Quick Summary
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, in Amsterdam, Netherlands, is a public research university that has shaped higher education since 1880. Ranked #221 globally by QS World University Rankings 2026, it enrolls 31704 students including 18% from outside Netherlands. Known for strengths in Theology, Psychology, Communication and Media Studies, it maintains an acceptance rate of 45%.
01
Institutional Profile
Who they are
Combines a high-ranking academic environment with a values-driven approach in the heart of the Netherlands' most international city.
Subject Strengths
TheologyPsychologyCommunication and Media StudiesLife SciencesBusiness and EconomicsEnvironmental Sciences
Founded1880
TypePublic Research University
Total Students31704
Intl Students18%
Faculty Ratio22
CampusUrban
Campus Size74 acres
Affiliated HospitalsAmsterdam UMC (location VUmc)
AccreditationNVAO (Accreditation Organisation of the Netherlands and Flanders)
02
Global Standing
Three independent ranking systems
QS World 2026
#221
Quacquarelli Symonds
Times Higher Ed
#125
THE World University
ARWU Shanghai
#101
Academic Ranking
03
Academics & Research
What you can study
Bachelors, Masters, PhD, Minors, Summer School
Programs
Available
PhD Programs
Limited (primarily MOOCs and specific professional certificates)
Online Programs
Amsterdam Institute for Molecular and Life Sciences (AIMMS), Tinbergen Institute, Network Institute
Research Centers
Very High
Research Output
NVAO (Accreditation Organisation of the Netherlands and Flanders)
Accreditation
04
Admissions Brief
What it takes to get in
Entry Requirements
Acceptance Rate45%
IELTS6.5
TOEFL92
Min GPA3
GRERequired for some Research Masters and Economics programs
GMAT600+ for specific Business Masters
SATNot Available
ACTNot Available
Key Dates
FALLApplication Deadline · April 1 (Non-EU), June 1 (EU/EEA)
SPRINGApplication Deadline · February 1 (Specific programs only)
MAR-APRDecisions Released
Required Documents
TranscriptsSOPEnglish ScoresLORsPassport
Insider Tip
Focus on your motivation letter and ensure your previous degree is evaluated as equivalent to a Dutch VWO or Research University degree. Apply as early as possible to secure university-assisted housing.
05
Cost Ledger
Amounts in Euro
UG Tuition
€11,500/yr
per year · EUR
Living Cost
€13,000/yr
per year · EUR
PG Tuition
€16,500/yr
per year · EUR
Application Fee
$108
one time · USD
Total Estimated Annual Cost
€26,000/yr
tuition + living + essentials · EUR
Scholarships AvailableVU Fellowship Programme (VUFP), Holland Scholarship, Orange Tulip Scholarship
Avg Scholarship$7,500
Financial AidDUO (for eligible EU students)
Work-StudyAvailable (limited for non-EU students due to work permit regulations)
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Featured & Popular Programs
A sample from Bachelors, Masters, PhD, Minors, Summer School programs total
| Program | Level | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Business Administration | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
| Psychology | MASTER | 1-2 YRS |
| Computer Science | PHD | 3-5 YRS |
| International Business Administration | MBA | 12-24 MO |
| Human Movement Sciences | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
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Career Outcomes
Where graduates land
$52,000
Average Salary After Graduation
91%
Employment Rate
Internship PlacementStrong support through VU Career Services and faculty networks
Industry Connections
Direct proximity and partnerships with the Zuidas Business District companies
Notable Alumni
Jan Peter Balkenende (Former Prime Minister), Wim Kok (Former Prime Minister), Werner Vogels (CTO Amazon)
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Campus & Student Life
Life beyond lectures
Housing
Yes (University-assisted, but highly limited)
Sports Facilities
Sportcentrum VU (Uilenstede and VU Campus sites)
Student Clubs
SRVU, various faculty associations, international student networks (ESN)
Library Resources
VU University Library (extensive physical and digital collections across multiple floors)
Exchange Programs
Erasmus+, Global Exchange Program, SEMP
Summer Programs
VU Amsterdam Summer School (2-week intensive courses)