10 essential questions for expat families choosing a study in the Netherlands

10 essential questions for Expat Families Choosing a Study Program in the Netherlands

Why doubts are normal – and how to find direction.

Introduction

Every year in the Netherlands, about one in three students either drops out or switches programs after their very first year in higher education. According to figures from the Dutch Ministry of Education, this is a consistent trend. For expat families navigating the Dutch system together with their children, this risk can feel especially challenging. Parents want reassurance that their child is on the right track, while students may be unsure of their path, adapting to a new culture and language, or juggling expectations from different worlds. 

That’s why I created Study Compass. As a lecturer and coach in higher education, I saw too often that students ended up in programs that didn’t truly suit them. Some didn’t even know why they had chosen their study program. Others felt “okay” about it but weren’t fully convinced. And sometimes students only realized after a year that they were in the wrong place. 

I believe a good study choice starts with the student and their parents asking the right questions. Involving everyone in the process ensures that students see themselves more clearly, while parents gain confidence that their child is making the right choice. 

Below is a checklist of 10 questions that every expat family should reflect on before deciding. They go beyond common (though relevant) questions like “what seems fun?” or “what are my job prospects after this study?” and touch on deeper aspects of identity, values, and future plans.

The checklist: 10 Essential Questions To Ask Yourself

1. What are my hobbies and interests outside of school?

What do you gravitate towards naturally? Talk about this with friends and your parents as well—they might surprise you!

2. What do others often say are my strengths?

People often take their own strengths for granted. Parents and friends can give great insights. Teachers or mentors at school can also provide valuable feedback, since they see students in a different light.

3. What kind of work environment do I see for myself in the future?

Do you see yourself working in an international setting or would you rather stay in the Netherlands? Corporate or NGO? A competitive or more collaborative environment?

4. Do I want to learn through hands-on experience or more theory?

Dutch universities of applied sciences (HBO) and research universities (WO) differ strongly, so understanding this early is crucial. HBO programs often include internships and practical projects, while WO programs focus more on theory and research.

5. What values are most important to me in life?

Examples of values are creativity, freedom, collaboration, and social responsibility. Knowing your values can be a real eye-opener.

6. What skills do I want to develop during my studies?

Skills you build in your studies are often life skills, too. Think of presenting, collaborating, analyzing, or leading.

7. How important are income, status or security to me in my future work?

Some families have strong expectations around this. Talking openly about it before choosing a program might avoid conflict later. Expectations may also differ between your home country and the Netherlands. What is  considered a “secure” or “prestigious” career can vary widely.

8. Could a gap year help me gain clarity, or would it be postponing the decision?

For expat students, a structured gap year, perhaps in the Netherlands or in your home country, can provide cultural grounding and direction. Good to know: having taken a gap year is not frowned upon by Dutch universities.         

9. Which physical environment suits me best?

Some students enjoy big city life while others thrive in a more laid-back environment. Consider this when choosing the city or town where you want to study.

10. Who am I as a person—and does this study match my character?

Choosing a program isn’t just about academics, it’s also about personal growth in a new cultural environment. Some flourish in creative surroundings, others in analytical ones. Take time to think this through.

Conclusion

For expat families, choosing a study program in the Netherlands can be both exciting and daunting. Students may feel torn between personal interests, family expectations, and the opportunities of an international career path. Parents may worry about making the “right” choice in a system that feels unfamiliar. 

By asking these 10 questions—and having open conversations around them—you create a shared foundation for decision-making. This way, students don’t just “pick a program,” but choose a path that truly fits who they are, while families feel reassured that their children are set up for success in their new environment. 

You don’t have to go through this process alone. Talking openly as a family and seeking guidance when needed, can turn what feels like a stressful decision into a shared journey of growth and opportunity. 

If you'd like to explore this further, take a look at my study choice packages here and feel free to contact me at any time.

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