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NETHERLANDS · ROTTERDAM

Hogeschool Rotterdam

public · Founded 1988 · Languages: nl, en

In short

Hogeschool Rotterdam, a large university of applied sciences, offers over 80 practice-oriented bachelor programmes and master's degrees in English and Dutch. Located in the vibrant city of Rotterdam, it provides strong connections to professional fields and societal challenges, with estimated yearly tuition fees of €7,000-€13,000 for non-EEA students.

Key facts

Type: Public
Founded: 1988
Students: 42,000
International students: 4,500
Tuition (intl): €3–13k/yr
Languages: NL, EN
Location: Rotterdam, Netherlands

Hogeschool Rotterdam (Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences) is one of the Netherlands' largest universities of applied sciences, enrolling approximately 42,000 students across campuses in Rotterdam. Founded in 1988, it offers more than 80 bachelor programmes, several associate degrees, and a growing portfolio of master's degrees across fields including business, engineering, healthcare, education, social work, and creative industries. The institution's mission is to develop 'Toekomstmakers' (Future Makers) by providing practice-oriented education deeply integrated with societal and professional needs. Research institutes at Hogeschool Rotterdam tackle major societal challenges such as urban sustainability, economic transition, and healthcare innovation, ensuring students engage with live problems alongside faculty and industry partners.

Why study here

Practice-oriented education with a strong connection to professional fields and real-world projects
Programmes designed to address major societal challenges: sustainable delta, future-proof economy, vibrant community
Collaborative learning with industry partners in Rotterdam's major port and logistics economy
Diverse range of programmes: Associate degrees, Bachelors, Masters, and post-HBO courses
Located in Rotterdam, a vibrant international city and Europe's largest port

Student life

Studying at Hogeschool Rotterdam means being part of a vibrant student community in a dynamic city. Students are encouraged to participate in open days and trial study experiences (proefstuderen) to get a feel for campus life. With multiple locations throughout Rotterdam, students have access to various facilities and opportunities to engage with the city's culture and social scene, enhancing both their academic and personal development.

Fees

InternationalNon-EEA students: approx. €7,000–€13,000/year depending on programme.

HomeEEA students: statutory tuition fee approx. €2,530/year (2024–25).

LivingApprox. €1,000–€1,300/month in Rotterdam (rent, food, transport, personal expenses).

Exact fees vary by programme. Check the official HR website for the current fee schedule.

Admissions

Application Deadline1 May (preferred) / 31 July (final) via Studielink

Entry qualificationDutch MBO-4 / HAVO / VWO or recognised foreign equivalent

Language requirement (Dutch programmes)Dutch language proficiency required; NT2 exam for non-native speakers

IELTS6.0 overall (for English-taught programmes)

TOEFL80 iBT (for English-taught programmes)

Rankings

Keuzegids HBOTop-rated for multiple applied-science disciplines in the Netherlands

University scholarships

Holland Scholarship€5,000 one-time

Hogeschool Rotterdam Excellence ScholarshipPartial tuition waiver – varies

Accreditation

Accredited by NVAO (Accreditation Organisation of the Netherlands and Flanders). All degree programmes carry NVAO accreditation, recognised throughout the European Higher Education Area.

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 →

Hogeschool Rotterdam · Netherlands

Associate Degree Programs at Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences

Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences (RAZ) offers Associate Degree (Ad) programs, which are practical, two-year higher professional education (HBO) level courses. These programs focus on learning by doing, with instruction from industry professionals. Upon completion, graduates are either directly ready for the job market or can use their credits to transition into a related Bachelor's program. The Associate Degrees are designed to provide specialized, hands-on training for specific vocational fields.

Hogeschool Rotterdam · Netherlands

International Business Bachelor

The International Business bachelor's programme at Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences (RBUS) offers a comprehensive education for students aspiring to careers in the global marketplace. It focuses on developing skills in international trade, marketing, finance, and management within a diverse and dynamic business environment. The program aims to equip students with the intercultural competence and practical business acumen necessary to succeed in multinational corporations and international ventures.

Hogeschool Rotterdam · Netherlands

Master Programmes at Hogeschool Rotterdam

Hogeschool Rotterdam offers a range of one and two-year Master's programmes designed for students looking to deepen their expertise in specialized fields. These programmes integrate theory and practice, addressing contemporary issues within various disciplines. Students can choose from areas such as Fine Art, Design, Education, Consultancy, Entrepreneurship, Supply Chain Management, Shipping and Transport, River Delta Development, and Sustainability Transitions.

Master's

Level

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 Hogeschool Rotterdam?

Non-EEA students can expect tuition fees to range from approximately €7,000 to €13,000 per year, depending on the specific programme. It is recommended to check the official HR website for the most current fee schedule as exact fees vary by programme.

What are the English language proficiency requirements for English-taught programmes?

For admission to English-taught programmes, you typically need an IELTS score of 6.0 overall or a TOEFL iBT score of 80. Please verify specific programme requirements on the Hogeschool Rotterdam website.

What is the application deadline for programmes at Hogeschool Rotterdam?

The preferred application deadline is May 1st, with a final deadline of July 31st for most programmes, which should be submitted via Studielink. It's advisable to check the specific programme details for any variations.

What kind of living expenses can I expect in Rotterdam?

Estimated living costs in Rotterdam, covering rent, food, transport, and personal expenses, are around €1,000–€1,300 per month. These are estimates and actual costs can vary based on individual lifestyle.

What types of programmes does Hogeschool Rotterdam offer?

Hogeschool Rotterdam offers a wide array of programmes, including associate degrees, bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and post-HBO courses across various fields such as business, engineering, healthcare, education, and creative industries.

Last updated 3 July 2026