Introduction:
In response to mounting pressure, Dutch universities have unveiled a plan to reduce international student numbers. This move comes as concerns grow about challenges such as insufficient student accommodation and reduced education quality. Here’s a closer look at the key points and implications of this development.
Key Points:
Reduction in English-Taught Programs: Dutch universities have announced that they will no longer develop new English-language bachelor’s programs for the time being. Instead, all major bachelor’s programs will be offered in Dutch.
Changes in Recruitment Strategies: Universities will no longer actively recruit at international fairs, and recruitment efforts will focus on courses associated with sectors facing labour market shortages.
Scrapping of Foundation Years: Foundation years for overseas students will be eliminated, signalling a shift in the approach to international student admissions.
Focus on Language Skills: Efforts will be made to improve both academics’ and students’ Dutch language skills, aligning with the emphasis on offering programs in Dutch.
Proposed Legislation: The government’s Internationalisation in Balance Bill aims to introduce measures such as foreign-language instruction tests and student quotas for non-European students. However, there are concerns about the feasibility and potential impacts of these measures.
Tailoring Measures to Disciplines: There is a call to tailor limits on overseas recruitment to individual disciplines, with a recognition of the varying needs across fields such as STEM and psychology.
Addressing Funding Issues: The current funding system incentivizes universities to admit international students, leading to calls for reforms to align funding with performance agreements.
Conclusion:
As Dutch universities navigate the complexities of internationalization, the plan to limit international enrollments reflects a broader conversation about balancing accessibility and quality in higher education. With ongoing discussions about proposed legislation and funding reforms, the landscape of higher education in the Netherlands may undergo significant changes in the coming years.
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Reference – https://www.timeshighereducation.com/news/dutch-universities-unveil-plan-limit-international-enrolments