10 reasons
to choose the UvA
1.
International standing
The UvA is one of the top 15 universities in Europe and top 55 worldwide in rankings such as the QS Ranking, Times Higher Education World Ranking, U.S. News Ranking and the Shanghai Ranking. See the UvA’s position in global rankings
Go to University Ranking
2.
Wide range of programmes
The UvA has one of the largest selections of international degree programmes of any university in Europe, with more than 200 programmes taught in English. Several are unique to the UvA.
3.
Research networks
The UvA is a member of the League of European Research Universities (LERU) and of Universitas 21, two prestigious networks that were founded to strengthen international scientific research. The UvA is also an active partner in EU-wide initiatives with other universities and research institutions.
4.
Comprehensive programmes
From the Bachelor’s level up to the PhD, students can opt to specialise in a discipline or supplement their studies with courses from other disciplines. All of the UvA’s Bachelor’s and Master’s programmes integrate teaching and research.
5.
Intellectual tradition
The UvA and Amsterdam have always been closely linked. The University’s open and tolerant intellectual tradition – which reflects the spirit of Amsterdam – dates back to 1632 when its predecessor, the Atheneum Illustre, was founded. To this day, students, staff, and alumni are known for their inquisitive minds and spirits.
6.
Quality of life
Amsterdam was ranked 12th out of 450 cities worldwide in Mercer’s 2019 ’Quality of Living Survey’. In the pan-European ‘International Student Barometer’ 96% of UvA students polled feel safe and secure and 97% said Amsterdam was ‘the place to be’. Amsterdam is also the safest European city in which to live and study. It was ranked #1 in Europe and #4 worlwide in the Economist’s latest Safe Cities Index.
Check out life in Amsterdam
7.
and check out how the UvA supports your well-being International students are actively supported by UvA staff and fellow students during their time in Amsterdam. To make sure that students start off on the right foot, the UvA helps with practical matters such as opening a bank account, applying for visas and finding accommodation.
Contact our student support departments.
8.
Interesting career prospects
Amsterdam is not only the creative and cultural heart of the Netherlands, but also a global business centre. Both during and after their studies, students benefit from access to large international and Dutch companies located in Amsterdam, such as Philips, ING and Heineken, as well as academic institutions and cultural organisations.
9.
Personal development
The UvA promotes an interactive teaching style and encourages students to develop self-reliance and independent thought.
Read more about our education style
10.
Prime location
Amsterdam is well connected for travel within Europe and has excellent links to the rest of the world. The city has long been a cultural and commercial crossroads, providing access to the many arts, entertainment and social activities of a capital city. The UvA’s faculties are located in or near the city centre or at the state-of-the-art Amsterdam Science Park.