BS/MS Admissions in Amsterdam
When can I start my studies in Amsterdam?
✓ January 15 deadline for September start
✓ Some programs have February intake
What do I need to get admited?
✓ Bachelor’s: High school + IELTS 6.0
✓ Selective programs require motivation letters
Is IELTS mandatory for admission?
Not always! Exemptions if you:
✓ Studied in English (submit MOI letter)
✓ Are from an English-speaking country
How much does tuition cost?
🇳🇱🎓 Amsterdam Study Costs & Fees (2025)
✓ Tuition: EU/EEA: €2.2K–4.4K/year | Non-EU: €8K–30K/year (private unis higher)
✓ Living Costs: Housing €500–1.2K/month + health insurance €120–150/month (apply early!)
✓ Visa/Admin: €210 residence permit fee (non-EU) + €1K+/month total budget
What financial support is available?
🇳🇱 Amsterdam Scholarships (2025)
✓ International: UvA Merit (€2K–25K), NL Scholarship (€5K), VU Fellowships – deadlines Dec–Feb!
✓ Dutch Students: Studiefinanciering (loan/grant) + Huurtoeslag (rent aid) – apply via DUO.
✓ Pro Tip: Combine Erasmus+ with local grants – some awards stack!
Is health insurance required?
🩺 Health Insurance – Amsterdam
Non-EU students: Mandatory private/Dutch public insurance (€40–100/month) if working. EU students: EHIC valid but supplemental private coverage recommended.
What is the Key Advise?
🇳🇱 Amsterdam Student Success Tips (2025)
✓ Housing Crisis: Apply *6+ months early* via Room.nl/Kamernet – budget €600–900 for shared flats.
✓ Dutch Basics: Free city-sponsored courses (ABC Dutch) – unlocks jobs & cultural connections.
✓ Bike & Explore: 500km of bike paths + free ferries – NS student travel discount for weekend trips!
What is the cost of living?
🇳🇱 Amsterdam Student Budget (2025)
✓ Essentials: Rent (€600–1.2K shared), food (€200–300), transport (€40 bike or €90/semester pass).
✓ Extras: Fun (€50–150) + health insurance (€120–150) – *total €1K–1.8K/month in center*.
✓ Savings Hack: Use “Too Good To Go” app for €3 meals and student OV-chipkaart discounts!
What are the work opportunities and allowed working hours?
🇳🇱 Amsterdam Work Rules (2025)
✓ EU/EEA: Work freely (register with BSN) | Non-EU: 16h/week + TWV permit (full-time Jun-Aug).
✓ Top Jobs: Hospitality (canal cruises), tech (ASML/Booking), uni research roles (€12–20/hr).
✓ Post-Study: 1-year Orientation Visa → switch to Highly Migrant Visa (€3.6K+ salary) or startup scheme.
What are the minimum visa requirements?
🇳🇱 Netherlands Student Visa (2025)
✓ Essentials: Admission letter, passport, proof of funds (€1,000+/month), Dutch health insurance (€30K coverage).
✓ Extras: Visa fee (€210), clean criminal record, TB test (if required). Non-EU: MVV entry visa needed!
✓ Pro Tip: Start 4+ months early – IND processes take 60+ days!
