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Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam(‘VU Amsterdam’) is an internationally renowned research university founded in 1880. The university offers over 175 English-taught programmes at Bachelor’s, Master’s and PhD level to more than 26,000 students from all over the world. Students and staff of 122 nationalities create a dynamic international academic community.
VU Amsterdam is located in the vibrant city of Amsterdam, one of the most multicultural cities in the world, with the largest concentration of students in the Netherlands and where English is the second language spoken. The campus is surrounded by one of the most dynamic and fast-growing business districts in the Netherlands hosting over 700 companies.
With more than 26,000 students, of which 4,088 are international, VU Amsterdam conducts cutting-edge research into problems of societal and scientific importance. We distinguish itself in research and education through four interdisciplinary themes: Human Health and Life Sciences, Science for Sustainability, Connected World and Governance for Society. As a student this will help you to look beyond the boundaries of scientific disciplines, and to seek for tangible solutions for a better world. In addition, VU Amsterdam regards diversity, whether in culture, conviction, nationality or prior education, as source of innovation and progress, and hence as special strength.
VU Amsterdam offers English taught Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programmes in different fields of interest, namely:
Art, Culture and History
Behavioural and Social Sciences
Computer Science, Mathematics and Business
Economics, Business and Law
Health and Movement Sciences
Language and Communication
Natural Sciences
Religion and Philosophy
Furthermore, VU Amsterdam provides three- or four-year research intensive PhD programmes, or part time PhD programmes with a duration above four years, organized in graduate schools of nine VU Amsterdam faculties. The doctorates are internationally-oriented, multi and interdisciplinary, curiosity and results driven, creating an impact in science, society and economy.
VU Amsterdam is frequently present at international education fairs around the world. It will be a pleasure to meet you at our stand! Please join one of our presentations, take a brochure or flyer and ask our colleagues and alumni about all that you need to know about studying at VU Amsterdam.
A multicultural community VU Amsterdam is an internationally renowned university located in the vibrant city of Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Amsterdam is one of the most multi-cultural cities in the world, boasting 179 different nationalities and English is widely spoken. At VU Amsterdam people of different nationalities work and study closely together, creating an international and dynamic academic community. Diversity, whether in culture, conviction, nationality or prior education, is regarded as source of innovation and progress, and hence as special strength.
International students and staff With around 4,088 international students and 122 different nationalities on campus, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam represents a wide range of voices. To make the transition to Amsterdam easier, the university helps students find accommodation, apply for scholarships, tackle immigration matters and prepare for international and Dutch labor markets.
Top reasons to study here
VU is located in lively and multicultural Amsterdam, the city with the largest concentration of students in the Netherlands;
VU is a modern campus university with student housing just a five-minute bike ride away;
VU is consistently listed among the world's top universities in various rankings.
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam(‘VU Amsterdam’) is an internationally renowned research university founded in 1880. The university offers over 175 English-taught programmes at Bachelor’s, Master’s and PhD level to more than 26,000 students from all over the world. Students and staff of 122 nationalities create a dynamic international academic community.
VU Amsterdam is located in the vibrant city of Amsterdam, one of the most multicultural cities in the world, with the largest concentration of students in the Netherlands and where English is the second language spoken. The campus is surrounded by one of the most dynamic and fast-growing business districts in the Netherlands hosting over 700 companies.
With more than 26,000 students, of which 4,088 are international, VU Amsterdam conducts cutting-edge research into problems of societal and scientific importance. We distinguish itself in research and education through four interdisciplinary themes: Human Health and Life Sciences, Science for Sustainability, Connected World and Governance for Society. As a student this will help you to look beyond the boundaries of scientific disciplines, and to seek for tangible solutions for a better world. In addition, VU Amsterdam regards diversity, whether in culture, conviction, nationality or prior education, as source of innovation and progress, and hence as special strength.
VU Amsterdam offers English taught Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programmes in different fields of interest, namely:
Art, Culture and History
Behavioural and Social Sciences
Computer Science, Mathematics and Business
Economics, Business and Law
Health and Movement Sciences
Language and Communication
Natural Sciences
Religion and Philosophy
Furthermore, VU Amsterdam provides three- or four-year research intensive PhD programmes, or part time PhD programmes with a duration above four years, organized in graduate schools of nine VU Amsterdam faculties. The doctorates are internationally-oriented, multi and interdisciplinary, curiosity and results driven, creating an impact in science, society and economy.
VU Amsterdam is frequently present at international education fairs around the world. It will be a pleasure to meet you at our stand! Please join one of our presentations, take a brochure or flyer and ask our colleagues and alumni about all that you need to know about studying at VU Amsterdam.
