University Statistics

Students 3,000
Intl. Students 750
Founded 1987

The Amsterdamse Hogeschool voor de Kunsten (AHK), known internationally as the Amsterdam University of the Arts, is a prominent institution dedicated to education and research in the arts. Located in the vibrant cultural heart of Amsterdam, the AHK offers a diverse range of bachelor’s and master’s programmes across various artistic disciplines, including music, theatre, dance, film, fine art, architecture, and museology. The university is not a single campus but rather a federation of six renowned academies, each with its own character and specialized focus, providing students with intensive, practice-oriented training.

Established in 1987 through the merger of several older art schools, the AHK boasts a rich history and a forward-thinking approach to arts education. It aims to develop talented individuals into innovative and critically engaged artists, educators, and cultural professionals who can contribute significantly to the cultural landscape. With approximately 3,000 students, including a significant international contingent, the AHK fosters a dynamic and interdisciplinary environment where creativity, collaboration, and artistic excellence are paramount.

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The AHK prides itself on its strong connections to the professional arts field, offering students numerous opportunities for internships, collaborations, and performances within Amsterdam’s extensive network of cultural institutions. Its curriculum is designed to be responsive to contemporary artistic developments, preparing graduates for successful careers in a constantly evolving global arts scene.

Available Programs

No programs listed yet.

Campus Life

Campus life at the Amsterdam University of the Arts is unique, as it operates through six distinct academies spread across various locations in Amsterdam, rather than a single unified campus. This decentralized structure fosters intimate, specialized communities within each academy, reflecting their specific artistic disciplines. Students immerse themselves in dedicated studios, rehearsal spaces, workshops, and performance venues, which are often integrated into the city's cultural fabric. Despite the dispersed locations, inter-academy collaborations and university-wide events encourage interaction and a broader sense of community among students from different art forms.

Amsterdam itself serves as an extended campus, offering an unparalleled backdrop for artistic exploration and inspiration. Students benefit from direct access to a world-class array of museums, galleries, theatres, concert halls, and cultural festivals. The city's vibrant, international atmosphere provides endless opportunities for artistic engagement, networking, and personal growth. Student associations within each academy organize social events, workshops, and excursions, ensuring a rich and engaging experience beyond the classroom, deeply embedded in the cultural pulse of Amsterdam.

Admission Information

Admission to the Amsterdam University of the Arts is highly competitive and tailored to the specific requirements of each academy and programme. Prospective students typically apply directly to their chosen bachelor's or master's programme through the Studielink national application system, followed by an intensive selection process managed by the individual academy. Key components of the application often include a detailed application form, academic transcripts, a compelling motivation letter, and proof of English or Dutch language proficiency (depending on the programme's language of instruction).

Crucially, aspiring artists are required to demonstrate their talent and potential through a rigorous artistic assessment. This usually involves submitting a portfolio of previous work for visual arts, design, or architecture programmes, or participating in auditions for music, dance, and theatre programmes. Interviews are also a common part of the selection process, allowing applicants to discuss their artistic vision and aspirations. International applicants should also be prepared for additional requirements related to visa applications and credential evaluation. It is highly recommended to consult the specific admission pages of each academy on the AHK website for precise deadlines and detailed application instructions.