If you’re a student or recent graduate with an eye on the consulting world, the Netherlands might just be one of the best places to start your journey. Beyond the picturesque canals and stroopwafels, there’s a thriving consulting scene packed with opportunities — from structured graduate programs to high-impact internships that could launch your entire career.
Here’s why diving into consulting in the Netherlands makes a lot of sense (and might be the best decision you didn’t know you were about to make):
1. A Global Consulting Hub in a Small Country
Despite its size, the Netherlands punches way above its weight in the consulting world. Major players like McKinsey, BCG, Bain, Roland Berger, Accenture, Deloitte, and Strategy& all have offices here — often working on international projects. That means you’re not just helping Dutch companies, but working on real business problems across Europe and beyond.
Check out a few examples:
• McKinsey Amsterdam Graduate Opportunities
• BCG Amsterdam Internships & Associate Roles
• Deloitte Netherlands Consulting Careers
• Accenture NL Graduate Programs
2. Real Learning, Fast Progress
Consulting graduate programs in the Netherlands are no joke — and that’s a good thing. You’re not getting coffee or sitting in back-to-back PowerPoint lectures. You’ll be trained up, coached regularly, and thrown into real projects where your work actually matters.
Internships here are structured like mini consulting gigs. You’ll analyze real data, present to clients, and often manage your own piece of a project — with plenty of support, of course.
3. International & English-Friendly
One of the best parts about starting out in the Netherlands? You don’t need to speak fluent Dutch. Many consulting firms here operate in English, and they actively hire international students. You’ll find teams made up of people from all over the world. It’s easy to fit in — especially if you’re coming from abroad.
4. Early Specialisation (If That’s Your Thing)
Dutch firms give you the chance to dip your toes into specific industries early on — from sustainability to digital transformation, healthcare, energy, or even AI consulting. So if you already know what excites you, you can start shaping your path from day one.
5. Internships That Actually Lead to Jobs
Internships in the Netherlands aren’t just for the experience — they’re often a fast track to a full-time role. If you do well, chances are you’ll walk out with an offer letter in hand. Many grads actually get hired through their internship.
Want to explore current openings? Here’s a great place to start:
🔗 Consultancy.nl – Graduate & Internship Jobs
🔗 Magnet.me – Consulting Internships & Entry Roles in NL
6. A Work Culture That Doesn’t Burn You Out
Yes, consulting is demanding. But Dutch companies tend to respect work-life balance more than in some other countries. You’ll work hard, but also have time for yourself, your friends, and your weekend adventures. Hybrid work is common, and personal development is taken seriously.
7. Access to a Big (and Supportive) Network
If you’re studying in the Netherlands, there are tons of career fairs, consulting clubs, and case competitions to help you get noticed — like the Amsterdam Consultancy Group, Maastricht Business Days, National Consulting Days or De Kleine Consultant.
Final Thought
Getting into consulting can feel overwhelming, but the Netherlands makes it easier. It’s international, friendly, packed with opportunities — and most importantly, it gives you a real shot at launching a meaningful career without losing yourself in the process.
So if you’re thinking about your next step, take a look around. That internship or grad program you’ve been hesitant about? It might just be the start of something big.
Want help preparing for consulting interviews or getting noticed by top firms in the Netherlands? Follow PrepareConsult to stay upto date with the latest news in consulting and sign up to our news letter to be the first users of our soon to be launched platform.
About PrepareConsult:
PrepareConsult is a platform to practice the consulting case interview with AI and peers. PrepareConsult is founded by Milad Mohammadi and Sahhas Nathella.
Milad Mohammadi – 7+ years of experience in consulting and professional services with experience across North America and Europe.
Sahhas Nathella – 5+ years of experience in consulting and professional services with strong experience in complex digital transformations.
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