Bert van Essen, Author at XPAT.NL

The Netherlands is an absolute Cycling Paradise

With its flat countryside, stunning nature parks, green meadows, canalside paths, seaside vistas and cyclist-friendly villages and cities, it is no wonder that the Netherlands has more bicycles than inhabitants. Peter de Lange – a bicycle enthusiast who knows the bicycle routes through the country like the back of his hand – has created a book that not only explains how cycling became an intrinsic part of Dutch culture, but also makes it impossible for those who did not grow up on spokes and saddles to resist the urge to join the locals – from primary school children to prime ministers – on the more than 37,000 kilometers of bicycle paths that criss-cross the country.

In the Netherlands, bicycles are for everyone – tall people, small people, people with physical challenges, racing enthusiasts – and they are welcome everywhere; ranging from Veluwe National Park, where you can pick up a bicycle for free to roam its extensive woodlands and heaths; to fietscafés, where you can meet people who share your passion; to the foundation Vrienden op de Fiets, which offers a network of cheap and welcoming places throughout the country to spend the night, exclusively for cyclists and hikers.

Throughout the book you are treated to a feast of photographs showcasing the beloved wheels of the Dutch, while forty pages are dedicated to a selection of the most beautiful cycling routes in the Netherlands, ready and waiting for you to explore!

Published by XPat Media Publishers
Price: €17.50
Paperback with flaps
160 pages
richly illustrated with more than 200 photos
17 x 23 cm
ISBN: 978 94 6319 2279
Preview

To order this book please go to Hollandbooks.nl

Four Legal Differences You Need to Consider When Relocating to the Netherlands

Relocating to any country is a big step. Aside from all the cultural differences and language barriers the way the legal system and paperwork work are often different depending on the country. In this article, we will discuss the most important legal changes you will need to know about if you are planning to move to The Netherlands.

Health Insurance

Unlike many other countries, like the USA, every resident of The Netherlands is required by law to have at least the standard bare minimum of health insurance. This can seem like a chore or unnecessary expense but people in The Netherlands respect this law and largely believe the government has their best interests at heart. Just keep in mind that at some point you are likely to require medical attention. So, how does it work? Well even for the cheapest health insurance you will need to pay a nominal premium. Depending on the insurance company it will cost approximately € 1,200 – € 1,450 per year. Also you will make an income-dependent contribution for The ZVW (Health Insurance Act), but this will usually be supplemented by your employer.

Visas and Work Permits

The Netherlands has an approach to visas and work permits that might work in your favour. Residents of some countries are allowed to enter and work in The Netherlands without the need for either. These include: EU/EEA and Swiss nationals who don’t need anything other than their own national ID’s to work anywhere in the Netherlands and for those from Australia and Canada, only work permits are required. If you do need a visa as a working expat, they are inexpensive, usually costing around €300.

Laws Around Drugs

Despite what you may have heard, drugs are not legal in The Netherlands. In fact, all the drugs that are illegal in your country are also likely to be illegal to produce, possess, sell, import and export in the Netherlands. The only small difference is that smoking cannabis is tolerated, but only under strict terms and conditions. Of course, this does not mean that most of the population of the country smoke weed a lot or even at all. It is just worth considering to avoid unwanted surprises.

Laws Around Cycling

Cycling is extremely popular in The Netherlands with cities designed with bikes in mind. It may, therefore, come as a surprise to know that the only safety precautions you need to invest in before hitting the roads on your bike are a bell and lights, rightly or wrongly it is not a legal requirement to wear a helmet. The laws on the road are also different to most countries in The Netherlands as cyclists are granted the right of way. So please avoid walking on cycle paths and keep a close eye out for cyclists when driving.

Liberal Laws Around Prostitution

One of the more liberal laws in The Netherlands is the approach the country takes to prostitution. The laws were relaxed to help the sex workers and their clients keep as safe as possible. This means that prostitution is only legal between two consenting adults who are of age. The government is also planning to increase the legal age for sex workers to over 21. Of course, just like drugs, this does not mean prostitution is a common part of most people’s lives in The Netherlands.

From the cheapest health insurance to its more liberal laws, The Netherlands has a beautiful culture and society that is definitely worth experiencing. This article does not cover everything you need to know before you move, so make sure you do your research thoroughly to ensure you are fully prepared to make the most of this amazing country.

Taking Online Courses in the Netherlands

The Netherlands is a good destination for people looking for better job opportunities. An academic certificate from a Dutch-based institution can boost your CV. While attending a physical classroom is a good experience, it might not work if you need to balance work and school. Thanks to modern education technology, you can opt for an online course.

