Rotterdam Business School
Rotterdam
- 30% international students;
- combination of theory and application;
- internships included;
- Brand new building (2017) with state of the art technology and study facilities.
About
Entry qualification
Accommodation
Rotterdam Business School - study business in Europe's most dynamic port city
Rotterdam Business School (RBS) is the international business school of Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences, with over 2,500 students from around the world. Located in Rotterdam - Europe's largest port and the Netherlands' most modern city - RBS offers English-taught bachelor and master programs in international business, logistics, supply chain management, and trade. The school's direct connection to Rotterdam's world-leading logistics and business ecosystem gives students unmatched internship and career opportunities.
Rotterdam is unlike any other Dutch city. After being rebuilt after WWII, it became a city of innovation and architecture - with iconic buildings like the Erasmus Bridge, the Markthal, and the Cube Houses. It is the economic engine of the Netherlands, home to the largest port in Europe and headquarters of global companies like Unilever, Shell, and Maersk. For business students, there is no better place to study.
A day at Rotterdam Business School
A Day in the Life of a Marketing Student
Follow Denis, a second-year student, and get a glimpse into daily life and studies within the Marketing specialisation at Rotterdam Business School.
Why students choose Rotterdam Business School
Study beside Europe’s largest port. Access companies in logistics, trade and supply chains.
Learn from business professionals. Lecturers bring experience as entrepreneurs or consultants.
Understand international customers. Combine business, marketing, languages and cultural awareness.
Work on real company projects. Build solutions for organisations during your studies.
Complete international internships. Apply business knowledge inside companies around the world.
Test your own business idea. A student project can become your first venture.
Build a global network. Rotterdam brings together businesses and people from 170+ nationalities.
Access university housing support. RBS students can apply for reserved international rooms.
Eligible working EU students may receive Dutch financial support. Learn more here.
Study programs at Rotterdam Business School
RBS offers English-taught programs including:
- International Business (bachelor) - with specializations in Trade Management, Logistics Management, and Financial Management
- Master in Consultancy and Entrepreneurship
- Master in International Supply Chain Management
- Master in River Delta Development
- Master in Shipping and Transport
The International Business bachelor includes a mandatory internship and the option to specialize in your area of interest. 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.
Rotterdam - your student city
Rotterdam is the second-largest city in the Netherlands and its economic powerhouse. Known for its iconic modern architecture (Erasmus Bridge, Markthal, Cube Houses, De Rotterdam), vibrant nightlife, diverse food scene, and creative energy. The city has a completely different vibe from Amsterdam - more urban, more diverse, more forward-looking.
For students, Rotterdam offers affordable living (cheaper than Amsterdam), excellent public transport, a thriving cultural scene, and easy access to the beach (Hoek van Holland). The city's diversity means you will find communities, restaurants, and events from every corner of the world.
Quick facts
| Type | Business School (part of Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences) |
|---|---|
| International students | 2,500+ |
| Programs in English | Bachelor International Business + Master programs |
| Location | Rotterdam (Europe's largest port city) |
| Key strength | Logistics, International Trade, Supply Chain |
| Housing | Available for international students through RUAS |
FAQ
What makes Rotterdam special for business students?
Rotterdam is the economic engine of the Netherlands and home to Europe's largest port. This means unmatched access to companies in logistics, international trade, finance, and innovation. Global companies like Unilever, Shell, and Maersk have their headquarters here. For business students, this translates to real internship opportunities, company projects, and career connections that you simply cannot get in smaller cities.
Is Rotterdam Business School the same as Rotterdam School of Management?
No - they are different institutions. Rotterdam Business School (RBS) is part of Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences (HBO) and focuses on practice-based business education. Rotterdam School of Management (RSM) is part of Erasmus University (WO) and is more research-oriented. RBS offers a more hands-on approach with internships and company projects integrated into the curriculum, preparing you directly for the job market.
Can I work while studying at RBS?
Yes! As an EU student, you can work alongside your studies without restrictions. Rotterdam has excellent job opportunities - especially in logistics, hospitality, and business services. The port area alone employs thousands of people. The Netherlands has a financial support system for working students. Learn more about financial support for students in the Netherlands.
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.
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.
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 in Rotterdam
Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences (which includes Rotterdam Business School) offers housing to international students enrolled in their programs. This is a significant advantage - the university actively helps you find accommodation in Rotterdam. While not guaranteed for all students, the housing support makes the process much easier than searching independently.
Rotterdam is more affordable than Amsterdam for housing, and the city has been actively building new student accommodation in recent years. The housing market is competitive but manageable, especially with university support.
Student life in Rotterdam - complete guide
Housing tips, where to go, and what student life in Rotterdam is really like.
Your housing options
RUAS student housing (recommended) - Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences offers housing to international students. Contact the university after acceptance for available options and the application process.
DUWO - a major student housing provider in Rotterdam with multiple locations across the city.
Housing platforms - websites like Kamernet, HousingAnywhere, and Room.nl list available rooms in Rotterdam.
Facebook groups - search for "Student Housing Rotterdam" or "Rooms in Rotterdam" for additional options posted by departing students.
Practical details
- Typical rent: 450-750 EUR per month for a student room
- Rotterdam is more affordable than Amsterdam
- New student housing complexes being built across the city
- Excellent public transport (metro, tram, bus) connects all neighbourhoods
- Many students live in areas like Kralingen, Blijdorp, or the city centre
Remember: the Netherlands has a financial support system for EU students who work alongside their studies. Learn more about financial support here.
FAQ
Does Rotterdam Business School help with housing?
Yes! Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences (which includes RBS) offers housing to international students enrolled in their programs. After acceptance, you will receive information about available housing options and how to apply. The university works with housing providers to secure rooms for international students. Contact the international office early to maximize your chances.
Is Rotterdam affordable for students?
Rotterdam is more affordable than Amsterdam for both housing and daily expenses. Student rooms typically cost 450-750 EUR per month. The city also has many affordable restaurants, markets (like the Markthal), and student-friendly venues. Combined with the Dutch financial support system for working students and Rotterdam's excellent job market, studying here is financially manageable. Learn more about financial support here.
Which neighbourhoods are popular with students?
Popular student areas in Rotterdam include Kralingen (close to Erasmus University campus, green and residential), the city centre (vibrant, close to everything), Blijdorp (near the zoo, quiet and green), and Delfshaven (historic, diverse, affordable). Rotterdam has excellent public transport, so you can easily reach the RBS campus from any neighbourhood.
For complete information about student housing at Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences, visit the official page.
Student stories