The Dutch government, under Education Minister Eppo Bruins, is taking a firm stance on reducing the use of English at Dutch universities and colleges. This move aims to curb the number of foreign students and address concerns about overcrowded classrooms and a shortage of student housing.

Bruins' proposals go further than the previous government's plans. Most bachelor's degree programs allow no more than one-third of classes to be taught in English, and all English-only bachelor's degree courses are scrutinized by a special committee. In the Netherlands, one in three bachelor courses are taught in another language, with half offering Dutch and English.

Only under specific circumstances will English-only courses be allowed, such as:

Bruins emphasizes that English-only courses should become the exception, not the rule.

Universities will also be given the power to limit the number of students in non-Dutch degree courses. If this measure proves insufficient, universities will receive less funding per student.

EU students who work a certain number of hours to qualify for a Dutch grant will also receive less financial support. Non-EER students will also have to pay higher fees.

These measures are expected to save €300 million in the short term, as outlined in the right-wing government's coalition agreement.

The move comes as 20% of bachelor students in the Netherlands are from abroad, leading to overcrowding and a shortage of student accommodation.

The Dutch government's plan to reduce English-language courses and curb international students has met with mixed reactions. While the government emphasizes the need to attract talented international students and encourage them to stay in the Netherlands after graduation, the measures are seen as a blunt approach by universities and student unions.

Dutch will be used more frequently in universities, with students being required to improve their Dutch skills. Dutch will be used more frequently in universities, with students being required to improve their Dutch skills. This includes making Dutch the standard language on university and college management boards. However, the plan does not include compulsory Dutch language courses, as previously suggested.

The government's focus on Dutch language skills is seen as a way to ensure that Dutch students are well-equipped to communicate in their native language. However, universities are concerned that the measures will negatively impact the availability of courses, particularly in rural areas, and could decrease the number of international students, affecting university funding.

The government's plan has also been criticized for potentially lowering academic standards. The Netherlands' universities have seen a decline in the latest Times Higher Education ranking, and the government's restrictions on international students and researchers are seen as a contributing factor.

Despite the concerns, the government remains committed to its plan, arguing that it is necessary to address the shortage of Dutch-speaking graduates in the labor market and to ensure that Dutch students are well-prepared for the future.