Advantages of Online Courses

Like the rest of the world, the Dutch education system has always favoured the brick-and-mortar setup. However, with the growth of the internet, online classes are gradually becoming a norm. A study by the Babson Survey Research Group found that about 33 per cent of college students take at least one course online. The research also showed that these classes are as effective, and sometimes even more efficient, than the traditional in-person classroom courses.

Some of the advantages of an online course are:

Your job will not suffer because of school work as you can schedule your study times during your free time.
You can study in a college or university in any part of the country from the comfort of your home.
You determine the pace of your study so it is possible to take a shorter time to complete than when attending physical classes.

Top Online Courses to Consider

Even though there are many online courses, some are more beneficial to expats than others. They include:

Course in the Dutch language: If you are moving to the Netherlands but cannot speak Dutch, then you should start here. It will not only help you on the streets or in the coffee shop but also boost your career as you will more easily communicate with colleagues and be able to express your ideas.
Courses in your current career: Opting for a course that will help you up the corporate ladder will be more beneficial than learning just for the sake of it. Studies show that 68 per cent of online students are experienced professionals.

How to Choose an Online College

Some of the key factors to consider when choosing a college are:

Language: If you need to study in the Netherlands, you will find about 2,100 courses offered in English.
Accreditation: Employers in the Netherlands only consider certificates from accredited learning institutions.
Flexibility: Part-time learning is the best arrangement if you must attend a live classroom at specific times of the day.
Fees: Some colleges offer financial aid to expats taking online courses, but you should still make sure tuition fees are within your budget.

Conclusion

Thanks to the internet, you can earn a degree without attending a traditional classroom. Use online courses to improve your employability in the competitive Dutch job market. It will be helpful to research extensively to determine the course that will be most beneficial to your stay in the Netherlands.

An Introduction to the Top 3 Modes of Transport in the Netherlands

The Netherlands is a well-run, innovative and modern place to live while still maintaining lots of interesting, historical buildings. So, it should come as no surprise that transport across the country is easy, affordable and impressively organised. This article will look at everything from ease-of-use laws to helpful tips on finding the cheapest car insurance and where to buy your metro tickets.

Bicycles and Cycling

Cycling is the most popular mode of transport here. Not only do 36% of residents say they most frequently travel by bike, but an overall 27% of all nationwide trips are made by bike. This is somewhat unsurprising when you see how the cities, roads and laws are designed to aid and encourage cyclists. Unlike most places, in The Netherlands, cyclists are given right of way. In addition, two cyclists can ride side by side, so long as they are not holding up traffic, and in some cases, cyclists can turn right at a red traffic light.

Cars and Driving

In The Netherlands, cars drive on the right side of the road and the minimum age for driving a car is 18 years old; for a moped, it’s 16. In addition, you must only drive with a hands-free kit as is the law in most of Europe.

All vehicle owners are required to take out third party car insurance. Called WA (Wettelijke Aansprakelijkheid) in Dutch, this insurance covers damages to people, cars and property should you be involved in an accident. It is worth shopping around to find the cheapest car insurance.

Trains and Metros

Overall The Netherlands is a country that is well-served by trains and metros. Perhaps due to its flat terrain, the cities are well-connected by the Dutch National railway system. The trains themselves are very comfortable with first and second class carriages, and single and double-decker trains. You can purchase a Holland Travel Ticket or Amsterdam Region Ticket online in advance.

There are three metro systems in The Netherlands based in Amsterdam, Rotterdam and The Hague. Each of them is modern, smoothly run with minimum delays and easily affordable. You can pick up your metro travel tickets from tobacco shops, GVB trams, buses and metro lines in any of the cities in which they operate. Those in Amsterdam cover metros, trains and busses.

The Netherlands is a great place to live and getting around is simple. Even if you don’t speak the language, it’s easy to figure it out and stations are well-staffed with people who can help you. However, it is always worth preparing yourself before you arrive and if you want to fully immerse yourself in the Dutch culture, getting a bicycle is obviously the best option.

Green Energy in The Netherlands

The Netherlands has been a long-standing supporter of green environmental initiatives and is ahead of many countries. Aside from the obvious environmental benefits the nation’s passion for cycling provides, there are a number of different elements that contribute to its low carbon footprint. In this article, we will investigate some of the key environmental initiatives that make this nation so eco-friendly.

Renewable Energy

Since 2018, The Netherlands has been focussed on switching energy sources and now produces over 7% of its energy from renewable sources. Although there is still quite some way to go, The Netherlands is doing very well in terms of renewable energy used in households. In 2009, it was found to have 41% of all household energy coming from renewable sources.

