Netherlands 2016/17 - grants and loans

Student grants

Depending on parental income, a supplementary grant is available to a maximum of EUR 384 per month. This does not need to be repaid if the student graduates within 10 years, but the maximum loan amount is lowered. On average students enrolled in 2015/16 received an annual amount of ca. EUR 3 900.

Students who are delayed in their studies due to medical conditions have a right to an extra year of student finance. They are also eligible for a loan remittance up to EUR 1 200 if they graduate within 10 years.

For all eligible students public transport is free, either weekdays or at the weekends according to their choice.

'Vouchers' for professional training: Students that start in higher education (HBO or university) for the first time between 2015/16 and 2018/19 receive a voucher for professional training when they graduate. This voucher has a maximum value of EUR 2 000 and can be used between 5 and 10 years after graduation.

Loans

Students enrolled in higher professional education or university since 1 September 2015 can apply for a state loan – maximum of EUR 1 028 per month. This is composed of two loans: one to cover living costs, with a maximum of EUR 862.50 per month and the other of EUR 165 per month to cover tuition fees. Those students already enrolled before 2015 are eligible for need-based grants running for the standard length of programmes.

Students can take out the same amount of loan for a further three years after graduation. The loan repayment period is 35 years. The amount to be repaid per month depends on the size of the loan, personal income and interest rates (0.01 % in 2016). When income is below the minimum wage no loan repayments are required. After 35 years, outstanding debt is waived. It is also possible to reduce payments when income decreases by at least 15 %.