Turkey.

What is the main reason for going abroad? ›

Going abroad is an exciting challenge and a great opportunity to escape your comfort zones. You'll have the opportunity to pick up new skills you may not have had the chance to whilst studying at home, including navigating a new city, communicating in a different language, and budgeting with an unfamiliar currency.

How do I prepare my body for international travel? ›

  1. Adjust Your Circadian Rhythm. Unfortunately, jet lag just comes with the territory when it comes to long flights, especially if you're jumping multiple time zones. ...
  2. Take Advantage of Moving Around While at the Terminals. ...
  3. Set Yourself Up for Sleep. ...
  4. Pack Your Own Snacks. ...
  5. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate. ...
  6. Get Moving. ...
  7. Relax.
Aug 25, 2022

How to study step by step? ›

10 tips on how to study effectively
  1. Get organised.
  2. Don't skip class!
  3. Take notes.
  4. Talk to your teacher & ask questions.
  5. Space out your studying.
  6. Create a study plan – & stick to it.
  7. Don't just re-read but study.
  8. Set up a quiet study space.

How many hours a day do American students study? ›

A whopping 40% of all students surveyed reported not studying at all for an average of 1 hour per day. More than half (57%) said that they studied for up to an hour each day; 24% report studying between one and two hours. Only a handful (6%) admit to spending 3 or more hours a day in preparation for their classes.

What is the age limit for international students in the US? ›

There's no age limit for F-1 Visa as long as you've been given admission by a US university. As part of the visa application process, an interview at the embassy consular section is required for visa applicants from age 14 through 79, with few exceptions.

Does fafsa cover study abroad? ›

You may receive federal student aid for a study-abroad program, if you meet the aid eligibility criteria. If you aren't already in the habit of filling out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) form each year for college, be sure to learn about the federal student aid programs and the FAFSA process.

Is 25 too old to study abroad? ›

Still think you might've missed your chance to study abroad? Once more for the folks in the back of the room: It's not too late to go abroad! The right study abroad program can even put you on the fast track to your dream job after college.

Where is it most expensive to study abroad? ›

Australia has been recognised as one of the most expensive countries in the world for international students. From tuition fees to living expenses, studying here doesn't comes cheap. In 2021, 36 out of 45 universities in Australia ranked in the QS World University Rankings.

Where do most Americans study abroad? ›

Top countries where U.S. students study abroad
  • Spain.
  • France.
  • Germany.
  • Ireland.
  • China.
  • Australia.
  • Japan.
  • Costa Rica.

Is USA is best for study abroad? ›

Academic excellence

In the QS World Ranking of 2021, 30 of the top 100 universities were from the USA. Six of American universities have come up in the top 10 list of the best universities in the world list by Times Higher Education Ranking. Learn how to get into Ivy Leagues Schools.

What is the cheapest country to study abroad? ›

The top 5 cheapest study-abroad countries are Norway, Taiwan, Poland, Mexico, and Germany.

Is it better to study in Europe or USA? ›

European universities offer a lot more types of degrees than American universities. They offer Higher National Diploma, Certificate of Higher Education, Diploma of Higher Education, Foundation Degree, Bachelors, Masters, Ph. D. and variety of professional and vocational degrees.

What is the most difficult student visa to get? ›

Saudi Arabia is considered the most difficult student visa to get but there has been arguments about that this toughness is only for Non-Muslims and that Muslim countries like Pakistan easily get Saudi student visa but that is still a matter not approved of by Saudis.

Which country has highest student visa success rate? ›

Australia is known as the best student destination globally because of its high-quality education, low cost of living and opportunities to work. Australia welcomes international students from all over the world, and the higher education system in Australia differs from other countries.

How many US students are studying abroad? ›

Nationally, the number of U.S. students studying abroad for credit during the 2020-2021 academic year declined 91 percent from 162,633 students to 14,549 students as the COVID-19 pandemic halted study abroad participation starting in March 2020.

Is there a limit to how many times you can study abroad? ›

Ah, the old question of, “Can you study abroad more than once?” The short and sweet answer? YES. Studying abroad more than once is not only attainable, it's super beneficial.

Is senior year too late to study abroad? ›

Yes! There are many ways to study abroad as a high school senior , from short-term programs during school breaks to full semester exchange programs. Some high schools even offer combination study and volunteer abroad trips for seniors during winter or spring breaks.

Why should American students study abroad? ›

By studying abroad, you will experience new perspectives, learn how to navigate different cultures, work with diverse peers, and communicate in other languages.

Why do you wish to study in USA and not in other countries? ›

The degrees obtained from the USA universities are recognized throughout the world for their excellence. The country has one of the world's finest education systems, with excellent programs in all the study fields. At the bachelors level, study programs are a mixture of traditional disciplines, and Professional fields.

