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🎓 Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences (RUAS), Netherlands
Empowering Practical Innovators in the Heart of Europe’s Most Dynamic Port City
The Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences (RUAS / Hogeschool Rotterdam) is one of the largest and most internationally oriented universities of applied sciences in the Netherlands. Located in Rotterdam, a global hub for trade, technology, and design, RUAS is known for its hands-on education, industry partnerships, and focus on real-world innovation.
With more than 40,000 students from over 100 nationalities, RUAS offers practice-based Bachelor’s and Master’s programs that combine theory, applied research, and professional experience — preparing graduates for immediate impact in their chosen careers.
🌍 Why Choose Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences?
🏛 One of the Netherlands’ leading universities of applied sciences, located in the country’s most international city.
🌐 Industry-connected education — strong collaborations with major companies and organizations in logistics, design, engineering, and business.💶 Affordable tuition with clear fee structures for EU and non-EU students.
🎓 English-taught Bachelor’s and Master’s programs focused on global employability.
🚢 Located in Rotterdam, Europe’s largest port city — a center for innovation, trade, and sustainability.
🌱 Focus on sustainability, digital transformation, and entrepreneurship across all programs.
🏫 Academic Structure
Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences offers a wide variety of study areas through its specialized Schools (Faculties), each designed to meet modern professional needs.
| Faculty / School | Example Departments / Programs | Fields of Study |
|---|---|---|
| Rotterdam Business School | International Business, Finance, Marketing Management | Business, Economics, Global Trade, Entrepreneurship |
| School of Engineering & Applied Science | Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Design Engineering | Engineering, Technology, Product Design |
| School of Built Environment / Urban & Delta Areas | Construction Management, Urban Planning, Civil Engineering | Architecture, Sustainable Urban Development |
| School of Communication, Media & IT | Creative Media & Game Technologies, Communication | Media, Communication, Creative Industries, IT |
| School of Health Care Studies | Nursing, Physiotherapy, Medical Diagnostics | Healthcare, Allied Health Professions |
| School of Social Work & Education | Teacher Training, Social Work, Pedagogy | Education, Social Sciences, Community Development |
💶 Tuition Fees for International Students (2025–26)
Tuition at RUAS depends on student nationality and whether the student qualifies for the statutory or institutional fee.
| Category / Programme | EU/EEA Students (Statutory Fee) | Non-EU/EEA Students (Institutional Fee) |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor’s Programs (e.g., International Business) | €2,601 per year | €11,537 per year |
| Master’s Programs (e.g., Engineering, Business, Design) | €2,601 per year | €12,676 per year |
| Creative Industry Programs (e.g., Willem de Kooning Academy) | €2,601 per year | €11,537 – €12,676 per year |
| Health & Social Programs | €2,601 per year | €11,537 – €12,676 per year |
💡 The statutory fee applies to EU/EEA citizens and others meeting Dutch eligibility conditions (e.g., first degree in the Netherlands). The institutional fee applies to non-EU/EEA students or those taking a second degree.
🎓 Scholarships & Financial Aid
| Scholarship / Grant Name | Eligibility / Target Group | Amount / Benefits | Details / Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| NL Scholarship (formerly Holland Scholarship) | Non-EU/EEA students applying for Bachelor’s or Master’s | €5,000 one-time grant | Awarded to talented students entering eligible programs. (rotterdamuas.com) |
| Faculty/Program-specific Scholarships | Outstanding students in selected programs | Variable | Available in some schools (e.g., Willem de Kooning Academy, Business). |
| Erasmus+ Mobility Grants | Exchange and internship students | Variable | For study or work placements abroad. |
| External Scholarships (via Study in NL) | International students | Variable | National-level scholarships listed through Dutch Grantfinder. |
💡 Students can apply for scholarships during admission or via external funding sources such as Nuffic (Study in NL).
🔬 Applied Research & Innovation
As a University of Applied Sciences, RUAS focuses on practice-based research that directly contributes to industry and society. Its research centers collaborate with businesses, municipalities, and NGOs to create sustainable and innovative solutions.
Key research themes include:
Urban development and smart cities
Sustainable energy and circular economy
Health and wellbeing
Digital transformation and AI
Inclusive education and social innovation
Through innovation labs and Living Labs, students work on real-life projects tackling social and environmental challenges in Rotterdam and beyond.
🏡 Student Life in Rotterdam
Rotterdam is a modern, multicultural, and forward-looking city — home to over 170 nationalities and one of Europe’s most exciting student destinations.
Students enjoy:
✅ Affordable housing and excellent public transport connections
✅ A vibrant international student community
✅ Global companies and internship opportunities in the port, finance, and tech sectors
✅ A creative and multicultural atmosphere with art, design, and music events year-round
✅ Proximity to major cities like Amsterdam, The Hague, and Brussels
🛫 Admission & Application
Applications are submitted via Studielink, the official Dutch application portal, and the Rotterdam UAS Admissions Portal.
General Requirements:
High school or bachelor’s diploma (depending on level)
English proficiency (IELTS ≥ 6.0 or TOEFL iBT ≥ 80)
Motivation letter and CV
Copy of passport and transcripts
Possible entrance interview or portfolio (for creative programs)
Application Deadlines:
May 1: Most Bachelor’s and Master’s programs (September intake)
Earlier deadlines may apply for visa-required students or scholarship applicants.
📞 Need Assistance Applying?
Our experienced education advisors provide end-to-end guidance for your Rotterdam UAS application — from program selection and document review to visa, accommodation, and scholarship support.
Start your journey in one of Europe’s most innovative and international cities —Study at Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences!
