The Netherlands is one of Europe’s most attractive destinations for international students, particularly for those looking for English-taught degrees in a modern, internationally focused academic environment. Dutch universities and universities of applied sciences offer programmes in fields ranging from engineering and computer science to business, economics, social sciences, design, and life sciences.
But for many prospective students, one question comes before the application: Can you study in the Netherlands without IELTS?
The answer is yes, in certain circumstances. IELTS is not the only English-language qualification accepted by Dutch higher education institutions, and some applicants can qualify for an exemption based on their previous education or other circumstances. However, students should understand an important distinction: being able to apply without IELTS is not the same as being exempt from proving English proficiency.
According to Study in NL, admission requirements are established by the institution and can vary by programme. For English-taught programmes, students generally need to demonstrate adequate English proficiency through an accepted test.
Can You Study in the Netherlands Without IELTS?
Yes, but there is no nationwide rule that automatically exempts international students from IELTS.
Dutch institutions commonly accept several forms of English-language testing, including IELTS, TOEFL iBT, Cambridge English qualifications, Pearson, LanguageCert, and TOEIC. The exact tests and scores accepted depend on the programme.
Some applicants may also qualify for an exemption because of their previous education. For example, the University of Amsterdam lists specific countries and educational backgrounds that can exempt applicants from its English test requirement, while some programmes consider a previous fully English-taught degree as evidence of proficiency.
Therefore, students should avoid choosing a university simply because it appears on an online “universities without IELTS” list. The programme's official admission requirements are what matter.
How to Study in the Netherlands Without IELTS
1. Use an Alternative English Proficiency Test
IELTS is only one option for demonstrating English proficiency.
Depending on your programme, you may be able to submit:
- TOEFL iBT
- Cambridge English qualifications
- Pearson English
- LanguageCert
- TOEIC
Study in NL identifies these among the tests generally accepted by Dutch higher education institutions, but also stresses that required scores should be checked with the institution.
For example, the University of Amsterdam currently publishes different minimum scores depending on the programme. Its English-taught bachelor's requirements include IELTS, TOEFL, and Cambridge qualifications, with higher scores for selective programmes.
If you already have an accepted qualification, there may be no reason to take IELTS specifically.
2. Qualify for an English-Language Exemption
Some students can study without submitting an English test because their previous education meets the institution's exemption criteria.
The rules are not identical across Dutch universities. The University of Amsterdam, for example, provides exemptions for certain previous educational backgrounds and qualifications. Its master's programmes may also accept particular English-taught degrees as evidence of language proficiency.
The University of Groningen similarly allows certain applicants to request an exemption, including applicants whose previous degree was fully taught in English, although the decision can rest with the relevant admissions board.
This means that an English-medium degree can be useful, but an MOI certificate or English-taught degree does not automatically guarantee an exemption at every university.
3. Provide Proof of Previous English-Medium Education
If your bachelor's or previous qualification was taught entirely in English, contact the university before applying.
The institution may ask for evidence such as:
- A degree certificate stating the language of instruction
- An official transcript
- A letter from your university confirming that the entire programme was taught in English
- Other documentation specified by the admissions office
For example, the University of Amsterdam states that applicants whose degree was completely in English may need a certified letter from their previous institution if the language of instruction is not clearly stated on their transcript or diploma.
This is particularly relevant for international students who completed a degree in English but never took IELTS.
4. Apply Before Taking Your English Test
Not having an IELTS score does not necessarily mean you cannot begin an application.
Some universities allow students to apply while they are still waiting for an English test result. The University of Groningen, for example, states that applicants may apply before taking an English test, although admission may remain conditional until the required result is submitted.
This can be useful when application deadlines arrive before available test dates. However, students should check whether the final score must be submitted before a specific admission, scholarship, or visa deadline.
What English Level Do You Need?
There is no single IELTS score for every university in the Netherlands.
English requirements depend on the degree, academic level, and institution. Some programmes may accept B2-level English, while others expect a stronger C1-level command of academic English.
For example, the University of Amsterdam currently lists IELTS scores ranging from 6.5 for some non-selective English-taught bachelor's programmes to 7.0 for certain selective programmes. Its published TOEFL and Cambridge requirements also vary accordingly.
When comparing programmes, look at four things:
- The required English level.
- Accepted language tests.
- Minimum overall and component scores.
- Available exemptions.
This is much more reliable than searching only for programmes that advertise themselves as “IELTS-free.”
English-Taught Programmes in the Netherlands
One of the biggest attractions of the Netherlands is the availability of English-taught higher education.
International students can find English-language programmes in areas such as:
Engineering and technology
The Netherlands has a strong reputation in engineering, water management, sustainable technology, computer science, and related disciplines. English-taught master's programmes are particularly common in technical fields.
