Understanding Tuition Fees at the University of Groningen: A Comprehensive Guide

Understanding Tuition Fees at the University of Groningen; The University of Groningen, located in the Netherlands, is one of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious universities. If you are considering enrolling in one of their Bachelor’s degree programmes, it’s essential to understand the tuition fees and the requirements that determine how much you will pay.

The University of Groningen is a research university with a global outlook, deeply rooted in Groningen, City of Talent. Quality has had top priority for four hundred years, and with success, the university is currently in or around the top 100 on several influential ranking lists.

This blog post simplifies the details of tuition fees at the University of Groningen, focusing on statutory tuition fees, university tuition fees, and exceptions for specific circumstances.

Tuition Fees at the University of Groningen

Categories of Tuition Fees

The University of Groningen has three primary tuition fee categories:

Statutory Tuition Fees
University Tuition fees
University Tuition Fees II

Each category depends on your nationality, previous education, and the degree program you choose. Let’s explore these in detail.

1. Statutory Tuition Fees

Eligibility Requirements

You qualify for statutory tuition fees if you meet the following criteria:

Nationality Requirement:
- Dutch passport holders.
- Nationals of EU/EEA countries, Switzerland, or Suriname.
- Non-EEA nationals who are family members of EU citizens living in the Netherlands.
- Non-EEA nationals with specific Dutch residence permits (types II, III, IV, or, under certain conditions, type I).
Previous Education:
- You must not have earned a similar degree in the Netherlands (e.g., another bachelor’s degree if applying for a bachelor’s program).

Statutory Tuition Fees for 2024-2025

Full-time programmes: €2,530
Part-time programmes: €1,863
Teacher training programs: €1,265 for full-time, €913 for part-time.

2. University Tuition Fees

This fee applies to students who meet special circumstances, such as:

UAF Students: recognized refugee students by the UAF.
Erasmus Mundus Participants: If you are part of this program and do not qualify for statutory fees.
Non-EEA Spouses or Partners: You are a non-EEA national married to or partnered with an EU citizen and residing in the Netherlands.

University Tuition Fees I for 2024-2025

Full-time programmes: €2,530
Part-time programmes: €1,863
Specific Programmes (e.g., Liberal Arts): €5,017

3. University Tuition Fees II

Students who do not qualify for statutory tuition fees or university tuition fees fall into this category. This includes non-EU/EEA students and those pursuing a second degree in the same category.

Examples of Fees (2024-2025)

Economics and Business: €11,500 (full-time), €6,300 (part-time).
Medical Sciences (Medicine): €26,100.
Science and Engineering: €15,000.
University College Groningen: €16,700.

Why Are There Different Tuition Fee Categories?

The Dutch government provides funding for one bachelor’s and one master’s degree per student from eligible nationalities.

However, students pursuing additional degrees or those who do not meet nationality requirements must pay higher fees to compensate for the lack of government subsidies.

Special Cases and Exceptions

Reduced Fees for Teacher Training

Students in teacher training programs may qualify for reduced fees for one academic year under specific conditions. For instance, students who started in the 2023-2024 academic year may continue to benefit from reduced fees if they stay in the same program.

Simultaneous Enrolments

If you enrol in multiple programs simultaneously, you generally pay tuition fees for the higher-priced program only.

Changing Circumstances

If your residency status or other eligibility criteria change mid-year, your tuition fees may be adjusted accordingly.

Key Considerations for Non-EU/EEA Students

Non-EU/EEA students generally fall into the University Tuition Fees II category unless they meet specific residency or relationship requirements. These fees vary significantly based on the program:

Medical Sciences: €19,300–€26,100.
Behavioural and Social Sciences: €11,500.
Science and Engineering: €15,000.

If you are pursuing a second degree, fees for programs such as medicine or engineering can be higher.

Important Notes on Fee Payment

Late Registration: If you enrol after 30 September, your tuition fee will be calculated based on the remaining months in the academic year.
Second Degree Programs: If you enrol for a second Bachelor’s or Master’s degree, you typically pay higher fees unless your new degree qualifies for statutory fees (e.g., teaching or healthcare).

Summary Table of Fees (2024-2025)

Category	Full-time Fee (€)	Part-time Fee (€)
Statutory Tuition Fee	2,530	1,863
Teacher Training	1,265	913
University Tuition Fee I	2,530–5,017	1,863–5,017
University Tuition Fee II	11,500–26,100	6,300–19,800

Conclusion

Understanding the tuition fee structure at the University of Groningen is essential for planning your education budget. Factors such as nationality, previous education, and programme type significantly influence the amount you’ll pay.

Be sure to check with the university’s immigration service desk for changes in your personal circumstances or if you believe you qualify for reduced tuition fees. For detailed policies and updates visit the University of Groningen’s official website.

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