A2 KNM: Higher Education System
After secondary school, Dutch students can pursue higher education at MBO (vocational), HBO (applied university), or WO (research university). Each has di...
Reviewed against official sources - Updated 2026-05-10
After secondary school, Dutch students can pursue higher education at MBO (vocational), HBO (applied university), or WO (research university). Each has different entry requirements and focuses. HBO leads to a bachelor's degree in 4 years; WO offers bachelor's (3 years) and master's (1-2 years) programs.
| Level | Full Name | Focus & Duration |
|---|---|---|
| MBO | Middelbaar Beroepsonderwijs | Vocational, 1-4 years |
| HBO | Hoger Beroepsonderwijs | Applied/practical, 4 years bachelor |
| WO | Wetenschappelijk Onderwijs | Research/academic, 3+1-2 years |
| Bachelor | Bachelor | First degree, HBO/WO |
| Master | Master | Advanced degree, usually WO |
| PhD | Promotie | Doctoral research, 4 years |
| School Route | Dutch | What to Know |
|---|---|---|
| Primary school | Basisschool | Groups 1-8, usually ages 4-12 |
| School advice | Schooladvies | Advice in group 8 for secondary school |
| Practical secondary route | VMBO | Often leads to MBO |
| Senior general route | HAVO | Often leads to HBO |
| Pre-university route | VWO | Often leads to WO university |
| Compulsory education | Leerplicht | Children must attend school from age 5 until at least 16 |
Examples
- Wat is het verschil tussen HBO en WO?
- What is the difference between HBO and WO?
- HBO is praktischer, WO is theoretischer.
- HBO is more practical, WO is more theoretical.
- Ik wil een opleiding volgen.
- I want to follow a course/study.
- Je hebt VWO nodig voor de universiteit.
- You need VWO for university.
Study note
Your diplomas from abroad can often be recognized in the Netherlands through IDW (Informatiesysteem Diplomawaardering) or Nuffic. This 'diploma evaluation' helps employers and schools understand your qualifications. Some professions require additional Dutch certification.
Practice after reading
Train A2 knowledge of Dutch society with timed KNM practice questions.
