Some 50% of first year university students have a student loan and will leave after four years with an average debt of over €15,000, according to family finance institute Nibud.

A year ago, the average student left with a debt of €12,500, including interest, Nibud said.
Only 45% of students polled by Nibud were aware that interest was added to bill during their four-year degree and 25% have no idea what the interest rate is. The current rate is 2.39% and the loan has to be fully paid back within 15 years.
Most students told Nibud they borrowed money because their parents were unable or unwilling to support them, but 25% said they took out a loan so they good have a ‘relaxed’ period as a student.