Founded in 1996, Fontys University of Applied Sciences is one of the largest universities of applied sciences in the Netherlands, with major campuses in Eindhoven, Tilburg, Venlo, and several other Dutch cities. Known for its practical teaching approach, close collaboration with industry, and international outlook, Fontys welcomes students from more than 90 countries and offers a highly career-focused learning environment. Fontys is home to over 44,000 students, including thousands of international learners. The university is particularly recognised for Information and Communication Technology, Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, International Business, Logistics, Marketing, Physiotherapy, Finance, and Creative Industries. Students benefit from project-based learning, mandatory internships, and real-world industry collaborations throughout their studies. Whether you're planning to pursue a bachelor's degree or a master's programme, this guide provides an overview of Fontys University of Applied Sciences admissions, available programmes, scholarships, admission requirements, and career opportunities for international students.
| Label | Value |
|---|---|
| Location | Eindhoven, Netherlands |
| Program Levels | UG · Master's · MBA · PhD |
Which Program Level Fits You?
Fontys University of Applied Sciences offers career-oriented undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.
| Program Level | Overview |
|---|---|
| Bachelor's (Undergraduate) | Programmes in ICT, Software Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, International Business, Logistics, Marketing Management, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physiotherapy, Finance, and more. |
| Master's (Postgraduate) | |
| Master's programmes in Applied IT, Digital Technology Engineering, Business & Management, Data-Driven Business, Architecture, Finance, and Engineering. | |
| Exchange & Short Programmes | Semester exchanges, summer schools, honours programmes, and professional development courses. |
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements vary depending on the programme and level of study.
| Requirement | Typical Requirement |
|---|---|
| Academic Qualifications | Recognised secondary school certificate (Bachelor's) or relevant bachelor's degree (Master's) |
| GPA | Competitive academic performance |
| IELTS Academic | Generally 6.0+ |
| TOEFL iBT | Generally 80+ |
| Cambridge English | Accepted |
| Other Requirements | |
| Academic transcripts, passport copy, motivation letter (selected programmes), CV/résumé (for some master's programmes), and programme-specific documents | Some programmes may require an interview, portfolio, or additional entrance assessment depending on the course. Admission requirements differ by programme, so applicants should check the specific course page before applying. (Fontys) |
Cost of Attendance
Tuition fees at Fontys University of Applied Sciences depend on the programme and whether students are from the EU/EEA or outside the EU/EEA. Students should also budget for: Accommodation Food and groceries Health insurance Transportation Study materials Personal expenses Cities such as Eindhoven, Tilburg, and Venlo generally offer a lower cost of living than Amsterdam, making Fontys an attractive option for international students seeking quality education at a relatively affordable cost.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
Fontys offers several scholarships and funding opportunities for talented international students, particularly those from outside the European Economic Area. Popular scholarship opportunities include:
- NL Scholarship – €5,000 for eligible first-year non-EEA bachelor's and master's students
- Erasmus+ Scholarship
- Orange Knowledge Programme
- Faculty-specific Scholarships
- External Government Scholarships
- Grantfinder.nl Scholarship Opportunities
- To qualify for the NL Scholarship, applicants generally must:
- Hold a non-EEA nationality
- Apply for a full-time bachelor's or master's programme
- Meet the admission requirements of their chosen programme
- Not already hold a Dutch degree
Campus Life & Student Experience
Fontys offers a practical and internationally focused learning environment. Students benefit from:
- Modern laboratories and innovation hubs
- Industry projects and internships
- Career coaching and employability support
- Entrepreneurship and startup programmes
- International student communities
- Student associations and sports clubs
- Exchange programmes with partner universities worldwide
- Project-based learning in small international classrooms
The university's campuses are located in dynamic cities known for innovation and technology, particularly Eindhoven, which is considered one of Europe's leading technology hubs.
Research & Global Reputation
As a University of Applied Sciences, Fontys focuses on practice-based education and applied research. Highlights include:
- One of the largest Universities of Applied Sciences in the Netherlands
- Strong focus on:
- Artificial Intelligence
- ICT
- Software Engineering
- Data Science
- Smart Manufacturing
- Business Innovation
- Healthcare Technology
- Sustainable Engineering
- Strong partnerships with companies including ASML, Philips, DAF Trucks, Siemens, Bosch, VDL Group, NXP Semiconductors, and Deloitte
- Mandatory internships and real-world consultancy projects integrated into many programmes
- These partnerships give students valuable industry exposure before graduation
Visa & Post-Study Work
International students from outside the EU/EEA generally require a Dutch Student Residence Permit. After graduation, eligible students may apply for the Orientation Year Visa, allowing them to remain in the Netherlands for up to one year while searching for employment or starting a business.
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Student Residence Permit | International students from outside the EU/EEA generally require a Dutch Student Residence Permit (MVV/Residence Permit) to study in the Netherlands. |
| Orientation Year (Zoekjaar) | Eligible graduates may apply for the Orientation Year (Zoekjaar) Visa, allowing them to live and work in the Netherlands for up to one year after graduation. |
How to Apply
Every study level follows a similar application process, although deadlines, admission criteria, and required documents vary depending on the programme.
- Undergraduate — choose your programme — Choose your preferred programme. Apply through Studielink.
- Undergraduate — submit documents — Upload academic transcripts and supporting documents. Meet English language and programme-specific requirements. Receive your admission decision.
- Undergraduate — accept your offer — Complete tuition payment and visa formalities if applicable. (Fontys).
- Postgraduate — apply online — Apply through Studielink and complete the Fontys admissions process. Submit academic transcripts and programme-specific documents.
- Postgraduate — meet requirements and accept — Meet English language requirements. Receive your admission decision. Complete your Dutch residence permit process if required. (Fontys).
- Complete your Dutch student residence permit process — After accepting your offer, complete your Dutch student visa or residence permit process.
FAQs About Studying Here
Is Fontys University of Applied Sciences good for international students?
Yes. Fontys is well known for its practical education, international community, industry collaborations, and excellent internship opportunities. It is especially attractive for students seeking hands-on learning and strong employability.
Does Fontys offer scholarships for international students?
Yes. Fontys offers the NL Scholarship, Erasmus+ funding, the Orange Knowledge Programme, and other external scholarship opportunities for eligible international students.
What English language tests does Fontys accept?
Fontys accepts IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, Cambridge English, and other recognised English language qualifications. Minimum score requirements vary depending on the programme.
How do I apply to Fontys University of Applied Sciences?
Students apply through Studielink, after which Fontys requests additional documents such as transcripts, passport copies, and proof of English proficiency through its admissions process.
Can international students work after graduating from Fontys?
Yes. Eligible graduates can apply for the Orientation Year Visa, allowing them to stay and work in the Netherlands for up to one year after graduation.
Does Fontys provide career support?
Yes. Fontys offers career coaching, internships, employer networking events, entrepreneurship support, and applied industry projects. Its strong partnerships with leading Dutch and international companies help graduates launch successful careers in engineering, technology, business, healthcare, and logistics.
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