International Student Information

Welcome to SOMT University of Physiotherapy in Amersfoort, the Netherlands

This page provides practical information for international students preparing to study at SOMT. Here you can find information about admissions, tuition fees, accommodation, healthcare, student support, and living in the Netherlands.

Studying abroad is more than just education. Living in the Netherlands offers the opportunity to experience a new culture, become more independent, and study in an international learning environment focused on healthcare, science, and professional development.

Study programme Bachelor of Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation Sciences

The Bachelor of Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation Sciences is a three-year, full-time university-level programme taught primarily in English. The programme combines science, physiotherapy, healthcare, clinical reasoning, and research. Students develop both academic and practical skills through lectures, skills training, research modules, and clinical placements.

Graduates receive the degree: Bachelor of Science (BSc)

What makes this programme unique?

  • The only university-level bachelor’s programme in physiotherapy in the Netherlands
  • Strong integration of science and clinical practice
  • Small-scale education with personal guidance
  • Direct progression to the Master of Human Movement Sciences at Maastricht University
  • Anatomy education using a digital 3D dissection table
  • An international classroom environment

Accreditation & legal status

The Bachelor of Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation Sciences is accredited by the Accreditation Organisation of the Netherlands and Flanders (NVAO) and complies with the Dutch Higher Education and Research Act (WHW).

Degree awarded: Bachelor of Science (BSc)

Programme level: EQF Level 6

The programme follows the Education and Examination Regulations (EER), which describe assessment procedures, progression requirements, and student rights and responsibilities. 

Knowledge & skills after graduation

After completing the programme, graduates are able to:

  • analyse complex movement-related health problems
  • apply evidence-based clinical reasoning
  • integrate scientific research into physiotherapy practice
  • collaborate within multidisciplinary healthcare settings
  • contribute to innovation and quality improvement in healthcareperform
  • physiotherapeutic assessment and treatment at an academic level

Graduates develop both scientific and clinical competencies and are prepared for further academic study, research, and professional practice.

Admission requirements

Applicants must hold a diploma equivalent to the Dutch pre-university VWO level with Biology and Mathematics A or B. International students must also demonstrate sufficient English language proficiency before the start of the programme. Because of the programme’s small-scale and personalised approach, SOMT admits a limited number of students each year. We therefore recommend applying early.

Tuition fees & additional costs

Tuition fees are published annually and may differ for EU/EEA and non-EU students. In addition to tuition fees, students should consider costs for:

  • accommodation
  • books and study materials
  • transportation
  • health insurance
  • personal living expenses

The average monthly cost of living for students in the Netherlands ranges between €900 and €1,500 depending on lifestyle and housing situation.

Studying in Amersfoort

SOMT is located in Amersfoort, a centrally located student city in the Netherlands. The city combines a historic city centre with modern facilities, cafés, restaurants, sports facilities, and cultural activities. Everything is within cycling distance and larger cities such as Utrecht and Amsterdam are easily accessible by train. Amersfoort offers a balance between a vibrant student environment and a calm place to focus on your studies.

Housing in the Netherlands

Please note that finding accommodation in the Netherlands can be challenging due to the national housing shortage. We strongly advise international students to arrange housing before arriving in the Netherlands and to begin searching as early as possible. Although SOMT can provide guidance and useful resources, students are responsible for arranging their own accommodation.

Arriving in the Netherlands

Preparing for your move to the Netherlands can feel overwhelming. To help you settle in smoothly, we recommend arranging the following practical matters before or shortly after arrival.

Step 1: Arrange your accommodation

Finding accommodation in the Netherlands can take time, especially in larger student cities. Starting your search early is strongly recommended.

Step 2: Register with the municipality (BSN)

Students staying in the Netherlands for longer than four months are generally required to register with the local municipality to obtain a citizen service number (BSN). The BSN is needed for many practical matters, including healthcare and banking.

Step 3: Arrange health insurance

International students are generally required to have valid health insurance during their stay in the Netherlands. Depending on your nationality, residence permit, and work situation, different insurance rules may apply.

Step 4: Open a Dutch bank account

A Dutch bank account can make day-to-day life easier while studying in the Netherlands.

Step 5: Arrange transportation

The Netherlands is known for its cycling culture and reliable public transport system. Most students travel by bike or train, and everything in Amersfoort is easily accessible by bicycle.

Student support

SOMT offers small-scale education with close contact between students and lecturers. Students are supported by lecturers, tutors, and practical supervisors throughout the programme. Study progress is monitored through assessments, feedback moments, practical evaluations, and academic mentoring. Our team can also help international students with practical questions about studying and living in the Netherlands.

Working while studying

International students should be aware that rules regarding part-time work in the Netherlands may differ depending on nationality and residence status.

Useful resources

Code of Conduct

SOMT follows the Code of Conduct International Student in Dutch Higher Education.

Contact

Do you have questions about studying at SOMT as an international student? Please contact: info@somt.nl