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About Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

Country the Netherlands
City Amsterdam
Number of courses 21
Year founded 1880
Number of students 26.000

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is an internationally renowned research university founded in 1880. The university offers over 175 English taught programmes at Bachelor’s, Master’s and doctoral level. Students and staff of 122 nationalities create a dynamic international academic community.

The university is located in the vibrant city of Amsterdam, one of the most multicultural cities in the world, with the largest concentration of students in the Netherlands and where English is the second language spoken. The campus is surrounded by one of the most dynamic and fast-growing business districts in the Netherlands hosting over 700 companies.

With more than 26,000 students, of which 4,088 are international, the university conducts cutting-edge research into problems of societal and scientific importance. The University distinguishes itself in research and education through four interdisciplinary themes: Human Health and Life Sciences, Science for Sustainability, Connected World and Governance for Society. As a student this will help you to look beyond the boundaries of scientific disciplines, and to seek for tangible solutions for a better world. In addition Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam regards diversity, whether in culture, conviction, nationality or prior education, as source of innovation and progress, and hence as special strength.

Click here for VU Amsterdams's information brochure about bachelor programmes, and here VU Amsterdams's information brochure about our master programmes.

Learn more about Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

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Location of Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam main campus location is shown on the map below:

Map showing location of Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

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Fees, Funding and Scholarships at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

Need financial assistance? Read about scholarships here.

Accommodation Information for Students

Studying at Vrije Universiteit and living in Amsterdam is a great experience, but finding a room can be a challenge.

The international office of VU Amsterdam can help with arranging accommodation for international students.

The International Office offers accommodation to participants in English-taught degree programmes. There are furnished and unfurnished rooms with private or shared facilities. The number of rooms available is limited so we cannot guarantee accommodation for every student, but the International Office will do its utmost best to find suitable accommodation for everyone.

Facts about Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

  • Year institution founded: 1880
  • Total enrolled: 26.000