To Study

To Study in Amsterdam

brooke-cagle Unsplash
brooke-cagle Unsplash

1) You’re on your way to the top

Amsterdam, baby! Not just a city of canals and coffee shops, but also a hub of knowledge and creativity. Let’s dive into what it’s like to study in this vibrant and forward-thinking place.

First off, the universities here are world-class. Whether you’re into art, science, business, or anything in between, there’s a place for you. Take the University of Amsterdam, for instance – it’s like Hogwarts for academics. Or VU University Amsterdam, where you can get your brain cells fired up while surrounded by lush greenery.

But it’s not all about hitting the books. The city itself is a playground for the curious. Imagine studying at a charming café along a picturesque canal or in one of the many cozy libraries. Plus, the city is a breeding ground for creativity. So, if you’re into arts, you’ll find inspiration on every corner, from street art to world-class museums.

And let’s talk about the student life. It’s epic. You’ll meet people from all around the world, bonding over your shared love for stroopwafels and late-night bike rides. Plus, there’s a club or bar for every taste, so you can celebrate those little victories (or drown the sorrows of a tough exam) with friends.

When it’s time to take a break from your studies, just hop on a bike and explore. Amsterdam is compact and bike-friendly, so you can easily discover charming neighborhoods, cozy cafes, and hidden gems. It’s like living in a postcard.

But here’s the deal – Amsterdam is not just a place to study, it’s a place to grow. The Dutch culture is all about openness and innovation. You’ll find that your professors encourage critical thinking and creativity, and they love a good debate.

So, if you’re looking for a city that offers a mix of high-quality education, a buzzing cultural scene, and a lifestyle that’s all about balance, Amsterdam is your spot. It’s not just a place to earn a degree; it’s a place to create memories, find yourself, and expand your horizons.

Get ready for a journey of discovery, where your mind is the map, and the experiences are limitless. Amsterdam is not just a city; it’s a lifestyle, and it’s waiting for you to make it your own. Study hard, live fully, and enjoy every moment of your academic adventure in the Venice of the North. 📚🚲🎨

With universities and vocational institutions that continually rank among the best in the world, Amsterdam will set you up for the career of your dreams. The city has a history of academic excellence and offers a wide selection of Bachelor and Master programmes in English.

2) English is everywhere

English proficiency is exceptionally high in the Netherlands. And as a truly international city, Amsterdam leads the way. You’ll find English menus in restaurants, English TV channels and friendly locals who are only too happy to translate.

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3) Your social calendar will be packed

An exhibition, shopping at the market, a picnic in Vondelpark, a festival – and that’s just your Saturday. Your Instagram feed will be overloaded with everything there is to see and do in Amsterdam.

4) It’s a small town metropolis

Amsterdam is teeny tiny. Surprisingly so, considering how much goes on every weekend. With only 800, 000 people and tight-knit neighbourhoods that you can easily cycle through, you’ll feel at home in no time.

5) Life is good here

In study after study, Amsterdammers come out as among the happiest people in the world. It’s a clean and safe city, where your mode of transport doubles as exercise (goodbye, gym) and there are beautiful parks and green spaces to recharge in.

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soundtrap Unsplash

6) You can rub shoulders with the greats

Van Gogh, Rembrandt and Mondrian made it big here, so no doubt you will too. Art and culture is a way of life in Amsterdam, and with some of the world’s best museums, galleries and concert venues, you’ll never feel so inspired.

7) Everyone is welcome

Part of what gives the city its rich and varied culture is the open-minded attitude of the Dutch. You will quickly discover that Amsterdam is multi-cultural, multi-lingual and actively advocates for LGBT rights.

8) We’re hiring

Once you feel completely at home here (you have been warned), you may want to stay long after you graduate. Amsterdam can offer you plenty of exciting job opportunities and work placements that can help you get a foot in the door.

9) Fries are always a good idea

Dutch culinary delights will blow your mind and are relatively inexpensive. Try delicious deep fried bitterballen, a cone of fries slathered in mayonnaise and the fluffy clouds of goodness known as poffertjes.

10) You can get out of town (when you want to)

Amsterdam is very well connected and the perfect base for exploring Europe. Brussels, Antwerp and Paris are just a few hours by train, and thanks to an ever-increasing number of flights from Schiphol airport, a city break or beach holiday is always within reach.

How to apply for a study programme in Amsterdam
Once you’ve answered ‘what are you going to do with your life?’ and other existential questions, you will need to enrol in a study programme. If you’re in your final year of secondary school, this can be a very busy time, so we’ve created a basic guide to the application process (and thankfully it’s a lot easier than final exams).

Check that you meet the entry requirements

Courses can vary considerably, so check what’s required from your education provider, paying close attention to the closing dates. Art schools and creative programmes may ask for a portfolio of your work, for example. You can compare your country’s qualifications with the Dutch equivalent via the EP Nuffic website to make sure your hard work doesn’t get lost in translation.

And the language requirements

To study an English programme at a Dutch university, it is essential that you read, speak and write the language to a high level. If English is not your first language, evidence of passing an English test such as IELTS or Cambridge English is usually required.

javier-trueba Unsplash
javier-trueba Unsplash

Consider a preparatory year

If you’re not quite there yet, your conditional letter of acceptance allows you to come to the Netherlands for a year prior to your studies to pass a preparatory course. Find out more about preparatory years.

Search for a scholarship

Get some assistance with your course fees by applying for scholarships. It is worth contacting the Dutch embassy in your home country to see which grants and funding possibilities are open to you.

Accept your letter of offer and receive confirmation of enrolment
Keep an eye on your inbox for exciting news. The university will keep you informed on course start dates and how to pay the first instalment of your tuition fees.

Apply for your visa and residence permit
This depends on which country you’re from. Check out Steps to study in Amsterdam for other important processes.

Pack your bags
You’re on your way to study in Amsterdam!