Preparation and study choice
It’s very important that you figure out for yourself which option is right for you. Do you really want to continue your studies? And if so, at what level do you want to do that? Which program is right for you, and where is the best place to pursue it?
Choose the program that’s right for you!
You can choose your program, but how do you go about it?
How do you figure out what you want and which program is right for you?
Making a choice can be quite a challenge. Especially when there are so many options to choose from.
As a student in the Caribbean, you have plenty of opportunities.
Are you thinking about studying in the region, South America, Central America, Canada, or Europe?
There are so many programs out there—how do you know which one is right for you?
So where do you start?
3 steps to making your choice
Making a decision is a step-by-step process. By getting to know yourself better and gaining new experiences, you’ll get closer and closer to finding a degree program that’s truly right for you.
Ontdek wie jij bentDiscover who you are
Start with yourself. What are your dreams? What gives you energy? What are you good at, and what careers appeal to you? By thinking about these things, you’ll get to know yourself better and gain a clearer understanding of what’s right for you.
Explore programs and schools
Using the insights from Step 1, you’ll start looking specifically for programs and schools that align with your goals. Gather information, read reviews, and discover which programs spark your interest.
Gain experience and discover
Attend (online) open houses, sign up for a shadowing or trial study day, or talk to someone who is enrolled in the program or works in the field you’re curious about.
Give yourself time to explore and keep taking small steps. You make good choices with your heart,
but keep your head in the game!
This workbook can help you with this.
You’ll get started step by step on making your choice!
Make an informed choice about your program and destination
Many students automatically choose the Netherlands, but studying in another country is a big step. It’s important to think carefully about what’s right for you and where you can best develop your skills.
There are various levels of post-secondary education. You’ve probably already heard a bit about this from your school counselor. We’d be happy to list them for you!
Vocational secondary education (MBO)
In vocational secondary education, the focus is on practical experience. The emphasis is on “doing,” and you receive a lot of guidance along the way. As a prerequisite, you must have at least a VMBO diploma.
Higher professional education (HBO)
In higher professional education, the emphasis is on solving real-world problems. Higher professional education bridges the gap between theory, science, and practice. In higher professional education, the focus is primarily on the “how.”
To be admitted, you must have at least a HAVO or MBO-4 diploma.
Associate Degree (AD)
Not sure if a four-year higher professional education (HBO) program is right for you? Or do you want to improve your job prospects after earning your MBO-4 diploma? If so, you might consider an Associate Degree program. This program lasts two years and is more practice-oriented than a higher professional education (HBO) bachelor’s program.
Higher Education (WO)
In academic education, the emphasis is on the “why,” making it theoretical and focused on conducting research. Admission requires at least a VWO diploma or a propaedeutic certificate from a university of applied sciences.
Make a smart choice and study with confidence!
Choosing the right program will help you start your studies with confidence. By thoroughly researching what suits you beforehand, you reduce the likelihood of having to change your major later on. This saves you stress and prevents delays in your studies.
Need help choosing the right program? Check out the available tools and information here!