Information for parents and carers

As a parent or carer, you want to ensure your child has the opportunity to reach their full potential and be happy at university. Starting university is a big step for both your child and you, especially if they are studying abroad. This page offers you some insights about studying in the Netherlands, Fontys and more.

How can we help you?

Study process guidance
Information about studying in the Netherlands
Information about studying at Fontys

Studying at Fontys

Broad scope of degree programmes - With over 43.998 students and 119 nationalities, Fontys is one of the Netherlands' largest higher education institutions. We offer 105 bachelor’s programmes, 22 English, and 12 master’s programmes, of which 10 in English.
Practical orientation - Fontys University of Applied Sciences has a strong emphasis on practical hands-on learning. The curriculum is designed to apply to real-world situations directly, preparing students for the practical challenges they may encounter in their future careers.
Industry integration - We collaborate closely with industries and businesses in the region, ensuring that the curriculum is aligned with current industry needs. This integration can lead to valuable opportunities for internships, projects, and networking with professionals in the field. Students also get the opportunity to go abroad for their internship or minor.
Focus on soft skills - In addition to academic knowledge, Fontys focuses on developing soft skills such as teamwork, communication, and leadership. These skills are crucial for success in professional settings.
Student support services - Fontys offers various support services to students, including academic advising, counselling, and (mental)health resources.

Dutch education system

The education system in the Netherlands has two kinds of universities: Research Universities and Universities of Applied Sciences. At Universities of Applied Sciences, education and research have a professional focus. The Dutch way of teaching is quite informal and credits are given according to the ECTS.

University of Applied Sciences

Focus on Practical Application - these institutions focus on the practical application of knowledge. Programs are designed to prepare students for specific professions or industries, and there is often a strong connection between the curriculum and real-world problems.
Skill Based - Teaching methods here are often more hands-on, with an emphasis on practical skills and real-world applications. Internships and work placements may be a mandatory part of the curriculum.
Career path - Graduates are typically well-prepared for entry into specific professions and industries. The focus is on practical skills that are immediately applicable in the workforce.

Research University

Focus on research - These institutions prioritise academic research and the creation of new knowledge. They often have a strong emphasis on theoretical and abstract concepts. Faculty members at research universities are typically expected to engage in significant research activities in addition to teaching.
Knowledge based - The teaching style at research universities often involves lectures, seminars, and independent study. Students are expected to engage in critical thinking, analysis, and theoretical understanding of their subjects.
Career path - Graduates from research universities often pursue careers in academia, research, or other fields that require a strong theoretical foundation.

Studying in the Netherlands

Dutch universities consistently rank among the top in global university rankings. They are known for their high academic standards, innovative teaching methods, and rigorous curriculum.

One of the many great things about living and studying in the Netherlands is the excellent standard of Dutch healthcare, rated as one of the best in Europe. Plus, almost all the doctors speak excellent English, making healthcare in the Netherlands accessible.

In general, the Netherlands is a very safe country to live in. Drug-related crime, murder and other forms of human aggression are at an extremely low level here. The streets are well-lit, and you can safely walk the dog at night or visit a friend by bike.

The Dutch are known for their excellent command of English. The Netherlands is even ranked first worldwide to speak English as a second language (EF Proficiency Index, 2022). So do not worry if your child does not speak Dutch; almost 95% of the Dutch population speaks English.

The Netherlands is a multicultural country. It is also well-positioned in Europe, making it easier to travel, reach all major European cities, and explore other cultures.

How can I help my child choose a study programme?

Discover the possibilities together

The foundation of study orientation begins with asking your child questions such as: What do you want? What can you do? and What makes you happy? As a parent, you play an important role in this. When does your child shine? Are there events, hobbies, or situations revealing much about your child? The goal is to create a clear picture of interests and qualities together. When conversing, try to remain an equal conversational partner, do not judge, and make everything discussable. Be curious, ask follow-up questions, and pose open-ended questions.

Well-prepared for orientation activities

Prepare for a webinar, open day, or experience day, by thinking with your child about the information you are seeking and your questions. The following questions can help you with that. We offer several types of orientation activities, such as:

Open days - Open days are on-campus events, where students and lecturers will show you around and tell you everything you need to know about our programmes, student life in the Netherlands, and Fontys in general.
Study programme webinars - Study programme webinars are online events, where lecturers and students will tell you all about the curriculum of the study programme, projects, internships, and career opportunities.
General webinar - The general webinars are online events, where we tell you more about Fontys, our broad scope of programmes, how to get accommodation and more. Students also tell about their life as a Fontys student.
Experience days - During experience days, you can feel what being a students is like. We host both online and offline experience events, which differ per programme.

Check events

Five questions beforehand

What led you to choose this webinar, open day, or experience day?
What questions do you hope to have answered?
What else do you find important to know about the programme? Consider subjects, teaching methods, professions, schedules, internships, and students' experiences.
To what extent does this programme align with your interests, talents, and qualities?
What is your next step after this webinar, open day, or experience day?

Five questions afterwards

What was your first impression of this presentation?
What questions were you hoping to have answered, and to what extent were they addressed?
Did you feel during the presentation, "Yes, I enjoy doing this, and it aligns with my interests and qualities"?
Based on your experience, what grade would you give this programme?
What would it be if you could ask the programme one more thing? What subsequent step would that involve?