Study in Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is home to some of Europe’s most prestigious universities, attracting students from over 150 countries. Known for its innovative teaching methods, multicultural environment, and high quality of life, Amsterdam offers a wide range of English-taught programs across fields like business, engineering, arts, social sciences, and technology.
Top-ranked institutions such as University of Amsterdam (UvA), Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam), and Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences offer globally recognized degrees at competitive tuition fees compared to the UK and USA. Tuition fees for non-EU students generally range from €6,000 to €15,000 per year, with living costs averaging €900–€1,400 per month. Many universities require IELTS 6.0–6.5, though some accept a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter. For visa purposes, students must show a bank balance of around €11,000, and the visa success rate is above 95%.
Quick Facts Of study in Amsterdam for International Students
| Teaching Language | English & Dutch |
| Top Universities | University of Amsterdam Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences |
| Bachelor’s Duration | 3 years |
| Master’s Duration | 1–2 years |
| IELTS Requirement | 6.0–6.5 (MOI accepted by some) |
| Annual Tuition Fee | €6,000–€15,000 |
| Living Cost | €900–€1,400/month |
| Popular Fields | BusinessLawEngineeringSocial SciencesArts |
| Visa Success Rate | 95%+ |
| Scholarships | Holland ScholarshipAmsterdam Merit ScholarshipOrange Tulip Scholarship |
Top Universities in Amsterdam
Amsterdam stands out as one of Europe’s most vibrant education hubs, combining academic excellence with a rich cultural environment. It hosts universities renowned for research, innovation, and industry connections, ideal for students pursuing business, technology, life sciences, liberal arts, and more. From globally ranked research institutions to practice-oriented applied sciences, the city offers diverse opportunities for international students seeking quality education in a dynamic urban setting.
| University | Popular Programs | Tuition Fee Range (€ / Year) |
| University of Amsterdam (UvA) | EconomicsLawComputer ScienceMedicine | €8,000 – €15,000 |
| Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU) | Life SciencesFinancePsychologyLaw | €8,000 – €13,000 |
| Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences (AUAS) | BusinessTechnologyDesignEngineering | €6,000 – €9,000 |
| Amsterdam University College (AUC) | Liberal ArtsSocial SciencesHumanities | €6,000 – €10,000 |
Scholarships in Amsterdam for International Students
Amsterdam offers a variety of scholarships to make world-class education more accessible to talented students from around the globe. These scholarships are funded by universities, the Dutch government, and international programs, helping reduce tuition fees and living costs. Whether you are an academic high-achiever or a student from a specific partner country, there are multiple funding opportunities to support your studies in Amsterdam.
Below are some of the most popular scholarships for international students in Amsterdam:
| Scholarship | Coverage / Benefits | Eligibility |
| Amsterdam Merit Scholarship (AMS) | Covers part of tuition fees | Outstanding non-EU students |
| Holland Scholarship | €5,000 for first-year international students | Non-EU students applying for a bachelor’s or master’s |
| Orange Tulip Scholarship (OTS) | Partial or full tuition coverage | Students from specific countries (including Pakistan & India) |
| VU Fellowship Programme (VUFP) | Full tuition coverage | Excellent non-EU students applying to VU Amsterdam |
Amsterdam Tuition Fees & Living Costs
When planning to study in Amsterdam, one of the most important factors to consider is the cost of tuition and living expenses. The city offers high-quality education at competitive rates compared to other major european study destinations, making it an attractive choice for international students.
| Expense | Annual Cost (€) |
| Bachelor’s Tuition | €6,000 – €12,000 |
| Master’s Tuition | €8,000 – €15,000 |
| Accommodation | €4,500 – €7,000 |
| Food & Utilities | €3,000 – €4,500 |
| Health Insurance | €500 – €700 |
| Total Annual Budget | €11,000 – €17,000 |
Tip: Living in student housing outside the city center can help you save significantly on rent.
Admission Process (Step-by-Step)
Applying to study in Amsterdam is straightforward, especially with the guidance of experienced educational consultants who help shortlist universities, prepare documents, and track visa progress.
Choose a Program & University
Our admission advisers assist you in selecting the right program and university based on your academic background, budget, and career aspirations. Amsterdam offers globally recognized programs in fields like business, engineering, life sciences, arts, and social sciences at prestigious institutions such as the University of Amsterdam (UvA), Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU), and Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences (AUAS).
Before applying, review your chosen university’s requirements:
Academic Qualifications:
- Undergraduate: Completion of 12 years of education with 55–60% minimum marks (varies by university/program).
- Postgraduate: Relevant Bachelor’s degree with at least 2.5–3.0 CGPA.
Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: 6.0–7.0 overall (no band below 5.5–6.0).
- TOEFL iBT: 80–100.
- Many universities accept Medium of Instruction (MOI) if previous education was in English.
Additional Requirements: Portfolio (for arts/design), work experience (for MBA), or entrance tests if applicable.
Prepare Required
The following required documents are given below:
- Academic transcripts & certificates
- Passport (valid for at least 1 year)
- CV/Resume
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining academic goals and reasons for choosing the course/university
- Two Recommendation Letters from academic or professional referees
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL or MOI)
- Bank statement meeting Netherlands visa requirements
Receive Offer Letter
Once your application is reviewed, you’ll receive a conditional or unconditional offer letter. A conditional offer means you must meet pending requirements (such as final grades or English scores) before full acceptance.
Pay Tuition Deposit
Pay the required deposit (varies from €1,000 to €5,000) to secure your seat. After payment, you will receive the Proof of Enrollment required for your visa application.
Student Visa Process for Amsterdam
The Student Visa Process for Amsterdam is a crucial step for international students, ensuring legal entry and residence in the Netherlands throughout their studies.
Required Documents:
- Valid passport
- University admission letter (Proof of Enrollment)
- Proof of tuition payment
- Bank statement showing €11,000–€13,000 for living expenses
- Proof of accommodation in Amsterdam
- Health insurance coverage for your stay
- Completed visa application form & biometrics
Processing & Success Rate:
- Visa Type: Dutch Student Visa (MVV/Residence Permit)
- Processing Time: 2–8 weeks
- Visa Success Rate: ~95–97% for genuine applicants who meet requirements
FAQs
1. Can I study in Amsterdam without IELTS?
Yes, some universities accept a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter if your previous education was in English.
2. What are the cheapest universities in Amsterdam?
Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences offers relatively lower tuition fees compared to UvA and VU
3. Can I work while studying in Amsterdam?
Yes, up to 16 hours per week during the semester and full-time in summer.
4. What is the post-study work visa duration in the Netherlands?
Graduates can apply for a 1-year Orientation Year visa to search for jobs.