Nearly 40% of students face study delays amid stress, mental health struggles
Almost 40 percent of students at Dutch universities and universities of applied sciences are falling behind in their studies, with stress, depression, and other mental health issues the leading factors, according to new research by the Interstedelijk Studentenoverleg (ISO).
The survey, completed by 7,542 students, found that 37 percent reported experiencing a study delay. Illness, particularly psychological conditions such as stress and depression, was the most common reason, cited by 22 percent of respondents. Other factors included part-time jobs (19 percent) and lack of motivation (18 percent). Students facing delays were also more likely to report emotional exhaustion and lower resilience.
ISO chair Sarah Evink emphasized the need for universities to take a more supportive approach. “Why would you expel a student immediately without looking at why they fell behind? We should not punish students when things do not go as planned but support them,” Evink told AD.
She called for more dialogue between students and institutions to address underlying issues rather than strictly enforcing the Bindend Studie Advies (BSA), which prevents students from advancing if they fail to earn enough credits in their first year.
The Trimbos Institute, which monitors student mental health, reported a slight overall improvement in wellbeing but confirmed that a significant portion of students still struggle, particularly those experiencing study delays. The institute recommends adjusting study requirements so students can learn at their own pace, experiment, and make mistakes.
Some students also reported intentionally delaying their studies to join associations or enjoy student life longer.
A spokesperson for the Universities of the Netherlands said institutions provide as much leeway as possible under the BSA while maintaining programs that are feasible to complete and offering mental health support.
A separate study by Natuur & Milieu analyzed the 260 most paved neighborhoods across the 32 largest Dutch municipalities, defined as having less than 15 square meters of public green space per residence—well below the national guideline of 75 square meters per home. The 800,000 residents of these neighborhoods face higher rates of stress, loneliness, and general health vulnerabilities, AD reported.
Researchers noted that these areas often house socially vulnerable populations, who benefit most from nearby greenery, while residents of wealthier, greener neighborhoods are generally better able to maintain their own health.