A multicultural community VU Amsterdam is an internationally renowned university located in the vibrant city of Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Amsterdam is one of the most multi-cultural cities in the world, boasting 179 different nationalities and English is widely spoken. At VU Amsterdam people of different nationalities work and study closely together, creating an international and dynamic academic community. Diversity, whether in culture, conviction, nationality or prior education, is regarded as source of innovation and progress, and hence as special strength.
International students and staff With around 4,088 international students and 122 different nationalities on campus, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam represents a wide range of voices. To make the transition to Amsterdam easier, the university helps students find accommodation, apply for scholarships, tackle immigration matters and prepare for international and Dutch labor markets.
Top reasons to study here
VU is located in lively and multicultural Amsterdam, the city with the largest concentration of students in the Netherlands;
VU is a modern campus university with student housing just a five-minute bike ride away;
VU is consistently listed among the world's top universities in various rankings.
The Dutch university Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam tends to upstage its rivals in the rankings and ratings. The overall quality of Dutch higher education is among the best in the world. The Dutch higher education system has been ranked 7th in the world by Universitas 21, a global network of research universities. In the Academic Ranking of the World Universities 2017 and 18 (Shanghai Ranking) VU Amsterdam holds a position of 104. QS Ranking places Vrije Universiteit 236 in the world, which means the VU belongs to the top 20% in the International QS World University Ranking 2021.
At VU Amsterdam, the teaching style can be described as student-centred: we encourage students to develop their own opinions through independent and creative thinking. This means that teaching is mainly conducted in small tutorials, where interactivity is the norm rather than the exception. At every opportunity, students are encouraged to engage in constructive dialogue with their professors.
Each program has its own set of entry requirements. Generally, in order to be eligible to pursue a bachelor’s degree, you would need a high school diploma (VWO) and, for non-native English speakers, to submit an English proficiency test with your application. All programmes start in September.
Tuition fees and scholarships
Students from the EU or EEA pay the same tuition fees as Dutch students. The tuition fees for most programmes are set by the Dutch government on an annual basis and vary per programme. When you apply for a programma at VU Amsterdam you need to pay an application fee of €100.
To International undergraduate students, scholarship options are limited. However, Dutch higher education is subsidised and tuition fees are relatively low. Find out more about each scholarship here.
During the Master’s day, you can also meet our (international) alumni during several workshops. In these sessions they will tell you more about career opportunities after finishing your Master’s degree.
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam offers master’s degrees as well as PhDs in English and Dutch in a range of different fields.
Need financial assistance? Read about scholarships here
Like Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam on Facebook or check out the university’s YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn and blog channels for student exchange videos, news, live updates and more
All programs have their own specific admission requirements. As a rule of thumb, you would need a relevant bachelor’s degree and proof of proficiency in English.
Scholarships and fees
Students from the EU or EEA pay the same tuition fees as Dutch students. The tuition fees for most programmes are set by the Dutch government on an annual basis and vary per programme. Fortunately, there are scholarships available, including:
Check out the specific requirements for admission and language requirements for masters here!
VU houses a Sports Center with good facilities, many types of classes and a gym. Provides cheap entrance for students and the possibility to subscribe for a short period of time. A basketball field, multiple beach volleyball fields and tennis tables are located on the campus ground, free to use for students any time of day.
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam Medical Center has a general practice serving the local community. As part of the teaching hospital, it provides training and experience to medical students and conducts scientific research. VU students who live in Amsterdam (except Amsterdam Noord) or Amstelveen can register as patients.
The Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam Bibliotheek [university library] offers resources for study and research by providing a collection of scientific information to meet the demand of the questions posed. Approximately 90% of the collections accessible by Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam Bibliotheek are available digitally and, therefore, available to members of staff and students 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Free WIFI is available for all students and employees on campus. There are several computer rooms, a notebook study room and internet work spaces to study comfortably and quietly. All faculties have their own study and computer rooms, often combined. The buildings are generally opened from 7AM to 11PM on weekdays and from 8AM to 6PM during the weekend.
Services from our international office
Our International Office offers excellent services and assists you with housing, visa, residence permits (if applicable) and the administrative side of studying in the Netherlands. We also offer a pick-up service from Schiphol airport and an extensive introduction programme in August during which you can arrange all kinds of practical matters, and can participate in social events and an intercultural programme.
An International Student Advisor (ISA Bachelor's, ISA Master's) will help you with the application procedure, possible scholarship applications and any other information you may need about your study programme. For those international students who wish to be prepared to enter the (Dutch) labour market after their study, VU International Office organizes various events and activities throughout the year such as the annual Career Event and CV workshops, Interview Training and Meet & Greets with companies.