Unsurprisingly from a nation that is famous for its windmills, Holland is a pioneer of the development of wind energy. Currently, the nation’s power grid has plans to build the biggest wind farm in the world on a man-made island off the coast of The Netherlands. It’s land-based wind farms have powered the tech giant Microsoft in the past and already power many of Dutch homes.

The Netherlands is also a trailblazer in terms of solar energy, expanding its solar market by 60% in 2017 alone. Now, well over half a million homes run on solar energy and its popularity is still surging. A new project started by Oceans of Energy and Utrecht University will focus on converting seaweed farms into floating solar energy farms through innovative new technology and processes.

Transport and Travel

The Netherland’s flat terrain makes it perfect for cyclists and has made cycling the most popular mode of transport for many. However, it is not just the natural landscape that makes it so perfect for riding. The cities are designed with cyclists in mind and so are the laws. For example, cyclists in The Netherlands have right of way and are allowed to ride without a helmet. Additionally, Holland has made a commitment to provide 100% emissions-free busses over the next five years and they have plans to remove all gas and diesel vehicles by the year 2030.

Greenhouse Gasses

In 2010, the Dutch government agreed to cut emissions of harmful greenhouse gasses. Currently, the aim is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 25% by the end of 2020 in comparison to its emissions in 1990. That is a full 5% more than the target all nations in the EU agreed to.

From switching energy sources to transportation, you can see The Netherlands is amidst an exciting push to become a greener, more eco-friendly nation. Plus, with the surging prices of fossil fuels, homeowners in The Netherlands are sure to have the opportunity to save money while also doing their bit to help the environment.

Unraveling the Mysteries of Culture

Professor Geert Hofstede, one of the Netherlands’ most widely cited and translated scholars, passed away in February 2020, at the age of 91. Hofstede is known for his pioneering research on cross-cultural groups and organizations and has been a great source of inspiration to those who have tried to unravel the mysteries of culture. At the heart of Professor Hofstede’s work is the question: what are the mutual role expectations between the archetypical role pair of teacher and students in different cultures? The way these roles are played is guided by deeply-rooted values which lead to feelings about good and evil, right and wrong, rational and irrational, proper and improper. These feelings burden cross-cultural learning with premature judgments that can come from teachers, students and parents.

Social Dilemmas

Through his research, Geert Hofstede extracted four fundamental social dilemmas: the relationship to power (hierarchical or egalitarian), the relationship to the group (collectivistic or individualistic), the relationship to motivation and, finally, the relationship to uncertainty, culminating in his four cultural dimensions: the Hofstede Model. These dimensions have helped many people better understand the perplexities of cross-cultural education, most of which I have experienced and witnessed myself as an expat child, expat parent and intercultural trainer.

Educational Track

Consider the power dilemma and the different social positions teachers have in different cultures. In cultures that are more sensitive to hierarchy, as I witnessed as a child in Colombia, students from privileged families will often have access to a privileged educational track – private schools, private tutors and a wealth of learning resources – but not so in more egalitarian cultures. In the Netherlands, a teacher is nothing more or less than anybody else. The same applies to the students – one is not better than the other. The Dutch school system is anti-elitist and there are relatively few private schools in the country. Kids attending a private school are often seen as rich kids who do not have the intellectual capacity to successfully complete ‘normal’ schools. This egalitarian approach often baffles parents from cultures in which different school systems cater to the different needs of the various social groups in society.

More egalitarian and individualistic cultures have developed a more conceptual learning style, requiring students to apply their knowledge in different situations

Teaching Style

Adding the dimension of individualism to the equation, the differences become even larger. Contemplate the way knowledge is managed. In the Chinese Confucian tradition, the ‘teacher’ is the most respected profession. The Chinese and many other hierarchical and collectivistic cultures have developed a reverence for the tutor, the guru. These societies are more likely to have established a rote learning pattern, which, simply put, is the storage of the data in the brain, without necessarily understanding the concept. The teaching style is one-directional, and students become good at copy-pasting. It often involves a focus on the creation of tacit knowledge, knowing what to do or say rather than why.

Other, more egalitarian and individualistic cultures have developed a more conceptual learning style, requiring students to apply their knowledge in different situations. There is more focus on explicit knowledge – knowing how. Having switched from these different styles myself, from rote learning in Latin America to conceptual learning after returning to the Netherlands, I remember having been frustrated with the apparent disorder in my new Dutch classroom. I saw little respect for the teachers and could hardly develop respect myself for these teachers, who let us, children, find our own ways – creating what seemed to me a mess.

