A total of 399 students have been approved for Arubalening (Aruba’s student financial aid) for the 2025 academic year, with 62 staying in Aruba for their studies and 237 heading abroad, including 186 students going to the Netherlands, according to Sharine Croes-Dubero, Coordinator of Arubalening.
In an interview with DIARIO, Croes-Dubero shared that a total of 460 applications were submitted this year—86 for local study and 374 for international programs.
“Some applicants are still in the process or have dropped out. If you’re no longer pursuing studies locally or abroad, we urge you to notify us and complete the necessary forms,” she added.
The department is now proactively contacting students who haven’t submitted all required documents.
Study in the Netherlands
Out of the 237 international approvals, 186 students are heading to the Netherlands. Originally, over 220 were expected to go, but some dropped out due to failure to graduate or not securing housing. However, most students this year did find accommodation—thanks in part to support from FCC Curaçao, who assisted in arranging housing in The Hague, Amsterdam, Delft, and Utrecht.
Of the 186 students:
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86 will travel independently
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100 will take part in the organized group flight from Aruba
A few more students may still withdraw due to unresolved housing issues, but the department has been actively communicating with those still on the list.
Additional Support for ‘Free Movers’
This year, 19 “free movers”—students not traveling under Arubalening but still seeking help—have registered for support via Arubahuis. These students will receive guidance, temporary housing assistance, and help navigating housing and registration matters once they arrive in the Netherlands.
Photo credit : diario.aw
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