How to Choose the Right Study Program in the Netherlands (Even If You’re Not Sure What You Want Yet)

denize17
6 dagen geleden
3 minuten om te lezen

Choosing what to study after high school — or later in life — can be overwhelming. In the Netherlands, the range of study programs, universities, application systems, and educational levels (HBO, WO, MBO) is wide. And if you’re not sure what your passion is yet, making the “right” decision can feel almost impossible.

But here’s the truth:You don’t have to have it all figured out before you begin.This blog helps you explore your options with structure, confidence, and clarity.

1. Understand the Dutch Higher Education System

In the Netherlands, you’ll often hear about MBO, HBO, and WO:

MBO: Practical and hands-on (secondary vocational education)
HBO: Higher professional education, applied sciences (Universities of Applied Sciences)
WO: Academic and research-oriented (Research Universities)

👉 Not sure which one fits you? It's not just about your diploma level — it’s about your learning style, interests, and goals.

Tip: Visit open days, ask about class sizes, and find out how theoretical vs. practical the programs are.

2. Identify What You Don’t Want (First)

If you don’t know exactly what you want — that’s okay.Start by defining what doesn’t fit. Ask yourself:

Do I want a very theoretical study?
Am I more energized by real-world projects or lab work?
Do I prefer working in teams or alone?
What kind of future job would I find stressful or boring?

This can help narrow the field and create clarity by elimination.

3. Use Real Tools — Not Just Gut Feeling

Don’t guess. Explore.

Study Choice Tests: Platforms like Studiekeuze123 and Qompas can help.
Interest Checkers: Look at what study programs align with personality types.
Coach Sessions: Talking to an experienced coach can help you translate interests into real study directions.

4. Ask the Right Questions at Open Days

If you're attending open days or trial days, go in prepared. Ask:

What does a regular week of this program look like?
How much freedom is there in choosing minors or electives?
What kind of internships or real-world experiences are included?
What do graduates end up doing?

These give you a better picture than brochures ever will.

5. Don’t Choose Based on Status or Pressure

It’s tempting to choose a study because “it sounds impressive” or “your parents expect it.” But the right program isn’t always the most prestigious — it’s the one that fits you.

A well-chosen HBO program can lead to more success and job satisfaction than a poorly chosen university degree. And vice versa.

6. Allow Space for Uncertainty

Still unsure? That’s okay.

Taking a structured gap year with guidance, doing a career orientation program, or speaking to a study coach is often better than rushing into a program you’re not excited about.

You don’t need to be 100% sure.But you do need to take the time to explore.

7. NEQXT Helps You Explore — Without Pressure

At NEQXT, we help Dutch and international students in the Netherlands who feel unsure about their study choice. Our approach combines:

Personal coaching
Career and interest assessments
Exploring suitable studies in English or Dutch
Understanding the system and application deadlines
Creating a plan — without pressure

We don’t tell you what to study.We help you figure out what fits you.

Ready to start exploring?

📩 Schedule a free intake session or check out our study coaching options:www.neqxt.nl

NEQXT For the in-between phase. And the bigger picture.