What are the main problems of studying abroad? ›

Challenges of Studying Abroad
  • Homesickness. Homesickness figured largely in students who already studied abroad, with many admitting difficulties coping with living alone in a foreign land. ...
  • Course requirements of existing curriculum. ...
  • Language and cultural barriers. ...
  • Financial difficulties. ...
  • Dietary and health issues.
Apr 20, 2023

What are the negative impact of studying abroad? ›

Before choosing to study abroad, one must consider the positive and negative aspects. Negative aspects or disadvantages include high expectations, homesickness, a chance of facing racism, and language barriers.

Is it difficult for an introvert to study abroad? ›

Studying abroad can be difficult in terms of being away from your friends and family. When homesickness strikes it can be hard to enjoy the time abroad, so don't forget to keep in touch with your loved ones. It will make adjusting to your new life much easier.

How do you write a study plan example? ›

Steps to Create a Study Plan
  1. Step 1: Determine Your Goals. ...
  2. Step 2: Choose the Right Program and University. ...
  3. Step 3: Identify the Courses You Need to Take. ...
  4. Step 4: Create a Study Schedule. ...
  5. Step 5: Set Realistic Goals. ...
  6. Step 6: Review and Revise Your Study Plan.

What should I write in my study plan? ›

How to make an effective study plan
  1. Analyse your individual learning style.
  2. Evaluate your current commitments.
  3. Plan your study time for each class.
  4. Develop a schedule.
  5. Set realistic goals.
  6. Make study time part of your routine.
  7. Plan your breaks.
  8. Try the Pomodoro Technique.

How to write a study plan for student visa? ›

Your study plan should include the purpose, name of the school, intended program of study, and what you are applying for (e.g. study permit, co-op work permit). In the case of accompanying dependents, mention their names, their relationship with you, and the kind of visa they will require.

What does a plan of study look like? ›

The plan of study is a list of courses that you plan to take for the individualized major. It should include courses from at least two, preferably three or more, academic disciplines. It is important to construct the plan around a theme, so that the courses relate to one another and create a unified whole.

How do I make a study plan in sheets? ›

How To Make A Daily Schedule In Google Sheets
  1. Step 1: Go to ​​spreadsheets.google.com, click on “Template gallery” by hovering your mouse over the plus sign in the bottom right corner. ...
  2. Step 2: Clicking on “Schedule” will take you to the blank daily schedule template that you can customize.

How do you write a self introduction and study plan? ›

Self-introduction: Basic Information

Normally you should begin by presenting basic information about yourself. At a minimum, you should include your name, age, and hometown. It is also not uncommon to include information about your family, such as the number of siblings you have and what your parents do for work.

How many words should a study plan be? ›

A study plan should range between 800-1000 words. Write your study plan in simple language. The positive impression allowed experience and knowledge will impact your future on return to your home country.

How many hours a day is best to study? ›

Studying for 3 to 4 hours a day is the best number as it is realistic without being too small to actually get the work done. It has also been shown that this period of time allows your brain to work at full capacity without burning it out.

What is the goal of a study plan? ›

Creating a study plan allows you to see how you spend your time, and ensures that you are setting aside enough time outside of class to complete homework assignments, study for tests, and review and retain the information you are learning.

How do I show funds for USA student visa? ›

List of Financial Documents for I-20 Visa
  1. Fixed deposits receipt- attested by the bank.
  2. Savings bank statement for F-1 visa- balance certificate by bank attested.
  3. PF/PPF- passbook or bank statement for US student visa.
  4. Property papers.

How to write statement of purpose for USA student visa? ›

What should be included in the Statement of Purpose?
  1. Personal background.
  2. Financial background.
  3. Academic details.
  4. Professional experience (full/part-time, voluntary)
  5. Immediate and long-term goals.
  6. Reasons why you wish to study at this particular institution.
  7. Reasons for being interested in the chosen field.

What is a student plan for academic success? ›

The Student Success Plan (SSP) is a personalized student driven plan that will be created to address every learner's needs and interests to help then stay engaged in school and to achieve post secondary educational and career goals.

Do international students need letters of recommendation? ›

One of the most difficult aspects of completing your application package as an international student is the letters of recommendation. Your recommenders need to help the admissions officers gain a better understanding of who you are so that you can increase your chances of receiving an offer of acceptance.

Do you need a letter of recommendation for study abroad? ›

Those interested in studying abroad must submit one recommendation from a professor, advisor, staff member or supervisor as part of your study abroad application. Here are a few things to consider before you ask: Look for the best letter writer for you.

References

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