You can approach student counsellors and a student desk with any specific questions you may have. Guidance and support are offered to students with a disability.
31,254
61%
39%
6,573
57%
43%
2,648
74%
26%
Student life
Campus
Almost all of our students, staff and programmes are located on campus: a single building complex in the business district of Amsterdam. The Main Building has a permanent exhibition space, which showcases work of beginning and established artists. All over the campus you can view the university's art collection, including an art route through the public areas. The campus has its own bike repair shop, which also sells reasonably priced second hand bikes.
Housing
If you plan to study at VU Amsterdam it is essential to think of a place to live. Unfortunately, finding a room in Amsterdam is difficult and stressful. The housing market in the Netherlands is extremely tense, especially in Amsterdam. Many Dutch and international students are searching for student rooms. Housing prices are high: rental prices at the private market often start at €750 and up. Start your search early and be prepared to search in surrounding villages and towns. We advise you not to come to the Netherlands if you do not have a permanent accommodation before the start of your study programme.
Social life
There are several types of student bodies at the university, mostly linked to a field of study. ESN Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is an organization for all international and Dutch students at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. It brings together students from around the world to introduce them to the university, to Amsterdam and to make them feel at home. ESN Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam organizes a host of activities, including cocktail parties, weekly get-togethers (borrels), weekend trips and social gatherings every two weeks.
One of the important factors when considering a master's degree is the cost of study. Luckily, there are many options available to help students fund their master's programme. Download your copy of the Scholarship Guide to find out which scholarships from around the world could be available to you, and how to apply for them.
Want to learn more about the application process? Then check out our step-by-step application video for international diploma applicants.
Want to know more about studying and living in Amsterdam?
Each year we organise an online session for aspiring students that covers all you need to know about the application process and beyond. This year, the International Master's webinar will take place on Tuesday 15 October at 16:00 (CET) and International Bachelor's webinar will take place on Thursday 24 October at 16:00 (CET).
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Netherlands
# 221QS World University Rankings
7Undergraduate programs
15Postgraduate programs
6573International students
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About Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (‘VU Amsterdam’) is an internationally renowned research university founded in 1880. The university offers over 175 English-taught programmes at Bachelor’s, Master’s and PhD level to more than 26,000 students from all over the world. Students and staff of 122 nationalities create a dynamic international academic community.
Quick links
VU Amsterdam is located in the vibrant city of Amsterdam, one of the most multicultural cities in the world, with the largest concentration of students in the Netherlands and where English is the second language spoken. The campus is surrounded by one of the most dynamic and fast-growing business districts in the Netherlands hosting over 700 companies.
With more than 26,000 students, of which 4,088 are international, VU Amsterdam conducts cutting-edge research into problems of societal and scientific importance. We distinguish itself in research and education through four interdisciplinary themes: Human Health and Life Sciences, Science for Sustainability, Connected World and Governance for Society. As a student this will help you to look beyond the boundaries of scientific disciplines, and to seek for tangible solutions for a better world. In addition, VU Amsterdam regards diversity, whether in culture, conviction, nationality or prior education, as source of innovation and progress, and hence as special strength.
VU Amsterdam offers English taught Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programmes in different fields of interest, namely:
Furthermore, VU Amsterdam provides three- or four-year research intensive PhD programmes, or part time PhD programmes with a duration above four years, organized in graduate schools of nine VU Amsterdam faculties. The doctorates are internationally-oriented, multi and interdisciplinary, curiosity and results driven, creating an impact in science, society and economy.
Upcoming Events
For more information about our (upcoming) open days and webinars please visit https://vu.nl/en/education/more-about/vu-master-s-event
Meet us in your own country
VU Amsterdam is frequently present at international education fairs around the world. It will be a pleasure to meet you at our stand! Please join one of our presentations, take a brochure or flyer and ask our colleagues and alumni about all that you need to know about studying at VU Amsterdam.
A multicultural community
VU Amsterdam is an internationally renowned university located in the vibrant city of Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Amsterdam is one of the most multi-cultural cities in the world, boasting 179 different nationalities and English is widely spoken. At VU Amsterdam people of different nationalities work and study closely together, creating an international and dynamic academic community. Diversity, whether in culture, conviction, nationality or prior education, is regarded as source of innovation and progress, and hence as special strength.
International students and staff
With around 4,088 international students and 122 different nationalities on campus, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam represents a wide range of voices. To make the transition to Amsterdam easier, the university helps students find accommodation, apply for scholarships, tackle immigration matters and prepare for international and Dutch labor markets.
