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Study delay

Are you having a hard time keeping up with your studies? You're not the only one. Many students experience study delay at some point — and that’s okay. At Fontys, we’re here to support you. You might be struggling with certain subjects, feeling stressed, feel overwhelmed by proving learning outcomes or unsure about your study choice. Maybe you're dealing with personal or health issues.

Whatever the reason, you don’t have to go through it alone.

Studying in the Netherlands brings many opportunities — but also unique challenges.
You may be adjusting to a new culture, missing home, or trying to understand a different academic system. That’s why we offer personal support to help you with both your studies and your wellbeing.

What can you do if you have study delay?

Whether your delay is short or long, there are different options available. You decide what works best for your situation. The most important thing is to take action now.

Talk to your student coach or a student counsellor. They will listen, support you, and help you take the next steps.

On this page, you’ll find practical steps to help you regain control of your studies. Make an appointment with your student coach, a student counsellor, or another support service. The sooner you reach out, the sooner we can help.

Have you been inactive in your studies for a while? If you haven’t been actively studying for some time, it’s best to contact a student counsellor directly. Together, you will look at what’s possible and decide how to move forward.

Make an appointment with a student counsellor

Ambience photo Fontys
Contact your student coach
Your student coach at your study programme will help you understand your situation and create a plan together. You can also get support with study skills like planning and organising.

Contact a student counsellor
A student counsellor can help you explore possible solutions, breaks,
or adjustments. They can also support you with applications to DUO, the examination board,
or financial aid funds.

Make an appointment with a student counsellor

Schedule a meeting with your student coach or a study choice advisor
They can help you explore new options, plan a gap year, or take steps toward entering the job market.

Take a look at the page Doubts about your study choice

Talk to your student coach
Or check the following pages for more information: 

You're not alone. Studying longer than expected can be tough, but there are ways to move forward. You can get support from your study programme, your student coach, or through initiatives like:

Talk to someone you trust, your student coach, make an appointment with a student psychologist or your own general practitioner (GP).

Healthcare in the Netherlands

You can also use online self-learning modules or join a training or workshop to support your wellbeing.

Go to Training and workshops

Remember: You don’t have to go through this alone

Whether you're experiencing study delay due to medical or personal circumstances, doubts about your study program, or something else — there is always a next step.

We’re here to help you gain clarity, make informed choices, explore available support options, and move forward in a way that works for you.