Thesis funding: how much money do I need?

Your thesis is almost ready. Now comes the question: how much does it cost to have your thesis printed? And how do you ensure your budget is accurate? From layout to paper type, from print run to doctoral defense ceremony: the choices you make determine the final costs.

In this article, we explain which factors influence thesis printing costs, how to arrange financing, and which choices you need to make when formatting and printing your thesis. This way, you know exactly what to expect and can create a realistic budget.

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Thesis printing costs: what does the price depend on?

The costs to have your thesis printed vary greatly. On average, PhD candidates pay between €500 and €1,250 for the production of their thesis. Some spend only €500, others up to €2,500. This depends on:

✦ Print run – how many copies are you printing? The more you order, the lower the price per copy.
✦ Number of pages – a thicker thesis costs more to print.
✦ Paper type – do you choose Biotop, HVO, or Silk? Each type has a different price and appearance.
✦ Thesis formatting – are you doing the layout yourself or hiring a graphic designer?
✦ Cover design – are you having the cover professionally designed or creating it yourself?

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Thesis financing: where does the money come from?

University research in the Netherlands is financed through three funding streams:

1. Government funding (first funding stream)

Intended for tuition fees and student living expenses.

2. Grants and research scholarships (second funding stream)

Think of organizations such as the Dutch Research Council (NWO) and the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW).

3. Non-profit institutions and companies (third funding stream)

Depending on your research field, you can approach different organizations:

Thesis formatting: which choices do you need to make?

The way you format your thesis has a major impact on readability and costs. Here are the most important choices:

Layout of interior and cover

Do you choose a traditional academic layout or go for a modern, creative design? And are you doing the layout yourself in, for example, InDesign, or are you hiring a graphic designer?

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Margins and white space

Many PhD candidates want to fit as much text as possible on one page to save costs. However, too little white space compromises readability. Find a good balance between text density and aesthetics.

Page layout

Consider page numbers, chapter titles, footers, and illustrations. A consistent and professional layout makes your thesis clear and pleasant to read.

Paper type and finishing

Which paper suits your thesis? Biotop, HVO, or Silk? Each type has its own appearance and price. You need to feel and smell paper before making a choice.

Print run: how many copies are you printing?

PhD candidates at Dutch universities such as the University of Twente, Radboud University, or the University of Amsterdam typically print between 50 and 150 copies. The more you order, the lower the price per copy.

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Doctoral defense ceremony: small or large?

In addition to thesis printing, the doctoral defense ceremony also plays a role in your budget. Some PhD candidates spend €200 to €300, others several thousand euros. This depends on:

✦ Time and energy – does your defense give you energy or does it cost you energy?
✦ Logistical considerations – can you bring everyone together without much stress?
✦ Personality – are you introverted or extroverted?
✦ Financial considerations – do you want to spend the money on a large ceremony?

Listen to your feelings and make a choice that suits you.

Creating a budget: how to do it

When creating your budget, it is important to find the balance between thesis printing costs, formatting, and the doctoral defense ceremony. Consider:

✦ How much funding do you receive from the university?
✦ How do you divide your money between production and ceremony?
✦ How much money might you receive back from non-profit institutions?

Tip: Always include a margin of 10% in your budget for unforeseen expenses. Also negotiate prices with catering services, designers, and event venues. This can save you hundreds of euros.

Average budget for thesis printing

On average, PhD candidates use this budget for thesis production only:

Budget = personal contribution (€250 to €500) + university funding (€500 to €750) – reimbursement from non-profit institutions

Most PhD candidates spend between €750 and €1,250 on having their thesis printed. Some spend only €500, others up to €2,500. This strongly depends on the chosen specifications, print run, and whether you do the layout yourself or outsource it.

Thesis printing at Gildeprint

At Gildeprint, you can have your thesis printed to a high standard in the Netherlands. We work with modern inkjet printing presses and deliver quickly and reliably. Whether you are completing your PhD at the University of Twente, the University of Groningen, the Free University of Amsterdam, or another university: we are happy to help you find the best solution for your thesis.

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Frequently asked questions about thesis printing costs

How much does it cost to have a thesis printed?

On average between €500 and €1,250, depending on print run, paper type, thesis formatting, and finishing.

Will I receive a reimbursement from my university?

Many Dutch universities offer a reimbursement of €250 to €750 for thesis printing. This varies per institution and is under pressure due to budget cuts. Check this in time.

Can I apply for a grant for my thesis?

Yes, you can apply at organizations such as NWO, KNAW, or relevant non-profit institutions. Additionally, Fondswervingonline.nl offers an overview of specific funds.

Do I need to format my thesis myself?

You do not have to. You can do it yourself, but you can also hire a graphic designer for a professional result.
View our design options →

How many copies should I have printed?

On average between 50 and 150 copies. The more you order, the lower the price per copy.

Do you want to know exactly what your thesis will cost?

Request a no-obligation quote and receive a personalized price indication within 24 hours based on your preferences. This way, you know exactly what to expect and can plan your budget properly.

Want to know the costs for your thesis?
Request a quote directly→

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Do you have questions about thesis printing costs, thesis formatting, or financing? Feel free to contact us. We are happy to help you!