Every single person who has, at the very least, attempted to do research on Dutch universities was more confused than desperate. People who tried to apply were rather more desperate than confused. What is going on and why is everybody so frightened? We will discuss it here. So, without further ado, let's go!

How is Dutch education structured?

Primary Education (Basisonderwijs): This is where students build their foundational skills in subjects like language, mathematics, and social studies. It's not highly specialized and focuses on a broad education.

Secondary Education (Voortgezet Onderwijs): At this stage, students start to specialize. There are three main tracks:

VMBO (Voorbereidend Middelbaar Beroepsonderwijs): This is a practical-oriented track that prepares students for vocational education or the workforce. It offers various specializations like technical, health care, and economics.
HAVO (Hoger Algemeen Voortgezet Onderwijs): HAVO is a more general track that combines theoretical and practical subjects. It's a good fit for students who want a well-rounded education but might not be as focused on hands-on skills.
VWO (Voorbereidend Wetenschappelijk Onderwijs): VWO is the most theoretical track, designed for students who plan to pursue higher education at universities. It's academically rigorous and offers deep knowledge in subjects like science, humanities, and languages.

MBO (Middle Vocational Education): After completing VMBO, students can enroll in MBO programs, which are highly specialized in various trades and professions. These programs provide practical training and often lead directly to specific careers. It's a hands-on approach to education.

HBO (Higher Professional Education): HBO school is for students who completed HAVO or MBO and want more specialized, practical training in fields like engineering, nursing, business, or the arts. It's a higher level of education than MBO, emphasizing real-world skills and application.

WO (Academic Education): VWO graduates can choose to pursue academic studies at universities. Here, they delve deep into theoretical subjects and conduct research. It's the most academically focused path, ideal for those interested in scientific, research, or analytical careers.

Ph.D. (Doctorate): For those with a passion for research and academic excellence, a Ph.D. program is available after completing a master's degree. This path leads to becoming an expert in a particular field and often involves publishing original research.

The Dutch system's flexibility allows students to switch between tracks, ensuring that education aligns with their evolving interests and career goals. This commitment to specialization and adaptability is a hallmark of the Dutch educational system, designed to prepare students for success in their chosen fields.

However you, as an enrollee, will be more interested in these two types of education:

HBO and WO.

HBO is a four-year program, and in such a program, you will receive what is called applied education. You can get there only if you have finished at least 11 grades. This is a good option for some of the countries that have only 11 grades of school.

WO is a three-year program that allows you to study what is called theoretical education. You can get there only if you have finished 12 grades.

In terms of names, HBO is usually referred to as “applied university of…”, while WO is mostly named “university of…”.

“What is the difference between theoretical and applied education?”, you may ask. The first one concentrates more on theory, so you will not get your hands dirty and you’ll work only with numbers and programs. In applied education, you will get a lot of practical knowledge. Be prepared to have projects every time and to build a lot of stuff on your own. However, you will not delve too deep into the theories of the study you are applying to.

Is there any difference in job opportunities later? We cannot say. Technically, with both educations, you can find a good-paying job without any problems. The fact is, preference matters more than what you can gain afterward: I like doing research and dealing with numbers vs. I like building stuff and testing it.

In Eindhoven, there are two major universities: TU/e and Fontys. Fontys is an applied university: four years of education, projects, lots and lots of practicals. On the other hand, TU/e or Technische Universiteit Eindhoven (Technical University of Eindhoven) is a research university. As you can see, they are two completely different universities with differing philosophies. The Engineering buildings for both universities are located on one campus that for most of you will look like a different city. It has its own shop, bar, SportsCenter, student associations, and a bunch of other good stuff. We are not going to tell you everything, we believe it is better for you to explore it for yourself 🙂.

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