Renowned worldwide for its environmental research, Wageningen University in the Netherlands consistently performs strongly in global rankings and has for many years been recognised as the ‘world’s greenest university’. For students interested in agriculture, food or life sciences, it is worth first exploring Wageningen University’s tuition fees and admission requirements. At Grove Education, we outline the university’s top-ranked programmes, tuition costs and application process to help students gain a deeper understanding of this leading institution.
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Wageningen University Introduction
Wageningen University & Research (WUR) was founded in 1876 and became the National Agricultural College in 1918. Located in the city of Wageningen in the Netherlands, it is one of the country’s leading and globally renowned research universities. The university is dedicated to research in areas related to food security, climate change and sustainable development [1], and collaborates with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and many other international institutions to promote global agricultural and food security. As a result, Wageningen University has for many years ranked 1st in the UI GreenMetric World University Rankings. [2]
Wageningen University currently offers 20 Bachelor of Science programmes and has around 13,000 students and 7,000 staff members. [3] The campus is located in Wageningen, often referred to as the “Food Valley” of the Netherlands. The university has built a strong network with related industries and provides career support services, enabling graduates to find employment more easily in the Netherlands or across Europe in fields such as food, agricultural policy and environmental governance, as well as contributing to global projects. [4]
Wageningen University Rankings
According to the 2025 QS World University Rankings, Wageningen University is ranked 153rd globally and 8th in the Netherlands [5], reflecting the university’s strong academic foundation. In the 2025 Times Higher Education World University Rankings (THE), Wageningen University achieved 67th place worldwide and 3rd in the Netherlands. [6] These excellent results not only highlight the university’s international competitiveness but also reflect its outstanding performance in diverse teaching, innovative research and academic impact, making it one of the top choices for students worldwide.
Wageningen University Top Programmes and Subject Rankings
Wageningen University is renowned for agriculture, environmental sciences and life sciences, maintaining a leading position internationally. Its Agricultural Sciences programmes have repeatedly been ranked 1st worldwide in authoritative rankings such as QS and the Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) by Shanghai Jiao Tong University. [8] The university is also consistently ranked among the world’s top 3 in Environmental Sciences by QS [9], while its Geography programmes are ranked within the global top 30. [10] These high rankings in teaching and research make Wageningen University especially attractive to students aspiring to pursue careers in agriculture and sustainable development. Its graduates are highly competitive in academia, international enterprises and government institutions in related fields.
Teaching Features and Advantages of Wageningen University
Wageningen University places sustainability and social responsibility at the heart of its curriculum. The university maintains close partnerships with businesses, international organisations, governments and NGOs. Professors and researchers not only guide students through theoretical learning but also involve them directly in real-world research and projects, such as agricultural resource analysis, community food and ecological planning, improvements in food production processes, and environmental governance and ecological restoration. Through these experiences, students develop an international outlook and practical expertise early on, laying a strong foundation for internships, research and future career development.
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Wageningen University Tuition Fees and Study Budget
Wageningen University attracts students from all over the world and has clear tuition fee standards depending on nationality. Students who are not from the Netherlands, EU member states, Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein, Switzerland or Suriname are considered international students and must pay international tuition fees.
Wageningen University Tuition Fees 2025/26
- EU students: €2,601
- International students (non-EU): €17,800 [11]
Including tuition fees, the total cost of studying at Wageningen University for three years is at least €100,000. In addition to tuition, students must budget for living expenses, accommodation, food, insurance, visas and other costs. The Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) requires students to pay a deposit equivalent to 12 months of living expenses to the university in advance, to demonstrate sufficient financial resources. This amount is refunded once students have opened a Dutch bank account. Therefore, until the deposit is refunded, it is advisable to prepare at least one month’s worth of euros in cash or available credit card balance for local expenses. [12]
| Item | Item |
|---|---|
| 2025/26 Tuition Fees | €17,800 |
| 2026/27 Tuition Fees | €18,300 (Estimate) |
| 2027/28 Tuition Fees | €18,800 (Estimate) |
| Living Expenses | €43,200 |
| Health Insurance | €2,268 |
| Visa | €243 [12] |
*Tuition fees for 2026/27 and 2027/28 may be subject to change, depending on regulations and Wageningen University policies.