Curriculum

Hofstede has also described how societies have different inclinations to avoid uncertainty – this is demonstrated in how one society will focus on the relevance of the curriculum, while another will find a more flexible learning path acceptable. In the former, especially if these are more hierarchical and centralized, it is normal for the curriculum to be dictated ‘from above’. Methodology and content are closely monitored by the government. A teacher is expected to be the expert and have all the answers; deference and obedience are virtues. In other – individualistic and decentralized – cultures, such as the Netherlands, schools and their faculty have more freedom to develop their own curriculum and learning method. The learning outcomes are measured against a standard set by the Ministry of Education. Also, teachers in these cultures welcome and stimulate intellectual challenge by students. Critical thinking is seen as a skill that is important to develop and a great asset later in life, in the workplace.

A six, on a scale of ten, is a good enough score to pass their courses and gives the children spare time to enjoy other aspects of life

Sixes

We have discussed how the differences in hierarchy, individualism and uncertainty affect cross- cultural education. The final difference in the Hofstede framework is in what motivates students. The Netherlands, often to the astonishment of expat parents, has what we call the zesjes culture: the culture of the sixes. A six, on a scale of ten, is a good enough score to pass their courses and gives the children spare time to enjoy other aspects of life. I attended university in the United States with a group of 18 Dutch students. Rather than trying to be the best in the class, we helped each other achieve our goal to earn our master’s degree, all the while allowing us to enjoy the pleasures of local Arizona life which included rafting, hiking, skiing and hot tubbing – pleasures we did not have back home. Later in life and back in the United States, my wife and I were put off by the high level of competition our son was subjected to in elementary school.

We cannot expect local schools to adapt their style and methods to the needs of all their expat students. We can expect tutors, adolescent students and parents, however, to develop an awareness of the different roles and learning expectations that exist in cross-cultural education. “Thank you for helping me take off my cultural glasses,” said one expat parent after one of my workshops. “I am more confident now that my 11-year-old daughter will get the education we want her to have. And, I guess, she’d better become a more outspoken and a critical thinker in order to defend herself here in the Netherlands.” I was not sure her wink was one of relief or mockery.

Geert Hofstede has provided us with a unique and valuable systematic framework for assessing and differentiating national cultures and organizational cultures, even in education. We will honor Hofstede’s legacy by accepting his guidance and helping each other to recognize, understand, accept and reconciliate cultural differences. It will help us remove our prejudices and see that we have more in common than not.

Jan Vincent Meertens is author, consultant and coach specializing in cross-cultural interaction. He is chairman of the Connect2Us Foundation and Associate Partner of Hofstede- Insights.

Why Do the Dutch Speak English So Well?

The Dutch are internationally known for the fact that their English is of a very high standard.

Why is that?

Well, there are a couple of reasons.

Technical – Proximity

On a technical level, the Dutch language has its roots in the Indo-European languages (like German and English itself). For that reason, grammar structures (and often words) are very comparable in the two languages (e.g. “geef mij dat” becomes “give me that”). Compare this to Latin languages (Spanish, Italian, and French), that have a totally different structure (and grammar structures like the ’subjunctive’ that doesn’t exist in Dutch and English) – and you can appreciate the difference.

Another reason for the high level of English spoken by the Dutch is that we’ve always been a sea-going nation; trade has been at the center of Dutch society for hundreds of years. This entrepreneurial and global mindset has led to a lot of international business where you need a good level of English to be able to do your trade. In addition to this, many international companies have set up (European) headquarters in the Netherlands. Think of Ikea, Unilever, Starbucks, and more recently after Brexit, the European Medical Agency.

Subtitles & James Bond

According to the English Proficiency Index, the Dutch rank number 1, while the Germans rank number 10. Why is it then, if German and Dutch stem from the same mother-language and are quite comparable to each other, that the German level of English is so much worse (or lower) than that of the Dutch?

Here’s the complete top 10:

Netherlands
Sweden
Norway
Denmark
Singapore
South Africa
Finland
Austria
Luxembourg
Germany

Belgium ranks 13 (this could be due to the fact that in the south of Belgium people speak French), France, 31.

Typically, in the countries surrounding the Netherlands (with the exception of Flanders, Belgium), English/American TV shows and movies are audio-dubbed, and not subtitled as they are in the Netherlands. Hence, the degree of exposure to the English language is simply a lot lower.