Top reasons to study here
For more information go to: https://vu.nl/en or take a look on our Facebook, YouTube channel, blog, LinkedIn or Instagram.
About Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (‘VU Amsterdam’) is an internationally renowned research university founded in 1880. The university offers over 175 English-taught programmes at Bachelor’s, Master’s and PhD level to more than 26,000 students from all over the world. Students and staff of 122 nationalities create a dynamic international academic community.
Quick links
VU Amsterdam is located in the vibrant city of Amsterdam, one of the most multicultural cities in the world, with the largest concentration of students in the Netherlands and where English is the second language spoken. The campus is surrounded by one of the most dynamic and fast-growing business districts in the Netherlands hosting over 700 companies.
With more than 26,000 students, of which 4,088 are international, VU Amsterdam conducts cutting-edge research into problems of societal and scientific importance. We distinguish itself in research and education through four interdisciplinary themes: Human Health and Life Sciences, Science for Sustainability, Connected World and Governance for Society. As a student this will help you to look beyond the boundaries of scientific disciplines, and to seek for tangible solutions for a better world. In addition, VU Amsterdam regards diversity, whether in culture, conviction, nationality or prior education, as source of innovation and progress, and hence as special strength.
VU Amsterdam offers English taught Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programmes in different fields of interest, namely:
Furthermore, VU Amsterdam provides three- or four-year research intensive PhD programmes, or part time PhD programmes with a duration above four years, organized in graduate schools of nine VU Amsterdam faculties. The doctorates are internationally-oriented, multi and interdisciplinary, curiosity and results driven, creating an impact in science, society and economy.
Upcoming Events
For more information about our (upcoming) open days and webinars please visit https://vu.nl/en/education/more-about/vu-master-s-event
Meet us in your own country
VU Amsterdam is frequently present at international education fairs around the world. It will be a pleasure to meet you at our stand! Please join one of our presentations, take a brochure or flyer and ask our colleagues and alumni about all that you need to know about studying at VU Amsterdam.
A multicultural community
VU Amsterdam is an internationally renowned university located in the vibrant city of Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Amsterdam is one of the most multi-cultural cities in the world, boasting 179 different nationalities and English is widely spoken. At VU Amsterdam people of different nationalities work and study closely together, creating an international and dynamic academic community. Diversity, whether in culture, conviction, nationality or prior education, is regarded as source of innovation and progress, and hence as special strength.
International students and staff
With around 4,088 international students and 122 different nationalities on campus, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam represents a wide range of voices. To make the transition to Amsterdam easier, the university helps students find accommodation, apply for scholarships, tackle immigration matters and prepare for international and Dutch labor markets.
Top reasons to study here
For more information go to: https://vu.nl/en or take a look on our Facebook, YouTube channel, blog, LinkedIn or Instagram.
Available programs
Ad Feature programs
Bachelor UG
Master PG
Genes in Behaviour and Health (Research Master)
VU Bachelor’s day - 4 & 5 November
With a My Study Choice account, you can get access to the open day platform from February and view the various study programme videos.
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam offers bachelor’s degrees in English and Dutch in a range of different fields.
Quick links
Relocate to the Netherlands
The Dutch university Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam tends to upstage its rivals in the rankings and ratings. The overall quality of Dutch higher education is among the best in the world. The Dutch higher education system has been ranked 7th in the world by Universitas 21, a global network of research universities. In the Academic Ranking of the World Universities 2017 and 18 (Shanghai Ranking) VU Amsterdam holds a position of 104. QS Ranking places Vrije Universiteit 236 in the world, which means the VU belongs to the top 20% in the International QS World University Ranking 2021.
At VU Amsterdam, the teaching style can be described as student-centred: we encourage students to develop their own opinions through independent and creative thinking. This means that teaching is mainly conducted in small tutorials, where interactivity is the norm rather than the exception. At every opportunity, students are encouraged to engage in constructive dialogue with their professors.
Study in English
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam offers 24 bachelor’s degrees taught in English:
Discover amazing undergraduate courses here:
Competitive programs
Each program has its own set of entry requirements. Generally, in order to be eligible to pursue a bachelor’s degree, you would need a high school diploma (VWO) and, for non-native English speakers, to submit an English proficiency test with your application. All programmes start in September.
Tuition fees and scholarships
Students from the EU or EEA pay the same tuition fees as Dutch students. The tuition fees for most programmes are set by the Dutch government on an annual basis and vary per programme. When you apply for a programma at VU Amsterdam you need to pay an application fee of €100.
To International undergraduate students, scholarship options are limited. However, Dutch higher education is subsidised and tuition fees are relatively low. Find out more about each scholarship here.
