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NETHERLANDS · ARNHEM & NIJMEGEN

HAN University of Applied Sciences

public · Founded 1996 · Languages: en, nl

In short

HAN University of Applied Sciences offers practice-based bachelor's and master's programs in Arnhem and Nijmegen, focusing on real-world application and research. They provide support services for international students, including visa assistance and housing help.

Key facts

Type: Public
Founded: 1996
Students: 35,000
International students: 3,000
Acceptance rate: 70%
Tuition (intl): €3–11k/yr
Languages: EN, NL
Location: Arnhem & Nijmegen, Netherlands

HAN University of Applied Sciences, established in 1996 through a series of mergers, is a leading institution in the Netherlands. It operates across two main campuses in Arnhem and Nijmegen, offering a wide array of bachelor's, master's, and exchange programs. HAN is known for its practical, hands-on approach to education, linking study with real-world professional practice and research. The university focuses on developing students' inquiry skills, encouraging them to apply research knowledge to professional settings and foster innovative thinking. HAN emphasizes collaboration with regional companies, institutions, and government bodies to develop sustainable solutions across its key research areas. With a strong commitment to quality and impact, HAN strives to prepare students for future challenges, focusing on smart, green, and social solutions. The university is a hub for international students, offering support with admissions, housing, and scholarships.

Why study here

Gain practical, hands-on experience through practice-based research linked to professional fields.
Contribute to innovative solutions in areas like Smart Region, Sustainable Energy & Environment, and Fair Health.
Benefit from a supportive environment for international students, including visa assistance and housing help.
Study at a nationally recognized institution with a stable ranking among Dutch universities of applied sciences.

Student life

HAN University of Applied Sciences offers a dynamic student life across its Arnhem and Nijmegen campuses. The university assists international students with housing through the HAN Housing Office, prioritizing non-EU/EEA and exchange students. Beyond academics, students can engage in various orientation activities, including online open days and webinars, to connect with peers and lecturers.

Fees

InternationalFor non-EU/EEA students, bachelor's tuition fees for 2026-2027 range from €9,320 to €10,940 per year. Master's tuition fees are also between €9,320 and €10,940 per year. If you have already earned a bachelor's or master's degree in the Netherlands, you will pay the higher non-EU/EEA tuition fees.

HomeFor EU/EEA + Suriname students, tuition fees for both bachelor's and master's degrees in 2026-2027 are €2,694 per year. This applies unless you have already earned a bachelor's or master's degree in the Netherlands, in which case higher tuition fees apply.

LivingInternational students should budget approximately €900 to €1,200 per month (roughly €11,000 to €14,000 per year) for accommodation, food, insurance, transport and other living costs in Arnhem or Nijmegen.

Exchange students from partner universities pay tuition fees to their home institution. Tuition fees for the academic year 2026-2027 are provided. For more detailed information on specific programs and payment options, consult the university's official tuition fee page.

Admissions

Bachelor ProgramsSuitable secondary school certificate, possibly with specific subject passes.

Master ProgramsRelevant bachelor's degree.

IELTSSufficient results

TOEFLSufficient results

CambridgeSufficient results

PearsonSufficient results

LanguageCertSufficient results

Rankings

Keuzegids hbo 2026Stable position among major universities of applied sciences

University scholarships

HAN NL Scholarship€12,500

Honors Scholarship€7,500

Accreditation

HAN University of Applied Sciences is ranked in the Netherlands each year through the National Student Survey, which evaluates the quality of its programs. Its degree programmes are accredited by the Accreditation Organisation of the Netherlands and Flanders (NVAO), and the university confirms that its research meets scientific criteria and adheres to principles of scientific integrity.

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 →

HAN University of Applied Sciences · Netherlands

Bachelor International Business

Prepare for a dynamic career in the global marketplace with the Bachelor of International Business program. This degree provides a comprehensive understanding of the business world, with opportunities to specialize in areas like finance, marketing, sales, organization, change management, or supply chain management. The program emphasizes practical application and includes an international study abroad component, allowing you to broaden your horizons at one of over 120 partner universities worldwide. You'll gain valuable skills and insights to thrive in an international business environment.

HAN University of Applied Sciences · Netherlands

Bachelor International Social Work

The Bachelor International Social Work program at HAN University of Applied Sciences prepares you to address global challenges such as poverty, human rights violations, and climate change. You will learn to connect with diverse groups, empower individuals and communities, and facilitate positive social change. This unique program, the only one of its kind in the Netherlands, focuses on international community development and creating inclusive societies. You'll gain hands-on experience from the first year, applying theoretical knowledge to real-world social work scenarios. The curriculum also explores creative methods, including art, music, sports, and technology, to foster engagement and empowerment.

HAN University of Applied Sciences · Netherlands

HAN University of Applied Sciences

HAN University of Applied Sciences is a dynamic institution focused on practical, hands-on learning. We are committed to changing the way students approach movement, care, and work through innovative and applied education. Our goal is to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed for successful careers in a rapidly evolving world. Discover a learning environment that encourages collaboration, critical thinking, and real-world problem-solving.

HAN University of Applied Sciences · Netherlands

HAN University of Applied Sciences Programs

HAN University of Applied Sciences offers a range of Bachelor and Master degrees with a strong focus on practical, hands-on learning. Bachelor's degrees are typically 4-year programs designed to equip students with practical skills and knowledge through real-life assignments and internships. Master's degrees provide advanced study, with a focus on applying practical skills directly to the professional field. Master's degrees can be studied full-time (usually 1 year) or part-time (usually 2 years), offering flexibility for students. The university offers Bachelor's degrees in areas like Automotive Engineering, Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Chemistry, International Business, and Social Work. Master's degrees are available in fields such as Circular Economy, Engineering Systems (with specializations in Automotive, Cyber-Physical Systems, and Sustainable Energy), and Applied Molecular Sciences.

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 HAN University of Applied Sciences?

For non-EU/EEA students, bachelor's and master's tuition fees for the 2026-2027 academic year range from €9,320 to €10,940 per year. EU/EEA students pay €2,694 per year, unless they have already obtained a degree in the Netherlands.

What is the estimated cost of living for international students?

International students should budget approximately €900 to €1,200 per month for living expenses, including accommodation, food, insurance, and transport. This amounts to roughly €11,000 to €14,000 per year.

What is the educational approach at HAN University of Applied Sciences?

HAN University of Applied Sciences is known for its practical, hands-on approach to education, linking study with real-world professional practice and research. The university focuses on developing students' inquiry skills and encouraging them to apply research knowledge in professional settings.

Does HAN University of Applied Sciences assist international students with visas and housing?

Yes, HAN assists accepted full-time bachelor's, master's, and exchange students with student visa arrangements. The HAN Housing Office also helps international students find accommodation.

What are the English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?

Applicants typically need to demonstrate sufficient results in recognized English language tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge, Pearson, or LanguageCert.

Last updated 3 July 2026