Business and economics
International business, finance, economics, marketing, management, and entrepreneurship are popular choices for international applicants.
Computer science and data
Artificial intelligence, data science, software engineering, information technology, and related subjects are available in English at various institutions.
Social sciences and humanities
International relations, communication, psychology, cultural studies, and other disciplines can also offer English-taught options.
Students should nevertheless verify the language of instruction for the exact programme, because a university may offer both Dutch- and English-taught degrees.
Do You Need Dutch to Study in the Netherlands?
Not necessarily.
If your degree is taught entirely in English, you generally do not need Dutch proficiency to meet the programme's language requirement. However, learning basic Dutch can make daily life easier and help you communicate outside the university.
For Dutch-taught programmes, the situation is different: applicants need to meet the institution's Dutch-language requirements.
International students should therefore distinguish between the language of the degree and the language spoken in everyday life.
Other Admission Requirements
Avoid focusing exclusively on IELTS. A successful application involves several other requirements.
Academic qualifications
Your previous diploma must meet the academic entry requirements for your chosen programme. Study in NL notes that institutions set their own admission requirements and that foreign qualifications may need to be compared with the Dutch education system.
Academic transcripts
Universities commonly request transcripts and degree certificates. Depending on your country and programme, documents may need to be officially translated or legalised.
Programme-specific requirements
Certain degrees may require prerequisite subjects, specific grades, portfolios, entrance assessments, or other qualifications.
Student residence permit
For non-EU/EEA students, admission is only one part of the process. The Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) states that the educational institution normally applies for the student's residence permit and must be a recognised sponsor. The programme must also be accredited, full-time, and meet other requirements.
For 2026, the IND lists €1,130.77 per month as the study-related financial means amount for university and higher professional education students. This amount is separate from tuition fees and is subject to change in future years.
How to Find Netherlands Universities Without IELTS
Instead of searching for a generic list of “IELTS-free universities,” use a programme-by-programme approach.
Step 1: Choose your subject
Decide whether you want to study engineering, business, computer science, social sciences, health, design, or another field.
Step 2: Search for suitable programmes
Use official university websites and Study in NL to identify programmes taught in your preferred language.
Step 3: Check the language requirement
Look for accepted tests, minimum scores, test validity periods, and exemption rules.
Step 4: Assess your previous education
If you studied entirely in English, determine whether your qualification meets the university's exemption criteria.
Step 5: Contact admissions
If your circumstances are unusual, ask the admissions office for written confirmation before relying on an exemption.
This approach is safer than relying on third-party websites that may contain outdated information.
Benefits of Studying in the Netherlands Without IELTS
For eligible students, avoiding IELTS can make the application process more convenient.
You may save the cost of an additional examination, avoid waiting for test results, and use evidence you already possess from previous education. Students who have an accepted TOEFL, Cambridge, Pearson, or other qualification may also avoid taking IELTS altogether.
However, IELTS should not be the main factor in choosing a university. Academic reputation, programme content, tuition fees, living expenses, scholarships, location, accommodation, career opportunities, and teaching quality should all be considered.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I study in the Netherlands without IELTS?
Yes, in some cases. You may qualify through an alternative English test or an exemption based on your previous education. The rules depend on the institution and programme.
Can an MOI certificate replace IELTS in the Netherlands?
Sometimes. Some universities consider previous English-medium education, but an MOI certificate is not universally accepted. You should confirm the policy with your chosen programme.
Is IELTS mandatory for an English-taught master's in the Netherlands?
No. Some master's programmes accept alternative tests or exemptions. However, many still require formal proof of English proficiency.
Can I apply without an IELTS result?
Some universities permit applications before the English test is completed, potentially offering conditional admission. Groningen, for example, explicitly allows this for certain programmes.
Do I need Dutch to study in the Netherlands?
Not if your chosen programme is taught in English and you satisfy its admission requirements. Dutch proficiency is generally relevant when applying to Dutch-taught programmes.
Does the Dutch student visa require IELTS?
The IND's student residence permit requirements focus on factors such as admission, recognised sponsorship, an accredited full-time programme, finances, and study progress; IELTS itself is not listed as a universal student-residence requirement.
Conclusion
Studying in the Netherlands without IELTS is possible for some international students, but it depends on the university, programme, and your educational background. IELTS is not the only accepted English test, and certain applicants can qualify for exemptions based on previous education or other recognised circumstances.
The safest strategy is to start with the specific degree programme, not a generic “universities without IELTS” list. Check its official language requirements, review the exemption rules, confirm whether your previous English-medium education qualifies, and contact the admissions office if you are uncertain.