Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is one of the world’s top 100 research universities. More than 1000 English-taught courses are available in seven different faculties.

Located in Amsterdam’s southern business district, a multicultural and creative environment, the university is just 15 minutes from the city center by bike.

Academics at VU Amsterdam likely differ from your home university. Want to know more about how the academic calendar, credit system, and instruction style works?  Learn more about education at VU Amsterdam.

You can choose courses from different faculties or choose a Minor programme, which is a pre-packaged combination of related courses and offer specialised knowledge. Minor programmes are only offered in the fall. Additionally, you can choose Honors courses, Dutch electives, and even extend your stay in The Netherlands via the VU Amsterdam Summer School. Find out which option is right for you.

We guarantee furnished accommodation to all students who apply on time.  Additionally, Semester in Amsterdam is now offering the option to stay with a homestay family for a semester!

You can read about our housing options here.

Your first few weeks in a new country are the most formative. We offer an extensive arrival and introduction programme to help you hit the ground running. We also organise a full schedule of cultural excursions during the semester to help you explore the ins and outs of Dutch culture. Costs are included in programme fees. See full programme overview.

Every year students from around the world with a variety of backgrounds study at VU Amsterdam as Semester in Amsterdam students. Learn more about their experiences and all that Amsterdam has to offer.

After you are accepted to the Semester in Amsterdam programme our staff will apply for a visa on your behalf. If you are coming with a partner or children then we can also apply for a visa on your family's behalf. Depending on your nationality you may require an entry visa and/or a residence permit. Check what applies to you.

All individuals living in Amsterdam are required to register with the municipality regardless of nationality. Check how to do it.

We want you to focus on the things that really matter while studying abroad. For this reason the fees for Semester in Amsterdam are all-inclusive and every aspect of the study abroad experience is covered. We also offer scholarships for highly motivated students.

You can apply following our step-by-step application procedure.

The Semester in Amsterdam team consists of Bianca van Putten, Eduard Pasma, Ilin Sen, Jan Kostelijk, and Rachel Bornstein. Meet the team.

Mail: semesterinamsterdam@vu.nl
Skype: semesterinamsterdam (by appointment)
Telephone: +31 (0)20 59 86506

All VU Amsterdam students have access to medical and dental services as well as psychological support and counseling services. Learn more and view (emergency) contact information.