HAN University of Applied Sciences

Arnhem
  • Practical learning;
  • small classes;
  • student support throughout all years of study;
  • opportunity to do a work placement in a company;
  • opportunity to do a study abroad;
  • modern buildings and study centres;
  • high-tech laboratories;
  • good IT facilities.
About
Entry qualification
Accommodation
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HAN University of Applied Sciences - open up new horizons

HAN University of Applied Sciences has 3,000+ international students from over 100 countries, making it one of the most diverse universities in the Netherlands. With campuses in Arnhem and Nijmegen (two vibrant cities along the Rhine), HAN offers 10 bachelor's and 6 master's programmes taught in English. The university is known for its practical approach - every program includes real company projects and internships that prepare you for an international career from day one.

HAN is known for its strong focus on three themes that shape the future: how we care, how we work, and how we move. This translates into programs in health, social work, engineering, automotive, business, life sciences, and communication. With 10 top-rated programs in the national Keuzegids ranking, HAN delivers education that is both high-quality and deeply connected to industry practice.

 

 

Campus tour at HAN

HAN student Ricarda shows you around the campuses in Arnhem and Nijmegen.

 

 

A day in the life of an exchange student in Nijmegen

Follow a student through their day - from classes to exploring the beautiful city of Nijmegen.

 

 

Why students choose HAN

  • Truly international community. With 3,000+ international students from 100+ countries, HAN offers a genuinely multicultural environment. You study and collaborate with people from all over the world, preparing you for a global career.
  • 10 top-rated programs. The Keuzegids 2026 ranks 10 HAN programs as top-rated in the Netherlands. This means exceptional education quality, satisfied students, and strong career outcomes.
  • Strong engineering and automotive programs. HAN's engineering programs (Automotive, Electrical, Mechanical, Embedded Systems) are among the best in the Netherlands. The university has dedicated labs, workshops, and industry partnerships that give you hands-on experience.
  • 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.
  • Housing Office support. HAN has a dedicated Housing Office that helps international students find accommodation in Arnhem or Nijmegen - a significant advantage compared to many other Dutch universities.
  • Two beautiful cities, one university. Arnhem (creative, green, with a famous fashion scene) and Nijmegen (the oldest city in the Netherlands, vibrant student life) offer different atmospheres but equally great student experiences.

 

 

Study programs at HAN

HAN offers English-taught bachelor programs including:

  • Automotive Engineering - Arnhem
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering - Arnhem
  • Embedded Systems Engineering - Arnhem
  • Mechanical Engineering - Arnhem
  • International Business - Arnhem
  • Communication - Arnhem
  • International Social Work - Arnhem
  • Life Sciences - Nijmegen
  • Molecular Biosciences - Nijmegen
  • Chemistry - Nijmegen

HAN also offers multiple master 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.

 

Arnhem and Nijmegen - your campus cities

Arnhem - a green, creative city known for its fashion industry, beautiful parks (including the famous Sonsbeek Park), and proximity to the Veluwe nature reserve. The engineering and business programs are located here. Arnhem has a relaxed, artistic atmosphere with plenty of cafés, galleries, and cultural events.

Nijmegen - the oldest city in the Netherlands (over 2,000 years old!) with a vibrant student population. Home to the famous Four Days Marches (the world's largest walking event) and a lively nightlife scene. The life sciences and health programs are located here. Nijmegen is consistently voted one of the best student cities in the Netherlands.

 

 

Quick facts

TypeUniversity of Applied Sciences (HBO)
International students3,000+ from 100+ countries
Programs in EnglishBachelor 10; Master 6
CampusesArnhem and Nijmegen
Top-rated programs10 (Keuzegids 2026)
Key strengthsEngineering, Automotive, Life Sciences, Business, Social Work
Housing supportDedicated HAN Housing Office

 

 

FAQ

How does HAN help with finding housing?

