University Statistics

Students 30,000
Intl. Students 5,000
Founded 1880

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam) is a leading public research university situated in the vibrant city of Amsterdam, Netherlands. Established in 1880 by Abraham Kuyper, it boasts a rich history rooted in Protestant principles, though it has evolved into a diverse and inclusive institution open to students of all backgrounds. VU Amsterdam is renowned for its commitment to societal relevance, interdisciplinary research, and a strong focus on sustainability, actively contributing to solutions for global challenges.

The university offers a comprehensive range of academic programmes, including Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD degrees across eleven faculties, covering disciplines from humanities and social sciences to natural sciences and health. With a strong emphasis on academic freedom and critical thinking, VU Amsterdam fosters an environment where students are encouraged to develop their intellectual curiosity and make a meaningful impact on the world. Its location in the bustling Zuidas business district provides excellent opportunities for internships, collaborations, and a dynamic student experience.

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Campus Life

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam's main campus is located in the modern Zuidas district, offering a compact and urban environment with excellent facilities. The campus provides a vibrant student life supported by numerous student associations catering to various interests, from academic and cultural to sports and social activities. Students have access to state-of-the-art libraries, study spaces, sports facilities (including the Olympos sports centre), and a variety of catering options.

Beyond academics, the university encourages participation in its many cultural events, debates, and lectures. Its prime location offers easy access to the heart of Amsterdam, allowing students to explore the city's rich cultural scene, museums, parks, and nightlife. The international community at VU Amsterdam is strong, fostering a diverse and welcoming atmosphere that enriches the overall campus experience and encourages global perspectives.

Admission Information

Admission to Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam generally requires a pre-university diploma equivalent to the Dutch VWO diploma, such as an International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma, A-levels, or a relevant Bachelor's degree for Master's programmes. Proficiency in English is mandatory, typically demonstrated through IELTS (minimum 6.0-7.0, depending on the programme) or TOEFL (minimum 80-100 iBT) scores.

Prospective students usually apply through Studielink, the national application system for higher education in the Netherlands, followed by submitting supporting documents directly to the VU Amsterdam application portal. These documents may include academic transcripts, a motivation letter, a CV, and letters of recommendation. Specific programme requirements and application deadlines vary, with earlier deadlines for non-EU/EEA students and programmes with a numerus fixus (fixed number of places). It is highly recommended to check the official programme pages for detailed and up-to-date admission criteria.