Live like a local in the Netherlands!

Image of a man walking towards the camera, with a green coat on

Fitting in as a student in a new country can be challenging at times. Every country has its own customs and dos and don’ts. Considering studying in the Netherlands? Great, you are most welcome! Next to developing a taste for stroopwafels, cheese and bitterballen, here are our tips for an excellent experience:

1. You’re safe!

Maybe the most important thing: no matter who you are or where you’re from, the Netherlands has always been one of the safest countries in the world. Its government prioritises public safety and considers it important that people feel part of the same group. It is a stable country with low levels of corruption. In the Netherlands, you are safe to be who you want to be, believe what you believe and make your own life choices.

2. Learn to ride a bike

People in the Netherlands go everywhere by bicycle. From moving furniture to picking up a date, it all happens on two wheels. Just like baby giraffes that can walk right after they are born, the Dutch hop on their bikes and cycle out of the hospital. But jokes aside: it’s actually a huge win-win to get around like this. You don’t burden the environment, get some fresh air and exercise, and get to explore your new city in a cool way!

3. Get out your calendar

Planning is everything for the Dutchies, even for students. They usually live by their agendas. Spontaneously dropping by can get a little awkward sometimes, especially when it’s dinnertime! When you think about it, this actually is a good thing. When you see each other, it’s guaranteed personal quality time reserved for you alone.

4. Be very, very direct

It might take a little while to get used to, but it saves a lot of time to just say what’s on your mind. The Dutch are one of the best in this field. Don’t agree with what your lecturer is saying? Just tell them and maybe you’ll both learn something from each other’s perspective. Look people in the eye and share your opinions and suggestions. Everyone will think you are born and raised in the Netherlands. It’s not rude, it’s honest and appreciated!

5. It’s all about balance

Balance: not only important to stay upright on your bike. Dutch people are hard workers, but love their leisure time as well. When the sun’s out, you probably see many locals leave school or work earlier, heading to the nearest park or terrace. A good work-life balance is priority in the Netherlands. Many companies even have the ‘right to be unavailable’ outside of working hours written in their CLAs or manuals.

Extra tip: Find a student association! Who better to show you the ropes than real locals? Join a study or student association and you’ll instantly have a group of likeminded people to hang out with and share new experiences. Tio Business School even has its very own national association: Cognatio. No hazings or obligations, just the fun! Start building your Dutch network right away.

Sounds good to you? If the Netherlands is the best fit for you, why not study at the best educator in the Netherlands? Check out our website to see if Tio Business School is a match! We have six campuses in the most vibrant student cities in the Netherlands. Maybe your first day at Tio is the first item in your new agenda.

Learn more about Tio Business School