What is a University of Applied Sciences?
In the Netherlands we use the so-called two-cycle system of university education that is being introduced across the European Higher Education Area. This two-cycle System consists of two clearly defined cycles: undergraduate (bachelors) and graduate (masters and doctorate). A bachelor’s degree is earned after completion of a course of undergraduate study.
A master’s degree is earned after completing graduate studies, usually two years after first earning an undergraduate degree.
In the Dutch university system bachelor degrees can be obtained through two different tracks:
- A research university bachelor’s programme requires 3 years of study (180 credits). Graduates obtain a bachelor of arts or bachelor of science (BA/BSc) degree, depending on the discipline.
- A bachelor’s degree programme offered by universities of applied sciences requires 4 years of study (240 credits). The degree indicates the field of study (e.g. Bachelor of Engineering (B Eng).
Differences between the two tracks are:
- Study pace in the research university programme is higher, the curriculum is more theoretical and related to research.
- The bachelor’s degree programme offered by universities of applied sciences are practically oriented (including internships in companies) and are related to applied science.
For students who choose to do bachelor and master programmes at research level, we have set up a close relation with Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) in the fields of ICT and Engineering. Because of the arrangements between TU/e and Fontys University of Applied Sciences about mutual referral you can make a choice that really matches your interests and capacities.
Does Fontys accept general IELTS?
No, you have to meet the Academic standard. You can find more information on IELTS at their website.

What are the requirements to start at your University with a Bachelor programme?
Minimum Admission requirements for our Bachelor Programmes are:
- International Baccalaureate or
- General Certificate Secondary Education with mathematics or
- HAVO or
- VWO certificate or
- equivalent education (to be assessed by our Diploma assement office).
For non-EU students, who didn't attend their secondary school in the English Language, IELTS 6.0, TOEFL 550 (paper), TOEFL 213 (computer), TOEFL 80 (internet), TOEIC 670 or Cambridge ESO (CAER-C) is required. If your prior education was fully in English and if the official language in the country of your prior education is English, you are exempted from submitting a test result.
For several programmes additional requirements are set, like mathematics, physics or economics. Please check the specific programme for more details.

What documents do I need to submit to apply for a Bachelor programme?
To get admission to one of our programmes, you need to follow the instructions listed on the website for the programme of your choice. You can find the appropriate website here.

What is the application deadline?
For non-EU students:
- February intake: deadline for application is 15 November;
- September intake: deadline for application is 1 June.
For EU students:
- February intake: deadline for application is 15 December;
- September intake: deadline for application is 1 July.
Where can I find the application form?
Application forms are available from the websites of the respective programs. Carefully check whether you choose the correct application form

How can I apply for a Bachelor or Master programme?
To apply for a bachelor or master program you find on the website what documents you need to send. To summarize: application form, certified copies of gradelist, diploma, copy of passport. Gradelist and diploma both in original language and English. Mind that the original application form and the other required CERTIFIED documents mentioned on the application form have to be sent to the address mentioned. Please send all documents by regular mail.
Is there any way to check the status of my admission?
We will inform you about your admission by sending you a letter of admission. If we have any questions, we will try to contact you by e-mail.

Where can I find information about the tuition fee?
Information on tuition fees can be found on the websites of the respective programs.
- In general tution fees for EU-students for bachelor programs is 1771 euro for one academic year (2012-2013).
- Tuition fees for non-EU students for bachelor programs is 5500 euro.

Can I pay the tuituin fee in installments?
No, you cannot pay the fees in installments when you are a first year student. Only students who officially live in the Netherlands (and who have a Dutch bank acccount) can pay the fees in installments.

Does Fontys offer scholarships?
Only Fontys ICT and Engineering University College offer scholarships for non-EU students. Click here for more information.
How can I get a scholarship from Dutch government?
For more information visit website of Nuffic: www.nuffic.nl

How can I get a loan from Dutch government?
For more information see website Nuffic: www.nuffic.nl

What are the requirements to get a Fontys scholarship?
To find more information on the Fontys scholarship offered by Fontys ICT and Engineering click here for more information.

Do you arrange accommodation?
We will arrange accommodation if you make a request to us.To do so you need to fill in the accommodation form. Please note that you have to accept the accommodation we offer you for the full period.

Will I have to share an appartment if you arrange accommodation for me?
Yes. In all our accommodations you will need to share an appartment. However, sharing an appartment means that you will have your own bedroom, a shared kitchen and a shared bathroom

Will I have internet access at my accommodation?
Yes, all our accommodations have internet access.

What is the rent for accommodation?
the maximum rent is (inclusive of energy, water and internet) is according to the local market value with a maximum of 2550 euro per semester (thus maximum 425 euro per month). Rent is paid per month.

Do I need to pay a rent deposit?
Yes, the amount will be 750 euro. This amount will be refunded to you at the end of the rental period.

What is the cost of living per month?
This of course depends on your own spending. However, usually this ranges between 600 and 800 euro per month (including accommodation). These living expenses cover rent, food, public transportation, study materials and other general costs.

Do you offer Language Preparatory Courses?
For ICT and Engineering programmes we do not offer Language pre-courses any more. Students who want to start with our Bachelor Programmes need to have a sufficient level of English (IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL 550).

Didn't find the answer you were looking for? Please send us an e-mail and we will answer you as soon as possible.