International Business (bol) – English-language programme

As an assistant international trade manager, you can work for a variety of companies involved in international trade, such as a wholesaler or a manufacturing company. After graduating, you can work in various departments within an international company, such as the sales department (internal or external), or a purchasing department.

Many of our students continue on to a suitable higher professional education program after graduating. Because you receive a broad education, many higher professional education programs are a perfect fit.

The program is structured around the tasks you'll perform as an assistant international trade manager in real-world situations within a company. Key tasks include conducting market research, conducting sales calls, maintaining relationships with international clients, and dealing with companies abroad.

The program is structured in blocks or projects. Each block focuses on a topic important for international trade. You'll learn how to do this during the lessons. To achieve this, you'll be taught by instructors who each have their own area of expertise.

During your studies, you'll complete internships at internationally oriented companies in the Netherlands. In the second year, you can even go abroad (if you wish) to complete part of your studies there. You'll live and work there at an international company. Many students choose Spanish as a foreign language and then go to Spain for their internship. Other countries are also possible, of course. 

The Education and Examination Regulations (OER) of a course specify what you will be doing in which period, how much time is spent on this and an overview of the exams that will be taken. Find the OER for your course here.

Search by your Crebo number (see the box on the right of this page) to view the OER for the current academic year. This will give you a general idea of what's expected of you when you start the program. The OER for the upcoming academic year will be available in July.

The statutory tuition fee for the 2026-2027 school year is €1.511. Check DUO.nl for possible student financing.

Each year of study consists of four periods of study, combined with an internship. The statutory tuition fee for the 2025-2026 school year is €1.458, which you only pay if you are 18 years or older.

An overview of the total costs for the coming school year can be found at mbowebshop.nl, no later than July 1st of each year. Summa determines the specifications, but you can choose where you purchase the course materials.

Laptop: 
The program requires students to have a laptop. Make sure your laptop has the correct specifications, which you can find in this overview.

Additional activities and amenities: 
In addition to the costs of equipment and materials, additional activities and facilities can be offered, such as study trips, company visits, and excursions. These activities add value but are voluntary and not required for attending the program and obtaining a diploma.

You must take three electives to broaden or deepen your knowledge and prepare for a higher level. Each elective concludes with an exam. The content of the electives is determined by the school in consultation with the professional field. Examples include: online marketing, higher professional education (HBO) preparation, entrepreneurship orientation, responding to innovations, or Lean and Creative.

You also have the option of obtaining an additional certificate during your studies. The EBBD prepares you for a career in international business by offering you the opportunity to improve your soft skills, language skills, and international skills. This is a European-recognized certificate that demonstrates your above-average performance. Read more on the EBBD website.

Study in figures provides clear information about this program and its job prospects. Want to learn more about these figures? Then check out this explanation.

To be admitted to this course you need:

• vmbo diploma vocational or theoretical learning path or;
• diploma in bilingual preparatory education.

The program is also suitable for international students (whether or not living in the Netherlands) with comparable prior education. It is helpful if you already have a good command of English.

You'll be invited to an introductory meeting where you'll get to know the school and we'll determine if this program is a good fit for you. We'll also determine together which program is best for you: the bilingual program or the fully English-taught program.

Teachers and students know what's going on at school. You can easily ask your questions using the contact information below. If you contact us during or just before the holidays, you may not receive a response until after the holidays.

WhatsApp
Contact: Judith Smits
International business teacher: Annebeth Vermande

E-mail
Contact: Judith Smits
International business teacher: Annebeth Vermande

Instagram
Student Dana Faassen, DM to: @Dana.Faassen

It is also possible to attend a walk-along day, tour, or open house. You can find all activities in our calendar.