The TAO was part of the broader Wet Internationalisering in Balans (Internationalisation in Balance Act), a broader legislative effort aimed at managing the increasing use of English in Dutch higher education.

The motion against the TAO was submitted by MPs Harmen Krul, Claire Martens-America, Aant Jelle Soepboer, Ilana Rooderkerk, Don Ceder, Laurens Dassen, Luc Stultiens and Doğukan Ergin. It reflects growing support for a more flexible and institution-led approach to internationalisation in higher education, rather than relying on formal testing requirements for existing Bachelor’s programmes.

Positive response from Dutch universities

The umbrella organisation Universiteiten van Nederland (UNL) expressed strong support for the motion, viewing it as an important step in giving universities and universities of applied sciences better guidance on the future of internationalisation. They believe the decision helps institutions move forward with more confidence, particularly when it comes to attracting international talent, which they see as vital for the Dutch economy and society. At the same time, they acknowledge the importance of addressing existing challenges within the sector.

What this means for AUC

For AUC, the motion brings more clarity to an area of national policy that has been under debate. While the specific impact of the TAO on AUC remained to be seen, its proposed introduction had raised broader questions for institutions teaching in English with an international outlook.

The decision provides a stable foundation for AUC and similar colleges to continue developing their educational offerings while remaining aligned with national discussions on accessibility, language policy and student diversity.

Next steps

The focus now turns to the Ministry of Education to outline how the motion will be put into effect. While the objective of maintaining a balanced approach to internationalisation remains, the direction now seems to favour more trust in institutional autonomy and sector-led reform.

Recent commitments from the sector, including the offer by the UNL to exercise self-regulation by reducing the number of English-taught Bachelor's programmes, introducing measures to strengthen Dutch language proficiency and improving the stay rate of international students, likely played a significant role in securing broader political support for the motion.

These steps have helped establish a foundation for a more collaborative relationship between the government and higher education institutions. This ensures that the Netherlands can remain an attractive destination for international students while also addressing local needs and concerns.