NETHERLANDS · ZWOLLE
Christelijke Hogeschool Windesheim
public · Founded 1986 · Languages: nl, en
In short
Christelijke Hogeschool Windesheim is a large university of applied sciences in the Netherlands with campuses in Zwolle and Almere, offering practice-oriented bachelor's, associate, and master's programs. It provides a strong international network and various scholarships, with moderate living costs in Zwolle.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1986
- Students
- 28,000
- International students
- 1,500
- Tuition (intl)
- €2–11k/yr
- Languages
- NL, EN
- Location
- Zwolle, Netherlands
Windesheim University of Applied Sciences is one of the Netherlands' largest hogescholen, with campuses in Zwolle and Almere. Rooted in Christian educational values, it offers over 70 bachelor, associate degree, and master programmes across healthcare, education, business, technology, and social sciences. Practice-oriented learning and embedded research centres connect students directly with professional practice from day one.
Why study here
- One of the Netherlands' largest universities of applied sciences with over 28,000 students.
- Highly practice-oriented programmes: real projects with companies and organisations from year one.
- Two well-equipped campuses — Zwolle and Almere — covering major Dutch population centres.
- Strong international network with Erasmus+ exchange and internship opportunities across Europe.
- Affordable statutory tuition fee for EU/EEA students; full-degree English programmes available.
Student life
Windesheim offers a lively campus community in Zwolle, with modern facilities including labs, media studios, sports halls, a large library, and catering services. The student union (ROTS) organises social, cultural, and sporting events throughout the year. Zwolle itself is a compact, bike-friendly Hanseatic city with an active nightlife, historical old town, and good rail connections to Amsterdam and other major cities.
Fees
InternationalNon-EU/EEA international students typically pay institutional tuition of €8,000–€11,000 per year for bachelor programmes. Some English-taught programmes may have specific rates.
HomeEU/EEA students pay the Dutch statutory tuition fee — approximately €2,314 per year (2024–25). First-year students under 30 receive a 50% reduction.
LivingLiving costs in Zwolle are moderate by Dutch standards: approximately €800–€1,100 per month including student housing, food, transport, and personal expenses.
Tuition fees are set annually by the Dutch government (statutory fee) or Windesheim (institutional fee). Always verify on the official Windesheim website.
Admissions
Secondary diplomaEquivalent to Dutch HAVO or VWO for bachelor entry; recognised prior degree for master programmes
Language proficiencyDutch or English depending on programme language
Application via StudielinkDutch higher education applications go through the national Studielink portal
Portfolio/aptitude testRequired for some creative and sports programmes
IELTS6.0
TOEFL iBT80
Cambridge B2 FirstPass
University scholarships
Holland Scholarship€5,000 (one-off)
Erasmus+ Mobility Grant€300–€700/month during exchange
Windesheim Excellence Programme BursaryVaries
Accreditation
Windesheim is accredited by the NVAO (Accreditation Organisation of the Netherlands and Flanders). Individual programmes hold NVAO programme accreditation; healthcare programmes additionally meet BIG-register professional requirements.
For international students
NetherlandsStudent visa & funds
Non-EU students cannot apply for their own residence permit; only an IND-recognised institution (a registered sponsor) submits the application on their behalf. The permit is issued for up to five years and stays valid for three months after the programme ends. For university and HBO students the IND requires proof of at least €1,130.77 per month (the 2026 study norm) for living costs, held by the student or guaranteed by the institution. Students must also keep satisfactory progress — at least 50% of annual credits — to retain the permit.
Working while you study
Non-EU students may work a maximum of 16 hours per week during the academic year, or alternatively full-time during June, July and August. In either case the employer must first obtain a work permit (TWV) from the UWV before the student starts; the student cannot apply for it themselves. Internships that are a formal, graded part of the degree are exempt from the TWV requirement when a tri-party agreement is in place, as is volunteering with a Volunteer Declaration.
After you graduate
After a bachelor’s, master’s or PhD at a Dutch institution, non-EU graduates may apply for the orientation year permit (zoekjaar), valid for one year and not extendable. During this year the holder may work freely — no employer TWV is needed — and may also freelance or start a business. The application must be made within three years of graduating. Graduates of a foreign university ranked in the global top 200 can also qualify with English proficiency at IELTS 6.0 or equivalent.
English tests
- IELTS6.0–6.5 for bachelor’s; 6.5–7.0 for most master’s; specialist master’s up to 7.0–7.5
- TOEFL iBT80–90 for bachelor’s; 90–100 for master’s; some research universities require 100
Main intakes
SeptemberFebruary
Typical living cost
€1,200/month
Approximate all-in student budget; major cities run higher.
Programs
a selectionChristelijke Hogeschool Windesheim · Netherlands
Associate Degree Programs
The Associate Degree (Ad) is a two-year practical, higher education program designed to equip you with the essential skills for specific professional fields. It's positioned at level 5, bridging the gap between MBO (level 4) and Bachelor's (level 6) qualifications. The curriculum is developed in close collaboration with industry professionals, ensuring its relevance to current workplace demands. This program offers a more hands-on learning experience with a strong emphasis on real-world assignments from companies. Associate degrees at Windesheim provide intensive, practical training with significant student support in small-scale settings. You can choose to study full-time or alongside your job. Upon successful completion, you will receive a recognized Associate Degree diploma. An advantage of this program is the option to continue your studies for two more years to earn a Bachelor's degree.
