Simon Petit, 23, dreamed of continuing his studies of international law at the University of Leyde, in the Netherlands, and, at the same time, of joining his girlfriend there. His contacts with this prestigious establishment confused it: “I was kindly, but firmly, advised to think. Because in the future the lessons in English will be fewer and the Dutchman more widespread, it seems. »A little frightened by the prospect of learning this language “Very foreign”the young Breton will undoubtedly not join the approximately 5,000 French students currently registered in the higher schools and universities of the Netherlands.
The right -wing coalition in power in The Hague intends to reduce the number of foreigners as well as the offer of English courses, all within the framework of a vast austerity plan. In the fall of 2024, Minister EPPO Bruins, a centrist holder of the education, culture and science portfolio, confirmed the objective: to promote better control of the Dutch language and reduce budgets. About 168 million euros should in particular be spared on the amounts devoted to the reception of some 123,000 non -resident foreign students.
In Leiden, the government project – called “balanced internationalization” (WIB) – will force management to save 4.5 million euros in 2026, and more for the following years. Annetje Ottow, president of the University's board of directors, mentioned, in October 2024, “Major consequences” For English -language license programs. The specialization sectors, where a third of the training is currently given in English, will also be concerned, while current exemptions (for shortage trades or for establishments located in border areas) should be limited. Masters will also be affected in the long term.
Relaunch interest in Dutchman
“I don't know when all this will come into force, but I seriously ask myself the question of the continuation of my studies here”deplores Julie F., a Belgian French -speaking student who was aimed at a master's degree in banking finance and regulation at the University of Amsterdam (UVA), full -time training, in English. The UVA currently offers its 40,000 students 20 “bachelor” programs (bac + 2) and 150 masters in English.
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Source: Lemonde