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Pre-University Honours Programme: Media, Journalism & Society

Application Procedure and Admission Criteria

  • Quick check – is your English sufficient?

    All of the summer programmes are taught in English. It is not required to provide proof of an English proficiency test (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL), but to get the most out of the courses, you do need to be able to read and write at an academic level. 

    If you're unsure about your English proficiency, we schedule a short online interview to assess your skills. This helps ensure you meet the necessary language requirements for the program. If you have any doubts or questions about this, please contact us via email at summer-info.

    Please note that the use of translation software during classes is not permitted, as it can disrupt both fellow students and instructors.

    If you are accepted into the programme but demonstrate inadequate English communication skills (verbal or written) during the course, your participation may be terminated without refund. 

Application Procedures

Please have the following supporting documents ready to upload  (in PDF) to the online application form, and select the appropriate programme from the dropdown menu:

  • A scan of your passport
  • A copy of your transcripts/list of courses taken and grades achieved
  • An up-to-date copy of your CV/Resume
  • Letter of motivation* of roughly 1000 words. Part one (max 500 words): please address your interest in journalism and answer the question, what role does journalism play in society today? Part two (max 500 words): please write a brief journalistic style report on a current event from your home context, giving us (journalistic) insight into the factors at play, and what is at stake. Further, state how this programme will contribute to your future academic goals. Note: this is the most important part of your application and will be considered as your first assignment for the programme.

  • Pay the non-refundable €25 application fee by credit card. 

*Applicants should not use AI tools to write their motivation letters. The motivation letter is the most important part of your application and the admissions committee values genuine, personal insights written in your authentic voice. The UvA considers the use of AI as fraudulant. Read more about the regulations here.

Regular admission deadline

  • Deadline: Sunday 15 February 2026
  • Admissions decision: we aim to have a decision back to you as soon as possible, but by 15 March 2026 at the latest.
  • Payment deadline (tuition and housing) must be submitted within 2 weeks after being accepted in the programme.

If you have any questions, don't hesitate to email us at summer-info-gsss@uva.nl. In all communications, be sure to include your full name and state the programme you're applying for. 

Apply