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Among European destinations, the Netherlands and Sweden have emerged as prominent study-abroad choices among Indian students. The Netherlands admitted approximately 3,500 Indian students in 2024, attracted by its top-ranking universities and diverse programs. Sweden, known for its research-focused education and technological innovation, hosted around 1,500 Indian students in the same year.
Both countries offer unique advantages: the Netherlands provides affordable education with over 2,100 English-taught courses. At the same time, Sweden boasts globally recognised institutions like KTH Royal Institute of Technology and Lund University.
By the end of this blog, you will know
The admission criteria and top universities in both countries.
Detailed insights into tuition fees, living expenses, and available scholarships.
Post-study career opportunities and visa processes in the Netherlands and Sweden.
Netherlands vs Sweden for Indian Students: Key Highlights
Both countries offer quality education but differ in tuition fees, living costs, and post-study opportunities. Understanding these differences is crucial for making an informed choice.
Here’s a table highlighting the key differences between the Netherlands and Sweden.
Aspect
Netherlands
Sweden
Tuition Fees
- Bachelor's: €9,000–€20,000 per year
- Master's: €12,000–€30,000 per year
- Bachelor's & Master's: SEK 80,000–150,000 per year
Living Expenses
Approximately €800–€1,200 per month, depending on the city.
Approximately SEK 8,000–10,000 per month.
Top Universities
- Delft University of Technology
- University of Amsterdam
- Eindhoven University of Technology
- KTH Royal Institute of Technology (#89 QS 2024)
- Lund University
- Uppsala University
Language
Over 2,100 English-taught programs are available.
Many programs are offered in English, facilitating ease for international students.
Post-Study Work Visa
A one-year "Orientation Year" permit will be required for job search after graduation.
A six-month residence permit to seek employment post-graduation.
Netherlands vs Sweden for Indian Students 2025: Popular Courses
When considering higher education in Europe, Indian students often look to the Netherlands and Sweden for their renowned academic programs and welcoming environments. Both countries offer a range of courses that cater to diverse interests and career goals.
Below is a comparison of the top programs available in each country.
Field of Study
Netherlands
Sweden
Business & Management
Business Administration, International Business, Entrepreneurship
Netherlands vs Sweden for Indian Students 2025: Top Universities
Both countries offer institutions that rank high globally, providing quality education and research opportunities. Below is a comparison of top universities in the Netherlands and Sweden and their QS World University Rankings for 2025.
University in the Netherlands
QS Ranking 2025
University in Sweden
QS Ranking 2025
Delft University of Technology
49
KTH Royal Institute of Technology
74
University of Amsterdam
55
Lund University
75
Utrecht University
105
Uppsala University
103
Eindhoven University of Technology
136
Stockholm University
128
Leiden University
141
Chalmers University of Technology
139
Wageningen University & Research
155
University of Gothenburg
194
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Netherlands vs Sweden for Indian Students 2025: Admission Criteria
Understanding the admission criteria for the Netherlands and Sweden is crucial for a successful application. Below is a detailed overview of the general admission requirements for Indian students aiming to study in the Netherlands and Sweden in 2025.
Criteria
Netherlands
Sweden
Academic Requirements
- Bachelor’s: Higher secondary education equivalent to Dutch pre-university diploma
- Master’s: Bachelor's degree in a related field. Some programs require a minimum GPA
Netherlands vs Sweden for Indian Students 2025: Cost of Studying
Studying abroad is a significant financial investment, and you must understand the cost of learning in the Netherlands and Sweden. While both countries offer high-quality education, tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs differ based on the university type, program, and city of residence.
Below is a detailed comparison of the cost of studying in the Netherlands and Sweden for Indian students in 2025.
Expense
Netherlands
Sweden
Tuition Fees (Bachelor’s)
€9,000 – €20,000 per year
SEK 80,000 – SEK 295,000 ($7,703 – $28,405) per year (INR 6,28,000 – INR 23,16,451)
Tuition Fees (Master’s)
€12,000 – €30,000 per year
SEK 90,000 – SEK 295,000 ($8,678 – $28,405) per year (INR 7,08,000 – INR 23,16,451)
Cost Variation
Varies by university and program.
