Practical matters before study in holland
Sep 10, 2010
When you decide to study abroad, make sure you allow plenty of time for preparations.You will need to start planning your stay a year in advance. Remember, the academic year in Holland runs from the end of August until the end of June.
checklist
1. Study programme
Examine the available study programmes at www.studyinholland.nl. The database of International Study Programmes and Courses (ISPAC) includes 1,391 international study programmes and courses. To avoid disappointment, make some second choices as well.
2. Accreditation
Check the status of your programme. All degree programmes are accredited by the NVAO (Accreditation Organization of The Netherlands and Flanders) or by foreign accreditation organizations. There is no system of accreditation in the Netherlands for non-degree programmes. This does not mean that their quality is not up to par, but it may mean that the diploma or certificate is not formally recognized in the Netherlands. The quality of specialized courses that are part of an accredited master’s programme is assured through the accreditation of the main programme.
3. Check the institution
Check if the institution of your choice occurs on the list at www.internationalstudy.nl. Institutions mentioned on this list have signed the Code of Conduct. By signing the Code of Conduct, they offer international students a guarantee of the quality of their programmes, student recruitment, selection and counselling procedures. Only institutions that have signed the Code are allowed to recruit international students.
4.Scholarships
Contact the Dutch embassy or the international relations office of your own institution.Find out about scholarship and exchange opportunities on www.grantfinder.nl.
5. Requirements
Contact the institution in the Netherlands that offers the programme of your choice. Ask for more information about admission requirements, language requirements, scholarships etc.
6. Admission
If the programme is suitable and you meet the requirements, follow the institution’s procedure for gaining admission.
7. Immigration regulations
At the same time, check which immigration regulations apply to you. You will find this information in the Student Visa Wizard at www.studyinholland.nl or www.ind.nl.
8. Documents
Gather all the documents which the Dutch immigration authorities require in your case.If you need an entry visa (MVV), ask your host institution to arrange one on your behalf.
9. Housing
Ask the host institution about arranging a place for you to live.
10. Health insurance
Check whether your current health insurance provides sufficient coverage while you are in the Netherlands