Wageningen University Admission Requirements
To apply to Wageningen University, students must not only understand the tuition structure but also ensure they hold qualifications equivalent to the Dutch VWO level. The university lists recognised diplomas from different countries, and below are the requirements for some major qualifications (including Hong Kong DSE):
| Qualification | Entry Requirements |
|---|---|
| UK GCE A-Level | At least 3 GCSE subjects graded A*-C or 9-4, plus a minimum of 3 academic GCE A-Level subjects graded A*-C or 9-4 |
| US AP | High school diploma plus 4 AP subjects with a score of 3 or above; depending on the programme, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry or Biology may be required |
| IB Diploma | Each programme has specific subject requirements under the IB curriculum |
| HKDSE | Level 3 or above in Chinese and English, Level 2 or above in Mathematics and 2 relevant elective subjects [13], and “Attained” in Citizenship and Social Development |
In addition to grades, applicants must meet specific subject requirements. For English-taught programmes, Wageningen University requires the following compulsory subjects:
- Animal Sciences: Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology
- Data Science for Global Challenges: Mathematics and Biology or Chemistry or Physics
- Environmental Sciences: Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry
- Food Technology: Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology or Physics
- International Land and Water Management: Mathematics, Physics
- Marine Sciences: Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology
- Soil, Water, Atmosphere: Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry
- Tourism: Mathematics [13]
Language Proficiency Requirements
For English-taught programmes, students must meet the English proficiency requirement. For Dutch-taught programmes, both English and Dutch proficiency are required. [14]
English Language Requirements
| Test | Minimum Score |
|---|---|
| IELTS | Overall 6.0, with speaking at least 6.0 |
| TOEFL iBT | Total 80, with speaking at least 20 |
| Cambridge FCE/B2 First | 169–190 |
| Cambridge CAE/C1 Advanced | 169–210 |
| Cambridge CPE/C2 Proficiency | 180–230 [14] |
Dutch Language Requirements
Applicants whose qualifications are equivalent to Dutch VWO level and include Dutch as one of the examination subjects (for example, Dutch A in the IB Diploma) will meet the Dutch language requirement. [14]
Wageningen University Application Process
Applications for Bachelor’s degrees in the Netherlands must be submitted via Studielink, the central application platform for Dutch higher education. After selecting the programme, filling in personal details and submitting the application, students must also register on Wageningen University’s application portal (Osiris) and upload their academic transcripts. [15]
In addition, applicants are required to complete an online matching questionnaire. The university uses this to assess whether the applicant’s motivation aligns with the nature of the programme. Therefore, it is recommended that students choose their programme based on personal interests, strengths and future career goals. [16]
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Consult Grove Education to Learn More about Top Dutch Universities
The above has introduced Wageningen University’s global rankings and academic strengths, showing why it continues to lead in agriculture and life sciences while making lasting contributions to both local communities and the wider world. If you would like to learn more about Wageningen University’s tuition structure and application process, please contact Grove Education. Our experienced study abroad consultants will design a tailored study plan in the Netherlands based on your academic interests and application goals.
Reference:
1. Wageningen University - Sustainable Development Goals in education
2. UI GreenMetric - UI GreenMetric World University Rankings 2024
3. Wageningen University - Facts and figures about Wageningen University & Research
4. Wageningen University - Career perspectives
5. QS Top Universities - QS World University Rankings 2026: Top global universities
6. Times Higher Education - World University Rankings 2025
7. QS Top Universities - QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025: Agriculture & Forestry
8. Shaihai Ranking - 2022 Global Ranking of Academic Subjects (Agricultural Sciences)
9. QS Top Universities - QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025: Environmental Sciences
10. Shaihai Ranking - 2024 Global Ranking of Academic Subjects (Geography)
11. Wageningen University - Tuition fees bachelor’s
12. Wageningen University - What are my study expenses?
13. Wageningen University - International prior education
14. Wageningen University - Language Requirements
15. Wageningen University - How to apply for a bachelor’s programme?
16. Wageningen University - Study Choice Check (Matching)