Loading…

NETHERLANDS · MAASTRICHT, HEERLEN, SITTARD

Zuyd University

public · Founded 1996 · Languages: en, nl

In short

Zuyd University of Applied Sciences in the Netherlands offers over 50 English-taught programs with a practical, career-focused education model. Located across campuses in Maastricht, Heerlen, and Sittard, it provides a supportive international community and valuable real-world experience.

Key facts

Type: Public
Founded: 1996
Students: 13,000
International students: 1,560
Acceptance rate: 75%
Tuition (intl): €8–13k/yr
Languages: EN, NL
Location: Maastricht, Heerlen, Sittard, Netherlands

Zuyd University of Applied Sciences is one of the top-tier universities of applied sciences in the Netherlands, located in the southern Limburg region. With campuses in Heerlen, Sittard, and Maastricht, Zuyd offers a practice-based education model, emphasizing direct application of knowledge through projects, interactive lessons, and internships. The university fosters a personal and supportive atmosphere, ensuring students feel valued and well-prepared for their future careers. Zuyd is committed to innovation, sustainability, and regional development, engaging in applied research that addresses societal challenges. The university provides a diverse range of Bachelor's, Master's, and Associate Degree programs, many of which are taught entirely in English, catering to a global student body. With a strong focus on connecting education, research, and professional practice, Zuyd aims to equip students with up-to-date, relevant skills. The university also offers various study events, including Open Days and online sessions, to help prospective students make informed choices about their academic path. Zuyd prides itself on a close-knit international community, particularly in Maastricht, which boasts a vibrant student life. The institution is dedicated to creating an inclusive and safe environment where diversity and gender equality are highly valued, ensuring all students and staff feel free to be themselves and flourish.

Why study here

Gain practical, career-oriented education with direct application of learned theory.
Benefit from a personal and supportive learning environment with strong student-teacher interaction.
Work on real-world projects and complete internships for valuable professional experience.
Become part of a diverse and welcoming international student community.
Access a broad range of English-taught programs designed for an international career.
Develop skills for a sustainable future through programs and initiatives focused on environmental responsibility.

Student life

Zuyd University offers a dynamic and supportive environment to enhance student life. Students benefit from an international community, particularly vibrant in Maastricht. The university organizes various events throughout the year, including Open Days and online information sessions, where prospective students can experience the atmosphere, interact with lecturers and current students, and gain insights into academic and career prospects. Students have opportunities to engage in projects for real organizations, participate in internships, and explore minors to specialize or broaden their knowledge. The university emphasizes a close-knit atmosphere and personal contact, ensuring students feel at home and receive guidance from study advisors. Zuyd also offers student services and facilities designed to support academic success and personal growth, fostering a sense of community through activities and gatherings.

Fees

InternationalNon-EEA students pay institutional tuition fees typically between €8,000 and €13,000 per year depending on programme.

HomeEEA/EU students pay the statutory Dutch tuition fee (approximately €2,530 per year for bachelor programmes in 2025).

LivingMonthly living costs in Maastricht or Heerlen estimated at €800–€1,100 including rent, food, and transport.

Some programmes charge additional material or lab fees. Scholarship options are available via the Holland Scholarship and Zuyd bursaries.

Admissions

Bachelor AdmissionA diploma equivalent to Dutch higher secondary education (e.g., German Allgemeine Hochschulreife or Fachhochschulreife, International Baccalaureate diploma, European Baccalaureate, US High School diploma with at least 3.0 GPA and AP/college prep, UK GCSE in 4 subjects A-C / 9-4, or GCE A-level in 2 relevant subjects D-E in 6 different subjects including English and maths).

Master AdmissionA Bachelor's degree comparable to a Dutch Bachelor's, typically in the same or a related field.

TOEFL iBTminimum 80

IELTS Academicminimum 6.0

Pearson PTE Academicminimum 61

LanguageCert Academicminimum 65

TOEIC Listening & Reading + Speaking & Writingminimum 865 / 335

Cambridge English (CAE or FCE)minimum 169

Rankings

Keuzegids HBO 2024 — top-rated UAS in Limburg1

University scholarships

Holland Scholarship€5,000 one-time grant for non-EEA students

Zuyd Excellence ScholarshipPartial tuition waiver for high-achieving international students

Accreditation

Zuyd University of Applied Sciences is accredited by the Dutch-Flemish Accreditation Organisation (NVAO). Individual degree programmes hold NVAO programme accreditation. The university is registered in the Dutch higher education register (CROHO).

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 →

Zuyd University · Netherlands

The English-taught HBO Bachelor of European Studies is designed for students interested in the EU, foreign countries, and international cooperation. You will gain the knowledge and skills to address societal challenges within Europe. The program covers policymaking, European bodies, the political landscape, and how international cooperation functions within the European Union. Practical application through projects is a key component, alongside learning German, French, or Spanish, and exploring different cultures. The curriculum includes an internship and a study abroad period, preparing you for an international career.

Bachelor'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 Zuyd University?

Non-EEA students pay institutional tuition fees typically ranging from €8,000 to €13,000 per year, depending on the program. EEA/EU students pay the statutory Dutch tuition fee, which is approximately €2,530 per year for bachelor programs in 2025. Some programs may have additional material or lab fees.

What is the estimated cost of living for students in Maastricht or Heerlen?

Monthly living costs in Maastricht or Heerlen are estimated to be between €800 and €1,100. This estimate includes expenses for rent, food, and transport.

Does Zuyd University offer English-taught programs for international students?

Yes, Zuyd University offers a diverse range of Bachelor's, Master's, and Associate Degree programs, with many taught entirely in English to cater to a global student body.

What are the English proficiency requirements for international applicants?

Applicants generally need a minimum score of 80 on the TOEFL iBT, 6.0 on the IELTS Academic, or 61 on the Pearson PTE Academic. Specific requirements may vary, and exemptions are available for certain qualifications.

What kind of education model does Zuyd University follow?

Zuyd University follows a practice-based education model. This emphasizes the direct application of knowledge through projects, interactive lessons, and internships to prepare students for their future careers.

Last updated 3 July 2026