Getting around the Netherlands is easy, once you know where to start. Most students travel by public transport and bike, but with several options available, it can be difficult to choose the right one as an international student. Student Mobility, in cooperation with ISIC, helps you get started quickly with simple, student-friendly solutions.
Public transport in the Netherlands uses the OV-chipkaart, a contactless travel card for trains, trams, buses, and metros. You simply check in and out, and your fare is calculated automatically based on your journey. For international students, setting this up can be difficult, especially without a Dutch bank account.
That’s where the Student Mobility Card comes in. It gives you direct access to the Dutch public transport from day one, without needing a Dutch bank account. You can use the card with or without a subscription, depending on your needs.
With the subscription, you receive 15% discount on NS trains during off-peak hours.
Off-peak hours:
- Weekdays: before 06:30, between 09:00 and 16:00, and after 18:30
- Weekends: all day
Students in Limburg can benefit from:
40% off on off-peak Arriva trains & 20% off on off-peak Arriva buses
Off-peak hours:
-Weekdays:
Buses: before 07:00, and after 09:00
Trains: before 06:30, between 09:00 and 16:00, and after 18:30
- Weekends: all day
*Valid for one academic year
Students in Groningen, Friesland, and Drenthe receive 40% discount during off-peak hours, is valid on Arriva trains and Qbuzz buses
Off-peak hours:
- Weekdays:
Buses: before 07:00, and after 09:00
Trains: before 06:30, and after 09:00
- Weekends: all day
*Valid for one academic year
The OV-pas is the new generation public transport card in the Netherlands that is gradually replacing the traditional OV-chipkaart. It offers the same nationwide access to public transport, with a more flexible and digital experience.
You can recharge your balance anytime through your online account, so no more visits to ticket machines. You can also enable automatic top-up, so your balance reloads automatically whenever it gets low.
Whether you're staying for a few months or a full degree, having a bike gives you complete freedom to move around the city. With Student Mobility, you can either rent a bike for flexibility or buy one for long-term use.
Pick between the mobility products that fit your needs or choose them all to get the complete package.
