Education in the Netherlands: From Toddlers to PhDs (and Everything in Between)

Whether you're a parent looking for daycare, a student navigating the university system, or an expat trying to understand the local educational culture, the Netherlands has a system that caters to all ages. With affordable daycare options, child-friendly activities, and world-class universities, education here is serious business... but with plenty of room for fun, community involvement, and of course, sport!

Daycare & Early Education (Peuterspeelzaal)

For families with little ones, the Netherlands offers an excellent range of daycare and early childhood education options. If you're trying to juggle work and parenting, you'll be glad to know that there are plenty of affordable daycare centers and preschools (peuterspeelzaal) where kids can learn the basics of socializing, sharing, and figuring out how to handle their first bicycle. Plus, the Dutch believe in early independence, so your child might even be riding a bike before they can tie their shoes!

Costs: Vary depending on income and location (around €4-€8 per hour).

Tip: Register early—waiting lists for good daycare centers can be as long as a Dutch winter (that’s a while!).

Primary & Secondary Education (Basisschool & Middelbare School)

Dutch primary schools (basisschool) are known for their inclusivity and focus on both academic and social development. The kids get a mix of traditional subjects and a hands-on approach to creativity and play. In secondary school (middelbare school), students are streamed into academic or vocational tracks based on their interests and skills, so they’re not just memorizing facts—they’re preparing for the future.

Costs: Public schools are free, though there may be fees for extracurricular activities or materials.

Tip: If your child doesn’t speak Dutch, don’t panic. Many schools offer international programs or Dutch language classes to help them fit in.

Higher Education (Universities & Applied Sciences)

For those looking to continue their education, the Netherlands is home to world-renowned universities like University of Amsterdam and TU Delft, offering everything from bachelor's degrees to PhDs. If you prefer more practical, hands-on learning, the Applied Sciences route offers internships, industry connections, and a focus on real-world skills—perfect for those who want to jump straight into a career after graduation.

Costs: EU students pay around €2,314 per year, while non-EU students can expect fees ranging from €8,000-€15,000 (depending on the program).

Tip: Don’t forget to check out Studiefinanciering (student finance) for a helping hand with tuition.

After-School Activities & Sports for Kids

The Dutch are passionate about sports, and your kids will have no shortage of options for extracurricular activities. From soccer to gymnastics, swimming to ice skating, your little ones will be busy all year round. And for parents? Joining a local sports club is a great way to meet people and stay active—plus, you can show your kids who’s the real champion at the weekend volleyball match.

Costs: Activities and sports clubs are reasonably priced, though the more niche activities might cost a bit more (around €10-€30 per month).

Tip: Keep an eye out for community events or local fairs, which often have free sports trials for the whole family.

Fun Fact for Expats

If you're an expat with kids, the Dutch education system is welcoming and flexible, especially in cities with high international populations like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague. Your children will likely be exposed to multiple languages and cultures, making them future world citizens (and probably future pro-cyclists, too).

From daycare to PhDs, the Dutch education system provides options that are accessible, fun, and practical for everyone in the family. With a focus on community, sport, and personal growth, the Netherlands ensures that learning doesn’t just happen in the classroom—it’s a part of everyday life. So, whether your child is discovering the joy of biking or you’re working on that master's degree, you'll find a place to grow, learn, and thrive here!