It depends on the university and level of study.
Netherlands vs Sweden for Indian Students 2025: Cost of Living
Understanding the cost of living is essential for Indian students planning to study in the Netherlands or Sweden. Both countries offer a high standard of living, but expenses vary based on city, accommodation type, and lifestyle choices.
Below is a detailed comparison of the cost of living for Indian students in the Netherlands and Sweden.
Expense
Netherlands (Per Month)
Sweden (Per Month)
Accommodation
€500 – €1,200 (shared or private housing)
SEK 4,000 – SEK 8,500
Food & Groceries
€200 – €400
SEK 2,500 – SEK 4,500
Public Transport
€35 – €100 (student discounts available)
SEK 570 – SEK 1,000
Health Insurance
€100 – €150
SEK 300 – SEK 800
Internet & Utilities
€150 – €250
SEK 800 – SEK 1,500
Miscellaneous
€100 – €300 (entertainment, shopping, etc.)
SEK 1,000 – SEK 3,000
Total Estimated Cost
€1,100 – €2,400
SEK 9,000 – SEK 16,000
Netherlands vs Sweden for Indian Students 2025: Part-Time Work Opportunities
Part-time work is a great way for Indian students to support their living expenses while studying abroad. Both the Netherlands and Sweden allow international students to work part-time, but the rules, working hours, and wages differ between the two countries.
Here’s a comparison of part-time work opportunities for Indian students in 2025.
Criteria
Netherlands
Sweden
Allowed Work Hours
16 hours/week (during term) & full-time in summer
20 hours/week (during term) & full-time in summer
Work Permit Requirement
Yes, for non-EU students. Employers must apply for a work permit.
No work permit is needed for students
Minimum Wage
€13 per hour (varies by age and job)
SEK 130 per hour
Popular Student Jobs
Hospitality, retail, delivery services, tutoring
Retail, restaurants, IT, customer service
Language Requirements
Dutch language skills are preferred, but English jobs are available
English-speaking jobs are available, but Swedish preferred
Netherlands vs Sweden for Indian Students 2025: Student Visa Requirements
If you plan to study in the Netherlands or Sweden, understanding the visa process is crucial. Both countries have specific requirements regarding financial proof, work rights, and post-study stay.
Below is a table with a comparison of student visa requirements for 2025.
Netherlands vs Sweden for Indian Students 2025: Career Scope
One of the most crucial factors for Indian students deciding between the Netherlands and Sweden is job opportunities after graduation. Both countries offer strong employment prospects in various fields, but differences exist in job market demand, post-study work permits, and salaries.
The table below highlights the job prospects for Indian students in both countries.
Factor
Netherlands
Sweden
Job Market Demand
High demand in IT, Finance, Sales, Marketing and Customer Service, Healthcare, Education, Food Processing, Chemicals and Petroleum Refining.
Strong demand in Services (Telecommunications, IT, Biotechnology), Manufacturing (wood pulp and paper products), Machinery and metal products (iron and steel), precision equipment (telephone parts), processed foods and the automotive industry.
Average Graduate Salary
€35,000 - €50,000 per year
SEK 350,000 - SEK 500,000 per year
Work Permit After Studies
Employer-sponsored visa after Zoekjaar
Employer-sponsored visa after 1-year job search
Major Companies
ING Group, Royal Dutch Shell, ABN-AMRO Group, Unilever, Aegon, Philips, Heineken, Amstel, Rabobank, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, KPN
Netherlands vs Sweden for Indian Students 2025: Top Scholarships
Scholarships are crucial in reducing the financial burden for Indian students studying abroad. The Netherlands and Sweden offer various funding options, including government-funded scholarships, university-specific grants, and external financial aid.
Below is a detailed comparison of scholarships available in both countries.
