Study MBBS in the Netherlands in 2024

An MBBS degree from one of the world’s top medical institutions prepares students for various profitable job prospects after graduation. The scope ranges from professional doctors and surgeons to research assistants at prestigious research institutions and consultancy. Moreover, new technologies such as nuclear medicine and stem cell treatment have contributed to a plethora of opportunities across businesses. The Netherlands is a renowned European medical research and education site due to its well-known universities and booming pharmaceutical sector. Planning for MBBS in the Netherlands? Read to know what awaits you.

MBBS Eligibility Criteria in the Netherlands 

Although qualifying requirements differ by university, to pursue MBBS in the Netherlands, you must study BiPC courses in senior secondary school, i.e., Biology, Physics, and Chemistry combined with Mathematics, and must have A-grades in each subject. Higher certifications may require a bachelor’s degree in medical or science-related topics. 

While particular schools may need proof of Dutch language proficiency, most institutions offering MBBS in the Netherlands to international students teach their curriculum exclusively in English.

Top medical universities in Netherlands for international students

The Netherlands has a huge number of medical universities. The four finest universities for overseas students to study MBBS in the Netherlands are listed below. 

Amsterdam University 

The University of Amsterdam’s MSc Biomedical Sciences-Medical Biology program is one to explore for a candidate who wants to study a combination of biochemical and molecular biology disciplines. 

• Cell Biology and Advanced Microscopy
•  Medical Biochemistry 
• Biotechnology
• Infection  Immunity
• Oncology, Developmental 
• Therapeutic Biology
• Experimental Internal Medicine

 These are among the specialist tracks offered in the curriculum. 

The course is affiliated with the Medical Center of the University of Amsterdam, the Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, the Netherlands Cancer Institute, and the Sanquin Blood Supply Foundation and it is one of the best university for MBBA in Netherlands for international students.

Groningen University 

The University of Groningen’s Faculty of Medical Sciences is a historical witness to the importance of medical progress in Europe. The country’s second-oldest league has always been a cultural brand. 

The University of Groningen’s BSc Medicine degree offers two emphasis tracks: Molecular Medicine and Global Health. 

Individuals who desire to practice after getting a master’s degree will find an accessible option at the university. 

University of Maastricht 

Maastricht University’s MBBS program aims to provide students with a practical viewpoint. The program progresses from physical testing to activities such as interactive lectures and workshops.

Three years, with the first year focusing on ‘The human body in health and sickness,’ the second on ‘Integration of knowledge and skills: on your approach to practice,’ and the third on ‘From paper to patient.’ It also offers a specialized Master’s degree in medicine that delves deeper into related concerns and it is one of the best university for MBBs in Netherlands for Indian students.

Rotterdam’s Erasmus University 

Erasmus University in Rotterdam does not provide an MBBS program in the Netherlands. It does, however, provide several courses in medical-related subjects. 

The Netherlands Institute for Health Sciences (NIHES) programs are known for their multidisciplinary approach. Master of Science degrees are available in Infection and Immunity, Clinical Research, and Health Sciences. 

Erasmus is one of the most prestigious universities in the Netherlands, ranking in the top 100 of the World Rankings for 2024 and in the top five of all Dutch institutes.

Netherlands MBBS fees for Indian medical students

The annual expenses for MBBS in the Netherlands for Indian students might reach 10,000 euros (about. INR 840,000). If an applicant applies to a private institution, the fee might rise to 30,000 euros (approx. INR 2,500,000). 

Students should expect their monthly living expenses, ranging from 800 (INR 67,000) to 1200 euros (100,000 INR), depending on their lodging and lifestyle. 

If students cannot pay the tuition, they might look into scholarships and grants offered by both countries overseas. They frequently provide a percentage of tuition cost waivers and complete coverage of living expenses.

The MBBS application and admissions process in the Netherlands 

Medical Science courses are technically tricky, hence each country has its own curriculum and methods. As a result, discipline may require one to finish studies, obtain certification, or take examinations before commencing a job as a doctor or surgeon. 

In the Netherlands, becoming a doctor requires a seven-year training program. The following are the components of MBBS in the Netherlands: 

• Bachelor of Medicine (three years) 
• Master of Medicine in three years 
• A one-year training program 
• Becoming competent in the Dutch language is also essential during the training phase, and language assessments may be required to graduate.

Procedures for admission 

• If students meet the entrance standards, they must participate in the university’s internal selection process. The university will communicate the details of these procedures to the student once the application gets evaluated to meet the basic entrance requirements. 
• There may be additional tests and evaluations given as part of the selection process. These were conducted online during the pandemic, but this cannot be predicted in the future. 
• Each year, there are two admissions cycles: February and September.
• Applicants must complete selection procedures approximately five months before starting school. 
• All applicants get ranked against one another, and only the top students get admitted to the university.

Application for a visa 

The visa application process is the same as in any other nation. The procedures are as follows. 

• Students must submit an online application that includes all required information and documents. 
• The candidates are then offered a place at the university where they apply to study MBBS in the Netherlands. 
• Before applying for a visa, they must pay the necessary MBBS costs in the Netherlands. 
• The candidate can then apply for a visa at a Dutch embassy nearby or online. 
• After applying, the student will be summoned to the embassy for an interview to determine their eligibility for a student visa. 
• They can plan their flights after receiving their student visa confirmation!
• The student visa interview is a critical step in the process. 
• A candidate must perform thorough research and a good understanding of the institution in which they will be studying.

Key takeaways

• The fees for MBBS in the Netherlands are low. 
• The transportation cost of studying medicine in the Netherlands is very low. 
• In the Netherlands, there is no need to pay a contribution or capitation fee to pursue MBBS.

Liked this blog? Read next: MBBS in Canada | Top 7 institutes, eligibility, and more!

FAQs

Q1. How can I apply for an MBBS program in the Netherlands? 

Answer- Eligibility varies depending on the university to which one applies. They are all listed on the university website, as is all information on the application process. Filling out an online application form and sending any required documents mentioned on the website, such as an SOP, recommendation letters, and any extra essays, such as a diversity statement, are typical.

Q2 When should I apply for MBBS in the Netherlands? 

Answer- The Netherlands, like many other study abroad destinations, offers two distinct intakes 

1. Intake in February 
2. Intake in September 

The September intake is rather more popular. Regardless of the batch one applies to, you must complete the application five months before classes begin.

Q3. How long does MBBS take in the Netherlands? 

Answer- The MBBS program in the Netherlands lasts six years. The last three years include  internships and research opportunities provided by each university. The candidate is also expected to undergo one year of training after obtaining the master’s degree.