The Central Student Council (CSG) and DUO loans supplement parental contributions in Amsterdam but influence parental obligations. Learn how these systems interact with the high cost of living in the city, such as rent around €800 for a student room in Oud-West or the Jordaan.
CSG Grants in Amsterdam
From the age of 18, you are entitled to a basic grant and supplementary grant if parental financial capacity is low. DUO calculates this based on parental income, taking into account Amsterdam standards for study costs, including expensive public transport passes for trams and cycling routes to the UvA campus.
Impact on Maintenance
CSG reduces the student's financial need, potentially lowering parental contributions. Amsterdam courts, such as the District Court of Amsterdam, do not consider loans as income and take local rental prices into account when determining child maintenance.
DUO Loans Specific to Amsterdam
Tuition fee and public transport loans are supplementary and ideal for students at the University of Amsterdam (UvA) or Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences (HvA). Even with high living costs in De Pijp or student housing via DUWO, these debts do not affect family obligations.
Practical example in Amsterdam: A UvA student receiving €400 in CSG and €300 in loans may still claim €250 from parents due to monthly housing costs of €900. Advice: submit your DUO application before September at an Amsterdam service point for maximum support and combine it with city subsidies such as special assistance for students.