10 reasons to choose the University of Amsterdam
1. Rankings
The UvA scores highly in various world university rankings. It is ranked among the top 10 universities in Europe (US News) and the top 65 worldwide (QS and THE rankings).
2. Range of study programmes
The UvA offers 20 English-taught Bachelor's programmes and has one of the largest selections of international Master's study programmes of any university in Europe. This includes nearly 200 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. It is also an active partner in many EU-wide initiatives with other universities and research institutions.
5. History
The UvA's open, tolerant and international academic tradition dates back to 1632, when its predecessor the Athenaeum Illustre was founded. With more than 34,000 students, it is now one of the largest comprehensive research universities in Europe.
6. Quality of life
Amsterdam was ranked second out of over 37 cities worldwide in a survey from Time Out Magazine (september 2021). Amsterdam scored well on themes such as greenery and sustainability. For example, the Vondelpark was described in the magazine as 'the lungs of the city'. In the pan-European 'International Student Barometer', 96% of students polled felt safe and secure, and 97% said Amsterdam was 'the place to be'.
7. Practical support
Over 7,000 international degree and exchange students from over 100 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. Our Student Careers Centre also offers tools, workshops and support to help students prepare for their careers.
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 offers students access to the many arts, entertainment and social activities of a capital city. The UvA's faculties are located in or near the centre of the city or in the state-of-the-art Amsterdam Science Park.
10. Personal development
The study programmes at the UvA offer students a high level of autonomy, reflecting the respect for individual opinions and convictions that is characteristic of Dutch society. The result is an interactive teaching style that encourages students to develop self-reliance and independent thought.