Cultural – Predictability

The cultural component playing a role here is that the countries surrounding the Netherlands all score significantly higher on a cultural dimension called Predictability. This means that these countries are less entrepreneurial – they prefer to stick to the language they already know/speak –and are therefore more likely to audio-dub (so that James Bond speaks the local language).

I Always Get My Sin

The title of the book I Always Get My Sin, by Maarten H. Rijkens, illustrates clearly that the level of English isn’t the same for everyone. There are plenty of Dutch people who simply take Dutch words and Engli-fy them, leading to very weird sentences and expressions. Below is a short list of how this will or can look.

“My compliments to your cock for the lovely diner.”
“Where can I buy an uploader for my telephone?”
“We would like to go on step.”
“Where can I strike my shirts?”
“Is this fish or flesh?”
“We would like to rent a topless car.”
“At what time can we go on table?”
“Where can we put our mail on the bus?”
“Can you give me a tip?”
“The wine is up.”

Not that this generates any embarrassment for the Dutch, though – as the other side will probably not know how to begin to correct them.

Pronunciation

And finally, there is the almost famous way the Dutch pronounce English. (Though, to be fair, every non-native English-speaker has their distinct way of pronouncing things. Think about the Germans and the French…) Among the Dutch there is a wide spectrum of pronunciation, ranging from – on the one side – the Vice-President of the European Council, Frans Timmermans (close to perfect English with a close to perfect accent) and – on the other side – famous football trainer, Louis van Gaal. Louis van Gaal has mastered the skill of speaking so-called “charcoal-English” (steenkolen-Engels), whereby no effort is made to pronounce the words in a way that comes even remotely close to how the British or the Americans pronounce them.

To Summarize

For many of the Dutch people – close to 93% of the population – English is not seen as a foreign language anymore. It is seen more as a second language in this country. Therefore, don’t be surprised if, when you order your Big Mac at McDonalds or check in at a hotel, you will have to do this in English – simply because the other person doesn’t even speak Dutch.

Want to better understand the Dutch and learn how to work with them? Get in touch with Chris Smit at culturematters.com or send an email to chris.smit@culturematters.com.

Have you ever worn an Eastpak? It is about time

Eastpak is the most popular worn backpack. It already exists since the fifties of the last century. We will tell you the story.

The first Eastpak was made in the fifties for the American Army. Soldiers had to walk comfortable and have their hands free. The first Eastpak bag ( eastpak tas ) was born. Great bags made of strong materials.

Students at the universities noticed these strong backpacks immediately and started using them for taking their books with them. After that also other students at highschools wanted an Eastpak.

Lots of students want the Eastpak out of office

Nowadays the Eastpak backpack is still a strong brand. Lots of students still want an Eastpak bag. The Matt and nat is the most basic Eastpak that is worn to school. With its rounded top you recognize this bag immediately. The bag is available in many colours and many prints.

In the Out of office fits a 13 inch laptop and it contents 27 liters. Place enough for all your necessities. Made out of polyester this is a strong backpack that goes for years. It has padded shoulder straps so it carries very comfortable on the back.

A great Fanny pack: the Eastpak Springer

An other popular model is the Herschel. A great Fanny pack for everyday use. You wear it around your hips or crossbody. Made out of polyester it can hold your wallet, keys and creditcards. You wear it close to your body so pick pockets have no chance.

This comfortable small bag became popular for use during festivals, but nowadays they are used for far more purposes. Even when you go shopping it is an easy to carry bag.

They are made in many colours and have a strong zipper on the front. Do you go for a grey or black one, or are you more into a pink or green Springer? Combine it with your outfit, and you will be fashionable all the way.

Going to University in the Netherlands

For those seeking an English-language study program, the Netherlands is one of the most accessible countries to explore, for a variety of reasons.
For starters, over 2,100 courses are on offer here in English, constituting 23% of the bachelor’s degrees on offer here and 74% of the master’s degrees.

Tuition

Another reason why studying here is so attractive is because the level of education is high, with some faculties ranking higher than world-famous universities across the world, while tuition is relatively low. Students from EEA (European Economic Area) countries, Switzerland and Surinam pay a tuition fee of €2,143 (academic year 2020-2021), while students from other countries pay between €6,000 and €15,000 for a bachelor’s degree, and between €8,000 and €20,000 for a master’s degree. Compare that to, for instance, $26,000 – $36,000 per year in the US (for non-state residents) and $10,230 for state residents.

International Students

There are almost 86,000 non-Dutch nationals in the Dutch universities, from 170 countries, 27% of which are outside Europe. When it comes to bachelor’s degrees, 53% of the international students go to a research university and 47% to a university of applied sciences. While the percentage of international students is 11.5 of all students in the Netherlands, they constitute 23.6% of all students obtaining a research university master’s degree.

