The Netherlands is a highly sought-after destination for international students due to its globally recognized education system, high-quality institutions, and diverse student community.
However, studying in the Netherlands involves significant expenses, including tuition fees and living costs.
Fortunately, several loan options are available to help international students finance their education.
This article provides a comprehensive guide to the 9 best student loans for international students in the Netherlands, covering the key details of each loan provider.
Best Netherlands Student Loans for International Students
| Loan Provider | Loan Amount | Co-signer Requirement | Interest Rates | Loan Terms | Eligibility Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DUO Student Finance | Up to €1,078/month | No | 0% – 4% | Varies | EU/EEA students, valid residence permit |
| ABN AMRO Study Loan | Up to €50,000 | Yes | 4.50% – 6.00% | 1 – 10 years | Enrolled in Dutch universities |
| Prodigy Finance | Up to €100,000 | No | 9% – 11% | Up to 20 years | Enrolled in partnered programs |
| MPOWER Financing | $2,001 – $50,000 | No | 11.99% – 13.99% | 10 years | Enrolled in eligible universities |
| Auxmoney | €1,000 – €50,000 | No | 3.95% – 16.50% | 12 – 84 months | Valid residence permit |
| College Ave Student Loans | $5,000 – $80,000 | No | 5.99% – 12.99% | 5 – 15 years | Enrolled in eligible institutions |
| Erasmus+ Master Loan | Up to €12,000 | No | 5.40% (fixed) | 5 years | Enrolled in Erasmus-participating programs |
| Rabobank Study Loan | €5,000 – €50,000 | Yes | 4.95% – 7.50% | 5 – 15 years | Enrolled in Dutch universities |
| ING Study Loan | €5,000 – €50,000 | Yes | 5.25% – 7.25% | 1 – 10 years | Dutch students or international students with permanent residency |
1. DUO Student Finance
- Loan Amount: Up to €1,078/month
- Interest Rates: 0% – 4%
- Loan Terms: Varies
DUO is the Dutch government’s student finance body.
While the loan is primarily available for EU/EEA students, international students with a valid residence permit can also apply.
The loan is offered on a monthly basis, covering living expenses and, in some cases, tuition fees. Interest rates are low, making it an attractive option for students.
2. ABN AMRO Study Loan
- Loan Amount: Up to €50,000
- Interest Rates: 4.50% – 6.00%
- Loan Terms: 1 – 10 years
ABN AMRO offers loans to international students enrolled in Dutch universities.
The loan amount can go up to €50,000, with flexible repayment terms.
A co-signer is required, and the loan can be used for both tuition fees and living expenses. The interest rates are competitive compared to other private loans.
3. Prodigy Finance
- Loan Amount: Up to €100,000
- Interest Rates: 9% – 11%
- Loan Terms: Up to 20 years
Prodigy Finance offers postgraduate loans for international students, including those studying in the Netherlands.
No co-signer is required, and the loan is based on the student’s future earning potential.
This loan can cover tuition fees and living costs, and repayment starts after graduation.
4. MPOWER Financing
- Loan Amount: $2,001 – $50,000
- Interest Rates: 11.99% – 13.99%
- Loan Terms: 10 years
MPOWER Financing offers loans without a co-signer or collateral, which is perfect for international students.
The loan can be used for tuition fees and living expenses, and the repayment period is set at 10 years.
The interest rates are on the higher side but are accessible to international students without a credit history.
5. Auxmoney
- Loan Amount: €1,000 – €50,000
- Interest Rates: 3.95% – 16.50%
- Loan Terms: 12 – 84 months
Auxmoney is a peer-to-peer lending platform that provides loans for international students in the Netherlands.
With flexible loan amounts and terms, Auxmoney doesn’t require a co-signer. Students can use the loan for both educational and living expenses.
The interest rates depend on the applicant’s profile, ranging from 3.95% to 16.50%.
6. College Ave Student Loans
- Loan Amount: $5,000 – $80,000
- Interest Rates: 5.99% – 12.99%
- Loan Terms: 5 – 15 years
College Ave offers customizable student loans for international students.
The loan covers tuition and living expenses, and it doesn’t require a co-signer.
Students can choose from a range of repayment plans, from short-term to long-term options, making it a flexible choice for international students in the Netherlands.
7. Erasmus+ Master Loan
- Loan Amount: Up to €12,000
- Interest Rates: 5.40% (fixed)
- Loan Terms: 5 years
The Erasmus+ Master Loan is available for students pursuing a master’s degree in participating countries, including the Netherlands.
The loan offers a fixed interest rate and can be used for tuition fees and living costs. It is an excellent option for students who are part of the Erasmus+ program and don’t require a co-signer.
8. Rabobank Study Loan
- Loan Amount: €5,000 – €50,000
- Interest Rates: 4.95% – 7.50%
- Loan Terms: 5 – 15 years
Rabobank offers education loans to both Dutch and international students.
A co-signer is typically required, and the loan can be used for tuition fees, accommodation, and other living expenses.
Rabobank provides competitive interest rates, and the loan terms are flexible to suit the borrower’s needs.
9. ING Study Loan
- Loan Amount: €5,000 – €50,000
- Interest Rates: 5.25% – 7.25%
- Loan Terms: 1 – 10 years
ING offers study loans for international students in the Netherlands.
The loan amount can cover tuition fees and living expenses, and repayment terms are flexible.
A co-signer is typically required, and the loan features competitive interest rates that vary based on the loan amount and term.
Quick One: We have other useful loan articles here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can international students in the Netherlands get loans without a co-signer?
Yes, several loan providers, including Prodigy Finance, MPOWER Financing, and Auxmoney, offer loans without requiring a co-signer, making it easier for international students to access funding.
What are the typical interest rates for student loans in the Netherlands?
Interest rates for student loans in the Netherlands range from 0% to 16.50% depending on the lender and loan type. Government-backed loans, such as those offered by DUO, tend to have lower rates.
What documents are required to apply for a student loan in the Netherlands?
Common documents required include:
Proof of enrollment in a recognized Dutch university
A valid residence permit (for non-EU/EEA students)
Passport or ID
Financial documents (for loans requiring income proof)
Conclusion
Securing the right student loan is crucial for international students planning to study in the Netherlands.
Whether you’re looking for government-backed loans like DUO, private loans from institutions like ABN AMRO, or flexible options like Prodigy Finance and College Ave, there’s a variety of choices to meet your financial needs.
By comparing interest rates, terms, and eligibility requirements, you can make an informed decision to support your studies in the Netherlands.
With the right loan, you can focus on your academic goals while managing your finances effectively.
