A government report on the efficiency of higher education in the Netherlands reveals that students often choose courses not best suited for them, leading to high dropout rates and a shortage of professionals in critical sectors. In the 2021-2022 academic year, approximately 30% of first-year students in higher vocational education (hbo) and universities either dropped out or switched courses. The dropout rate was particularly high among hbo students at 34%, compared to 25% for university students.

The report suggests stricter selection criteria for courses with high dropout rates, a compulsory “taster period,” and increased fees for master’s degrees as potential solutions to mitigate these issues. It also highlights the challenge of combating “academic drift,” where students opt for university education over more practical studies, even when the latter might better suit their skills and career prospects.

This trend exacerbates shortages in essential sectors such as teaching, healthcare, and technical professions. The report emphasizes the need for policies that guide students toward fields where there is a high demand for professionals, to ensure a balanced and effective workforce.

Encouraging international students to remain in the Netherlands after their studies is another recommendation. Currently, only 24% of international students stay in the country five years post-graduation. Non-EU students have a higher retention rate at 38%, compared to 18% for EU students. The report suggests measures such as offering Dutch language courses to help international students integrate and contribute to the local economy.

In summary, the report calls for a multifaceted approach to improve student retention and align educational choices with market needs, thereby addressing the persistent dropout rates and workforce shortages in key sectors.