THE HAGUE – Since April 1 of last year, Caribbean students applying for student financing have automatically received a citizen service number (BSN), helping them better prepare for their studies in the Netherlands. With the BSN, students can, among other things, apply for a DigiD, view their student financing, and arrange municipal registration appointments before their departure. In some cases, it is also possible to open a bank account online with certain banks.
“We’ve noticed that Caribbean students are better prepared when they come to the Netherlands since they started receiving a BSN,” says Monique Hoogerwerf, coordinator for the Caribbean region at DUO. “It’s great to see that they can start their journey more smoothly because of this.”
To further assist students, DUO will visit the Caribbean islands from March 10 to April 11. During this visit, temporary service offices will be opened, and information sessions will be organized on student financing and the BSN. These sessions will provide students and their parents with explanations about all the practical matters that need to be arranged for their transition to the Netherlands.
Additionally, DUO will open a service office on Curaçao this spring for a one-year trial period. This office will offer year-round support to students and former students with outstanding student loans and will also provide information at schools.