The Dutch Student Union (LSVb) called on the Dutch government at the end of August to reduce tuition fees for Iranian students nationwide and establish an emergency fund. According to the union, support currently varies widely between universities and universities of applied sciences. Education Minister Rianne Letschert left responsibility for providing support to the educational institutions.

At TU/e, virtually all students who could no longer afford to continue their studies because of the war have now received help, the university told Cursor through its press office. This was partly because students found solutions themselves and partly through support from the university and the Eindhoven University Fund (UFe).

Deferrals and emergency fund

TU/e offers several options for students who are experiencing financial difficulties. Under certain conditions, they can defer payment of their tuition fees for up to six months, with the deferral ending no later than August 31 of the current academic year.

Students in acute financial situations can also apply to the Student Emergency Fund, run by the Eindhoven University Fund (UFe). Under certain conditions, students can receive a one-time payment of up to €6,000.

In addition, students can receive guidance from ESA staff. Academic advisors are their first point of contact. Students may also be eligible for financial compensation for delays in their studies through TU/e’s Student Financial Aid.

Still, these measures have not made all the problems disappear. TU/e says that some Iranian students continue to face financial uncertainty. The university also emphasizes that it must carefully consider equal treatment and the implications of setting a precedent, and that there are limits to what it can sustain structurally.

Additional opportunities

TU/e is also looking beyond the university for ways to provide support. Within Brainport, discussions are underway about whether regional partners can contribute, for example by creating additional job or internship opportunities for students.

In addition, the Eindhoven University Fund wants to make additional financial support for students in need possible through fundraising.

“We cannot solve everything”

TU/e President Koen Janssen says the university is deeply committed to the Iranian community. “We are doing everything we can to help wherever possible. But we cannot solve everything; we cannot take on the financial responsibility for students in need on a permanent basis.”

TU/e agrees with an important point raised by the LSVb: according to the university, a nationwide approach is needed. “We therefore regret that the minister is not providing a nationwide solution,” Janssen said. “You have to prevent differences from emerging between universities.”

This article was translated using AI-assisted tools and reviewed by an editor