Scholarships in the Netherlands
Scholarships in Sweden
Holland Scholarship
Swedish Institute Scholarship for Global Professionals (SISGP)
Orange Tulip Scholarship (OTS)
Lund University Global Scholarship
Erasmus+ Scholarship
KTH India Scholarship
TU Delft Excellence Scholarship
Chalmers IPOET Scholarship
Utrecht Excellence Scholarship
Karolinska Institutet Global Master’s Scholarship
Want to study in the Netherlands or Sweden without worrying about tuition fees? Discover how to study abroad for free with top scholarships and funding options!
Deciding between the Netherlands vs Sweden for Indian Students comes down to your academic and career priorities. The Netherlands offers globally ranked universities, strong job opportunities, and a multicultural environment, while Sweden excels in research-driven education, innovation, and scholarships. Factors like tuition fees, cost of living, part-time work, and post-study job prospects should guide your choice.
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FAQs About Netherlands vs Sweden for Indian Students 2025
What are the top universities in the Netherlands and Sweden for Indian students?
Both countries boast several prestigious universities. In the Netherlands, institutions like Delft University of Technology and the University of Amsterdam are highly regarded, while Sweden is home to Uppsala University and Lund University.
What is the cost of studying in the Netherlands compared to Sweden?
The cost of studying can vary significantly. Generally, tuition fees in the Netherlands range from €9,000 to €15,000 per year, while in Sweden, they can be between SEK 80,000 to SEK 1,40,000.
How do the living expenses in the Netherlands compare to those in Sweden?
Living expenses in both countries can be high. In the Netherlands, students may spend around €800 to €1,200 per month, while in Sweden, the average monthly cost is approximately SEK 8,000 to SEK 12,000.
What are the visa requirements for Indian students in the Netherlands and Sweden?
Indian students must apply for a student visa (MVV) for the Netherlands and a residence permit to study in Sweden. Both processes require proof of admission, financial stability, and health insurance.
Are there scholarships available for Indian students in the Netherlands and Sweden?
Yes, both countries offer various scholarships. The Netherlands has the Orange Tulip Scholarship, while Sweden offers the Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals.
What are the career prospects for Indian students after studying in the Netherlands and Sweden?
Both countries have strong job markets, especially in technology and engineering. Graduates from the Netherlands and Sweden often find opportunities in multinational companies and startups.
What are the disadvantages of studying in Netherlands for Indian students?
Some disadvantages include the high cost of living, potential language barriers, and a competitive job market, which may pose challenges for international students.
Is Netherlands better than Sweden for finding part-time work as a student?
Both countries allow students to work part-time, but the availability of jobs may vary. The Netherlands has a more extensive job market, while Sweden emphasises work-life balance.
How does the cultural experience differ between studying in the Netherlands and Sweden?
The Netherlands is known for its vibrant, multicultural environment, while Sweden offers a more reserved yet inclusive culture. Both provide unique experiences for international students.
Which is better Netherlands or Sweden?
If you’re wondering Netherlands vs Sweden which is better, the choice depends on your study and career goals. Both countries provide high-quality education and post-study work opportunities, making considering your field of research and budget essential.
What are the language requirements for studying in the Netherlands and Sweden?
Most programs in both countries are offered in English, but some knowledge of the local language can be beneficial for daily life and job opportunities.
How do the post-study work opportunities compare in the Netherlands and Sweden?
Both countries offer post-study work permits. The Netherlands allows graduates to stay for up to one year to seek employment, while Sweden offers a similar opportunity for up to 12 months.
Netherlands vs Sweden for Masters: Which country offers better opportunities?
For a Master’s degree, the Netherlands offers a balance of affordability, high-quality education, and strong industry connections, particularly in business and tech. Sweden is ideal for research-oriented engineering, IT, and environmental science students.
What is the application process for universities in the Netherlands and Sweden?
The application process typically involves submitting academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, a statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation. Deadlines may vary by institution.
A banker turned content marketer. Vaishali has worked with multiple banks across their asset and lending divisions and spent almost a decade in finance. An MBA in Marketing and a writer at heart, she finally took up content marketing and now simplifies money talks for the readers.
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