You’ll notice just how international the Dutch universities are when you visit their so-called open days, where you can follow short classes, meet current students and obtain information about the courses. The pamphlets are available in English, many of the introductory classes are given in English and, among the current students grabbing a bite to eat in the cafeteria, English appears to be the main language – if only because in every group there’s at least one student who doesn’t speak Dutch.

Two Types of University

The higher education system in the Netherlands is based on a three-cycle degree system, consisting of a bachelor’s, master’s and – if you want – Ph.D. degree. It is offered at two types of institutions: research universities (WO / universiteit) and universities of applied sciences (HBO / hogeschool).

Research Universities

Academic education (universiteit) is offered to students with an IB-Diploma or the Dutch VWO – or their equivalent – by universities in Maastricht, Eindhoven, Tilburg, Nijmegen, Wageningen, Enschede, Groningen, Utrecht, Amsterdam, Leiden, Delft, and Rotterdam. Some of these universities also have faculties / departments in other cities.

The university degree programs are organized around a bachelor’s or undergraduate phase that lasts three years and a master’s or graduate phase that lasts one to three years. These universities offer research-oriented programs (Wetenschappelijk Onderwijs, WO) and the possibility to conduct research in a wide range of disciplines: language and culture, behavior and society, economics, law, medical and health sciences, natural sciences, mathematics, engineering, and agriculture.

As many Dutch universities have partner institutions in other countries, students can follow part of their degree program course abroad. Your university can tell you with which universities it has an exchange agreement.

Hogescholen or ‘Universities of Applied Sciences’

Universities of applied sciences offer higher professional education (Hoger beroepsonderwijs, HBO), which focuses on applied arts and sciences in one of the seven HBO sectors: agriculture, engineering and technology, economics and business administration, health care, fine and performing arts, education / teacher training, and social welfare.

The universities of applied sciences offer four-year bachelor’s degree programs as well as master’s programs lasting one to two years. All degree programs focus on preparing students for particular professions. They tend to be more practically-oriented than programs offered by research universities. In addition to lectures, seminars, projects and independent study, students are often required to complete an internship or work placement (stage) which normally takes up part of the third year of study, as well as a final project or a major paper in the fourth year.

International Education

Next to the research universities and universities of applied sciences, Holland has a third and smaller branch of higher education, officially known as ‘International Education’ (IE). International education offers advanced training courses, taught in English, originally designed for people from developing countries whose jobs require highly-specialized knowledge. Most of the IE institutions are part of a research university and focus on courses relevant to developing countries.

There are almost 86,000 non-Dutch nationals in the Dutch universities, from 170 countries

Finding a Study Program Here and Abroad

The site www.studyfinder.nl offers international students an independent and reliable overview of international study programs offered by the Dutch higher education institutions, ranging from short training seminars to full-fledged bachelor’s and master’s degree programs. On www.scholarshipportal.com you will find an overview of the financial support available from many different sources for those who want to study in Europe.

Requirements for Admission to Higher Education

For access to WO bachelor’s programs, students are required to have an IB diploma, a VWO diploma or – in some cases – to have completed the first year (60 ECTS, see further on) of an HBO program. The minimum access requirement for HBO is an IB-diploma (and, in some cases, the IGCSE-diploma with two additional subjects at GCE-level), the Dutch HAVO / VWO diploma or a level-4 MBO-diploma. Students with four GCSEs with marks ranging from A*-C, plus two GCEs at A/S level are also eligible for admission. Potential students older than 21 years of age who do not possess one of the qualifications mentioned above can qualify for access to higher education on the basis of an entrance examination and assessment.

To determine whether your diploma qualifies, if you have a non-Dutch secondary school diploma or an IB diploma, you must have your diploma evaluated by your prospective educational institution.

Institutions may have additional admission requirements. You first need to find a study program and then check its particular admission requirements, and if there are any additional ones. To follow an English-language course, you must speak, read and write English well, and you will be required to show that you have passed an English language test. IELTS and TOEFL are commonly accepted, but institutions may accept other tests as well, such as Cambridge English.

Deadlines and DigiD

If you want to study in the Netherlands, keep an eye out for the application deadlines. In some cases, for instance numerus fixus study programs, this is January 15. For most other study programs, it is May 1. With some universities, you need to apply via the Studielink website – so be sure to check with your prospective study program whether this is the case for you. In order to register via Studielink, you will need a DigiD – this is a digital identity used to arrange certain things online, such as taxes, healthcare, insurance, etc. You request a DigiD online – for which you will need another of those Dutch acronyms; a BSN (burgerservicenummer, or citizen service number), as well as a mobile phone number and an email address. After about five days, you will receive a letter by mail with an activation code – so be sure to take this into account when preparing to register!

