Why should I study in Amsterdam?

5 reasons to study abroad in Amsterdam, the Netherlands

Amsterdam is the capital city of the Netherlands, which is located in North-West Europe between Germany in the east, Belgium in the south, and the North Sea in the north and west. Amsterdam is colloquially referred to as the ‘Venice of the North’ due to its large number of canals which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Amsterdam's name derives from Amstelredamme, indicative of the city's origin around a dam in the river Amstel.

1. How big is Amsterdam?

The size of a city can make a big difference on your study experience. Some students prefer the feel and pace of larger busy cities, while some may prefer a smaller and calmer feel. Whatever your preference, U-Multirank has you covered. Amsterdam averages a population of about 864000 residents and covers some 219 km2.

2. How many universities and colleges are located in Amsterdam, the Netherlands?

There are six universities in Amsterdam. To explore some of Amsterdam’s universities, click on the university names below, or visit our ‘Study in the Netherlands’ page.

3. Can I study in Amsterdam, the Netherlands without knowing Dutch?

The Netherlands has the largest range of English language programmes in Europe. Almost every university has an English version of any programmes taught in Dutch. Lecturers are usually bilingual and can interact with English-speaking students easily. Additionally, more than 70% of the Dutch population speaks English making international students feel at home while they study in the country. Students interested in studying in English in Amsterdam, the Netherlands will need to be able to show proof of English proficiency. To receive an English language certificate like the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), four parts of the language are tested, including: reading, listening, speaking and writing. For more information on IELTS, or TOEFL, click here.

4. Is Amsterdam a good place to study in the Netherlands?

Amsterdam is both a city filled with tourists, international students and people from all backgrounds. The Dutch are open-minded and quite direct, making it easy to make contact with Dutch people and exchange ideas, making international students feel welcomed. Because Dutch universities offer many English-taught programmes, there are lot of courses to choose and professors and classmates have no trouble communicating in both languages. 

Safety is an important point to consider when studying abroad. According to the current Numbeo Safety Index, Amsterdam has a score of 66.84 – ranking it at number 123 of 461 cities globally for safety.

Amsterdam is famous for its canals, beautiful houses, 'coffee' shops and Red Light District, but there's plenty more to this liberal city than most visitors realise. Most visitors will quickly notice the abundance of bicycles in Amsterdam – this is due to its high car insurance rates and flat landscape, making bicycling the ideal form of transit. When studying in Amsterdam, make sure to try their famous Dutch Herring, Stroopwaffels, Bitterballen and Dutch cheese (Kaas).

5. Is Amsterdam, The Netherlands an expensive city to live in?

The cost of living can play a major factor in deciding where to study. Aside from tuition fees, students should consider the local cost of living – including items like housing, food, and social life. According to the current Numbeo Cost of Living Index, Amsterdam has a score of 77.77 – ranking it at number 57 of 515 cities globally for the cost of living (the higher the ranking, the more expensive the cost of living is).

If you’re considering pursuing a degree abroad, then let us help you find the best university for you. U-Multirank’s ‘For students’ track offers personalised university comparisons, so you can find the university that best matches you. Create your own personalised university rankings today, and compare universities according to what matters most to you.  To start, make sure to select your desired study destination and we’ll help guide you through the rest.