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NETHERLANDS · EINDHOVEN

Fontys University of Applied Sciences

public · Founded 1996 · Languages: en

In short

Fontys University of Applied Sciences is one of the largest Dutch universities of applied sciences, offering over 50 English-taught programs across various fields. Located in the innovation hub of Brainport Eindhoven, it provides practical education with mandatory internships and applied research.

Key facts

Type: Public
Founded: 1996
Students: 44,486
International students: 6,000
Acceptance rate: 75%
Tuition (intl): €3–12k/yr
Languages: EN
Location: Eindhoven, Netherlands

Fontys University of Applied Sciences is one of the largest universities of applied sciences (hogescholen) in the Netherlands, with over 44,000 students across campuses in Eindhoven, Tilburg, Venlo, and other southern Dutch cities. Founded in 1996 through a merger of regional HBO institutions, Fontys offers more than 50 bachelor's and master's programmes — with a growing number taught entirely in English — spanning Business, ICT, Engineering, Health, Arts, Education, and Communication. The university is deeply embedded in the innovation ecosystem of the Brainport Eindhoven region, one of Europe's leading technology and design hubs.

Why study here

One of the largest Dutch hogescholen with 44,000+ students and 50+ English-taught programmes.
Located in Brainport Eindhoven — Europe's top tech and design region, home to Philips, ASML, and DAF.
Highly practical HBO education with mandatory internships and applied research projects.
Affordable Dutch tuition fees (around €2,601/year for EU students).
Access to a global network of partner institutions for exchange and Erasmus+ opportunities.

Student life

Fontys encourages a vibrant, inclusive student community across all campuses. Students can connect with international peers through a Student Ambassador network, participate in innovation projects with industry partners, and enjoy the cultural richness of Eindhoven's thriving arts, music, and design scene — particularly during Dutch Design Week. The university provides support for international students including housing assistance (limited places, early application advised), healthcare guidance, and a student buddy programme to ease the transition to Dutch life.

Fees

InternationalNon-EU/EEA international students pay institutional fees of approximately €9,999-€11,500 per year depending on the programme.

HomeEU/EEA students pay the statutory tuition fee of €2,601 per year (2025-2026). Fees rise slightly annually in line with inflation.

LivingLiving costs in Eindhoven average €900-€1,100 per month for a student, covering rent, food, transport, and personal expenses — lower than Amsterdam.

Erasmus+ grants and the Fontys Mobility Fund provide financial support for study or internship periods abroad. Fee levels are announced annually.

Admissions

Prior EducationUpper secondary diploma (e.g., A-levels, Abitur, IB, or equivalent). Specific subject requirements vary by programme.

Study Choice CheckMandatory orientation activity to confirm programme fit before enrolment

IELTS AcademicTypically 6.0-6.5 overall depending on programme

TOEFL iBTTypically 80 overall

Cambridge EnglishC1 Advanced or equivalent

Rankings

Keuzegids Hogescholen (Netherlands)Among the top Dutch universities of applied sciences in several subject areas

QS StarsNot individually ranked

University scholarships

Erasmus+ GrantMonthly stipend for study or internship in Europe (amount varies by country)

Fontys Mobility FundSupplementary support for students not qualifying for Erasmus+

Accreditation

Fontys is accredited by the Dutch-Flemish Accreditation Organisation (NVAO) and is a recognised institution under the Dutch Higher Education and Research Act (WHW). Multiple programmes hold additional professional accreditations.

For international students

Netherlands

Student 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.

SourcesIND — Fees and required amounts for 2026 · Erasmus University Rotterdam — Working as a non-EU/EEA student · IND — Residence permit for orientation year · Study in NL — Admission requirements · StudyPath — Cost of living in the Netherlands (2026)

Programs

a selection

View top programs →

Fontys University of Applied Sciences · Netherlands

Applied Gerontology

Fontys University of Applied Sciences offers an Undergraduate program in Applied Gerontology. This program trains full-time and part-time students in gerontology and its practical application. Students learn to develop and implement products and services aimed at improving the quality of life for older adults. The educational approach emphasizes learning through practice. A significant part of the program involves working on authentic projects for real organizations within the local community. One ongoing project focuses on researching loneliness among older adults, involving a network of community organizations that collaborate closely with the university.

