Dutch language classes
Nov 24, 2011
To study in Holland, you do not need to know any Dutch. There are more than 1,500 programmes taught entirely in English. Furthermore most Dutch people speak English, so you will not encounter any problems living in Holland without speaking Dutch either. However, if you want to learn a little of the Dutch language there are some possibilities.
The Dutch language is a Germanic language spoken by about 24 million people, mainly in Holland, but also in the northern part of Belgium (called "Flemish"). In other countries like Suriname, parts of Germany and France and former Dutch colonies like Indonesia you can also find people that speak Dutch.
If you want to learn Dutch, it is an advantage if you have some knowledge of German. However, do not mistake Dutch for a German dialect, since it has its own grammatical structures, pronounciation and vocabulary. When reading Dutch texts, one may recognize some words from other languages such as English, German and French.
Many Dutch universities offer Dutch classes to their foreign students besides the regular Bachelor's or Master's programme. As mentioned, it is not necessary to learn Dutch but it may be a fun and interesting way of getting a better understanding of Dutch culture.
Dutch classes on the Internet
Dutch classes in Mexico
On the webpage of the Dutch embassy a list can be found of several Dutch people that offer classes in Mexico.
Dutch classes in Holland
Several Dutch universities have language centres in which they can offer Dutch courses. On the Nuffic website you can find the addresses of these language centres.
Language requirement by CONACyT
Although CONACyT requires students to have taken at least 40 hours of class in the language of the country where they will study in order to obtain a scholarship, Nuffic Neso Mexico has arranged that for Holland it is not required to take these classes before going to Holland. Instead you must take 40 hours of class during the first six months of your stay in Holland. If you have any questions about this requirement, please contact Nuffic Neso Mexico.