Amsterdam, a global city

It is not surprising that Amsterdam is known as the number one student city in the Netherlands.

It is not surprising that Amsterdam is known as the number one student city in the Netherlands. If you study in Amsterdam, you do so with around 110,000 other students. And students say that they are very happy with the city. In addition to many institutions of higher education, the city also has a lot to offer in terms of culture and entertainment, with 70 museums, 22 cinemas, 45 theatres, around 1000 cafés and more than 1,100 restaurants.

VU Bachelor Days - 8 & 9 November 2024

Get to know our study programmes

Keep me informed

VU Online Master's Event - Fall 2024

The next step in your career

Keep me informed

Want to learn more about our university and the city of Amsterdam?

Meet us in your own country or online

Check out the overview

Only a few minutes’ walk from the VU campus is the Zuidas business district, where many international companies and law firms have an office. Because of VU Amsterdam’s unique location, you as a student can enjoy close contacts between the university and the business community, which leads to many opportunities for internships and jobs. So, you can immediately put your newly gained knowledge and skills into practice just around the corner.

Besides a wide range of businesses, you will also find a large selection of restaurants, cafés, shops and cultural establishments in the Zuidas district. The Zuidas is developing into a bustling new activity hub in Amsterdam. From the Zuidas, you can reach the historic city centre in a few minutes using the North-South metro line.

If you plan to study at VU Amsterdam it is essential to think of a place to live. Unfortunately, finding a room in Amsterdam is difficult and stressful. The housing market is extremely tight. In this video we explain what the housing market in Amsterdam looks like, and how to prepare yourself.

Watch the video

Amsterdam, a global city

Student housing in Amsterdam