Fontys University of Applied Sciences · Netherlands

Bachelor Information & Communication Technology

The Bachelor of ICT program at Fontys University of Applied Sciences offers a comprehensive, English-taught degree focused on preparing international students for a career in technology. The program is designed to be broad-based, allowing students to explore various ICT specializations before choosing a specific path. Students will gain practical experience by working on real-life projects for companies, fostering a strong connection between education and the professional world. The curriculum adapts to the constantly evolving IT landscape, ensuring graduates are equipped with relevant skills for future careers.

Fontys University of Applied Sciences · Netherlands

Circus and Performance Art

Transform your passion for circus into a professional career. This Bachelor's program offers specialized training in your chosen circus discipline, taught by internationally qualified teachers. You will develop your artistic vision, explore beyond your primary discipline, and learn to blend athleticism, creativity, and storytelling. The program values individuality and offers a flexible curriculum tailored to your artistic needs, preparing you for a dynamic global circus career.

Fontys University of Applied Sciences · Netherlands

Communication - International Communication Management

The International Communication Management (ICM) bachelor's program at Fontys University of Applied Sciences is designed for students passionate about people and communication. It prepares you to manage global communication strategies, bridge cultural divides, and understand diverse audiences. You will develop skills to effectively communicate and influence group dynamics across international borders, preparing you for a career with global impact.

Fontys University of Applied Sciences · Netherlands

Dance Arts in Context

The Dance Arts in Context (DAC) programme is designed for passionate young dance artists and makers who wish to develop their unique artistic voice and create original performance work. It offers a deep dive into the intersection of dance, culture, and society, fostering collaboration across different art forms. Students benefit from an inclusive learning environment with personalized mentorship, alongside 14 other art disciplines, preparing them to become innovative and impactful dance leaders.

Fontys University of Applied Sciences · Netherlands

Electrical & Electronic Engineering

The Electrical & Electronic Engineering Bachelor's program at Fontys University of Applied Sciences equips you to design and build electronic devices and sustainable solutions for the future. You'll delve into the inner workings of electronic systems, focusing on practical application and innovation. This program is ideal for those curious about how things work, eager to design revolutionary products, and motivated to contribute to a better world through technology in fields like healthcare, energy, or communication.

Scholarships

for Netherlands

Browse all scholarships →

full funding

Dutch 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.

Nuffic (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.

University 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.

Maastricht 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.

Maastricht 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.

Delft 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).

Frequently asked questions

What are the tuition fees for international students at Fontys University of Applied Sciences?

Non-EU/EEA international students can expect institutional fees ranging from approximately €9,999 to €11,500 per year, depending on the specific program of study. These fees are subject to annual announcement.

What are the living costs for students in Eindhoven?

Students in Eindhoven typically experience monthly living costs of around €900-€1,100. This estimate covers essential expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, and personal costs, and is generally lower than in Amsterdam.

What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?

International students usually need to demonstrate English proficiency with scores like IELTS Academic typically around 6.0-6.5 or TOEFL iBT around 80. Specific requirements can vary by program.

Does Fontys University of Applied Sciences offer support for international students?

Yes, Fontys provides support including housing assistance, healthcare guidance, and a student buddy program to help with the transition. Financial support options like the Erasmus+ Grant and Fontys Mobility Fund are also available.

What kind of education does Fontys University of Applied Sciences provide?

Fontys offers a highly practical HBO education with mandatory internships and applied research projects. With over 50 programs taught in English, it focuses on preparing students for the professional field.

Last updated 3 July 2026