109 students depart for the Netherlands with Aruba government support

ORANJESTAD – A total of 109 Aruban students departed wednesday on a KLM flight to the Netherlands, where they will begin the next chapter of their academic careers. They are part of 198 students who received financial assistance from the Government of Aruba through the Arubalening program for the 2026-2027 academic year.

According to the Department of Education, the students leaving Wednesday are the first group of loan recipients heading to the Netherlands after months of preparation. The remaining 89 students have either already traveled or will depart in the coming days.

The Hague is the most popular destination this year, attracting 36 students, followed by Rotterdam with 19 and Leiden with 17. Not all students, however, will live in the same city where they will study.

The most popular field of study is International Business, chosen by 18 students. There is also strong interest in Law, while healthcare remains well represented, with eight students pursuing nursing and five studying medicine.

Of the 198 students receiving support, 147 will pursue HBO bachelor's degrees, 41 university bachelor's degrees, one an HBO master's degree, and nine a university master's degree.

The Department of Education and the Arubalening team wished all students success in this new chapter, encouraging them to believe in themselves, seek help when needed, and make the most of the opportunity they have received.