University of Amsterdam

The University of Amsterdam (UvA) is a large public research university with roots going back to the 17th century. Spread across several locations in and around the capital, it is one of the largest universities in the Netherlands and a member of the League of European Research Universities (LERU).

Why students choose UvA

• Wide range of English-taught bachelor’s and master’s programmes across humanities, social sciences, law, economics and business, and sciences.
• Strong reputation in social sciences, communication, and international relations.
• Located in Amsterdam, a major European hub for culture, business, and student life.
• Active international student community and extensive exchange partnerships.
• Access to Amsterdam’s wider academic network, including nearby research institutes.

Campus and location

UvA’s faculties are spread across several sites in Amsterdam, from the historic city-centre buildings to the modern Science Park campus in the east of the city, giving students a mix of classic and contemporary study environments.

What students say

Students often describe UvA’s teaching as intense but engaging, with passionate faculty and a diverse mix of classmates frequently mentioned as strengths. A recurring theme is the pull of Amsterdam itself, with the city’s culture and social scene seen as a big part of the overall experience. As is common across Amsterdam’s universities, some reviews note that finding affordable, good-quality housing in the city can take real effort, particularly for students arriving without a room already arranged.

Official website: https://www.uva.nl

Explore more: all institutions in Netherlands, courses, and student visas.