Saxion University of Applied Sciences: Study in the Netherlands With No Application Fee
For international students dreaming of a world-class education in Europe, the Netherlands consistently ranks among the most welcoming and academically vibrant destinations. Saxion University of Applied Sciences stands out as one of the country’s largest and most internationally diverse institutions — and it charges zero application fee for international applicants. Whether you’re from Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, India, Indonesia, Brazil, or anywhere else in the world, Saxion opens its doors without asking you to spend a single euro just to apply.
With over 27,000 students from 95 nationalities spread across three campuses in Deventer, Enschede, and Apeldoorn, Saxion is a truly global university offering a practical, career-focused education. If you are exploring your options among universities in the Netherlands, Saxion deserves serious consideration — not just because it’s free to apply, but because of the quality and breadth of programmes it offers.
Overview of Saxion University of Applied Sciences
Saxion University of Applied Sciences is a leading Dutch university of applied sciences (known locally as a hogeschool), with a strong emphasis on practical, industry-relevant learning. Unlike traditional research universities, Saxion focuses on preparing students for real-world careers through hands-on projects, internships, and close collaboration with industry partners.
The university offers over 100 English-taught programmes at both Bachelor’s and Master’s levels, spanning fields such as:
- Business Administration and International Business
- Information Technology and Computer Science
- Engineering and Technology
- Health and Social Work
- Tourism and Hospitality Management
- Digital Media and Creative Technology
Its three campuses each have a distinct character, but all offer the same high standard of education and access to the Netherlands’ excellent public infrastructure, multicultural cities, and thriving student communities.
Much like the HAN University of Applied Sciences, Saxion follows a no-application-fee policy that makes it exceptionally accessible for students from developing countries who may face financial constraints even before their studies begin.
Eligibility Requirements
Saxion welcomes applications from international students across the globe. Here is what you need to qualify:
Academic Eligibility
- Bachelor’s level: A completed secondary school certificate equivalent to the Dutch HAVO (higher general secondary education) standard. Most African, Asian, Arab, and Latin American school-leaving certificates are accepted, often with specific grade requirements.
- Master’s level: A recognised Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field from an accredited institution.
Language Proficiency
- Since programmes are taught in English, proof of English proficiency is required.
- For postgraduate (Master’s) programmes: A minimum of IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL 550 (paper-based) is typically required.
- Bachelor’s applicants should check specific programme requirements, as standards may vary slightly.
General Requirements
- Open to both EU and non-EU international students (including Nigerians and other African nationals)
- A valid passport
- Certified copies of academic transcripts and certificates
- A motivational letter and/or CV (depending on the programme)
- Some programmes may require a portfolio or additional entrance assessment
Students from Nigeria and other African countries are fully eligible and actively encouraged to apply. Saxion’s diverse campus environment means you will be studying alongside peers from nearly 100 different countries.
Benefits and Funding
No Application Fee
This is one of the most immediate and practical advantages: Saxion charges no application fee for international applicants. This removes a common financial barrier that prevents many talented students from even starting the process.
Tuition Fees
For non-EU international students, tuition fees at Saxion range from approximately €7,800 to €15,550 per year, depending on the programme. While this is a significant investment, it is competitive compared to universities in the UK, USA, Australia, and Canada offering equivalent qualifications.
Holland Scholarship (€5,000)
Non-EU students at Saxion — including applicants from Nigeria, India, Brazil, Indonesia, and across Africa, Asia, and Latin America — may be eligible for the Holland Scholarship, a merit-based award worth €5,000 designed to help offset tuition costs for the first year of study. This scholarship is funded by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science, and participating Dutch higher education institutions, including Saxion.
This kind of financial support is similar to what is offered at institutions like Fontys University of Applied Sciences and Tilburg University, both of which also have scholarship pathways for international students in the Netherlands.
