BBL and BOL: two ways to take an MBO programme
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In the Netherlands, you can attend intermediate vocational education (MBO) in two ways: through BBL or BOL. Both programmes give you an official MBO diploma, but the way of learning is different. In this article you will read about the difference between these two programmes.
If you study on a school-based learning pathway (BOL), you go to school almost every day
The school-based learning pathway (Beroepsopleidende Leerweg, BOL) is an MBO programme in which you learn primarily at school. You take classes and also do an internship at a company to gain practical experience. How many days you spend at school and how many at the company varies depending on the programme. In any case, you must do at least 20 percent of your training as an intern.
During your internship, you will not receive a salary, but sometimes you will receive an internship allowance.
The BOL and BBL programmes are both MBO programmes
MBO level 1 is the entry-level programme
You do not need a diploma from a previous programme for an entry-level programme. With a diploma at MBO level 1 you can work as an assistant in a company. During the entry-level programme you will receive personal support and help with your career. The programme usually lasts one year. To follow MBO level 1, you must be at least 16 years old on 1 August of the year in which you start your studies. You can then also continue your studies at MBO level 2.
MBO level 2 is the basic vocational programme
The basic vocational programme is a practical programme. You learn to do practical work in a profession. With an MBO level 2 diploma you can do many different jobs, such as security guard, hairdresser, cook or healthcare worker. To follow an MBO level 2 programme, you need to have followed one of the following previous programmes:
A diploma from a VMBO basic vocational pathway or advanced vocational pathway.
A diploma from a VMBO mixed pathway, theoretical pathway, MAVO or VBO/LBO.
A diploma from an entry-level programme (MBO level 1).
Proof that you have successfully completed the first three years of HAVO or VWO.
An MBO level 2 programme usually takes 1 to 2 years.
MBO level 3 is a vocational programme. You learn at MBO 3 level to work independently in a particular profession. After this programme you can, for example, work as a caregiver or mechanic. The vocational programme is practically oriented and prepares you well for a specific profession. There are many different programmes at this level, for example in:
Healthcare and welfare, such as peadagogical assistant in child care.
Engineering, such as first mechanic for electrical installations or IT support engineer.
Economics and business, such as commercial assistant.
Creative occupations, such as stage and event technician.
To take a programme at MBO level 3, you need one of the following diplomas:
A diploma from VMBO advanced vocational pathway, theoretical pathway, MAVO or mixed pathway.
A diploma from a MBO level 2 programme (basic vocational programme).
Proof that you have successfully completed the first three years of HAVO or VWO.
A vocational programme usually lasts 2-3 years.
MBO level 4: Middle management or specialist programme
An MBO level 4 programme prepares you for independent work with more responsibility. You can then work as a branch manager or activity supervisor, for example. With a diploma at level 4, you can also continue your studies at HBO.
There are two types of programmes at this level:
1. Middle management programme
This is the highest MBO programme. You will learn to work independently and at a higher level. Admission requirements are the same as for MBO level 3. The programme usually lasts 3 to 4 years.
2. Specialist programme
You can take this programme after completing an MBO level 3 diploma. You will learn more about a specific field in which you already work. This is a good choice if you want to specialise further in your profession. The programme usually takes about 1 year.
Your programme is not free
If you take a BOL programme, you must pay your own tuition fees. In 2025, a BOL programme will cost €1,458 per year. You also pay for books, work clothes and other teaching materials yourself.
Can you not pay for this yourself? Then you can apply for
Are you following a BBL programme? Then in most cases your employer will pay (part of) the costs because you are employed. How much you pay depends on your work and on the company.
The course fee for the 2025-2026 academic year is:
€303 for MBO levels 1 and 2
€735 for MBO levels 3 and 4
Some companies offer an apprenticeship programme. That means you work and learn at the same time, and arrangements for cost and work are made with the company.
Choose the right MBO programme
BBL and BOL are two ways to follow an MBO programme. BBL combines working and learning, BOL mainly involves learning at school with an internship. Think carefully about which type of programme suits you and apply today to start your future.