10 reasons to choose UvA
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1. Rankings
The UvA scores highly in the Times Higher Education (THE), Shanghai, Leiden and Centre of Higher Education Development (CHE) university rankings. We are ranked among the top 30 universities in Europe and the top 100 worldwide.
2. Range of study programmes
The UvA has one of the largest selections of international Master's study programmes of any university in Europe, with over 130 taught in English and several entirely unique to the UvA.
3. Depth of study programmes
Students benefit from excellent academic career paths, with multiple options to pursue a study within or across disciplines, from the Bachelor's up to the PhD level and beyond. Teaching and research are closely linked in all Bachelor’s and Master’s programmes at the UvA.
4. International research networks
The UvA is a member of the League of European Research Universities (LERU) and of Universitas 21, a leading global network of research-intensive universities. Both are prominent advocates of the importance of research and the role it can play in contributing to the advancement of society. The UvA is also an active partner in many EU-wide initiatives with other universities or research institutions.
5. History
The UvA is characterised by a tolerant, open and international academic tradition dating back to 1632, when its predecessor the Athenaeum Illustre was founded. The University has always had close ties with the city of Amsterdam.
6. Quality of life
According to Mercer’s 2012 ‘Quality of Living Survey’, Amsterdam features as one of the world’s 15 best places to live in. In the pan-European ‘International Student Barometer’, 94% of UvA students polled were satisfied about safety, and 91% said it was ‘the place to be’.
7. Practical support
Some 3,000 international degree and exchange students from over 90 countries are presently enrolled at the UvA. They are actively supported by UvA staff and fellow students during their time in Amsterdam. The UvA helps with practical matters such as opening a bank account, applying for visas and finding accommodation.
8. Career prospects
The presence of numerous Dutch and international businesses (e.g. Philips, ING, Heineken), academic institutions and cultural organisations makes Amsterdam the commercial, social and artistic heart of the Netherlands and a prestigious global business centre.
9. Prime location
Amsterdam is well connected for travel within Europe and has excellent links to the rest of world. The city has long been a cultural and commercial crossroads and gives students access to the many arts, entertainment and social activities of a capital city. The faculties are located in either the heart of the city or the state-of-the-art Science Park Amsterdam.
10. Personal development
The study programmes at the UvA offer students a high level of autonomy, reflecting the respect for individual opinions and convictions so characteristic of Dutch society. The result is an interactive teaching style that encourages students to develop self-reliance and independent thought.