Avans University of Applied Sciences
Breda
- Number one large university of applied sciences in the Netherlands for the 10th time! (ranked by students);
- top education - a leading position in national rankings for many years!
- personal attention and support for students to achieve the best possible results both personally and professionally;
- excellent employability of graduates;
- pleasant and safe environment for young adults.
About
Entry qualification
Accommodation
Avans University of Applied Sciences - top-ranked in the Netherlands
Avans University of Applied Sciences is ranked #2 among large universities of applied sciences in the Netherlands (Keuzegids). With campuses in Breda, Den Bosch, Tilburg, and Roosendaal, Avans offers English-taught bachelor and master programs with a strong focus on practice-based learning and mandatory internships. Located in the vibrant province of Noord-Brabant (famous for carnival, festivals, and friendly people), Avans combines top-rated education with an unforgettable student experience.
What makes Avans special is the combination of academic excellence and personal attention. Class sizes are small, lecturers know you by name, and a dedicated team of student counsellors supports you throughout your studies. The university also partners with housing associations to help international students find accommodation - making your transition to life in the Netherlands as smooth as possible.
Campus tour at Avans in Breda
Why students choose Avans
Choose a highly rated university. Avans ranks second among large Dutch universities of applied sciences.
Build experience before graduation. Every program includes internships, company projects and practical assignments.
Get personal support. Small classes help lecturers and counsellors know your needs.
Access financial support while working. Eligible EU students can receive Dutch student finance. Learn more about financial support in the Netherlands.
Study in four welcoming cities. Choose Breda, Den Bosch, Tilburg or Roosendaal.
Sustainability leadership. Every Avans program earned AISHE certification, a first for Dutch applied sciences universities.
Life as an Avans student in Breda
Follow an international student through a typical day - studying, socializing, and exploring Breda.
Study programs at Avans
Avans offers English-taught bachelor programs in fields including:
- Environmental Science for Sustainable Energy and Technology (ESSET) - Breda
- International Business - Breda / Den Bosch
- Finance and Control - Den Bosch
Avans also offers master programs and exchange programs. The exact list of study programs available through the Kastu platform can be found at the top of this university description, next to the logo.
Breda, Den Bosch, Tilburg - your campus cities
Breda - nicknamed "the Pearl of the South," Breda is a lively student city with a historic centre, great bars and restaurants, festivals (including carnival and Fiesta Mexicana), and beautiful parks. It has excellent train connections to Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and even Belgium.
Den Bosch ('s-Hertogenbosch) - famous for its welcoming atmosphere, stunning St. John's Cathedral, vibrant cultural scene, and the Jazz in Duketown Festival. A city where you immediately feel at home.
Tilburg - a vibrant student city with the famous 013 music venue, the largest funfair in the Netherlands, and a buzzing nightlife scene. Affordable and full of energy.
Quick facts
| Type | University of Applied Sciences (HBO) |
|---|---|
| National ranking | 2nd among large universities of applied sciences (Keuzegids) |
| Programs in English | Bachelor + Master programs |
| Campuses | Breda, Den Bosch, Tilburg, Roosendaal |
| Program duration | 4 years (Bachelor), 1-2 years (Master) |
| Internship | Mandatory in all programs |
| Province | Noord-Brabant (southern Netherlands) |
FAQ
What makes Avans different from other Dutch universities?
Avans stands out for its personal approach. Unlike large research universities, Avans focuses on practice-based learning with small class sizes, personal guidance from lecturers, and dedicated student counsellors. The university is consistently top-ranked by students for quality of education and student satisfaction. You are not a number here - you are part of a community.
What is student life like in Brabant?
Noord-Brabant is known for its warm, welcoming culture - locals are famously friendly and social. The region is famous for carnival (a massive celebration before Lent), music festivals, and a vibrant café culture. Cities like Breda, Den Bosch, and Tilburg have thriving student communities with plenty of bars, restaurants, sports clubs, and cultural events. The region is also well-connected by train to Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Belgium.
Can I work while studying at Avans?
Yes! As an EU student, you can work alongside your studies without restrictions. The Netherlands has a financial support system for working students that can help cover your living costs. Many students find part-time jobs in retail, hospitality, or through the university's industry network. Learn more about financial support for students in the Netherlands.
What career support does Avans offer?
Avans has strong connections with the business community in Brabant and beyond. Through mandatory internships, company projects, and guest lectures, you build a professional network during your studies. The university also has a Student Incubator for aspiring entrepreneurs and career services to help you find employment after graduation. Many graduates find jobs in the Netherlands or internationally.
Bachelor
Entry qualification
- Transcript of Records – If you have not yet completed Secondary School, you must upload a transcript showing your current grades. You can find the transcript template here.
- Secondary School Leaving Certificate – If you have already completed Secondary School, you do not need to upload a separate transcript. Simply upload your Secondary School Leaving Certificate to the application.
An additional document, the Preliminary Graduation Statement, may be required depending on the programme you apply for at this university.
If this document is required, it will appear in the Documents section of the Kastu application form once you start your application.
