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Help, my child is going to college! Everything you need to know
Your child is starting a programme at a university of applied sciences or university. An exciting step for both of you. But what exactly do you need to arrange, and how much does having a child in higher education actually cost? We've listed the most important things for you below.
Enrolling in a degree programme: how does it work and what are the deadlines?
Your child must enrol in a degree programme through Studielink. For programmes with a numerus fixus – meaning a limited number of places – the application deadline is 15 January. For other higher education programmes, the deadline is 1 May. For many universities of applied sciences without a numerus fixus, it is still possible to enrol in August or September. After 1 May, there is no guaranteed admission, but if places are available, students are usually still accepted.
Applying for student finance through DUO: when and how?
Student finance starts as soon as your child begins studying, usually from 1 September. The advice is to submit the application at least 8 weeks before the start of the academic year, around 1 July. Your child must apply independently through the DUO website.
Tip: Always have your child apply for the supplementary grant. DUO will then automatically assess each year whether they are eligible.
Finding student accommodation: how to secure housing in time
Will your child be moving into student accommodation? Start looking as early as possible, as student housing is scarce, especially in popular student cities. It's also wise to register your child with ROOM straight away. Through this national platform, students can apply for around 50,000 rooms and student homes in more than ten cities across the Netherlands.
Order textbooks with student discount through Studiewinkel.nl
Good learning materials help students succeed. At Studiewinkel.nl, you'll find complete book lists for almost every programme. This makes it quick and easy to order the correct textbooks online, including a student discount. Make sure to order in time so your child has all required textbooks before the academic year starts. Find your book list now >
Health insurance for students: what changes when your child turns 18?
Until the age of 18, your child is usually covered under your health insurance policy at no extra cost. Once they turn 18, they must take out their own health insurance. This policy takes effect on the first day of the month following their 18th birthday. Students with a limited income are often eligible for healthcare allowance. Your child can apply for this through the Dutch Tax Administration.
How much does a student cost per month? An overview of the expenses
Studying comes with significant costs. Tuition fees and study materials alone can amount to several thousand euros per year. Costs are considerably higher for students living away from home. According to Nibud, the average monthly cost exceeds €1,600. This includes rent, groceries, clothing, tuition fees, insurance, textbooks, social activities and sports.
Important deadlines for parents of students at a glance
- 15 January – Application deadline for numerus fixus programmes
- 1 May – Application deadline for other degree programmes
- Early July – Apply for student finance through DUO
- Early August – Order textbooks through Studiewinkel.nl
- 18th birthday – Apply for personal health insurance
Good preparation can save a lot of stress and money. Good luck!