A university in the Netherlands is hoping to attract some of the thousands of British students that may fail to gain a place after the A-level results are announced this week.

Maastricht University is offering degrees in English across eight subject areas, with the cost of tuition about half that charged by UK universities.

The Dutch institution, which is about three hours from London by train, is aiming to tap into the huge mismatch between demand and supply in the UK, where it is predicted that between 150,000 and 200,000 students could miss out on a place.

A Maastricht spokesman said its main selling point was its “problem-based learning” approach, where students are encouraged to use their own research to enhance their study. Applicants are also being offered cut-price accommodation near the university that will cost €400 (£328) a month.

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Maastricht’s president Jo Ritzen said: “The university is a world-class institution. I am confident that UK students will get an even better education here and for less than half the price in the UK.”

Tuition fees are £1,500 a year provided applicants are under the age of 30.

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English-language places are being offered in European public health; European studies; arts and culture; European law; IT; life sciences; fiscal economics; and econometrics.

simon.baker@tsleducation.com