Thousands of former Dutch students to receive extra €2,136 compensation for loan system
Former students affected by the abolished basic grant may receive up to €2,136 in additional compensation starting April 2027. The government will automatically pay out the funds, easing financial burdens for those who studied under the loan system.
| Key Data Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Compensation per month | €44.50 |
| Total for 4-year degree | €2,136 |
| Start date | April 2027 |
| Eligibility | Former students under the loan system (2015–2023) |
| Automatic payout | Yes, for those who received prior compensation |
| Debt offset | Compensation will first cover existing student debt |
The Ministry of Education, Culture and Science oversees student financing policies, including the transition from the basic grant to the loan system and subsequent compensation measures. This ministry is responsible for ensuring fair financial support for students and addressing systemic inequities.
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Read the full translated article below
Former students may receive additional compensation under the student loan system
The cabinet is implementing the previously agreed-upon arrangement regarding compensation for the student loan system. Earlier, a broad majority in the House of Representatives had requested this, prompting the cabinet to send the necessary legislative amendment to the Tweede Kamer (House of Representatives).
Minister Letschert of Education, Culture and Science: “This cabinet wants to improve the financial position of students. This also applies to former students. For students who studied without a basic grant, it is bitter that the basic grant was reinstated so soon after its abolition.”
The additional compensation amounts to €44.50 for each month a student was entitled to a performance grant under the loan system. For a four-year degree, this could total €2,136.00. The proposal to parliament is that the compensation will be granted starting April 2027. Most former students will not need to apply for the compensation. Everyone who received the previous compensation will automatically receive the new compensation from DUO.
The compensation will be offset against any existing student debt. If there is no debt or the debt is lower, the remaining amount will be paid out directly. The cabinet’s coalition agreement also addresses the financial position of current students. The implementation of these plans is currently underway.