Pathway to Dutch University

Foundation Year Programs in the Netherlands

Not every diploma leads directly to a Dutch university. A foundation year can bridge the gap — here's how it works, what your options are, and what to watch out for.

Who Is a Foundation Year For?

A foundation year is designed for students who need extra preparation before entering a Dutch university degree programme.

Diploma not equivalent

Your secondary school diploma is not equivalent to the Dutch entry level required for your programme.

Missing subject prerequisites

You're missing specific subject prerequisites (e.g., maths, physics, chemistry).

Need academic skills preparation

You need more preparation for academic study skills in the Dutch system.

Entrance exams or bridging requirements

Your target route involves entrance exams or bridging requirements set by the institution.

What You Typically Study

Foundation year curricula vary, but most programmes cover these core areas.

Academic English

Intensive English language training focused on academic writing, presentations, and comprehension at university level.

Subject modules

Core subjects relevant to your intended degree — such as mathematics, physics, economics, or biology.

Study skills

Time management, research methods, critical thinking, and the Dutch academic culture and expectations.

Assessment preparation

Practice exams and assessments that mirror what you'll face in your degree programme, building confidence and readiness.

Types of Foundation Year Routes

There are several ways to do a foundation year — each with different costs, structures, and outcomes.

University-run preparatory programmes

Some universities offer their own preparatory programmes. For example, VU Amsterdam offers the VASVU foundation year for students who completed pre-university education abroad and can't be admitted directly.

Example: VASVU at VU Amsterdam

Learn about VASVU

Pathway colleges linked to a university or HBO institution

These are often taught on or near campus and designed to progress into partner degrees if you meet progression criteria (grades, attendance, module passes).

Examples include pathway programmes connected to Amsterdam and The Hague

Subject bridging / entrance exam preparation

Some students don't need a full foundation year, but only specific subjects at the required level. Boswell-Bèta offers access courses and exams in science subjects in cooperation with Dutch universities and universities of applied sciences.

Example: Boswell-Bèta

Learn about Boswell-Bèta

Things to Pay Attention To

A foundation year is a useful route — but it comes with important caveats.

Progression is conditional

Simply completing a foundation year doesn't guarantee a place. You usually need to pass with specific grades to progress to the degree programme.

Doesn't bypass numerus fixus

If your target programme has limited places (numerus fixus), completing a foundation year doesn't exempt you from the selection process.

Visa rules and timing can be tight (non-EU/EEA)

For non-EU/EEA students, preparatory study affects immigration planning. The IND notes that a preparatory period can be part of the duration of study for a student residence permit. Universities applying for student residence permits must typically be recognised sponsors and affiliated with the international education Code of Conduct framework.

Availability can change

Foundation programmes may be paused or cancelled. For example, Maastricht University has stated its foundation programme is no longer offered.

Confirm your target university accepts the route

Some universities explicitly reference certain foundation / preparatory routes as acceptable background (e.g., TU Delft mentions Dutch foundation routes like Boswell-Bèta schakeljaar and VASVU in its admissions context).

Alternatives to a Full Foundation Year

A foundation year isn't your only option. Depending on your situation, one of these alternatives might work better.

Additional subject exam or bridging course

Direct admission after an additional subject exam or bridging course (common for single-subject gaps).

Diploma evaluation / credential review

A diploma evaluation/credential review route (your institution decides; Nuffic resources help you understand comparability).

Different programme route (e.g., HBO then later transfer)

A different programme route (e.g., HBO then later transfer), if it matches your goals.

Not Sure Which Route Is Right for You?

Whether you need a full foundation year, a subject bridging course, or can apply directly — StudyPath helps you figure out the best pathway based on your specific qualifications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Not necessarily. It depends on your current qualifications. If your diploma is recognised as equivalent to the Dutch VWO or HAVO, you can apply directly. A foundation year is only needed when there's a gap between your qualifications and the entry requirements.
A foundation year is typically a one-year programme. Requirements and availability vary widely, so always verify the details with your target university and programme.
No. Completing a foundation year is usually conditional — you need to achieve specific grades and meet all requirements. For numerus fixus programmes, you'll still need to go through the selection process.
Yes, in most cases. Foundation year programmes at accredited institutions can sponsor a student visa (MVV/residence permit). However, you'll need to arrange a new visa or visa extension when transitioning to your degree programme. Plan this timeline carefully.
A foundation year prepares you for a bachelor's degree — it bridges the gap between your secondary education and Dutch university entry requirements. A pre-master is for students who already have a bachelor's degree but need additional preparation to enter a specific master's programme.
Costs vary by provider and programme. Always check current fees directly with the institution you're considering.