The Netherlands has announced the minimum amount of money international students must have access to each month to qualify for a study residence permit, setting a financial threshold that prospective students will need to meet before beginning their studies in the country.

According to official Dutch government guidance, international students applying to study higher professional education or a university degree programme must demonstrate access to at least €1,130.77 or Tk1,60,377 per month.

The requirement applies to both universities and universities of applied sciences, meaning students pursuing traditional university degrees and those enrolled in higher professional education face the same financial benchmark.

The figure is more than simply a recommended monthly budget. It forms part of the financial requirements for obtaining a study residence permit, meaning applicants must demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay.

For students from Africa, the requirement could represent a significant financial commitment. When converted into Kenyan shillings, the monthly amount comes to roughly KSh170,000, meaning students planning for a 10-month academic period would need to account for approximately KSh1.7 million in living expenses alone.

The financial requirement is part of the Netherlands’ wider immigration framework for international students. Like many European countries, the Dutch system requires foreign students to demonstrate that they can cover their living costs while studying, rather than relying on public funds.

The rule applies to students enrolling at Dutch universities and institutions of higher professional education. The Netherlands remains a popular destination for international students, with institutions such as Delft University of Technology and the University of Amsterdam attracting students from around the world.

For Kenyan and other African students considering the Netherlands, the financial requirement is an important cost to factor into their study plans alongside tuition fees, accommodation, insurance, travel and other expenses.

Students should also check the latest requirements before applying, as immigration authorities can revise financial thresholds and other conditions for different academic years.

Prospective applicants are therefore advised to consult the official Dutch immigration authorities for the latest figures and residence permit requirements before submitting an application.