The Netherlands

	Quick Facts
	Language Dutch. Previous language study is not required.
	Host Family Placement All over the country, usually not in big cities like Amsterdam or Rotterdam.
	School From early autumn until summer, with a six-week summer vacation and one-week vacations in the fall, at Christmas, in early spring, and at Easter.
	Trips A sailing trip is included in program tuition for year students.
	Pastimes Sports including soccer, tennis, ice skating, and sailing and cultural events such as plays, concerts, and films.

As an exchange student in Holland, you’ll most certainly hear the words, "We’re only a small nation…" Don’t miss the pride behind these words. While the Dutch live in a small country, it’s a nation of which they are fiercely proud.

Living among the Dutch, you will learn about their rich history of being one of Europe’s major centers not only in trade and transportation, but in the arts and culture as well. You can enjoy fabulous orchestral music or enjoy the cutting edge of Dutch pop music. The Netherlands is home to about 20 professional theater groups, as well as amateur drama groups. Fine arts museums can be found in all cities and major towns.

In summer, many towns organize street theater and concerts, traditional trade markets, and multicultural events. The Dutch live in close-knit families and enjoy each other’s company. Family activities are important so you should plan to participate in family outings, join in birthday and other celebrations, and visit relatives—especially grandparents.

Dutch families gather over meals, especially dinner, and the table is often the family gathering place at other times as well. Your host parents will want to know about your school, friends, and activities. One of the most common forms of transportation for everyone in the Netherlands is a bicycle—so plan on riding a lot!

Academic Programs

You’ll go to either HAVO (senior secondary education) or VWO (pre-university school) where you’ll find a relaxed atmosphere, though you will be expected to study hard just as you do here in the US. While Dutch is fairly easy to learn—it takes about two months—you can take advantage of tutoring in the Dutch language, usually through your school. In many towns there are possibilities to take courses in Dutch for foreigners.

In Dutch schools you won’t find many extracurricular activities, but numerous community clubs offer you a chance to enjoy your favorite recreation and make new friends.

A four-day arrival orientation is organized for year and semester YFU students arriving in the Netherlands in August. This orientation includes language classes. Year students will participate in a sailing trip, which is included in your program tuition. During the year there may be regional get-togethers and activities with other YFU students.

Programs, Departures, and Costs

Programs	Code	Departure	Return	Tuition
Year	0090	August	early July	$8695
Semester	0635	August	early January	$8695

Online Resources

To learn more about the Netherlands, we recommend:

E-mail YFU Alumni from the Alumni Referral List with your questions
Visit your local library to find reference books, travel guides and essays, Dutch language dictionaries, and many more country resources
Use an internet search engine to find informative web sites
The Royal Netherlands Embassy in Washington, DC web site
YFU Netherlands web site, click on English tab at top of page

"The most important things I learned were to broaden my horizons and how to get along well with others."
- Katie Bull

All YFU Programs are subject to change or cancellation without prior notice.
Last Updated: Friday, August 30, 2007