NETHERLANDS · WAGENINGEN

Wageningen University & Research

public · Founded 1876 · Languages: en, nl

In short

Wageningen University & Research (WUR) is a top-ranked Dutch institution for life sciences, offering over 35 Master's programs taught entirely in English. It boasts a highly international student body and is located in the green, affordable city of Wageningen.

Key facts

Type: Public
Founded: 1876
Students: 12,407
International students: 3,376
Tuition (intl): €14–22k/yr
Languages: EN, NL
Location: Wageningen, Netherlands

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 →

Wageningen University & Research · Netherlands

Bachelor’s in Data Science for Global Challenges

Are you fascinated by programming, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and smart algorithms, and do you want to make a positive impact with these skills? This unique Bachelor's program takes data science and AI to the next level by applying them to critical global challenges. You will learn to use your data science and AI knowledge to understand issues like climate change, predict disease outbreaks, or contribute to ensuring sufficient food supplies for a growing population. Make a real impact with data through the Bachelor's in Data Science for Global Challenges.

Wageningen University & Research · Netherlands

Bachelor’s in Environmental Sciences

The Bachelor's in Environmental Sciences at Wageningen University & Research (WUR) is designed for students passionate about making a positive impact on the environment and addressing global challenges like climate change and sustainability. This program offers a comprehensive understanding of environmental issues by integrating natural, social, and technological sciences, providing a complete picture of the complex relationship between people and their environment. Through this program, you will gain the knowledge and skills to analyze environmental problems from multiple perspectives, develop innovative solutions, and consider both ecological and societal factors. WUR's strong international network and over 100 years of expertise in environmental research create a unique learning environment where you can contribute to worldwide sustainability efforts.

Wageningen University & Research · Netherlands

Master Aquaculture and Marine Resource Management

This Master's program focuses on the management of marine and freshwater resources, aiming to balance human needs with ecological sustainability. It offers an interdisciplinary approach, combining biological sciences with social sciences to address complex challenges in aquatic systems. You will learn to understand and manage resources like fish, seaweed, and coastal areas, while also considering factors such as overfishing, pollution, ecosystem restoration, and the socio-economic aspects of marine resource use. The program prepares students for international careers in research, NGOs, consultancy, and environmental management.

Wageningen University & Research · Netherlands

Master's in Biotechnology

The Master's in Biotechnology programme at Wageningen University & Research focuses on applying biological systems and molecules to create innovative products and processes that benefit society and the environment. This multidisciplinary program integrates gene technology, microbiology, biochemistry, and process engineering. You will learn to design and optimize processes for developing vital products like medicines, vaccines, food, and biobased materials, utilizing a wide range of cell types and cutting-edge biotechnological tools. The curriculum emphasizes both fundamental scientific understanding and practical, industry-relevant skills, preparing you to tackle complex challenges in a collaborative, research-driven environment.

Wageningen University & Research · Netherlands

Master’s in Development and Rural Innovation

The MSc Development and Rural Innovation program at Wageningen University & Research (WUR) is designed for students who want to understand and address complex societal challenges in development and rural contexts. It focuses on the socio-political aspects of innovation and transformation, rather than the technical design. The program explores why technological advancements don't always solve societal problems and why innovations may not benefit those most in need. Students learn to see the bigger picture by understanding innovations and interventions as socio-political processes. This program encourages a systems approach to societal transformation, bridging the gap between technical or life sciences and social sciences to prepare graduates for international roles. This program is ideal for those with a background in technical sciences, life sciences, or relevant management studies who are interested in the social, political, and communication aspects of development. You will learn to connect concepts from development sociology, rural sociology, communication sciences, and innovation sciences to real-life situations, facilitating multi-stakeholder processes, and conducting independent research on current development issues. The curriculum emphasizes a critical understanding of global challenges, including colonial legacies, food security, climate change, and migration. The program is taught in a small, international, and interactive environment, fostering collaboration among motivated students from diverse backgrounds.

Wageningen University & Research · Netherlands

Master’s in Resilient Farming and Food Systems

The Master's in Resilient Farming and Food Systems addresses the growing need for sustainable agriculture and food production. This interdisciplinary program equips students with the knowledge and skills to navigate the complex natural and social challenges within food systems. You will explore how to balance human food security needs with responsible natural resource use and environmental protection. The program focuses on a holistic, systems-oriented approach, moving beyond conventional agriculture to foster critical, transformative innovation and collaboration for a more sustainable future.

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 English language requirements for international students?

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International students need to demonstrate English proficiency through tests like IELTS Academic (minimum 6.5 overall, 6.0 in speaking) or TOEFL iBT (minimum 90 overall, 22 in speaking). Other accepted tests include PTE Academic and Cambridge C1 Advanced.

What are the tuition fees for international Master's students?

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Annual tuition for non-EEA Master's students ranges from approximately €14,000 to €22,000, depending on the specific program. EEA/Dutch students pay the statutory fee of around €2,530 per year.

Does Wageningen University & Research offer scholarships for international students?

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Yes, WUR offers scholarships such as the WUR Excellence Programme, which provides a full tuition waiver for 24 months for selected non-EEA MSc students. The Africa Scholarship Programme offers a full package including travel, tuition, and living costs.

What is the international student community like at WUR?

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WUR has a highly international student body, with over 3,300 students from more than 150 countries, making it one of Europe's most internationally oriented universities. The city of Wageningen itself has a strong international and student-friendly atmosphere.

What are the living costs for students in Wageningen?

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Wageningen is considered affordable by Dutch standards. Student rooms typically cost between €350–€650 per month, with total estimated monthly living costs, including food and transport, ranging from €900–€1,200.

Wageningen University & Research

Why study here

Student life

For international students

Programs