Important! View the full requirements on the university’s official website. Requirements may vary depending on your nationality and the country where you completed your previous education.
Note:
- Admission Task – Applicants to bachelor's degree programmes can complete an online admission task (optional). The purpose of the task is to help you find out whether the programme you have chosen matches your interests, needs, and expectations.
- Interview – Applicants to bachelor's degree programmes can also take part in an admission interview with a lecturer from their chosen programme (optional). The purpose of the interview is to help determine whether the programme is a good fit for your interests, needs, and expectations.
English language requirements
You may not need to take IELTS or TOEFL. University usually allow you to prove your English proficiency in one of the following ways:
- TOEFL iBT*
- IELTS Academic
- A Cambridge English qualification
- A national English examination listed on your secondary school leaving certificate
- An English subject and grade on your secondary school leaving certificate that meet the university’s requirements
- Secondary education completed in English in a country or school qualification accepted by the university
- An International Baccalaureate (IB) or European Baccalaureate (EB) diploma
- Other
Important: Accepted methods and minimum results depend on study programme, your secondary school qualification and the country where you completed your education. Check the official requirements for your chosen study programme.
*Use the Kastu promo code LTU1000102 when registering for TOEFL iBT and receive a 5% discount.
Master
Entry qualification
- ECTS transcript – If you are still completing your Bachelor’s degree, upload an ECTS transcript showing the subjects you have studied, your grades, and the number of credits awarded. Your Bachelor’s diploma must be uploaded later, as soon as you receive it.
- Bachelor’s diploma – If you have already graduated, upload your Bachelor’s diploma. A separate ECTS transcript is not required.
Note: Your Bachelor’s degree must be in the same or a related field as the Master’s programme you are applying for. The university will check whether you have completed enough relevant subjects and ECTS credits.
Important! View the full requirements on the university’s official website. Requirements may vary depending where you completed your bachelor education.
English language requirements
Applicants have to prove their English language skills either by an internationally recognized language test or upon previous studies. Usually English language skills can be proved by the following documents:
- TOEFL iBT*
- IELTS Academic
- A Cambridge English qualification
- Higher education degree completed in English
- Secondary education completed in English in a country or school qualification accepted by the university
- An English subject and grade on your secondary school leaving certificate that meet the university’s requirements
- Other
Important: Accepted methods and minimum results depend on study programme and the country where you completed your education. Check the official requirements for your chosen study programme.
*Use the Kastu promo code LTU1000102 when registering for TOEFL iBT and receive a 5% discount.
Finding your home near Avans
Avans University has campuses in Breda, Den Bosch, and Tilburg. While Avans does not have its own student dormitories, the university partners with housing associations to offer furnished student rooms for international students in all three cities. The Avans International Office actively helps you find accommodation once your registration is complete.
Finding housing in the Netherlands requires starting early. The Avans International Office recommends beginning your search as soon as you receive your admission confirmation. The university will send you detailed housing information and assistance options via email after your registration is complete.
5 tips to help you settle at Avans
International students share their best tips for settling in - from housing to making friends.
Your housing options
Avans partner rooms are furnished and designed for international students. Some contracts cover one full year. You may not be able to end them early. Read every condition before accepting a room.
Breda housing: register free on Klik voor Kamers. Join early because waiting time can affect your chances.
Commercial platforms: search Kamernet, ROOM and HousingAnywhere. Compare rent, utilities and contract length before choosing.
Short stays with local hosts:Hospi Housing offers rooms in local homes. This can help while you search for permanent housing.
Student networks: follow housing groups for Breda, Den Bosch and Tilburg. Students often share available rooms when they move out.
Housing by city
Breda - a popular student city with various housing options. Avans partners with local housing associations for furnished rooms. The city centre and campus are well-connected by bike.
Den Bosch ('s-Hertogenbosch) - a welcoming city with affordable housing options. Avans helps connect students with local providers.
Tilburg - one of the more affordable cities in the Netherlands for student housing, with a large student population and plenty of shared housing options.
FAQ
Does Avans guarantee housing?
Avans does not guarantee housing, but the International Office actively assists students in finding accommodation through their partner housing associations. You must have an Avans student number to use this service. Start searching early - the university recommends beginning as soon as you receive your admission confirmation. If you cannot find housing before arriving, Avans advises considering postponing your start until accommodation is secured.
How much does student housing cost?
Expect to pay approximately 400-700 EUR per month for a student room, depending on the city and type of accommodation. Furnished rooms through Avans partner associations are typically at the lower end. Tilburg tends to be slightly cheaper than Breda. Remember that the Netherlands has a financial support system for working students that can help cover these costs. Learn more about financial support here.
When should I start looking for housing?
Start as early as possible - ideally as soon as you apply or receive your admission confirmation. The Dutch housing market is competitive, especially in popular student cities. Register on housing websites, join Facebook groups, and contact the Avans International Office. The earlier you start, the better your chances of finding a good room at a reasonable price.
For complete information about accommodation options at Avans, visit the official page.
Student stories