Rotterdam Business School

Why Rotterdam Business School is Popular Among Indian Students

Rotterdam Business School (RBS), part of the Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences, stands out as a top choice for Indian students aspiring to study business in the Netherlands. Known for its practical, industry-oriented education, RBS attracts over 1,000 international students annually, with a significant number from India. Its location in Rotterdam—a vibrant, multicultural port city and Europe's largest logistics hub—offers unparalleled opportunities for real-world business exposure. For Indian students eyeing the next intake (typically starting in September for bachelor's and February for some master's programs), RBS provides English-taught programs that align with global career goals, affordable tuition, and strong support for seamless adaptation to Dutch life.

The school's popularity stems from its focus on applied learning, where theory meets practice through internships, projects, and partnerships with companies like Unilever, Shell, and Deloitte. Indian students appreciate the emphasis on entrepreneurship and international trade, skills highly valued back home in India's booming economy. With tuition fees ranging from €8,000 to €10,000 per year—much lower than in the UK or US—RBS is a cost-effective gateway to a European degree. Plus, the Netherlands' post-study work visa allows graduates up to a year to seek employment, opening doors to EU job markets.

Popular Programs for Indian Students

RBS offers a range of bachelor's and master's programs tailored for international talent. These are fully taught in English, making them accessible for Indian students without needing advanced Dutch proficiency. Here's a breakdown of the most sought-after programs for the upcoming intake:

• International Business Management (BBA): A 4-year bachelor's program emphasizing global trade, marketing, and finance. Ideal for Indian students interested in multinational corporations. Includes mandatory internships in Rotterdam's business district, with 90% employability rate within six months of graduation.
• Logistics & Supply Chain Management (BSc): Perfect for those from India's logistics sector. Covers sustainable supply chains and port management, leveraging Rotterdam's status as a global trade gateway. Features collaborations with Port of Rotterdam for hands-on projects.
• Commerce (International Business) (BBA): Focuses on cross-cultural business, ethics, and e-commerce. Popular among Indian commerce graduates seeking to bridge Eastern and Western markets.
• Master in International Business Management: A 1-year program for those with a bachelor's degree. Covers strategic management and innovation, with elective modules on emerging markets like India and Asia. Entry requires IELTS 6.5 or equivalent.

Application deadlines for the next September intake are usually in May-June for non-EU students, but early applications (by April) are recommended to secure scholarships and housing. RBS reports a 20% increase in Indian applications post-COVID, driven by the Netherlands' stable visa processing—over 85% approval rate for Indian students.

Key Reasons RBS Appeals to Indian Aspirants

Indian students flock to RBS for its holistic approach to education and life abroad. Here's why it's a favorite:

1. Industry Connections and Career Support: RBS's career center offers personalized coaching, CV workshops, and job fairs tailored for internationals. Partnerships with Indian firms like Tata and Infosys provide networking events. Graduates often land roles in finance, consulting, or logistics, with average starting salaries of €35,000-€45,000.
2. Scholarly Excellence and Accreditation: Accredited by NVAO (Dutch-Flemish Accreditation Organization), RBS degrees are recognized worldwide, including by AIU in India for equivalency. Small class sizes (20-30 students) ensure interactive learning with diverse faculty from 50+ nationalities.
3. Affordable Living and Scholarships: Rotterdam's cost of living is €800-€1,200 monthly, lower than Amsterdam. Indian students can apply for the Holland Scholarship (€5,000 one-time grant) or RBS-specific awards up to €2,500 for high-achievers. No application fee for most programs eases the process.
4. Multicultural Environment: With 40% international students, RBS fosters inclusivity. Indian student associations organize Diwali celebrations and Bollywood nights, easing homesickness. The university provides free Dutch language courses and orientation weeks focused on cultural integration.
5. Sustainable and Innovative Focus: Aligning with global trends, programs integrate sustainability—relevant for India's green initiatives. RBS's research centers on circular economy and digital business equip students for future-proof careers.

Student Testimonials and Success Stories

Don't just take our word for it—hear from Indian alumni:

"RBS transformed my career. The internship at a Rotterdam logistics firm led to a full-time offer at DHL in the Netherlands. Coming from Mumbai, the practical focus was a game-changer compared to theoretical Indian colleges."

— Priya Sharma, BBA International Business (Class of 2022), now Supply Chain Analyst in Amsterdam

"As an Indian student, the scholarship and visa support made studying abroad feasible. RBS's global network helped me connect with opportunities in Singapore's finance hub."

— Rahul Patel, MSc International Business (Class of 2023), Consultant at KPMG India

Next Steps for the Upcoming Intake

For Indian students preparing for the next intake, start by checking eligibility: A 10+2 with 60% for bachelor's or a relevant bachelor's with 2.5 GPA for master's. Required documents include transcripts, motivation letter, and English proficiency proof (IELTS/TOEFL). RBS's online portal simplifies applications, with virtual tours and webinars specifically for South Asian students.

The Netherlands' welcoming policies, including the Orientation Year visa for job hunting, make RBS an ideal launchpad. With Rotterdam's innovative vibe—home to startups and the Erasmus Bridge—students gain not just a degree, but a global mindset. Join the growing community of 500+ Indian alumni thriving in Europe and beyond.

Rotterdam Business School isn't just a university—it's a stepping stone to international success. Apply today and embark on your Dutch adventure!