Tilburg University

Tilburg
  • High quality education (the highest overall satisfaction of all general Research Universities in the Netherlands);
  • No. 5 in Business Administration and no. 8 in Finance worldwide (Academic Ranking of World Universities);
  • No. 37 in Business & Economics, No. 28 in Law, No. 50 in Psychology worldwide (Times Higher Education Ranking);
  • No. 2 in the Top 750 Law Schools worldwide (Social Science Research Network);
  • students are educated to become critical thinkers who dare to act and actively contribute to society.
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Tilburg University - where data, economics, and society meet

Tilburg University is a top-ranked research university in the south of the Netherlands, offering 14 English-taught bachelor programs and over 50 master programs in English. The university is internationally recognized for its strength in economics, data science, law, and social sciences - ranking among the best in Europe in these fields. Tilburg's approach is unique: every program connects academic knowledge to real societal challenges.

The university has a beautiful green campus that feels like a park - with modern buildings, study spaces, sports facilities, and social areas all in one place. Tilburg city itself is a cozy, affordable student city in the south of the Netherlands (North Brabant), known for its friendly people, vibrant cultural scene, and the famous Tilburg carnival. The university reserves 250 furnished rooms through SSHXL specifically for international students.

 

 

Get to know Tilburg University

Discover what makes Tilburg University special - its green campus, programs, and welcoming community.

 

 

A day on campus at Tilburg University

Follow students through a typical day - lectures, studying with friends, and campus life.

 

 

Why students choose Tilburg University

  • Top-ranked in economics, data science, and law. Tilburg is consistently ranked among the best in Europe for economics and business research. The Data Science and AI programs are cutting-edge, preparing you for the most in-demand careers of the future.
  • Beautiful green campus. Tilburg's campus is a green oasis - modern buildings surrounded by trees, with everything in one place: lecture halls, library, sports centre, restaurants, and student associations. Students love the relaxed, community atmosphere.
  • 250 reserved rooms for international students. Through SSHXL, Tilburg University reserves 250 furnished Short Stay rooms specifically for international students. This makes finding housing much easier than at many other Dutch universities.
  • Financial support for working students. The Netherlands offers a financial support system for EU students who work alongside their studies. Learn more about financial support here.
  • Affordable southern Netherlands. Tilburg is significantly cheaper than Amsterdam or Utrecht. Housing, food, and entertainment cost less, and the city has a warm, welcoming atmosphere typical of the Brabant region.
  • Society-focused education. Every Tilburg program connects academic knowledge to real-world impact. You do not just learn theory - you learn how to use knowledge to make society better.

 

 

Study programs at Tilburg University

Tilburg offers 14 English-taught bachelor programs including:

  • International Business Administration
  • Economics
  • Data Science
  • Cognitive Science and Artificial Intelligence
  • Global Law
  • Psychology
  • Entrepreneurship and Business Innovation
  • Econometrics and Operations Research
  • University College Tilburg (Liberal Arts and Sciences)

Plus over 50 master programs in English. 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.

 

 

International students about Tilburg

What do international students think of Dutch culture and life in Tilburg? Hear their experiences!

 

 

Tilburg - your student city

Tilburg is a cozy, affordable city in the province of North Brabant - the southern Netherlands. Known for its warm, friendly people (Brabant hospitality is famous in NL), vibrant cultural scene, and the legendary Tilburg carnival. The city has great cafés, restaurants, live music venues, and a growing creative scene.

Despite being the 6th largest city in the Netherlands, Tilburg feels compact and accessible. Everything is within cycling distance, and the train connects you to Amsterdam (1.5h), Rotterdam (45 min), and Eindhoven (15 min). The city is surrounded by beautiful nature - forests and heathlands perfect for cycling and hiking.

 

 

Quick facts

TypeResearch University (WO)
Founded1927
English bachelor programs14
English master programs50+
LocationTilburg (North Brabant, southern NL)
Key strengthsEconomics, Data Science, Law, Psychology
Reserved housing250 furnished rooms for international students (SSHXL)
CampusGreen, park-like campus with all facilities

 

 

FAQ

What is Tilburg University best known for?

Tilburg University is internationally recognized for its research and education in economics, business, data science, and law. The economics and business programs consistently rank among the best in Europe. The university's unique approach connects academic knowledge to real societal challenges - you learn not just theory, but how to apply knowledge to make a difference in the world.

What is the campus like?

Tilburg's campus is a beautiful green area that feels like a park. All faculties, the library, sports centre, restaurants, and student associations are in one place. The atmosphere is relaxed and community-oriented - students often describe it as feeling like a small village within the city. The campus has modern facilities, quiet study spots, and social spaces where you naturally meet other students.

Can I work while studying at Tilburg?

Yes! As an EU student, you can work alongside your studies without restrictions. Tilburg has job opportunities in hospitality, retail, and through the university's network. The nearby city of Eindhoven (15 min by train) is a major tech hub with additional opportunities. The Netherlands has a financial support system for working students. Learn more about financial support here.

250 reserved rooms for international students

Tilburg University reserves 250 furnished Short Stay rooms through housing provider SSHXL specifically for international students. These are fully furnished rooms ready to move into - no need to buy furniture or arrange utilities. This is a significant advantage in the Dutch housing market.

Tilburg is an affordable student city in the south of the Netherlands. Housing costs are lower than in Amsterdam, Utrecht, or The Hague. The city is compact and bike-friendly, so wherever you live, you can easily reach the campus.

 

 

Tilburg University campus tour

Walk around the campus and see where students study, eat, hang out, and make new friends.

 

 

Your housing options

SSHXL Short Stay (recommended) - 250 furnished rooms reserved by Tilburg University for international students. Fully furnished, utilities included. Apply through the university after acceptance. Typical rent around 550 EUR/month.

Private housing - websites like Kamernet and HousingAnywhere list rooms in Tilburg.

Facebook groups - search for "Student Housing Tilburg" or "Kamers Tilburg" for additional options.

 

 

Practical details

  • 250 reserved furnished rooms through SSHXL for international students
  • Typical rent: around 550 EUR/month (furnished, utilities included)
  • Tilburg is more affordable than Amsterdam, Utrecht, or Rotterdam
  • Compact, bike-friendly city - everything within cycling distance
  • Apply for reserved housing through the university after admission
  • Private rooms available from approximately 400-600 EUR/month

Remember: the Netherlands has a financial support system for EU students who work alongside their studies. Learn more about financial support here.

 

 

FAQ

How do I get the reserved housing?

After receiving your admission confirmation from Tilburg University, you will get information about how to apply for SSHXL Short Stay housing. The university reserves 250 furnished rooms specifically for international students. Apply as early as possible - rooms are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. The rooms are fully furnished and ready to move into.

What is included in the SSHXL rooms?

SSHXL Short Stay rooms are fully furnished - bed, desk, wardrobe, and basic kitchen equipment. Utilities (water, electricity, internet) are typically included in the rent. You can move in with just your suitcase. The rooms are in student buildings with shared or private facilities, depending on the type.

Is Tilburg affordable for students?

Yes! Tilburg is one of the more affordable student cities in the Netherlands. Housing costs are lower than in Amsterdam, Utrecht, or The Hague. Daily expenses (food, transport, entertainment) are also lower. The city has many student-friendly restaurants, cafés, and venues. Combined with the Dutch financial support system for working students, studying in Tilburg is very budget-friendly. Learn more about financial support here.

 

 

For complete information about housing at Tilburg University, visit the official page.