Exemptions
In some cases, you might be exempted from the English test requirement:
- You have obtained your diploma/degree in one of the following countries: the Netherlands, Australia, Canada (with the exception of Quebec), Ireland, Malta, New Zealand, South Africa, United Kingdom, United States of America. Please note: If you have obtained your English-taught diploma/degree in a country that is not mentioned above you are not exempted.
- You have an English proficiency test older than 2 years, you have obtained a degree from an English-taught university and your programme was completely in English.
- You have an English proficiency test older than 2 years and you have attended an exchange programme of at least 6 months in an English-speaking country.
In these cases, you need to submit the old test score report and submit a proof of the language of instruction. If the language of instruction is not mentioned on the transcript or diploma, you will need to submit a letter from your higher education institute, stating that the curriculum is completely taught in English. Make sure that you upload this letter in the translation of transcript section.
English proficiency tests
There are 3 English proficiency tests that provide test scores for your application.
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International Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
There are 2 different types of TOEFL tests: the international test and the institutional test. Economics and Business only accepts international TOEFL test scores.
Minimum scores
- Internet-based test: minimum total score of 92, with a minimum of 22 on each separate test band.
- Computer-based test: minimum total score of 237.
- Paper-based test: minimum total score of 580.
TOEFL registration and reporting number
When asked for a reporting number during your registration, you can only use number 9011. Otherwise your test score will get lost as the University of Amsterdam is rather decentralised.Preparing for the test
When you register for a TOEFL test, you will receive preparation materials. Samples and tutorials can also be downloaded from the TOEFL website. -
International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
IELTS is available in 2 formats: Academic and General Training. Economics and Business only accepts Academic test scores.
Minimum scores
You need to score a minimum of 6.5, with a 6.0 on each component (listening, reading, writing, speaking).Preparing for the test
Detailed information on the test is offered at the IELTS website. Samples and tutorials can also be ordered from the IELTS website. -
Cambridge English
Minimum scores
- Certificate in Advanced English: 180 points overall and in each skill
- Certificate of Proficiency in English: 180 points overall and in each skill
Preparing for the test
On the website of the University of Cambridge you can find a list of publishers offering an extensive range of course books, practice tests and learning resources to help prepare candidates for Cambridge exams.
You are strongly encouraged to make early preparations for the test. Please refer to the contact details of test centres. If you are close to the deadline, please check the different tests and look for the 1st test date available. In case of insufficient scores, you can do a resit as long as application deadlines are respected.