Destinations › Netherlands

Expanding destination

Study in the Netherlands from Nigeria

English-taught business degrees, a university that files your residence application, and a full year to find work after you graduate.

Canal houses along an Amsterdam canal

The Netherlands has one of Europe’s most English-friendly job markets. In January 2026 the new government dropped its plan to scrap English-taught bachelor’s degrees. We work mainly with Wittenborg University of Applied Sciences in Apeldoorn and Amsterdam.

In the Netherlands your university applies to immigration for you, as your sponsor. That makes the visa cleaner than most of Europe. The trade-off is price, and Wittenborg’s MBA needs at least three years’ work experience.

Who this destination suits

Graduates with management experience who want an MBA. Students with a budget of about €11,000–€12,000 a year plus living costs. People aiming for careers in data, logistics, finance or IT.

LightTouch’s role

We match you to the right programme, prepare your admission and funds evidence, and work with the university on your residence application.

Key facts

Updated: September 2026
Main intakesSeveral a year (Wittenborg runs rolling entry blocks)
Tuition (Wittenborg)Bachelor’s €11,800/yr. MBA €23,300 total. MSc Business Management €21,300 total
Visa administration€650, paid to the university
Proof of fundsSet by the university as your sponsor. We confirm your figure
After graduationOrientation year: up to 12 months to find work
LanguageEnglish-taught. Dutch helps for jobs

Figures verified against official sources at build time. Rules change. Confirm with the relevant authorities before applying. LightTouch will check the current figures for your case.

Applying from Nigeria

How it works for you

Weeks 1–4

Admission

Apply and receive your offer. MBA applicants need a CV and references from employers.

Weeks 3–6

Funds and fees

Pay what the university asks and show your funds. The university checks them as your sponsor.

Weeks 4–10

Residence application

The university files your residence application with Dutch immigration.

After approval

Collect your entry visa

Collect your entry visa (MVV) and travel. We confirm where and when to book.

English and WAEC

Most Dutch programmes ask for IELTS or a similar test. Some accept an MOI letter; we check before you apply. WAEC-only applicants start with Wittenborg’s foundation year, because Dutch research universities no longer run preparatory years for international students.

Schools we apply to

  • Wittenborg University of Applied Sciences
  • University of Europe for Applied Sciences, Amsterdam
  • Global School for Entrepreneurship
  • TU Eindhoven (Master’s, top applicants)

Our list grows. If your school isn’t here, ask us.

Courses we recommend

  • Data analytics
  • Logistics and supply chain
  • Finance
  • IT management
  • Computer science

International computer science graduates are among the most likely to stay and work in the Netherlands.

FAQ

Common questions

Is the Netherlands cutting English-taught courses?
No. In January 2026 the new government dropped the plan to scrap English-taught bachelor’s degrees.
Can I join an MBA straight after my first degree?
Not at Wittenborg. Its MBA needs at least three years’ work experience managing people or processes. We’ll suggest the right alternative for your profile.
How long can I stay after graduating?
Graduates can apply for an orientation year, up to 12 months to find work.
Who applies for my visa?
Your university, as your sponsor. You then collect the entry visa and travel.

Check if Netherlands fits your budget.

One honest conversation. We’ll confirm the current figures for your situation.

Eligibility check