FAQ
1. Who can apply for this programme?
Anyone with a higher-education STEM degree (HBO/University level) who lives in Brabant, has interest in teaching, and wants to explore a meaningful new career. Prior teaching experience is helpful but not required.
2. Do I need to speak Dutch?
Not yet! For Activate Track, basic English is sufficient. During the programme, you will receive training to reach Dutch B1 → C1 which is required for teaching. You will be supported by language coaches throughout the journey.
3. Do I need to have a Dutch teaching qualification?
No. The programme helps you earn one, step by step.
4. Is there an age limit?
No. Participants typically range from 25 to 55+, and career changers are welcome.
5. How long does the whole programme take?
Depending on your path: 18 to 36 months, spread across three phases:
6. Will I be placed at a school?
Yes. During Upskill and Certification, you will have a school placement 2–3 days/week, with mentorship from experienced teachers.
7. What subjects can I teach?
You can teach STEM subjects such as:
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Computer science
- Engineering-related subjects
Your placement will match your academic background and experience.
8. Do I have to pay for the programme?
- The participation fee for the Activate track is €95. This contributes to workshops, coaching sessions, and community activities during the orientation programme.
- The participation fee for the Upskill track is €750. This covers Dutch learning materials and the annual student registration fee.
Costs for the Certification track depend on your personal situation and the type of teacher training route you follow. Some participants qualify for the statutory tuition fee. In many cases, the employing school contributes to or fully covers these costs as part of a teaching contract or traineeship arrangement. Exact costs and funding arrangements will be discussed individually during the selection and placement process.
9. Will I get paid?
During the Certification Track, participants often transition into an internship teaching role under supervision. Compensation depends on the school and your teaching load.
10. I’m an international spouse. Can I apply?
Yes. The programme is designed especially for international STEM talent, including spouses of highly skilled migrants with backgrounds in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics.
11. I have non-Dutch diplomas. Is that a problem?
No. Your diplomas will be evaluated, and we will guide you through any required recognition steps.
12. I am not sure if teaching is right for me. Should I still apply?
Absolutely. The Activate Track is designed to help you discover whether teaching fits your skills, personality, and ambitions.
13. What is the weekly time commitment?
14. Will I get a permanent job?
Many participants secure long-term roles at their placement school. Demand for STEM teachers is extremely high.
15. Can I continue teaching anywhere in the Netherlands?
Yes. Your certification is nationally recognised.
16. When can I start?
The Activate Track and Upskill Track start twice per year, in September and February. The Certification Track starts once per year, in September.
17. How can I apply for the activate track?
You can apply with this button.
18. Where can I apply for the upskill track?
You can apply with this button.
19 Can I contact somebody for further/personal questions?
You can be in contact with Kavitha for questions about the Activate Track or with Annemieke about the Upskill Track.
Internationals in de klas is a collaboration between Brainport Development, ASML, Expat Spouses Initiative (ESI), ESoE (TU/e), Fontys, Onderwijsregio Brabant-Oost, Trion Opleidingsschool, and AOS-Zuidoost-Brabant. Language teaching is provided by STE Languages.
With Internationals in de klas, ASML contributes to strong, future-oriented education in the Brainport region. By supporting this initiative, ASML helps bring international talent and local schools together and invests in a region where knowledge, collaboration, and growth reinforce each other.