A practical guide for families relocating to the Netherlands — covering the Dutch primary school system, the high-stakes CITO transition test, and international school options in Amsterdam, The Hague, Rotterdam and Eindhoven, with 2025-26 fee ranges.
The Netherlands is one of Europe's most expat-friendly countries for education — over 90% of the Dutch population speaks fluent English, and a wide network of international schools operates across all major cities. This guide walks through the Dutch school structure and the enrolment process step by step.
The Dutch School System: Three Pathways
Dutch primary school (Basisschool) runs for 8 years, from age 4 to 12. The CITO test in the final year determines which secondary school track your child enters. This transition is critical — families should plan for it well in advance.
VWO
6-year programme, the highest academic track. Direct entry to research universities (WO). Gymnasium VWO also teaches Latin and Ancient Greek. High academic expectations throughout.
HAVO
5-year programme. Leads to applied universities (HBO). Slightly more flexible than VWO. Ideal for upper-mid academic ability. A good stepping stone — HAVO graduates can transfer to VWO with strong grades.
VMBO
4-year programme leading to vocational education (MBO). Practical and applied focus. Dutch vocational education is highly regarded and well-connected to the labour market.
International School
IB, British or American curriculum. No Dutch required. Strong options in Amsterdam, The Hague, Rotterdam and Eindhoven. Annual fees approximately €11,000–€24,000.
The CITO Test: The Critical Moment
In the final year of primary school (groep 8, age 12), the CITO test determines which secondary school track a child is recommended for. For children who are still developing their Dutch, this test can be a significant source of stress — and an unfair disadvantage.
Dutch vs English: Language of Instruction
The Netherlands is one of Europe's most accommodating countries for English-speaking families. Many state schools offer TTO bilingual streams — half the curriculum delivered in English. International schools operate entirely in English and follow IB, British or American programmes.
ISK — International Transition Class
ISK (Internationale Schakelklas) is a 1–2 year bridge programme for newly arrived foreign students. It builds Dutch language skills and prepares children to enter the mainstream school system. Available in most major cities.
Which City?
Amsterdam — The Netherlands' most cosmopolitan city. High cost of living and competitive housing. English-medium international schools: Amsterdam International Community School (AICS), British School of Amsterdam and Amity International School Amsterdam. Annual fees €14,000–€22,000.
The Hague (Den Haag) — Home to international organisations and diplomatic missions; the most popular city for diplomatic and tech expat families. International School of The Hague (ISH), with students from 70+ countries, is one of the most established international schools in the Netherlands. American School of The Hague offers a US curriculum. Annual fees €17,000–€24,000. Waiting lists apply at several schools.
Rotterdam — Modern, multicultural, and more affordable than Amsterdam. International School Rotterdam (IRIS) offers full English instruction at secondary level; Rotterdam International Secondary School (RISS) is another well-regarded option. Annual fees €12,000–€18,000.
Eindhoven — Popular with employees of ASML, Philips and other tech companies. International School Eindhoven (ISE) blends IB and British curriculum in a small-class, family-friendly environment. Annual fees €11,000–€17,000.
International English Schools in the Netherlands: City and Cost
Dutch state schools are free (small materials contributions expected). International schools offer English-medium instruction and are the choice of most expat families. Key options and 2025-26 fee ranges by city:
| School | City | Curriculum | Annual Fee (€) |
|---|---|---|---|
| International School of The Hague (ISH) | The Hague | IB | 17,000–24,000 |
| American School of The Hague | The Hague | American / IB | 17,000–24,000 |
| British School of Amsterdam | Amsterdam | British / IB | 15,000–22,000 |
| Amsterdam International Community School (AICS) | Amsterdam | IB | 14,000–20,000 |
| International School Rotterdam (IRIS) | Rotterdam | IB | 12,000–18,000 |
| International School Eindhoven (ISE) | Eindhoven | British / IB | 11,000–17,000 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do we need to learn Dutch?
For day-to-day life, English is sufficient in most Dutch cities. For children integrating into the Dutch school system long-term, Dutch language acquisition is important for social and academic progress. For short-stay expat families, international schools remove this requirement entirely.
Is the IB Diploma recognised by Dutch universities?
Yes — IB Diploma is fully recognised by Dutch universities. Some programmes have numerus fixus (entry caps) with minimum score requirements. For competitive programmes such as Medicine at UvA or TU Delft engineering, check specific admission thresholds in advance.
How long are international school waiting lists?
At popular schools in The Hague and Amsterdam, waiting lists can run 1–2 years for sought-after year groups. Apply as early as possible — ideally before you have a confirmed relocation date.
International school or Dutch state school?
For short-term relocations (under 3 years), international schools provide a smoother transition. For long-term stays where Dutch language integration matters, a Dutch state school — particularly one with a TTO bilingual stream — offers better language development and future opportunities in the Netherlands.
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