Diploma
Level
—
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
Christelijke Hogeschool Windesheim · Netherlands
Global Project and Change Management - Bachelor
The Bachelor's in Global Project and Change Management (GPCM) is an English-taught program designed for students interested in managing projects and driving change on an international scale. The curriculum focuses on developing practical skills in project management, leadership, and cross-cultural collaboration. Students learn to tackle complex global challenges and contribute to sustainable development. The program emphasizes hands-on experience through real-world projects, internships, and international study opportunities. This approach ensures graduates are well-prepared to adapt to diverse work environments and lead initiatives effectively. Graduates will be equipped to work in various sectors, managing projects and implementing change strategies for organizations worldwide.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
Christelijke Hogeschool Windesheim · Netherlands
Study at Windesheim University of Applied Sciences
Windesheim University of Applied Sciences offers Bachelor's degree programs designed for international students seeking a practical, hands-on education. With a focus on "learning by doing," students engage in real projects with companies and undertake inspiring internships. The university emphasizes a personal approach, with small class sizes and dedicated support to foster individual growth and help students shape their own study paths. Windesheim is recognized for its quality, ranked highly in national guides and committed to preparing students for successful careers.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
Scholarships
for Netherlands
full fundingDutch Research Council (NWO)
NWO Rubicon Programme
For researchers who have recently completed (or are about to complete) a PhD, who want to gain research experience at a foreign institution (or at a Dutch institution if coming from abroad). It is a postdoctoral programme; applicants must have obtained their doctorate within the last ~12 months and apply through NWO with a host.
full
Funding
€180k
Max
Mar 31, 2027
Deadline
full fundingNuffic (Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP) Scholarships
Open to mid-career professionals who are nationals of, and currently living and working in, one of the listed OKP partner countries. Applicants must have proficiency in English or French, be in work that aligns with one of the priority areas designated for their country, be able to show they will use and transfer their new knowledge within their employing organization, and agree to comply with the obligations and conditions of the OKP. A limited number of awards is granted to motivated female and male professionals.
full
Funding
€40k
Max
Mar 31, 2027
Deadline
full fundingUniversity of Groningen
Welcoming International Talent (WIT) PhD Fellowship
Open to Early-Stage Researchers of any nationality who, at the call deadline, have no more than four years of full-time-equivalent research experience and have not yet been awarded a doctoral degree. Applicants must hold a qualification that grants access to doctoral studies, meet the MSCA mobility rule (not having lived or worked in the host country for more than 12 months in the previous three years), and have at least certified B2-level English.
full
Funding
€32k
Max
Mar 18, 2027
Deadline
full fundingMaastricht University
UM Brightlands Talent Scholarship
Open to non-EU/EEA and Swiss nationals under 35 who have conditional admission to a participating master's programme affiliated with a Brightlands campus, have not previously enrolled in Dutch higher education, and demonstrate strong academic performance.
full
Funding
€31k
Max
Feb 1, 2027
Deadline
full fundingMaastricht University
Maastricht University NL-High Potential Scholarship
Open to talented students from outside the EU/EEA, Switzerland and Suriname who have applied for admission to a participating full-time Master's programme at Maastricht University, meet the programme's admission requirements, have not previously studied for a degree in the Netherlands, and are no older than 35 on the cycle's start date.
full
Funding
€30k
Max
Feb 1, 2027
Deadline
full fundingDelft University of Technology (TU Delft)
Justus & Louise van Effen Excellence Scholarship
For exceptional non-EU/EEA students applying for an MSc programme at Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) with an excellent academic record. The scholarship is merit-based and competitive; you apply for it after applying for admission to an eligible TU Delft master's, by the deadline (commonly 1 December).
full
Funding
€30k
Max
Dec 1, 2026
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for international students at Christelijke Hogeschool Windesheim?
+
Non-EU/EEA international students typically pay institutional tuition fees ranging from €8,000 to €11,000 per year for bachelor programs. EU/EEA students pay the Dutch statutory fee, approximately €2,314 per year, with a 50% reduction for first-year students under 30. It's important to verify the exact fees on the official Windesheim website.
What are the living costs in Zwolle for students?
+
Living costs in Zwolle are considered moderate within the Netherlands, estimated at around €800–€1,100 per month. This estimate includes expenses for student housing, food, transportation, and personal needs.
What English language proficiency tests are accepted for admission?
+
Windesheim accepts IELTS with a minimum score of 6.0, TOEFL iBT with a score of 80, and a Pass for Cambridge B2 First. Specific programme requirements may vary, so it's advisable to check the details for your chosen course.
Does Windesheim offer scholarships for international students?
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Yes, Windesheim offers several scholarships, including the Holland Scholarship (€5,000 one-off), Erasmus+ Mobility Grant (€300–€700/month during exchange), and the Windesheim Excellence Programme Bursary (amount varies). These can help offset the costs of studying in the Netherlands.
What kind of learning approach does Windesheim use?
+
Windesheim focuses on highly practice-oriented learning, integrating real projects with companies and organizations from the first year. This approach, combined with embedded research centers, ensures students are closely connected to professional practice throughout their studies.
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