Before you arrive

We know that moving to a different country to study is exciting, but quite often students also feel a little bit nervous as they prepare to leave their home. This is perfectly normal and we are all here to help you settle in. Holland is a small country where it’s easy to get around by foot, bicycle, train or car. Visit Study in Holland website for a great insight into what you can expect. 

It won’t take you long before you are accustomed to living here, and we will organise events to help you get to know your course mates and build friendships. The Student Committee at the International Study Centre often organises social events and trips for everyone throughout the year, from visits to local museums and movie nights to day trips to other nearby cities.

The Netherlands is a multicultural country and you will find local shops will sell most things you will need. If you can’t find what you’re looking for locally then some of the larger supermarkets stock a wider range of international products. There are also restaurants serving cuisine from around the world.

Most people speak English very well – around 95% in fact – so you don’t need to learn Dutch to study here. We’ll teach you a few useful phrases in class as part of an introduction to Dutch culture and language though, giving you the opportunity to settle fully into your new home.

It’s a well-known fact that Holland has more bicycles than residents. Its flat landscape and specially-designed road systems make it the easiest way to travel around. Plus if you’re a resident at The Student Hotel, you’ll have free use of a bicycle while you live there.