General info on Dutch education

Dutch law strictly enforces compulsory education for all children aged 5 to 16 residing in the Netherlands, regardless of their nationality.

As of August 2007 compulsory education was extended to the age of 18, or any earlier moment that teenagers are qualified to enter the  labour market: with a HAVO or VWO diploma (secondary education) or an MBO level 2, 3 or 4 diploma (vocational secondary education).

Want to send your children to a Dutch school?

The Dutch primary school system operates entirely on free choice and there are no “standard” state-run schools.

Intensive Dutch for foreign children

The Hague offers special courses for foreign children who speak very little or no Dutch and are planning to attend a Dutch school.

An Overview of Education in the Netherlands

An overview of international and Dutch education: primary, secondary and higher education.

Primary Education

Primary education is geared for children aged 4 to 12 years.

Secondary Education

All four types of secondary education are for children aged 12 and over.

Vocational Education

Vocational education (MBO) in the Netherlands.