Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam: Acceptance Rate, Courses, Fees, Rankings, Scholarship & More 

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam) is one of the leading research universities in the Netherlands, offering a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Established in 1880, the university is known for its academic excellence, international student community, and strong industry connections. With an acceptance rate of approximately 14%, gaining admission to VU Amsterdam can be competitive, particularly for high-demand courses. The university also provides various scholarships to support international students and offers accommodation options both on and off-campus. This blog covers everything you need to know about VU Amsterdam, including acceptance rate, courses, fees, rankings, scholarships, and housing.

Highlights

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam: Courses, Eligibility, and Fees

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam) offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses that cater to various fields of study. From business administration to artificial intelligence, VU Amsterdam provides internationally recognized programs that combine theoretical knowledge with practical application. The university has earned a strong reputation for its academic excellence and innovative approach to education. Below, we will dive deeper into some of the popular courses offered at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam in 2025: 

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam Rankings

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam) has steadily built its reputation as one of the world’s leading institutions, consistently ranking among the top 150 universities globally. The university’s performance reflects a balanced strength in both overall academic excellence and specialized subject areas. For example, in 2024, U.S. News & World Report placed VU Amsterdam at an impressive 82nd position globally, while recent evaluations by Times Higher Education for 2025 indicate robust subject-specific standings—most notably in Psychology (ranked 31st) and Social Sciences (ranked 88th). Below are the key details of Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam rankings: 

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam Acceptance Rate

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam) has an acceptance rate of approximately 14%. Admission to VU Amsterdam is competitive, with acceptance rates varying by program. Some programs have a “numerus fixus” designation, meaning they have a fixed number of spots available, leading to a more selective admission process.  

For instance, the selection procedure for these programs occurs between January 16 and April 14, with applications due by January 15. Prospective students are encouraged to review the specific admission requirements and selection criteria for their chosen programs to better understand the competitiveness of the application process. 

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam Scholarships

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam) attracts students from over 122 nationalities each year. In 2023, over 31,000 students were enrolled at VU Amsterdam, with approximately 4,500 international students choosing the university for its world-class education, cutting-edge research, and strong global reputation. For the 2025 academic year, VU Amsterdam is offering a range of scholarships to outstanding international students applying for a master’s program. 

These scholarships aim to reduce the financial burden of studying abroad and are awarded based on merit, nationality, and financial need. The university provides opportunities such as the VU Fellowship Programme (VUFP) and the NL Scholarship (formerly Holland Scholarship), which offer tuition fee waivers and financial support for living expenses. Below is an overview of the top scholarships at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam): 

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam Accommodation

Securing appropriate accommodation is a vital part of preparing to study at VU Amsterdam. The university assists international students in finding housing; however, due to high demand and limited availability, initiating the process early is crucial. Accommodation options are generally categorized into on-campus and off-campus housing. Below are the key details regarding accommodations at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam: 

1. On campus accommodation: It refers to housing facilities managed or affiliated with VU Amsterdam. This accommodation is typically furnished and may include private or shared rooms with communal facilities such as kitchens and bathrooms. Below is everything that you should know about on-campus accommodation at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam: 

• Rental prices for on-campus housing range from approximately €450 to €1,350 per month, with an average rent of around €700 per month. 
• Utilities like water, electricity, and internet are usually included in the rent. 
• It’s important to note that VU Amsterdam primarily offers housing for the first year of study; students are expected to secure their own accommodation for subsequent years. 

2. Off Campus accommodation: It involves finding housing independently in Amsterdam or its surrounding areas. Here is everything that you should know about off campus student accommodation at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam: 

• The private rental market in Amsterdam is competitive, with rental prices often starting at €750 per month and potentially higher, depending on location and amenities. 
• Given the high demand and limited availability, students are advised to consider nearby towns such as Diemen, Zaandam, Almere, Purmerend, Haarlem, or Hoofddorp, where housing might be more accessible.

For students seeking assistance through the university, a housing application fee of €500 per academic year is required. This fee covers the services provided by the university’s housing team and is separate from monthly rental costs. It’s essential to understand that while the university strives to assist, housing cannot be guaranteed due to limited availability. Therefore, exploring both university-assisted and independent housing options is recommended to secure suitable living arrangements during your studies at VU Amsterdam. 

Conclusion 

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is an excellent choice for students looking for quality education in a globally recognized institution. With a strong reputation in research and industry partnerships, the university prepares graduates for successful careers. While tuition and accommodation costs in Amsterdam can be high, various scholarships and housing options make studying at VU Amsterdam more accessible. Since admission is competitive, students should prepare well and apply early. Whether you’re interested in business, science, or humanities, VU Amsterdam offers programs that cater to diverse academic interests, ensuring a rewarding educational experience in one of Europe’s most dynamic cities.