Other Financial Benefits
- Access to Dutch student housing and affordable campus amenities
- Part-time work rights (up to 16 hours per week during term time for non-EU students with a valid residence permit)
- Access to a wide network of internship and graduate employment opportunities across Europe
How to Apply
Applying to Saxion University is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Choose your programme: Browse the full list of English-taught Bachelor’s and Master’s programmes on the official Saxion website.
- Check entry requirements: Confirm that your qualifications meet the academic and language requirements for your chosen programme.
- Prepare your documents: Gather your academic transcripts, certificates, passport, language test results, motivation letter, and CV.
- Submit your application: Apply directly through the Saxion online application portal — no application fee is required at any stage.
- Apply for the Holland Scholarship: If eligible, submit a separate application for the Holland Scholarship through the Saxion scholarship page within the specified deadline.
- Receive your offer and arrange your visa: Once accepted, Saxion will guide you through the residence permit and student visa process as part of their international student support services.
Important Dates
Saxion operates on a rolling admissions basis for most of its international programmes, meaning there is no single fixed deadline — applications are reviewed as they are received. However, it is strongly advisable to apply as early as possible, particularly if you need time to arrange a student visa, residence permit, and accommodation.
For the most accurate and up-to-date deadline information for your specific programme and intake year, always visit the official Saxion international students page. Deadlines for the Holland Scholarship may be earlier than general programme deadlines, so check those separately and well in advance.
Tips for Applicants
- Apply early: Rolling admissions means earlier applicants often receive decisions sooner — and have more time to sort out housing and visas.
- Tailor your motivation letter: Be specific about why you chose Saxion and how your chosen programme aligns with your career goals. Generic letters are rarely compelling.
- Check your qualifications early: Use Saxion’s official entry requirements checker or contact their admissions team to confirm your secondary or bachelor’s qualifications are recognised before you apply.
- Pursue the Holland Scholarship proactively: Don’t wait until after admission to research funding. Apply for the Holland Scholarship as soon as you receive your conditional or unconditional offer.
- Budget comprehensively: Factor in accommodation, health insurance, transport, and living costs in addition to tuition. The Netherlands is moderately expensive, but manageable with good planning.
- Lean on Saxion’s support services: The university has dedicated international student advisors, buddy programmes, and orientation weeks to help you settle in smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Saxion University recognised internationally?
Yes. Saxion University of Applied Sciences is fully accredited by the NVAO (Accreditation Organisation of the Netherlands and Flanders) and is internationally recognised. Degrees from Saxion are accepted by employers and academic institutions worldwide.
Can Nigerian students apply to Saxion University?
Absolutely. Nigerian students — and international students from all non-EU countries — are fully eligible to apply to Saxion. The university has a strong tradition of welcoming African students and provides dedicated support for visa and residence permit applications. For context, Nigerian students navigating international university applications often find the process more straightforward than expected when institutions like Saxion charge no application fee and provide clear guidance.
Is the Holland Scholarship guaranteed for all international applicants?
No. The Holland Scholarship is merit-based and competitive. Not all applicants will receive it, and the number of awards available each year is limited. You must apply separately and meet specific criteria. Check the official Saxion website for the current eligibility conditions and application process.
What English language score do I need for a Master’s programme?
For most postgraduate programmes at Saxion, a minimum of IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL 550 (paper-based) is required. Some programmes may have slightly higher requirements, so always verify with the specific programme page.
Can I work while studying at Saxion?
Yes. Non-EU international students holding a valid Dutch residence permit can work up to 16 hours per week during the academic year, and full-time during official holiday periods. This can help supplement your finances while studying.
Start Your Application Today
Saxion University of Applied Sciences offers a rare combination: a no-application-fee policy, over 100 English-taught programmes, a genuinely multicultural campus environment, and access to merit-based funding through the Holland Scholarship. For ambitious students from Africa, Asia, the Arab world, and Latin America, Saxion is one of the most accessible and rewarding pathways to a high-quality European education.
Don’t let financial barriers or uncertainty hold you back. Take the first step today — it won’t cost you a cent to apply.
Visit the Official Saxion International Students Page to Apply Now →