Free University AmsterdamAdmission Requirements 2025
Amsterdam's Innovation Hub - Entrepreneurial Spirit, 70+ English Programs & Open University Tradition Since 1880
Academic Requirements
VU Amsterdam admission standards for international students
GPA & Grade Requirements
Dutch VWO Scale
US GPA Equivalent
Subject-Specific Requirements
Business & Economics
- Mathematics: VWO Wiskunde A or B
- Economics: VWO level (preferred)
- English: Advanced proficiency
- Statistics: Basic knowledge preferred
Sciences & Technology
- Mathematics: VWO Wiskunde B (mandatory)
- Physics: VWO level (for most programs)
- Chemistry: VWO level (program-dependent)
- Biology: VWO level (for Life Sciences)
English Language Requirements
Required Minimum Scores
- IELTS Academic6.5 overall (6.0 each section)
- TOEFL iBT92 overall (20 each section)
- Cambridge EnglishC1 Advanced (176+)
- Duolingo English115+
Exemptions
- Complete education in English
- Bachelor's degree from English institution
- Citizens of certain English-speaking countries
- VWO English at advanced level
Leading Programs & Innovation
VU Amsterdam's innovative academic programs and research excellence
Top-Ranked Schools
School of Business & Economics
Triple crown accreditation business school
Faculty of Science
Cutting-edge research in physics and chemistry
Faculty of Social Sciences
Interdisciplinary approach to social challenges
Popular English Programs
International Business Administration
Global business strategy and management
Computer Science
AI, data science, and software engineering
Econometrics & Operations Research
Mathematical economics and optimization
Philosophy, Politics & Economics
Interdisciplinary social science approach
Application Process & Deadlines
Complete application guide for VU Amsterdam admission
Important Deadlines
Application Steps
- 1
Program Research
Explore 175+ programs across all disciplines
- 2
Eligibility Check
Confirm academic and language requirements
- 3
Online Application
Apply through Studielink or VU online portal
- 4
Document Upload
Submit all required academic credentials
- 5
Assessment
Academic evaluation and selection process
- 6
Enrollment
Accept offer and complete registration
Required Documents
- Complete secondary school transcripts
- Official graduation diploma
- English proficiency test results
- Copy of valid passport or ID
- Motivation letter (specific programs)
- CV/Resume (master's applications)
- Academic recommendations (if required)
- Portfolio/Work samples (creative programs)
International Grade Conversions
Convert your grades to Dutch VWO equivalent for VU Amsterdam admission
| Country/System | Minimum for Admission | Business Programs | VWO Equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|
| United States (GPA) | 2.7/4.0 | 3.3+/4.0 | 7.0/10 |
| United Kingdom (A-Levels) | BCC | ABB-AAB | 7.0-7.5/10 |
| International Baccalaureate | 28 points | 32+ points | 7.0-7.5/10 |
| Germany (Abitur) | 3.0 | 2.5-2.0 | 7.0-7.5/10 |
| Canada (Provincial) | 70% | 78%+ | 7.0-7.5/10 |
| Australia (ATAR) | 75 | 82+ | 7.0-7.5/10 |
| India (CBSE/ICSE) | 65% | 72%+ | 7.0-7.5/10 |
| France (Baccalauréat) | 11/20 | 13+/20 | 7.0-7.5/10 |
Important Notes:
- • Grade conversions are approximate - official evaluation required
- • Competitive programs may have higher requirements
- • Subject-specific grades are equally important
- • Contact VU Admissions for program-specific information
Why Choose VU Amsterdam?
Experience innovation and entrepreneurship in Amsterdam's academic heart
Innovation Culture
Entrepreneurial spirit and startup ecosystem
Amsterdam Location
Dynamic international city with global connections
Modern Campus
State-of-the-art facilities and research centers
Open University Tradition
Liberal education philosophy since 1880
Diverse Community
29,000+ students from around the world
Career Network
Strong alumni network and industry partnerships