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MBBS in Netherlands - Universities, Eligibility & Fees

Updated on 07 February, 2024

upGrad Abroad Team

upGrad Abroad Team

upGrad abroad Editorial Team

An MBBS degree from the world’s best medical schools prepares students for various rewarding employment opportunities following graduation. 

The range is vast, from professional doctors and surgeons to research assistants at renowned research institutions to consulting. Furthermore, new technologies such as nuclear medicine and stem cell treatment have helped to offer up an array of prospects across industries. 

Its well-known universities and the thriving pharmaceutical industry have made the Netherlands a prominent European medical research and education location. 

Continue reading to find out what studying MBBS in Netherlands involves and other important information!

 

Eligibility Criteria to Study MBBS in the Netherlands

Although eligibility requirements vary by university, to pursue MBBS in Netherlands, one must have studied BiPC courses, i.e., Biology, Physics, and Chemistry coupled with Mathematics in senior secondary school and earned A-grade scores in each subject. A bachelor’s degree in medical or science-related subjects may be required for higher certifications.

While some institutes may require an individual to provide certification of Dutch language proficiency, most institutions offering MBBS in Netherlands for international students teach their curriculum entirely in English.

Top Universities to Pursue MBBS in the Netherlands

Netherlands is home to some excellent medical universities. Four best universities to study MBBS in Netherlands for international students are given below.

University of Amsterdam 

For a candidate who wants to study from a combination of biochemical and molecular biology subjects, the University of Amsterdam’s MSc Biomedical Sciences-Medical Biology program is one to consider. 

The curriculum includes six specialization tracks designed to provide an in-depth understanding of Cell Biology and Advanced Microscopy, Medical Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Infection and Immunity, Oncology, Developmental and Therapeutic Biology, and Experimental Internal Medicine. 

The course is linked with the University of Amsterdam’s Medical Center, the Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, the Netherlands Cancer Institute, and the Sanquin Blood Supply Foundation.

University of Groningen

The Faculty of Medical Sciences at the University of Groningen is a historical testament to the importance of medical progress across Europe. It is the country’s second-oldest division and has been a cultural brand since its inception. 

The BSc Medicine program at University of Groningen has two concentration tracks: Molecular Medicine and Global Health. 

The university provides an accessible alternative for individuals who want to practice after earning a Master’s degree. 

Maastricht University

The MBBS program at Maastricht University is designed to provide students with a practical perspective. The curriculum extends to activities like interactive lectures and workshops, beginning with physical tests. 

It is categorized into three years, with the first year addressing ‘The human body in health and sickness,’ the second year covering ‘Integration of knowledge and skills: on your approach to practice,’ and the third year dealing with ‘From paper to patient.’ 

It also provides a specialized Masters in medicine that dives further into similar issues.

Erasmus University, Rotterdam 

Erasmus University in Rotterdam does not provide an MBBS in Netherlands. However, it offers several courses related to medical-oriented fields. 

Programs offered by the Netherlands Institute for Health Sciences or the NIHES, are recognized for their multifaceted approach. The programs comprise a Master of Science degree in Infection and Immunity, Clinical Research, and Health Sciences. 

Erasmus is one of the most revered Universities in the Netherlands and globally placed in the top 100 of the World Rankings of 2021 and top 5 out of all Dutch institutes.

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MBBS Fees for Indian Students in Netherlands

The MBBS in Netherlands fees for Indian students can average up to 10,000 Euros (approx. INR 840,000) each year. However, it can go up to 30,000 Euros (approx. INR 2,500,000) if a candidate chooses to apply to a private institution. 

Students should keep in mind their living expenditures which can span from 800 (INR 67,000) to 1200 Euros (100,000 INR) each month depending on their accommodation and lifestyle.

Students can look into certain scholarships and grants provided by both countries for international students if they cannot afford the cost. They often include a certain percentage of tuition fee waivers and cover all living expenses. 

Application & Admission Process to Study  MBBS in Netherlands

Considering that Medical Science courses are technically complex, each nation has its criteria for the curriculum and practices. Thus, there may be regulations mandating one to complete courses, produce certification, or take tests before beginning their career as a doctor or a surgeon.

To become a doctor in the Netherlands, one must complete a seven-year training program. When it comes to MBBS in the Netherlands, it comprises of the following:

  • 3 years Bachelor of Medicine
  • 3 years Master of Medicine
  • A one-year training period

Moreover, becoming fluent in the Dutch language is critical during the training phase, and one may be expected to take the language examinations to graduate.

Admission Procedures

If a student matches the entrance requirements, they will be required to engage in the university’s internal selection procedure. Once the application has been assessed to fulfill the basic entrance requirements, the university will communicate the details of these procedures to the student. 

Additional exams and evaluations may be conducted as part of the selection process. These were carried out online during the pandemic, but it cannot be assumed to be the case in the future. 

There are two intake periods: February and September. Selection procedures need to be completed about five months before classes begin. 

All candidates are ranked against one another, and only the best students are offered a seat in the university. Applicants may be given a place later if they can’t qualify due to marginal marks.

Visa Application

The Visa application procedure is standard as for any other country. The steps are as follows.