HAN has a dedicated Housing Office specifically for international students. If you are under 30 and enrolled in a bachelor, master, or exchange program, the Housing Office can help you find student housing in Arnhem or Nijmegen. This is a significant advantage - many Dutch universities do not offer this level of housing support. Contact them early at housing@han.nl to start the process.

What is student life like in Arnhem and Nijmegen?

Both cities offer fantastic student life but with different vibes. Nijmegen is the oldest city in the Netherlands with a large student population, famous nightlife, and the world-renowned Four Days Marches event. Arnhem is greener and more artistic, with beautiful parks, a fashion scene, and creative energy. Both cities are affordable compared to Amsterdam or Utrecht, and well-connected by train to the rest of the Netherlands.

Can I work while studying at HAN?

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. Arnhem and Nijmegen have job opportunities in retail, hospitality, and through HAN's industry network. Learn more about financial support for students in the Netherlands.

What makes HAN's engineering programs special?

HAN's engineering programs (Automotive, Electrical, Mechanical, Embedded Systems) are among the best in the Netherlands. The university has state-of-the-art labs, workshops, and a dedicated engineering building. Students work on real projects - from building autonomous vehicles to designing sustainable energy systems. The programs have strong industry connections, leading to excellent internship and job opportunities. HAN also offers a Master in Engineering Systems for those who want to specialize further.

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.

Note: Each programme includes a Matching procedure to help determine whether the bachelor's programme you have chosen is the right fit for you. The process starts with completing a self-reflection questionnaire. After that, you can participate in one or more Matching activities, which vary depending on the programme. More information can be found here.

 

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 Arnhem or Nijmegen

HAN University has a dedicated Housing Office that helps international students find accommodation in Arnhem or Nijmegen. This is a significant advantage - not many Dutch universities offer this level of support. If you are an international student under 30 enrolled in a bachelor, master, or exchange program, the HAN Housing Office can assist you with finding a student room.

Due to the current housing shortage in the Netherlands, finding a room can be challenging. The Housing Office offers rooms for 1 semester or 1 year. Start your search early and use both the Housing Office and independent search methods to maximize your chances.

 

 

Student stories at HAN

Students share their experiences of studying and living at HAN University.

 

 

Your housing options

HAN Housing Office (recommended) - the university's dedicated housing service for international students. Rooms are available in Arnhem or Nijmegen for 1 semester or 1 year. Contact them at housing@han.nl or call +31 6 55 21 89 74.

Student housing platforms - websites like Kamernet, HousingAnywhere, and Room.nl list available student rooms in both cities.

SSHN (Stichting Studentenhuisvesting Nijmegen) - the main student housing provider in Nijmegen with various room types and locations.

Facebook groups - search for housing groups specific to Arnhem or Nijmegen. Many rooms are posted by departing students.

 

 

Housing by city

Arnhem - a green, affordable city with good availability of student rooms. Prices range from approximately 400-650 EUR per month. The city is well-connected by train and has excellent cycling infrastructure.

Nijmegen - a popular student city with a large student population. Prices range from approximately 400-700 EUR per month. SSHN is the main student housing provider here.

 

 

FAQ

Does HAN guarantee housing?

HAN does not guarantee housing for all students, but the dedicated Housing Office significantly improves your chances. Non-EU/EEA students and exchange students have priority for Housing Office rooms. EU students are also helped but should additionally search independently. Contact the Housing Office early - as soon as you receive your admission confirmation - to start the process.

How much does student housing cost?

Student rooms in Arnhem and Nijmegen typically cost 400-700 EUR per month, depending on size, location, and whether the room is furnished. Both cities are more affordable than Amsterdam, Utrecht, or The Hague. Remember that the Netherlands has a financial support system for working students. Learn more about financial support here.

When should I contact the Housing Office?

As early as possible! Contact the HAN Housing Office at housing@han.nl as soon as you receive your admission confirmation. Rooms through the Housing Office are available for 1 semester or 1 year, and demand is high. The earlier you reach out, the better your chances of securing a room through HAN's network.

 

 

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