Business and Management (4)
Bachelor Econometrics and Operations Research
Business Analytics
International Business Administration
Engineering and Technology (4)
Creative Technology
Natural Sciences (4)
Mathematics
Others (4)
Biomedical Sciences
History and International Studies
VU Online Master’s Event - 6 December
During the Master’s day, you can also meet our (international) alumni during several workshops. In these sessions they will tell you more about career opportunities after finishing your Master’s degree.
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam offers master’s degrees as well as PhDs in English and Dutch in a range of different fields.
Quick links
Choose from a comprehensive range of subject areas
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam offers over 150 master’s degrees in English within different fields of interest, namely:
Browse master’s degrees here.
Competitive cohorts
All programs have their own specific admission requirements. As a rule of thumb, you would need a relevant bachelor’s degree and proof of proficiency in English.
Scholarships and fees
Students from the EU or EEA pay the same tuition fees as Dutch students. The tuition fees for most programmes are set by the Dutch government on an annual basis and vary per programme. Fortunately, there are scholarships available, including:
Find out more about each scholarship here.
Business and Management (4)
Business Analytics
Business Data Science (Research Master)
Life Sciences and Medicine (4)
Biomedical Technology and Physics
Biomolecular Sciences
Clinical and Developmental Psychopathology (Research)
Genes in Behaviour and Health (Research Master)
Global Health (Research Master)
Health Sciences
Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy Sciences
Natural Sciences (4)
Earth Sciences
Ecology and Evolution
Environment and Resource Management
Hydrology
Social Sciences and Management (4)
Human Movement Sciences (Research)
Societal Sciences for a Digital Society (Research Master)
University information
Services from our international office
Our International Office offers excellent services and assists you with housing, visa, residence permits (if applicable) and the administrative side of studying in the Netherlands. We also offer a pick-up service from Schiphol airport and an extensive introduction programme in August during which you can arrange all kinds of practical matters, and can participate in social events and an intercultural programme.
An International Student Advisor (ISA Bachelor's, ISA Master's) will help you with the application procedure, possible scholarship applications and any other information you may need about your study programme.
For those international students who wish to be prepared to enter the (Dutch) labour market after their study, VU International Office organizes various events and activities throughout the year such as the annual Career Event and CV workshops, Interview Training and Meet & Greets with companies.
You can approach student counsellors and a student desk with any specific questions you may have. Guidance and support are offered to students with a disability.
Student life
Campus
Almost all of our students, staff and programmes are located on campus: a single building complex in the business district of Amsterdam.
The Main Building has a permanent exhibition space, which showcases work of beginning and established artists. All over the campus you can view the university's art collection, including an art route through the public areas. The campus has its own bike repair shop, which also sells reasonably priced second hand bikes.
Housing
If you plan to study at VU Amsterdam it is essential to think of a place to live. Unfortunately, finding a room in Amsterdam is difficult and stressful. The housing market in the Netherlands is extremely tense, especially in Amsterdam. Many Dutch and international students are searching for student rooms. Housing prices are high: rental prices at the private market often start at €750 and up. Start your search early and be prepared to search in surrounding villages and towns. We advise you not to come to the Netherlands if you do not have a permanent accommodation before the start of your study programme.
Social life
There are several types of student bodies at the university, mostly linked to a field of study. ESN Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is an organization for all international and Dutch students at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. It brings together students from around the world to introduce them to the university, to Amsterdam and to make them feel at home. ESN Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam organizes a host of activities, including cocktail parties, weekly get-togethers (borrels), weekend trips and social gatherings every two weeks.
Tuition fee and scholarships
Domestic Students
International Students
One of the important factors when considering a master's degree is the cost of study. Luckily, there are many options available to help students fund their master's programme. Download your copy of the Scholarship Guide to find out which scholarships from around the world could be available to you, and how to apply for them.
In this guide you will find:
Where to look for scholarship opportunities
How to apply to scholarships relevant to you
A list of available scholarships around the world
A scholarship application checklist
Rankings & ratings
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is one of the top public universities in Amsterdam, Netherlands. It is ranked #221 in QS World University Rankings 2025.
QS World University Rankings
QS WUR Ranking By Subject
Europe University Rankings - Western Europe
Europe University Rankings
QS World University Rankings
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
Videos & media
Videos & media
Campus locations
open the map
FAQs
Each year we organise an online session for aspiring students that covers all you need to know about the application process and beyond. This year, the International Master's webinar will take place on Tuesday 15 October at 16:00 (CET) and International Bachelor's webinar will take place on Thursday 24 October at 16:00 (CET).
Register here