As an international student in the Netherlands, it can be challenging to manage your spending habits while striving to make the most out of your student experience. Especially, with the current rising inflation situation in the Netherlands, it has become even more crucial to master the art of frugality and financial mindfulness. With a little bit of planning and some smart choices, you can live your best student life without breaking the bank. In this article, we’ve pulled together some budget tips on how to enjoy your student life on a budget in the Netherlands.
Take advantage of healthcare and rental allowances from the Dutch government
Typically, students don’t have high income, which makes them eligible for valuable financial support from the Dutch government to ease the burden of healthcare costs and rent expenses. By taking advantage of these allowances, you can breathe a little easier knowing that financial assistance is available to help you navigate your student life in the Netherlands.
Healthcare allowance, known as zorgtoeslag, helps cover a portion of your health insurance expenses, ensuring you can prioritize your well-being without straining your finances. Zorgtoeslag proves to be especially advantageous if you are employed and obliged to take out Dutch Healthcare Insurance. The government determines the amount of your allowances based on your income and your family situation (e.g. alone, a single parent or a couple). Typically, there is also a slight increase each year in the allocated amount. You can apply for the Zorgtoeslag through the website of the Dutch tax authority (Belastingdienst).
Rent allowance, or huurtoeslag, provides assistance with the cost of accommodation, making it easier to secure affordable accommodation. To be eligible for housing allowance, it is necessary to reside in a self-contained home, which implies having your own kitchen, bathroom, toilet, and living area(s). The amount of your allowance depends on your rental price, who you live with, and your income. You can learn more about the rent allowance in our detailed blog post here.
Travel green and save money
Embrace walking and cycling whenever possible, as it not only helps you save money but also keeps you physically active and reduces your environmental impact. In fact, living in the Netherlands means embracing a unique lifestyle where the bicycle becomes your trusty companion for transportation. With a well-established cycling infrastructure and a culture that prioritizes biking, cycling becomes the most affordable and fastest option if you want to beat the traffic, especially in big cities. You can find a plethora of budget-friendly, second-hand bikes for sale on Marktplaats or Facebook Marketplace. If you’re studying in the Netherlands for a shorter period, you enjoy the convenience of a monthly rental bike like Swapfiets, including maintenance and repairs, without the long-term commitment.
If you need to go a little further afield, obtaining an OV-chipkaart for public transport is the optimal solution to save travel expenses. This card allows you to purchase bus or train tickets at a discounted rate, providing cost savings on public transportation. Additionally, the OV-chipkaart offers a variety of monthly subscription options, such as a 40% discount for train tickets for travel outside rush hours or during weekends.
Plan your grocery shopping carefully
When it comes to your weekly grocery shopping, supermarkets often entice you with tempting offers and discounts. Particularly, many stores such as Lidl, Kruidvat or Albert Heijn offer exclusive discounts if you sign up for their loyalty cards. In order to save money, it is a good idea to compare prices from different supermarkets to identify the cheapest options and take advantage of any ongoing sales or discounts.
Moreover, you can find affordable fruit and vegetables by exploring the local farmers’ markets in your city. These markets, often open on specific days, offer a vibrant and budget-friendly shopping experience. Whether it’s the Haagse Markt in The Hague or the Dappermarkt in Amsterdam, you’ll discover a wide range of fresh produce at reasonable prices.
An alternative option to save on food expenses is food waste initiatives such as Albert Heijn Overblijvers or Too Good To Go app. These solutions allow you to purchase surplus food from local restaurants, cafés, and grocery stores at significantly discounted prices. These are products that are leftovers at the end of the day or have a near expiration date. Taking advantage of these food waste initiatives is a win-win situation that allows you to stretch your budget further and play a part in combating food waste.
Keep an eye out for student discounts
While navigating your student life in the Netherlands, it’s essential to keep an eye out for enticing student discounts that can help lower your cost of living. Many businesses, including restaurants, cafes, clothing stores, entertainment venues, and transportation services, offer exclusive discounts for students. Make it a habit to inquire about student discounts wherever you go, whether it’s presenting your student card for reduced ticket prices at museums or enjoying discounted meals at local eateries. Additionally, websites and apps dedicated to student discounts, such as Knaek and UNiDAYS, can be valuable resources for discovering the latest deals and offers. By taking advantage of these student discounts, you can reduce your living expenses and enjoy more of what the Netherlands has to offer.
Make money, save money on second-hand items
As a student looking to save money, buying second-hand items can be an excellent option. Whether it’s textbooks, furniture, electronics, or clothing, purchasing second-hand goods can significantly reduce living costs while still meeting your needs. Platforms like Marktplaats, Vinted, and thrift stores such as Kringloop offer a wide range of affordable and well-maintained items. Not only does buying second-hand help you save money, but it also promotes sustainability by giving pre-loved items a new lease on life. So, before making a purchase, consider exploring the second-hand market. You might be surprised by the quality and affordability of the items you find, allowing you to make the most of your student budget.
On the other hand, if you have items in good condition that you’ve outgrown, why not turn them into extra cash? Study books for university can be quite pricey, so it’s worth considering selling them once you no longer need them. Not only will you recoup some of your expenses, but you’ll also assist other students who are seeking affordable study materials.
Going out on a budget
As an international student, it’s essential to take the time to explore and embrace the new country you find yourself in. Your time abroad is not just about academics but also about personal growth and discovering a new world. Although it may seem challenging to save money while going out, with a little imagination, you can still indulge in leisure activities without putting a strain on your wallet.
The Netherlands plays host to some of the world’s most famous museums, steeped in rich history and cultural significance. For museum enthusiasts, the Museum Card is an invaluable resource for fully immersing yourself in the country’s artistic and historical treasures. This annual membership card offers unlimited free entry to over 450 museums throughout the Netherlands, including prominent exhibitions featuring the works of iconic artists such as Van Gogh and Rembrandt.
If you’re looking for a cinematic escape during your spare time between lectures, Pathé offers discounted cinema tickets that are worth taking advantage of. Grab some popcorn and explore what your local cinema has to offer in terms of movie screenings and special deals. Additionally, Pathé provides a convenient monthly subscription card for just €23, granting you unlimited access to films without the hassle of purchasing single tickets for each visit.
A night out with friends on the weekend can be expensive, so we’d recommend checking websites like Groupon or Social Deal for discounted offers at various restaurants. These platforms often have vouchers or deals that can greatly reduce dining costs while still enjoying a decent meal. Additionally, consider hosting gatherings with friends where everyone contributes a dish or activity, making it a cost-effective and enjoyable way to spend time together. By embracing creativity and seeking out budget-friendly options, you can still have a fulfilling and memorable leisure experience as a frugal student.
In conclusion, living your best student life in the Netherlands doesn’t have to be a financial burden. By being resourceful and seeking out student-friendly options, you can have a fantastic time as a international student in the Netherlands while keeping your living expenses in check.
