What Are the Best Business Schools in the Netherlands?
The Netherlands has established itself as a leading MBA destination in Europe, attracting international students from across the globe. The best business schools in the Netherlands boast a wide range of accessible English-language programs, innovative teaching styles, and strong industry connections.
Rankings, Programs, and Career Prospects
The Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University, ranks #56 in the Financial Times MBA 2025 ranking. It holds an impressive spot among the top 100 MBA programs in the world.
Additionally, the QS Global MBA Rankings for 2026 feature three Dutch business schools. These include Rotterdam School of Management at Erasmus University at #16 for their Full-time MBA in Europe and #34 for their Global MBA. Amsterdam Business School, University of Amsterdam, sits at #60, and TIAS Business School places #37 for a Full-time MBA in Europe, and their EMBA ranks #1.
In the World University Rankings 2025 by Times Higher Education, five Dutch schools ranked in the top 100. These include Delft University of Technology at #56, the University of Amsterdam at #58, Wageningen University & Research at #67, Leiden University at #73, and the University of Groningen at #80. Several other Dutch schools rank in the top 200.
Many MBA programs in the Netherlands offer unique specializations and highly regarded degrees that can open career opportunities in Europe and globally. Moreover, many MBA graduates in the Netherlands find illustrious careers at global companies located in both the Netherlands and abroad.
Why the Netherlands Is a Top Destination for Business MBAs
Why should you study for your MBA in the Netherlands? For one, Dutch business schools frequently receive international recognition for delivering high-quality education in English, making them accessible to students worldwide. More specifically, business schools in the Netherlands are culturally diverse, industry-focused, and emphasize sustainability, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
The Netherlands has a long history as a trading nation; dating back centuries to the Dutch East India Company and its strategic position with major ports like Rotterdam (Europe’s largest port). This trading heritage remains central to the Dutch economy today. Hence, MBA programs often emphasize international trade, logistics, and global markets.
Additionally, the Netherlands also ranks among the 50 richest countries in the world in 2025. Owing to its fairly central location in Europe, numerous global companies, and 34 Fortune 500 companies, which have their headquarters in the Netherlands. In addition, many MBA programs in the Netherlands feature internships and foster close relationships with industry partners, boosting employability opportunities for their MBA students.
Not to mention, the Netherlands ranks #5 in the world’s happiest countries. Dutch culture is open, collaborative, and egalitarian, often with flat hierarchies in the business world. Alongside excellent work-life balance and many social benefits, there are plenty of reasons to study your MBA in the Netherlands.
The Netherlands’ Business School Landscape
Whether you are looking to study for your MBA in a large, bustling, diverse city or on a small, green campus, there is something for everyone in the Netherlands. Undoubtedly, the business school landscape in the Netherlands stands out for its innovation, expansive career support for international students, and strong ties between research and industry.
Let’s take a closer look at the top 5 business schools in the Netherlands.
Top 5 Business Schools in the Netherlands
1. Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University (RSM)
Rotterdam School of Management, part of Erasmus University, is among the best business schools in the Netherlands. It has global recognition, strong research output, and top accreditation. The school belongs to the 1% of international business schools with the “Triple Crown” accreditation (AACSB, AMBA, EQUIS).
According to the Financial Times (FT), RSM’s MBA ranks #1 in Benelux and #56 in the world, and in the FT Executive MBA 2024 ranking, its EMBA program ranks #1 in the Netherlands and #58 in the world.
Its MBA programs include International Full-time MBA, Executive MBA, and Global Executive MBA. In truly international fashion, RSM partners with over 150 international schools and has a community of 50,000 active alumni across the world.
2. Amsterdam Business School, University of Amsterdam
Amsterdam Business School remains a top choice with its variety of MBA offerings, strong links to the Amsterdam business ecosystem, and internationally-minded curriculum.
It offers multiple MBA tracks, including a part-time Business Administration (Executive MBA), a part-time MBA in AI, Data & Analytics, a full-time MBA in Finance, and a part-time MBA in Healthcare Management (this program is only available in Dutch).
Amsterdam Business School (ABS) also has the prestigious Triple Crown accreditation. Markedly, its focus on sustainability, excellent career outcomes, and unique location in the vibrant hub of Amsterdam sets it apart. While the business school began in 2005, it is part of Amsterdam University, which dates back all the way to 1632.
3. Nyenrode Business University
Nyenrode Business University stands out as one of the best and most selective private business universities in the Netherlands. Designed with business in mind, Nyenrode to this day has close industry ties. It stands out for its focus on relevant industry trends and its practical, holistic approach. It offers various MBA programs, including the Impact MBA and the Modular Executive MBA.
