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Posted by : Shreya Bhattacharjee
Author Designation : Senior Counsellor
An overview of Wittenborg University of Applied Sciences
Wittenborg University of Applied Sciences, located in the Netherlands, is one of Europe’s most international private business schools. With campuses in Apeldoorn, Amsterdam, and Munich (Germany), Wittenborg offers a global education experience that emphasizes diversity, real-world learning, and strong academic standards. Founded in 1987, Wittenborg is known for its cutting-edge programs in business, management, technology, and hospitality. It’s a preferred destination for students seeking a practice-based, international, and English-taught education in the heart of Europe.
History
Wittenborg was established in 1987 in Deventer, the Netherlands, and moved to Apeldoorn in 2010 as part of a strategic partnership with the city. The institution initially focused on banking and insurance but expanded to business, entrepreneurship, hospitality, and tech-focused degrees to meet evolving industry demands.
Key milestones include:
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2004: Became an international university, launching its first English-taught program.
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2010: Relocated to Apeldoorn, expanded campus, and added undergraduate programs.
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2015: Opened additional locations in Amsterdam and Munich.
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2020–2024: Gained significant recognition for sustainability, innovation, and internationalization.
Wittenborg is unique in being 100% English-speaking, with a student population representing over 100 nationalities.
Rankings and Accreditations
Though not part of traditional global rankings (like QS or THE) due to its private status, Wittenborg is well-recognized for quality assurance and international orientation.
Accreditations & Affiliations:
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NVAO (Dutch-Flemish Accreditation Organization)
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FIBAA (German Accreditation Body)
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Member of AACSB and EFMD (aspiring for full accreditation)
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Recognized by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science
Reputation Highlights:
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Top 5 for internationalization in the Netherlands (Keuzegids HBO 2023)
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High student satisfaction and employability rates
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Consistent praise for small class sizes, multicultural learning, and industry links
Courses and Fees
Wittenborg offers Bachelor's, Master's, MBA, and professional certificate programs in:
Undergraduate Programs (3 or 4 years)
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Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in:
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International Business
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Entrepreneurship & Small Business
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Marketing & Communication
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Financial Services Management
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Hospitality Management
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Information Management
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Tuition Fees: €9,800 per year (International students)
Master's Programs (1–2 years)
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MSc in International Business Management
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MSc in Digital Marketing & Communication
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MSc in Data Analytics & Digital Business
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MA in Education and Pedagogy (IB & International Education)
Tuition Fees: €14,300–€18,300 per year (Depending on the program)
MBA Programs (1.5–2 years)
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MBA in International Management
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MBA in Finance, Hospitality, Innovation, or Health & Social Care
Tuition Fees: €18,300 total (approx.)
Pre-Master / Foundation / Exchange Courses
Available for international students who need additional preparation.
Admission Requirements
For Bachelor's Programs:
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Completed secondary education equivalent to Dutch HAVO or International Baccalaureate
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English proficiency: IELTS 6.0 / TOEFL iBT 80 / Cambridge B2
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Motivation letter
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Valid passport and visa documents
For Master's/MBA Programs:
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Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field
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English proficiency: IELTS 6.5 / TOEFL iBT 90 / Cambridge C1
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CV and two references
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Motivation letter / personal statement
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In some cases, a video interview or essay
Application Deadlines: Rolling admissions, with six intakes per year (approx. every 2 months)
Scholarships and Eligibility
Wittenborg offers a range of scholarships to encourage diversity and reward academic performance.
Types of Scholarships:
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Wittenborg Entrance Scholarships: €1,500–€5,000 for first-year students with strong academic backgrounds.
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Holland Scholarship (Government): €5,000 for non-EEA students.
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Wittenborg MBA Scholarships: €3,000–€5,000 based on merit.
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Women in Tech/Hospitality Scholarship: €2,500–€4,000 (STEM and Hospitality)
Eligibility Criteria:
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High academic performance
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Motivation and leadership potential
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Financial need (in some cases)
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Must maintain academic progress throughout the program
Application for scholarships is submitted alongside or shortly after admission.
Placement Record (Last 3 Years)
Wittenborg emphasizes employability through industry partnerships, internships, and career coaching.
Placement Highlights (2022–2024):
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Placement Rate: 89% employed or in further studies within 6 months of graduation
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Top Industries:
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Business & Consulting
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Finance & FinTech
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Hospitality & Tourism
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IT and Digital Marketing
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Healthcare & Public Administration
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Top Recruiters:
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PwC, KPMG, Accenture, Booking.com, ING Bank, IBM, Hilton Hotels, and startups
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Wittenborg students often intern during their studies and use its Career Service for job search support.
Notable Alumni
Though relatively young compared to traditional universities, Wittenborg has a growing global alumni network.
Some notable graduates include:
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Lisa Hanssen – Founder of a Dutch eco-startup recognized by the EU
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Rajeev Patel – Senior Product Manager at Booking.com
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Fatima Al-Sayeed – Sustainability Consultant at Accenture Middle East
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Daniel Moyo – Co-founder of a logistics firm in East Africa
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Maria Ivanova – Entrepreneur and TEDx speaker on women in business
Wittenborg maintains a strong alumni portal for mentoring and networking.
Conclusion
Wittenborg University of Applied Sciences offers a robust, career-oriented international education ideal for students aiming to study business, technology, or hospitality in Europe. With multiple intakes, flexible programs, generous scholarships, and a multicultural learning environment, Wittenborg is a top pick for future global leaders. Its practice-based approach, small class sizes, and focus on employability give it an edge in today’s competitive academic market. If you’re looking for a university that blends academic excellence with real-world preparation and international exposure, Wittenborg University deserves serious consideration.
FAQ's
Q1: Is Wittenborg a public or private university?
A: Wittenborg is a private university of applied sciences, recognized by the Dutch government and fully accredited.
Q2: What makes Wittenborg unique for international students?
A: 100% English-taught programs, multicultural campus (100+ nationalities), multiple intakes, and career-focused learning.
Q3: Does Wittenborg offer online programs?
A: Select modules may be available online, but most programs are campus-based to ensure hands-on experience.
Q4: Are there part-time work opportunities for students?
A: Yes, international students can work up to 16 hours/week during the academic year and full-time in holidays.
Q5: Can I stay in the Netherlands after graduation?
A: Yes, international graduates can apply for a 1-year Orientation Year (zoekjaar) visa to search for jobs post-study.
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