University of Amsterdam

The University of Amsterdam (UvA) is a public research university with a student population of more than 42,000. It is consistently ranked among the world’s best universities in global rankings and is a top 100 university in the THE Rankings, QS Rankings, and Leiden Rankings.

The institution also has close links with the city of Amsterdam through various partnerships and its campuses that form an integral part of the city. (uva.nl)

This exchange partner institution is available to students applying for Subject-specific exchange in the following subjects:

  • Business
  • Chemistry
  • English Literature/Language
  • Geography
  • Psychology

If you are studying one of the above subjects, you should apply through the Subject-specific exchange route.

Students in other subject areas may also apply to the University of Amsterdam via the University-wide exchange.  

All University-wide applicants should check, before applying, that there are sufficient courses available in your subject area(s) and discuss your proposed choices with your School Exchange Coordinator.  You must meet the pre-requisite requirements for courses you wish to take. It is understood that quota limitations, normal timetabling and scheduling constraints apply to all students. 

Restricted subject areas:

This exchange is not a suitable destination for students in the following subjects areas:
  • Biological Sciences
  • Chemical Engineering
  • Computer Science 
  • Mathematics
  • Philosophy
  • Physics

Teaching is available in English.  Students should be able to take a full course load in English at this institution.


In principle students can choose any course within the Exchange Programme for which they have an appropriate background, in which they are interested, and which their home university agrees upon. However, students must be flexible regarding their course selection. 

Students are expected to have an academic background in the field from which they choose their courses, except for the courses that are marked as 'No background required'.

Find out about courses via the links below.


Since Dutch universities do not have their own housing accommodations, the UvA cannot facilitate housing for all incoming international students. Students are ultimately responsible for their own accommodation.

Due to the ongoing housing crisis in the Netherlands, the UvA urges you not to come to Amsterdam for your studies unless you have secured housing. 

Accommodation is especially important for non-EU students, as it is a requirement to register an address with the municipality in order to keep your residence permit. 


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