DUC Counselor Bootcamp 2025 - Road to the Netherlands

Welcome to the fourth edition of the DUC Bootcamp for Counselors! The bootcamp will take place from 11-13 February 2025 and will be focusing on each step on the roadmap to studying in the Netherlands.

For a breakdown of what to expect from the structure and content of the bootcamp as well as a quick update on the current status of Dutch higher education within the changing political landscape, please watch the introduction video below!

All the sessions will be live. We have provided an image of the timetable* here (click on the image to download). Descriptions and access links to each session are below.

We understand that due to time zone differences and work schedules you may not be able to attend the sessions on the day itself. Therefore, the sessions will be recorded and shared with those who registered for a limited time after the bootcamp.

We ask you to not share this website directly. This is a counselor-only event and for organizational reasons we require individual registration. 

*Please note all sessions take place during Central European Time.

Immediately go to sessions for:
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday

Timetable

Live Sessions

Tuesday 11 February 13:00-14:00 CET

Planning your journey
Step 1: Getting started - the basics

Speakers:
Carolyn Barr - Leiden University
Nayab Muhmood - HZ University of Applied Sciences
Monique Scheepens - Maastricht University

This session will guide you through the essentials of exploring higher education opportunities in the Netherlands. We’ll cover how to align your students’ interests with the right programs and navigate admissions basics. Perfect for a comprehensive introduction or a refresher, this session sets the foundation for helping students take the first step toward studying in the Netherlands.

Tuesday 11 February 14:15-14:45 CET

Roadblock!

Bachelor of Arts (BA) vs. Bachelor of Science (BSc)

Speakers:
Carolyn Barr - Leiden University

This session focuses on guiding students in choosing between a Bachelor of Arts (BA) and a Bachelor of Science (BSc) program in the Netherlands. We’ll explore how each degree shapes the student experience, including study methods and academic focus, as well as the impact on future master’s program options. Equip your students with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their academic paths and long-term goals.

Tuesday 11 February 15:00-15:45 CET

Planning your journey
Step 2 & 3: Fit & Focus - what to consider during research

Speakers:
Manuel Avila - Hotelschool The Hague
Dennis Baas - Eindhoven University of Technology
Johanna Knio Goossens - Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University
Kim Zwitserloot - University College Utrecht, part of Utrecht University

In this session, we’ll dive deeper into the Dutch education system and what to take into consideration when researching bachelor programs across the Netherlands (environment, teaching method, etc.). We will also highlight the distinctions between Research Universities and Universities of Applied Sciences in order to choose the best option for your students. We’ll also cover key deadlines and practical considerations to make the application process seamless.

Tuesday 11 February 16:00-16:30 CET

Roadblock!

Directly Dutch: Alternative pathways?

Speakers:
Carolyn Barr - Leiden University
Johanna Knio Goossens - Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University
Denise Nijhuis - University College Roosevelt

In this session, we’ll discuss the Dutch admissions criteria, including the requirement that applicants’ qualifications match the Dutch VWO high school diploma standard, as mandated by government regulations. We’ll explore the realities of student profiles that align well with Dutch universities and why alternative pathways are limited. This session provides an honest look at when alternative options may (or may not) apply, helping counselors guide students toward realistic, successful study paths.

Wednesday 12 February 13:00-13:45 CET

On the road
Step 4: Studielink and application portals

Speakers:
Dennis Baas - Eindhoven University of Technology
Victoria Barroeta - Tilburg University
Keith Layman - International School Dusseldorf
Studielink may feel like an expletive to many students and counselors around the world. In fact, it is a government registration platform and database that is fairly easy to use, if you understand it and know where to look for assistance when necessary. In this session we will walk you through the registration process, discuss common pitfalls with examples, and talk about the offer and acceptance of offer possibilities.
Wednesday 12 February 15:00-15:45 CET

On the road
Step 5-8: Applying - preparation and selection

Speakers:
Manuel Avila - Hotelschool The Hague
Johanna Knio Goossens - Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University
Denise Nijhuis - University College Roosevelt

This session covers the essential steps and timeline for gathering required documents, understanding selection criteria, and navigating both Numerus Fixus (NF) and matching procedures. We’ll explain the types of selection and matching processes students might encounter—whether that involves interviews, online tests, or motivation letters—and which deadlines are crucial. We’ll also share tips on tracking application progress before reaching out to universities, ensuring a smooth and timely admissions process.

Wednesday 12 February 16:00-16:30 CET

Roadblock!

Don't miss it! Communicating with Dutch universities

Speakers:
Johanna Knio Goossens - Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University

Learn about the key expectations around how Dutch universities communicate with prospective students/applicants. We’ll discuss when and how students can expect to be contacted, the typical communication resources provided (like admissions portals and info sessions), and best practices for staying informed throughout the admissions process. Understanding these touchpoints will help ensure that no critical information or deadline is missed.

Thursday 13 February 13:00-13:45 CET

Bringing it home
Step 9 & 10: Decision time - offers and enrolling

Speakers:
Carolyn Barr - Leiden University
Victoria Barroeta - Tilburg University
Nayab Muhmood - HZ University of Applied Sciences

This session covers the crucial steps from accepting an admission offer to successfully transitioning into university life. We’ll discuss key deadlines, conditions, and deposits (if applicable), as well as practical preparations. Beyond enrollment, we’ll also explore what students can expect as they navigate university life and prepare for their future careers. Learn how to guide students through a smooth academic transition and set them up for long-term success.

Thursday 13 February 14:15-14:45 CET

Roadblock!

Finances & housing

Speakers:
Kim Zwiterserloot - University College Utrecht

In this session, we’ll provide a realistic assessment of the costs associated with studying in the Netherlands, including tuition, living expenses, and available scholarships, which are often limited. We’ll also discuss how universities handle housing and practical strategies for securing housing and making informed financial decisions to ensure a smooth transition to studying in the Netherlands.

Thursday 13 February 15:00-15:45 CET

Student Panel

Moderator:
Johanna Knio Goossens - Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University

Who better to tell you what it is like to study in the Netherlands and at a particular institution than our current international students? Join a Q&A panel with students from each of the DUC members and ask away. 

Thursday 13 February 16:00-16:30 CET

Ask me/us anything!

All DUC members present

Join us for an open forum where counselors can pose their questions directly to representatives from DUC member institutions. Whether you’re curious about admissions processes, program specifics, student life, or any other topics on your mind, this is your chance to get insightful answers and guidance from the experts.