Build your future in the Netherlands

Saxion is a University of Applied Sciences (HBO in Dutch). You will learn through a practice-based approach and build practical experience. At Saxion we deploy problem-driven learning, and our study projects are developed in tight collaboration with the working field. Part of the education is based on internships, which prepare you to enter today’s job market. Have a look at the differences between a university of applied sciences and a research university.

Our campus locations are Apeldoorn, Deventer and Enschede, which are lively cities in the east of the Netherlands. This area provides a bubbly city life with cheaper housing than the rest of the country. Also, Saxion offers its own housing possibilities for first-year students, from EU and non-EU! 

We have a diverse staff of lecturers and advisors who are dedicated to helping each of our students succeed. Classrooms are small and the relationship between students and lecturers is informal, allowing you to ask questions and get personal guidance. This is Saxion’s personal touch: a genuine contact between students, staff members and lecturers, all willing to help you succeed in your studies. From Saxion's onboarding programme to landing on the job market, we accompany you throughout your journey as a student.

All campus locations are within walking distance from train stations: easy to travel to and from Saxion, to other cities and even other countries! Each campus has its own supermarket and at least one canteen. Are you curious about our labs? Have a look at our lab page and see our offer: health and wellbeing lab, textile lab, mechatronics lab, XR lab, beton lab, 3D printing... and many more!

Our campus locations are within the heart of innovative Europe, nesting innovative industries for more than 100 years. It is now housing startups and offers promising career prospects.

We understand that studying abroad can be a challenging and intimidating experience, which is why we offer a range of support services for our international students, starting right from the start! These include help with landing smoothly in the Netherlands and at Saxion, finding housing, succeeding in your study and entering the job market. You can also join a student association and take part in our activities for international students during summer and winter break. Saxion is an open community for one and all, a genuine second home for our international students!

Saxion is a member of E³UDRES², an alliance between several European universities of applied sciences. A hackathon in Hungary, a Living Lab in Austria, a Bootcamp in Latvia, or doing a master's across three campuses, that's what E³UDRES² offers to students!

Ask your questions in person worldwide. We visit many educational fairs throughout the year. Check our travel schedule to see if we also visit your home country. 

Or meet us online during our Digital Discovery Day. From the comfort of your own home you can ask all your questions to our lecturers and current students. We will also host sessions about practical matters. Join the next Digital Discovery Day.

You can start your application via the page of the study programme you are interested in. Click on the pink button ‘apply now’ to start your application. You will be redirected to Studielink or the Saxion portal. Upload the required documents to complete your application.

You can find all the entry requirements here. Some study programmes request additional requirements, please make sure to check this on the page of the study programme you are interested in.

An overview of the deadlines can be found here. 

You can apply for housing arranged via Saxion or you can try to arrange housing by yourself. 

More information about finding housing can be found here!

Universities of Applied Sciences (UAS) are hands-on and prepare students for specific professions, with a 4-year bachelor's degree. A student may choose a UAS over a research university because they prioritise practical training and applied learning opportunities, which are emphasised in the curriculum of these institutions. They may also value a more direct connection to other students, lecturers, the job market and a clear occupational direction.

You can find more information via: https://www.saxion.edu/studying-in-the-netherlands/open-days/the-differences-between-a-university-of-applied-sciences-and-a-research-university

If you want to learn applied knowledge and gain practical experience, a University of Applied Sciences will be an excellent fit for you. You will gain tons of practical experience, use your knowledge and build your professional network. This will give you a good chance of finding a suitable job after graduation.

After graduation, you will obtain a worldwide recognized degree. They may have different names, depending on the type of programme. Some examples:

-Bachelor of Arts (BA)

-Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA);

-Bachelor of Education (BEd);

-Bachelor of Science (BSc);

-Bachelor of Social Work (BSW). 

The degree you receive is an internationally recognized degree, aimed for the Dutch labour market. With this diploma you can immediately start working in the Dutch labour market at the appropriate level. 

The Bachelor degrees at Universities of Applied Sciences and Research Universities have the same value, and the same Educational Level (NLQF/EQF level 6). The distinction between Applied Sciences and Research universities is common in the Netherlands, but not in many other countries.