Education & Childcare

Applying for Schools in the Netherlands: A Guide for Expats

6 min read For Expats in the Netherlands

Enrolling your children in a school is one of the most significant tasks for expat families moving to the Netherlands. The Dutch education system offers a diverse range of options, from local Dutch schools to international institutions. This guide provides a clear overview of the application process for various school types, helping you make an informed decision for your child's education.

Overview of the Dutch School System

The Dutch education system is known for its high quality and child-centric approach. It is compulsory for children aged 5 to 16. The main stages are:

  • Primary Education (Basisschool): Ages 4-12 (groups 1-8). Children typically start at age 4, but formal attendance is mandatory from age 5.
  • Secondary Education (Voortgezet Onderwijs): Ages 12-18. Several tracks are available, leading to different levels of higher education or vocational training.

In addition to public and special (religious/pedagogical) Dutch schools, there are also international schools that cater specifically to expat children, often offering curricula like the IB or British curriculum.

Choosing the Right School Type for Your Child

Your choice will largely depend on your family's long-term plans and your child's needs:

Dutch Schools

Offer full immersion into Dutch language and culture. Often free (small parental contribution required). Excellent for long-term expat families planning to stay in the Netherlands, fostering deep integration.

  • Pros: Integration, no tuition fees, strong academic foundation.
  • Cons: Language barrier initially, different pedagogical approach.

International Schools

English-taught (or other languages) curricula (IB, British, American). Ideal for families with shorter assignments or those who plan to move to other countries, ensuring educational continuity.

  • Pros: Familiar curriculum, English instruction, global outlook.
  • Cons: High tuition fees, can limit local integration.

Application Process for Dutch Schools

The process for Dutch schools (basisschool and voortgezet onderwijs) is usually managed by the local municipality (gemeente) or directly by the schools.

  1. Registration at the Municipality (BRP): First, ensure you and your child are registered in the BRP (Basisregistratie Personen) and have a BSN. This is essential for official procedures.
  2. Contact Local Schools: For primary schools, contact schools in your neighborhood directly. Many schools have specific registration windows for children turning four. Some cities have a centralized system (e.g., Amsterdam and Utrecht often use a lottery system if schools are oversubscribed).
  3. "Wenperiode" (Acclimatisation Period): For 4-year-olds starting primary school, there's often a "wenperiode" where they attend school a few half-days before starting full-time.
  4. Secondary School Transition: The transition from primary to secondary school involves a CITO test or similar national assessment in group 8, which provides an advice for the appropriate secondary school track. Applications are then made based on this advice.

Important for New Arrivals!

Children aged 6-12 who have just arrived in the Netherlands with limited Dutch language skills may attend an international transition class (ISK - Internationale Schakelklas) for about a year to learn Dutch before entering a regular Dutch school.

Application Process for International Schools

International schools generally have their own, more standardized application procedures:

  1. Research & Selection: Identify international schools that offer the curriculum you prefer and have availability in your child's age group.
  2. Application Form: Complete the school's specific application form, typically found on their website.
  3. Submit Required Documents: This usually includes academic records from previous schools, passports, proof of residence, and possibly recommendation letters or entrance exam results.
  4. Interview/Assessment: Many schools conduct interviews with the child and/or parents, or require assessments to gauge academic level and suitability.
  5. Admission & Enrollment: Upon acceptance, you will receive an offer letter and then complete the enrollment process, including tuition fee payments.

Key Documents Needed for School Applications

  • Child's Birth Certificate (translated if necessary)
  • Child's Passport/ID
  • Parents' Passports/IDs
  • Proof of BSN for the child and parents
  • Proof of address (BRP extract)
  • Previous school reports/transcripts (translated if not in English or Dutch)
  • (For international schools) Application fees

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