  • Students must complete the online application with all necessary information and documentation. 
  • The candidates then receive an offer letter from the university that they applied to study MBBS in Netherlands. 
  • Post that, they must pay the required MBBS fees in Netherlands before applying for a visa. 
  • The applicant can then apply for a visa at their nearest Netherlands embassy or online.
  • On completing the application, the student is called to the embassy for an interview to confirm their eligibility for a student visa.
  • On receiving their student visa confirmation, they may book their flights!

The student visa interview is a vital part of the entire process. An applicant must conduct proper research of their institution and have some basic knowledge of the institution they will be studying. 

Requirements to Study MBBS in Netherlands

Academic qualifications, a letter of motivation or statement of purpose, CV, mark sheet, degree certificates, and additional papers, as relevant, are required to apply for MBBS in Netherlands. 

Listed are the documents required for MBBS admission in the Netherlands:

  • The original passport and photocopies 
  • Original and copies of both 10th and 12th
  •  transcripts of marks
  • A Medical Eligibility Certificate
  • A birth certificate with the appropriate date of birth.
  • Student’s NEET scorecard
  • Evidence of enrolment in a medical university in the Netherlands (for visa application only)
  • Papers demonstrating sufficient funds to meet the expenses of the MBBS College in the Netherlands.

Why Choose the Netherlands to Study MBBS?

Most students avoid choosing Netherlands as their study abroad destination because they believe that the courses are taught in Dutch. 

The pressure to learn a new language, in addition to focusing on studying the intricacies of a demanding curriculum, is rather daunting. This is true to some degree, primarily because the majority of the institutions conduct their programs in Dutch. 

Since the 1990s, however, a growing number of prominent Dutch universities have started offering a selected few English-taught courses to overseas students. Learning a new language is still beneficial, for after completing the course, one may be able to find work within the Netherlands.

Some credible reasons for choosing MBBS in Netherlands for Indian Students may be as follows.

  • There are innumerable postgraduate research opportunities within medicine.
  • Most colleges provide a certain number of scholarships.
  • MBBS fees in Netherlands are modest.
  • The cost of traveling when pursuing an MBBS in the Netherlands is relatively low.
  • No requirement to pay a contribution or capitation fee to pursue MBBS.
  • MCI lists medical universities or colleges in the Netherlands with world-class facilities and faculty.
  • The medical degree offered to students by the Netherlands is globally accepted.
  • Obtaining an MBBS in Netherlands exposes students to highly sophisticated medical institutions affiliated with Dutch medical colleges, which provide practical expertise.
  • For Indian students in MBBS, separate batches are held in English.
  • Medical universities and colleges in the Netherlands can provide a range of professional prospects.

Quality of Life

Studying MBBS in the Netherlands can be very reasonable, and so can the cost of living. The quality of living is relatively high. However, students can save money by staying in student hostels or a home-stay.

Prices for essential commodities are high given that the Netherlands is a developed economy. Still, one could save money by buying their essentials at the weekly farmer’s markets hosted in most large cities.

University experience in the Netherlands can be a lot of fun. The Dutch are hospitable people who like football, fine arts, innovation and technology, and delectable food and drink. 

Certain drugs are permitted, LGBTQIA+ rights are widely protected, and no intolerance is practiced. The Dutch are incredibly progressive thinkers with a genuine reverence for the state and the legal system.

FAQ's to Study MBBS in Netherlands

How to apply for MBBS in Netherlands?

The eligibility may differ depending on the university to which one decides to apply. They are all listed on the university website and all the information on the application procedure. It usually entails filling out an online application form and submitting all required documents listed on the website, which includes an SOP, the required number of Recommendation Letters, and any other essays such as a diversity statement. After these procedures have been completed, the candidate either receives an acceptance letter or a rejection letter. On receiving a letter stating their acceptance, a candidate may apply for a visa at their nearest embassy or online.

When to apply for MBBS in Netherlands?

Like several other study abroad destinations, the Netherlands has two separate intake periods.

1. February intake
2. September intake

The September intake is relatively more popular. Regardless of which batch one decides to apply to, the application needs to be completed five months before classes start.

How many years is MBBS in Netherlands?

The MBBS in Netherlands is a 6-year long program. The last three years also include several internships and research opportunities each university provides. After completing the Master’s degree, the candidate is also expected to complete one year of training.

What is the salary of MBBS doctors in Netherlands?

The average annual salary of an MBBS doctor in Netherlands is €147,195 (approx. 12,500,000 INR), with an hourly wage of €71 (approx. 5,900 INR). A Medical Doctor’s average pay ranges between €99,372 (8,400,000 INR) and €190,365 (approx. 16,065.000).

Can Indian MBBS doctors work in the Netherlands?

Doctors are deemed “highly skilled professionals” in the Netherlands. Therefore one should be able to apply for the Highly Skilled Migrant visa, which allows one to live and work in the country. However, this comes with the added requirements of having Dutch language proficiency certification, given that the country primarily speaks Dutch.

upGrad Abroad Team

upGrad abroad Editorial Team

We are a dedicated team of study-abroad experts, ensuring intensive research and comprehensive information in each of our blogs. With every piece written, we aim at simplifying the overseas education process for all. Our diverse experience as journalists, content writers, editors, content strategists, and marketers helps create the most relevant and authentic blogs for our readers.

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