NETHERLANDS
European Open University
public · Founded 1984 · Languages: English, Dutch
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In short
The European Open University is a Netherlands-based distance-learning provider offering flexible, open-access higher education online. Study is affordable with per-module fees and no on-campus living costs, ideal for international students.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1984
- Students
- 14,244
- International students
- 2,500
- Tuition (intl)
- €2–7k/yr
- Languages
- ENGLISH, DUTCH
- Location
- Netherlands
The European Open University is a Netherlands-based distance-learning institution providing flexible, open-access higher education. Teaching is delivered primarily online and through written course materials, supported by tutors, allowing students to study independently and at their own pace. With open admission and remote delivery, it serves working professionals, mature learners and international students who need a recognised qualification without on-campus attendance or relocation.
Why study here
- Benefit from open admission with no competitive entry barriers for most programmes.
- Study fully online and at your own pace, fitting learning around work and family commitments.
- Avoid relocation and accommodation costs by studying remotely from anywhere.
- Pay per module, making the cost of study flexible and manageable.
- Build qualifications gradually through a modular, supported-learning structure.
Student life
As a distance-learning institution, student life centres on flexible, self-directed study supported through online learning environments, digital resources and tutor guidance rather than a traditional campus. Students connect through virtual forums and online communities, and the model is especially suited to those balancing study with work, caregiving or other responsibilities.
Fees
InternationalAs an open and distance-learning provider, fees are typically charged per module or course rather than as a single annual tuition, keeping the cost of study comparatively low and flexible. Students pay for the modules they enrol in.
HomeFees for students based in the Netherlands and the EU are generally aligned with national distance-education rates and are charged per module.
LivingBecause study is delivered online, there are no mandatory on-campus living costs; students study from home and avoid relocation and accommodation expenses.
Exact fees depend on the programme, the number of modules taken and the student's location. Prospective students should confirm current per-module pricing and any registration fees directly with the institution before enrolling.
Admissions
Admission modelOpen admission for most programmes - generally no competitive entrance exam.
Prior qualificationsSome postgraduate or advanced modules may require relevant prior study or experience.
RegistrationEnrolment is completed online by registering for chosen modules and paying applicable fees.
EquipmentA reliable internet connection and computer are needed to access the online learning environment and materials.
English-taught programmesAdequate proficiency in the language of instruction is expected; formal test scores may be required for some English-taught postgraduate modules.
Accreditation
Prospective students should confirm the institution's current accreditation and the recognition of specific qualifications directly with the provider and, where relevant, with the Dutch authorities responsible for higher-education accreditation.
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.
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 is the European Open University?
+
The European Open University is a distance-learning institution based in the Netherlands. It offers flexible, open-access higher education primarily online and through written materials, allowing students to study independently at their own pace.
What are the admission requirements?
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The university operates an open-admission model for most programmes, generally not requiring competitive entrance exams. However, some advanced or postgraduate modules may have specific prior-learning prerequisites. Applicants should verify requirements for their chosen programme.
How are fees structured for international students?
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Fees are typically charged per module or course, not as a single annual tuition, making the cost flexible and manageable. International students pay for the specific modules they enroll in.
Are there on-campus living costs?
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No, because study is delivered online, there are no mandatory on-campus living costs. Students study from home, avoiding relocation and accommodation expenses.
How do students connect with each other?
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As a distance-learning institution, students connect through virtual forums and online communities. Student life focuses on flexible, self-directed study supported by tutors and digital resources.
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