Over here in the Netherlands, 41% of employers consider a candidate having the right diplomas and certificates to be important, while 38% believe relevant work experience is a priority. However, as employers have been finding it increasingly difficult to fill vacancies, seven out of ten employers filled vacancies with candidates who did not meet all the job requirements, according to the Employee Insurance Agency (UWV).

In this article, we will give you an overview of the different kinds of certificates and degrees obtainable from the Netherlands and what they could mean for your job prospects.

In the Netherlands, primary school education is compulsory for children aged 5 to 12. In their final year, a placement test determines which track they will go on for their secondary education. This is divided into three basic directions – preparatory secondary vocational education (vmbo), higher general education (havo) and preparatory scientific education (vwo).

Although not usually compulsory to apply for jobs, the Dutch organisation for internationalisation in education, Nuffic, can create a credential evaluation which creates a recognised comparison of a foreign diploma to a Dutch one. To apply for a credential evaluation, click here. The process usually takes around 6 weeks.

Students aged 12-16 can work towards obtaining their VMBO diploma, the Dutch pre-vocational secondary education diploma, which prepares them for further studies in secondary vocational education (MBO). There are four different learning pathways within the VMBO but its main aim is to provide a combination of practical vocational training and theoretical education in subjects like languages, math, history, arts, and sciences. It often leads to practical, hands-on careers.

The HAVO diploma (senior general secondary education) sets students on the course towards higher vocational education (HBO) or pre-university education (VWO). It takes 5 years to complete. At the end of their third year, students choose one of four study profiles. These are:

In general, HAVO graduates are seen as having solid theoretical foundations with a practical outlook.

A pre-university education (VWO) diploma takes 6 years to obtain. It prepares students for university (WO) or higher vocational education (HBO).

Similar to the VMBO, VWO students follow one of four tracks: culture & society, economy & society, nature & health, and science & technology.

The VWO track emphasises analytical and research skills.

Linked to the VWO is the gymnasium – all gymnasium students are VWO students but not all VWO students go to a gymnasium. Gymnasium students have to follow additional subjects like classical cultural studies, Latin, and Greek, unlike atheneum students.

Students following secondary vocational education (MBO) are typically aged 16-20. This track focuses on practical skills and specific trades (e.g. technician, nurse, IT support). Employers looking for operational staff with job-ready skills typically value the MBO highly. 

It consists of four different levels:

Students choose between two learning pathways: A school-based pathway (20-60% working) or a work-based pathway (at least 60% working).

There are two types of higher education in the Netherlands. The research-oriented higher education (wetenschappelijk onderwijs, WO) and the higher professional education (hoger beroepsonderwijs, HBO).

HBO degrees are offered at universities of applied sciences. In a nutshell, the HBO is more practically oriented than the WO. HBO students combine theory with practical applications (often involving one or more internships) in one of the seven sectors the HBO focuses on:

Graduates are valued for their “HBO thinking level” — practical problem-solving, independence, and professional work mindset.

An HBO bachelor’s degree takes 4 years to complete with a workload of 240 ECTS. HBO master's programmes are profession-oriented. HBO master's students usually do not follow the programme full-time, but combine work and study.

Which of these degrees will give you an edge when it comes to applying for a job varies on a case-by-case basis.

You’ll sometimes see job descriptions mention “HBO-level thinking” even when a diploma isn’t required. This signals expectations for independence, critical thinking, and communication skills.

MBO graduates are highly valued in sectors like logistics, healthcare, and construction, where practical skills are paramount.

Employers generally recognise VWO and WO graduates for their analytical ability but may seek additional experience or training for practical roles.

Photo: Johan Bosma

However, some companies may focus more on skills and mindset than formal diplomas, aligning with trends abroad. If you’re happy with your academic qualifications but want more real-world experience, why not consider an internship or traineeship?The strictest criteria apply to the regulated professions in the Netherlands – those restricted to employees who meet the professional qualifications required by law for that particular role. If your profession is in this database, then you’re going to have to follow stricter rules than some of your peers. Some examples of Dutch regulated professions:  accountant, lawyer, airline pilot, taxi driver, and dentist.

Main image: ©UG, photo: Marcel Spanjer