Career Zone EN
Working after graduation
You got your degree, congratulations! But now what? Where can you find work?
Finding a job – this goes for Dutch students as well – can be quite a challenge. There is no single tip, golden key or secret website with the answer. However, the following steps might give you some guidance:
- Know yourself: In order to know your added value to organisations, it is important to know about yourself. What are you good at? What gives you energy?
- Explore the labour market: Once you are aware about your skills, knowledge and interests, it is time to connect these to concrete opportunities on the labour market. What kind of positions are available? Do I meet the requirements? If you miss some of the requirements, is it possible to gain those skills or this knowledge?
- Take action! Make sure your CV and LinkedIn are up to date. Search for interesting positions. Found one? Write an enthusiastic motivation letter, specifically designed for the position you are applying for.
- The CareerZone has a LU jobs & events portal
- International expat jobs in the Netherlands - Welcome to NL
- IamExpat in the Netherlands - For expats of all colours, shapes & sizes
- Check vacancies on LinkedIn
- Post a message on your own LinkedIn profile stating you are available
- Approach people with interesting careers, ask to meet for coffee & advice
An orientation year ('zoekjaar') is available for non-EU/EEA students who graduated from a Dutch university. During the orientation year you may work freely or do an internship/traineeship in the Netherlands (NL) while your employer does not have to apply for a work permit for hiring you.
More information about this orientation year can be found on: The orientation year permit - Welcome to NL
- Visit the website of the IND, the Immigration and Naturalisation Service for more information.
- IND Sponsors Netherlands - Companies that can sponsor your visa.
