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Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam)

A comprehensive research university in Amsterdam

#210
QS Rank
1880
Founded
~20%
Intl. students
Varies by programme
Acceptance
Official website ↗Find a consultant →Study in Netherlands

About Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam)

VU Amsterdam is a comprehensive research university offering a wide range of English-taught programmes across sciences, business, law, and health, in a modern campus in the Dutch capital.

💰 Tuition Fees for International Students

Undergraduate
EUR 9,000–15,000/year (non-EU)
Postgraduate
EUR 14,000–20,000/year (non-EU)

Fees are indicative for international students. Verify current rates on the university's official website.

📋 Entry Requirements

IELTS6.5 overall
PTE61+
GPACompetitive; varies by programme

🌏 Life as an International Student

📍 Location
Amsterdam, Netherlands
💼 Working while studying
16 hours per week during term; full-time in summer
🎓 After you graduate
Orientation Year (zoekjaar) — 1 year, unrestricted work
🏥 Health cover
Dutch health insurance is required.
💰 Living costs
€13,000–15,000 per year
🗓️ Main intakes
September (main) and February

Country-level guidance for international students. Visa, work and cost figures change — confirm current details with Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam) and the Netherlands immigration authority.

Popular Programmes

Business AnalyticsArtificial IntelligenceHealth SciencesLawEconomics

🎓 Scholarships Available

  • VU Fellowship Programme
  • Holland Scholarship
  • Faculty scholarships

Also check: government and national scholarships →

Frequently Asked Questions

Is VU Amsterdam the same as the University of Amsterdam?

No. VU Amsterdam and the University of Amsterdam are two separate universities located in the same city, each with its own faculties and campus.

Where is Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam) located?

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam) is located in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

Can international students work while studying at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam)?

Netherlands generally allows students to work 16 hours per week during term; full-time in summer. On-campus roles — library, admin or research-assistant work — are often available too. Always confirm the work conditions attached to your student visa.

Can I stay and work after graduating from Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam)?

Yes — Netherlands offers a post-study work pathway: Orientation Year (zoekjaar) — 1 year, unrestricted work. Eligibility and length depend on your course and level, and immigration rules change, so confirm the current policy before relying on it.

How much should I budget for living costs at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam)?

Plan for roughly €13,000–15,000 per year in living costs on top of tuition. Amsterdam can run above or below that national range depending on rent and lifestyle.

Do I need health insurance to study at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam)?

Dutch health insurance is required. Build this into your budget before you arrive.

When are the main intakes at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam)?

Netherlands's main university intakes are September (main) and February. Apply well ahead of your intended start — popular intakes and scholarships fill early.

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Need help applying to Vrije?

A verified consultant in your country can guide you through the application, documents, and visa process.

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