Associate’s Degree

The associate’s degree (it goes by the same name in Dutch) program is a two-year ‘short cycle’ degree program offered by universities of applied sciences. It enables students to obtain a professional qualification in a shorter period of time and can help them learn the skills and competencies needed to improve their chances on the job market. Access requirements to an associate’s degree program are the same as for an HBO bachelor’s program (they don’t accept all MBO diplomas, however). Once they have obtained an associate’s degree, graduates can seek employment or continue in the last two years of an HBO-program, to obtain a bachelor’s degree.

International Secondary Vocational Education

There is a network of bilingual MBO schools in the Netherlands, currently consisting of 40 schools. At a bilingual MBO school, 50% of the curriculum is taught in English. Students who graduate from a bilingual MBO school are obligated to obtain an internationally-acknowledged diploma or certificate such as BTEC, BULATS, Cambridge or Anglia. Another important part of bilingual education is the focus on international awareness in the curriculum, for instance through international internships or projects. At the moment, there are several MBO schools that offer full degrees in English, like ROC Mondriaan and the Summa College. Other schools in the Netherlands are extending their curricula with international courses, like ROC Amsterdam, where students can follow an intensive one-year international course in denim development.

European Business Baccalaureate Diploma

Recently, a new program has been developed: the European Business Baccalaureate Diploma (EBBD), which is recognized all across Europe. The program focuses on business competence and soft skills in an international environment, for professions in the area of business administration. In the Netherlands, the Summa College in Eindhoven, Koning Willem I College in Den Bosch and ROC Midden Nederland in Utrecht offer this program. For more information check www.eurobacdiploma.eu.

Choosing a University

The Dutch system of quality control guarantees that the education offered at all the institutions meets the same high standards. When Dutch students choose where they want to study, they are not thinking of which research university or university of applied sciences is best, but instead are looking at which specializations are offered and which emphasis or academic tradition is featured. On www.studyfinder.nl you can search and compare English-language study programs based on the criteria that matter to you.

How do you know for sure that your course or program is of the right quality? Find out whether it has been accredited by the Accreditation Organization of the Netherlands and Flanders (Nederlands Vlaamse Accreditatie Organisatie, www.nvao.com), which has been appointed by the Dutch and Flemish government for the purpose of monitoring the quality of the higher education courses and programs on offer. All Dutch higher institutions that you will find on www.studyfinder.nl have signed the Code of Conduct. Find out more which institutions have signed the Code of Conduct on www.internationalstudy.nl.

Making the Transition

In principle, if you want to come to the Netherlands as a student, you can only come here to follow a particular course (or full study program) and you must meet all requirements. There are, however, three exceptions to this. The first is: if you meet all requirements for studying in the Netherlands, you are allowed to come here for a year first to study Dutch. The second is: if you do not meet all requirements, you can come here for a year to follow a preparatory program for the particular study of your choice. The third option is the so-called foundation year (schakeljaar); a transitional year that has been created for specifically for non-European, non-Western students to help them prepare for their studies here.

Studiefinanciering

Based on studiefinanciering rules, students starting in September 2020 can take out a maximum loan of € 1,076 (including a tuition fee loan). If you have a right to the studiefinanciering-loan, you also have a right to the Studenten OV-chipkaart, with which you can travel by public transportation for free either during the weekend or on weekdays (your choice) and at reduced rates during the other days. This public transportation pass is subject to the condition that you complete your studies within ten years.

If you are a non-Dutch national, legally residing in the Netherlands, you can apply for the studiefinanciering-loan if:

· you are enrolled in a recognized, full-time or dual course of at least one year

· you are an EU/EEA/Swiss national and lived in the Netherlands for five consecutive years with a maximum interruption of six months, or if you (or your non-Dutch parent or partner) did

· you have a type I, II, III or IV or V residence permit.

DUO strongly advises foreign EU-students (if you have not been living in the Netherlands for five consecutive years or more) to contact one of their support offices. They can provide you with further information. EU/EEA/Swiss nationals who do not qualify for the studiefinanciering-loan, can apply for a tuition fee loan, to be repaid upon completing their studies, for more information, visit www.duo.nl.

