Higher education in Amsterdam 2025

Amsterdam is famous for having some of the best universities in the world and innovative academic programs. It is fast becoming a leading hub for quality education. It is also a city attracting international student and faculty communities because of open-mindedness towards foreign cultures, its vibrant culture, and amazing opportunities for both academic and professional growth. With the presence of global companies such as Philips, ING and Heineken in the city, it offers ample employment opportunities for graduates. Further, the city boasts many world-class museums, galleries, concert halls, and lively nightlife. Amsterdam consistently ranks among the happiest, cleanest, and safest cities in Europe and offers stimulating and enriching student life.

Dutch higher education, highly sought after in Europe, is based on American and British standards, making it particularly attractive to Russian and international students for its abundance of English-taught programs.

Higher education institutions in Amsterdam offer the following programs:

• Bachelor Programs: 4-year courses at universities of applied sciences and 3-year courses at research universities, covering all specialties in English.
• Master Programs: Postgraduate programs for Bachelor's degree holders, lasting 1-2 years depending on the specialization.
• PhD Programs: Offered exclusively by research universities, involving significant research work and requiring a Master's degree from a research university for admission.
• Postgraduate Certificate Programs: Short-term courses offering certification for various degrees.

In Amsterdam, there are two types of higher education institutions.

• Research Universities (Universiteit): They provide Bachelor's degrees (3 years), Master's degrees (1 to 2 years), Doctoral (2 years), and academic degrees (4 years) based on research-oriented programs.
• Universities of Applied Sciences (Hogescholen): They provide hands-on professional training in Bachelor’s (4 years) and Master’s (1-2 years) programs in health care, economics, technical sciences, education, arts, and agriculture.

In addition to the major categories, there are international education institutes and specialized institutions, including private ones, providing programs for foreign students.

Teaching methodology in Dutch universities is almost entirely characterized by a combination of independent study and teamwork, and for this, the goal is usually to develop students' creative potential and critical thinking skills.

• University of Amsterdam
• Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences ONCAMPUS
• Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU)
• Global School for Entrepreneurship

Each higher education institution in Amsterdam sets its admission criteria. Some require entrance exams, others interviews, and some may require both. Popular fields like medicine, economics, and business often have special quotas.

Generally, Amsterdam universities do not conduct entrance exams, requiring only a standard set of documents. However, research universities, especially for science-related specialties, may require test assignments, while creative fields might ask for a portfolio.

The application process can be completed remotely, without the need to travel to the Netherlands. Required documents typically include:

• Previous education certificates or diplomas
• English language proficiency certificate (TOEFL minimum 80 points, IELTS minimum 6.0)
• Application form specific to the university
• Motivational letter
• Resume

Higher education fees in Amsterdam depend on the chosen field, institution, and student nationality. Non-EU students typically pay higher fees: €7,000-€15,000 per year for Bachelor’s, €8,000-€25,000 for Master’s, and €13,000-€40,000 for MBA programs. Programs at research universities are usually more expensive than those at universities of applied sciences.

EU citizens and Dutch residents also have to pay for education, but at a much lower rate, around €2,000 for a typical academic year for every program. In addition, part of this fee is subsidized by the government.

Additional expenses not covered by the tuition fees differ per university and specialization. On average, students should reserve an additional €1,000-€1,500 annually for textbooks, uniforms, internship arrangements, and excursions.

Students receive help from university committees to find accommodation. The rent depends on the city; an average room in Amsterdam costs approximately €400-600 per month. Other living expenses will not usually exceed €1,000-1200 per month including accommodation, food, and transportation.

For students wanting to reduce education costs, there exist scholarships and grants. These can range from government scholarships to university funding.

International students at universities in the Netherlands are allowed to work part-time during their studies and can stay and work in the country after graduation. Amsterdam, as a hub for international businesses, offers job opportunities in areas such as design, arts, IT, light industry, engineering, etc. Research-oriented careers thrive, with universities forming prestigious research networks and opportunities for scientific endeavors.

Conclusion

Studying in Amsterdam opens doors to world-class education, vibrant cultural experiences, and significant career prospects in a city known for its quality of life and open-mindedness. With a range of programs and institutions catering to diverse interests and specializations, Amsterdam stands as a premier destination for higher education in Europe.