Many of the programs at Nyenrode take place at a beautiful, green, and historic Nijenrode Estate. Consequently, its lively campus atmosphere creates a close-knit community and adds to the scenic study experience at Nyenrode.
4. Maastricht School of Management (MSM)
Maastricht School of Management, part of Maastricht University, is another strong pick. It has Triple Crown Accreditation. MSM offers MBAs such as the Full-time MBA, Global Online MBA, MBA Expertise Tracks, Executive Online MBA, and Executive On-campus MBA. The expertise tracks (specializations) stand out in particular for those who want to personalize their learning.
A picturesque and historic city, taking an MBA in Maastricht is perfect for history buffs, being one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands.
5. TIAS School for Business and Society
TIAS offers 3 MBAs: the Executive MBA, the Executive MBA Food & Agribusiness, and the Full-time MBA. It has a strong focus on development and leadership.
MBA students can achieve their degree in 1-2 years, studying in beautiful Utrecht or Tilburg. The school is AACSB, AMBA, and NVAO accredited.
Types of Business Degrees in the Netherlands
Dutch business schools offer a wide variety of MBA programs. In essence, you can choose from various MBA program formats, from immersive full-time programs to executive and part-time MBAs.
Below is an overview of the most common MBA business programs in the Netherlands:
- Full-Time MBA: Ideal for those seeking an immersive study experience and to finish in a short time period
- Executive MBA: Ideal for professionals balancing work and study, often in a part-time format
- Specialized MBAs: Ideal for those looking to specialize in a specific field
- Part-time MBAs: Ideal for those balancing work or busy schedules with studying, part-time formats can take place on weekends or evenings
When looking for an MBA in the Netherlands, make sure to check that the MBA program format suits your learning needs, lifestyle, and schedule.
Cost of Studying in the Netherlands
An MBA is a substantial investment. MBA tuition fees can vary per school and program. For example, at RSM, the fee for the International Full-time MBA program in 2026 is €67,000. The school does accept this fee in installments.
The cost of living averages about € 1000 – € 1,500 per month. Nonetheless, living costs can vary per city. Amsterdam is far more expensive than a smaller city such as Nijmegen.
We recommend searching for housing in advance if you are planning to relocate to the Netherlands for your MBA program. Student accommodation in the Netherlands can be difficult to find. Platforms such as Kamernet or Pararius can be useful.
Many schools offer scholarships. Furthermore, making use of student discounts, school amenities, and having a proper budget in place can help with financing your MBA.
Student Life in the Netherlands
International students thrive in the Netherlands thanks to its open culture and widespread use of English. Cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Maastricht offer safe, multicultural environments with vibrant student communities. Many schools offer extracurricular activities or opportunities for networking.
Public transport (with the NS metro or train tickets) makes exploring the Netherlands easy. Travelling around Europe via train is simple from the Netherlands as well. And don’t forget to buy a bike! Most Dutch cities are walkable or bikeable.
Career Opportunities & Job Prospects
The Netherlands hosts major companies such as ASML, ING Bank, Phillips, Unilever, ABN AMRO, among many others. The number of local and international companies in the Netherlands, whether NGOs, startups, or global companies, creates strong career pathways for MBA graduates.
MBA graduates often enter industries such as consulting, finance, and tech. More specifically, many MBA students in the Netherlands find career opportunities through their schools’ strong alumni networks and internship opportunities.
How to Apply to a Dutch Business School
Most schools require:
- A bachelor’s degree or equivalent from a recognized school
- Some programs require previous work experience
- GMAT or GRE scores
- Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS)
- Some programs require a motivation letter and/or additional documents
Application rounds are competitive, so applying early is recommended. Ensure that you understand all the MBA program requirements and submit the correct documentation. Double-check the guidelines per school and program to determine whether you need an MBA resume or a letter of recommendation. Give yourself enough time before the application deadline.
Why Take Your MBA in The Netherlands? Study in English, Immerse in Europe
Pursuing an MBA in the Netherlands means joining a top-tier education system with global career opportunities. From sustainability-focused programs to strong links with multinational employers, Dutch universities prepare MBA graduates to thrive in today’s European job market.
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Marco Balarezo is a native of Peru who has lived in various countries throughout the world including Chile, Spain, the Netherlands and the United States. He studied for an MBA at the Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University (RSM) before recently starting a role as Operations Manager at Amazon in Barcelona. MBAGRADSCHOOLS chatted with him to learn more about how he came to live in so many different countries, his motivations for studying an MBA and how his journey has still had the capacity to surprise someone as well-travelled as him.
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