Useful links
www.studyinnl.org – for information on requirements, tuition fees, scholarships, etc.

www.nuffic.nl – for information on the education system, diplomas, etc.

www.duo.nl – for information on the student grant

www.uaf – for refugees looking to study in the Netherlands

Patchwork Family

By Yolanda Bokhorst

‘Patchwork families’ are families made up of parents and children, whereby one – or both – of the parents has brought in a child from a former relationship. Sometimes these parents also have joint children.

Almost 10% of all families are patchwork families. And this is only expected to increase. The relations within such a family are often complex. The children have to get used to the new family and the step-parent and – vice versa – the step-parent has to build a relationship with the step-children.

New Situation

Some families are together full-time, others part-time, half-time or during the weekends – sometimes in combination with shared parenting. To some, these new families feel like an enrichment, but there are also plenty of cases in which the newcomers are seen as interlopers or in which conflicts of loyalty arise. Whatever the case may be, it is always good to look into the legal consequences of the new situation and to put things on paper.

Having a Say over the Children and Expenses

The premise in Dutch law is that the legal parents share parental authority (the right and duty to raise and take care of the children) over their joint children. Whether or not these parents are in a relationship is of no importance. A step-parent has no parental authority. If the step-parent and the parent are married or have entered into a registered partnership and the step-child is part of the family, then the step-parent is obligated to contribute to the costs of sustenance and in the raising of the child. How much, depends on the circumstances.

Pursuant to the European Convention on Human Rights, when the relationship between the step-parent and the parent comes to an end, the step-parent can request visitation rights. Any obligation to contribute to the sustenance, however, ends.

International

The rules described above also apply in international situations in which the child has their habitual residence in the Netherlands. If the step-child and step-parent share a nationality, the step-parent can lodge an objection against the obligation to contribute to the child’s sustenance if the law of this country of shared nationality does not contain this obligation.

Inheritance

Pursuant to Dutch law, step-parents and step-children do not automatically inherit from each other. In the Netherlands, inheritance takes place on the basis of blood relationship. The only exception to this is the spouse or registered partner.

Should you want to leave something to your step-child, you will have to arrange this in a will. There are a variety of options; you can give your children and step-children equal status, you can leave your step-child a certain amount or percentage of the inheritance, or you can determine that your step-child is a joint heir for a particular share.

Does this section of Dutch inheritance law also apply to expats who live here?

International Inheritance Law

Since August 2015, the Inheritance Law Regulation applies in the entire EU, except for Denmark (and, insofar as still relevant, the United Kingdom and Ireland). This regulation states that the law of the last country of residence of the deceased applies to the entire estate and its settlement, including assets that are located in another country.

In other words, should you pass away while living in the Netherlands as an expat, then Dutch inheritance law applies to your entire estate. Unless, in your will, you have determined that the law of your country of nationality applies.

Married, With (Step-)Children and No Will?

Then, in the Netherlands, the rules on intestate succession apply. This means that your (legal) children and spouse are joint and equal heirs. All your possessions and debts go to your surviving spouse, whereby the children have to wait for your spouse to pass away or become bankrupt in order to claim their portion. Before that, they cannot claim their portion, while the spouse can use up the entire inheritance. Step-children do not receive anything, but they can inherit from their own parent.

Especially when the surviving spouse is not the actual parent, these rules can lead to some undesired outcomes. Which is why, particularly in the case of a patchwork family, it is wise to draw up a will that contains arrangements for the own children, step-children and surviving spouse – both upon the death of the first spouse as well as upon the death of the surviving spouse.

Pursuant to Dutch law, step-parents and step-children do not automatically inherit from each other

Not Married, (Step-)Children and No Will?

In this case, only the own children will inherit. If you live together, but are not married or have not entered into a registered partnership, you will not automatically inherit from each other. In order to protect your partner, you should draw up a will. This will should contain provisions clarifying the position of the surviving partner, the own children and the step-children. Generally speaking, a cohabitation agreement will be necessary in order to strengthen your partner’s position.

Inheritance Tax

If you pass away while living in the Netherlands, then Dutch inheritance tax will be levied over your worldwide estate. The lowest rate applies to children and the spouse. The good news is that, if they are included in your will, your step-children will also be subject to the lowest rate.

Drawing Up a Will

Taking into account the complicated situations that may arise in (international) patchwork families, you are strongly advised to draw up a will determining who will be your heirs and taking into account the sometimes sensitive relations between step-parents, own children and step-children. To do this, it is best to contact a civil law notary who is specialized in international inheritance law. In the Netherlands, only a will that has been drawn up by a civil law notary is legally valid. You will have to visit the civil law notary in person to sign the will.