The cost of living in the Netherlands is high, with monthly expenses for a single person averaging around €1,400 to €2,000 or more, largely depending on location and housing. Housing is the biggest factor, with rent for a one-bedroom apartment in a city center costing about €1,300, and a full-time student needing around €1,200 to €2,000 per month. Other significant costs include groceries, health insurance, transportation, and utilities, with some everyday items like chicken fillets and eggs being more expensive than in other countries.

International students in the Netherlands can work a maximum of 16 hours per week during the academic year, or full-time during the summer months (June, July, and August). An employer must have a work permit (TWV) for the student to be employed. Students can also work as a self-employed person without a permit, as long as they have a permit to reside in the Netherlands for study. After graduation, students can apply for an Orientation Year permit to find a job that can sponsor a work permit, or pursue other employment-based permits.