Study Abroad in Amsterdam

College Study Abroad

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study abroad in amsterdam

Explore Amsterdam, Netherlands

What was once a small fishing village in the 12th century has bloomed into the cultural capital city of the Netherlands, one of the top financial centers in Europe, and the biggest city in the country. Yet its 60 miles of historic canals lined with gable-roofed homes make this city still feel cozy and unmistakably one-of-a-kind!

When you study abroad in Amsterdam, you’ll experience one of the most innovative and multicultural cities in the world. Students can learn all about Amsterdam’s culture, language, and history on a uniquely-designed Amsterdam program. With world-renowned museums, art galleries, and theater, Amsterdam provides students with an international study abroad experience that they’re sure to remember.

where is amsterdam the netherlands
amsterdam program
Study abroad students amsterdam cultural events

Every CIEE semester program includes frequent cultural excursions and a multi-day study tour uniquely designed to complement the program’s academics and enhance students’ cultural immersion. In Amsterdam, past study tours and excursions have included:

  • Overnight trips to Rotterdam, Maastricht, or The Hague
  • Bike tours through Amsterdam’s countryside
  • Tours of medieval castles, authentic fishing towns, and other urban areas
  • Experience a world-class symphony orchestra at the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra

If you’re a student looking to experience studying and living in Amsterdam, CIEE’s tours and excursions allow you to do just that! Whether you want to study art, film, or Dutch in Amsterdam, the Netherland’s capital city offers something for everyone.

students on amsterdam study abroad programs

Where Students Study

CIEE Amsterdam
CIEE Amsterdam is conveniently located across the street from the University of Amsterdam in the beautiful Roeterseiland neighborhood. Roughly 3 miles from both the Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House, our center provides students with easy access to the city's top attractions.

University of Amsterdam (UvA)
UvA is the third oldest university in the Netherlands and one of the largest universities in Europe with over 30,000 students divided over seven major faculties. CIEE students take classes at two different mini-campuses: the historic inner-city campus and the newly designed “Roeterseiland” campus (which is located on the same block as CIEE Amsterdam).

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU)
With a student body that is fast approaching the UvA’s in size, the VU is the smaller – but just as established – second research university in Amsterdam. Unlike the UvA, the VU occupies a centralized campus located in the southern part of the city.

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Internships & Volunteering

Depending on their program of study and availability, students may be able to participate in an internship or complete volunteer work in Amsterdam. For students looking to intern in Amsterdam, they may have the opportunity to join guest lectures and site visits that connect them with professionals in the field. 

Students interested in volunteering in Amsterdam may have the opportunity to teach English once a week at a local elementary or middle school.

Study Abroad Programs in Amsterdam

Pocket Guide to Amsterdam

  • Currency
    Euro

    Spoken Languages
    Dutch, English

    Available Transportation
    Bikes, tram, bus, subway, feet

    Famous Local
    Carice van Houten – Dutch actress whose role as Melisandre on Game of Thrones brought her worldwide fame (and an Emmy nomination!)

  • Climate
    Cold rainy winters; comfortable summers, mild spring and fall

    Places to Explore
    Amsterdam has 1,281 bridges – three times as many as Venice, Italy

  • Airport
    Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS)

    Social Norms
    Calling the Netherlands "Holland" is a little bit of a faux-pas - Holland refers to only two of the 12 provinces that make up the country

    What to Pack
    Umbrella, comfortable shoes

Frequently Asked Questions

WHY STUDY ABROAD IN AMSTERDAM

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Studying abroad in Amsterdam provides students with a safe multicultural atmosphere that’s easy to travel by bike, train, or car. In addition, universities in Amsterdam offer a wide variety of courses for students looking to study Dutch, film, art, design, medicine, and so much more.

STUDYING ABROAD IN AMSTERDAM TIPS

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Tips for studying abroad in Amsterdam include keeping your wits about you when traveling in crowded areas, pack an umbrella for the fall, and explore the Netherland’s scenic bike rides along the coasts. CIEE encourages students to select courses that pique their interest, explore different areas of the city as much as they can (e.g. Albert Cuyp Market, Bloemenmarkt, and Rokin), and chat with locals.

WHAT IS DIVERSITY IN AMSTERDAM LIKE

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In order to ensure our students feel welcomed, supported, and empowered while studying abroad, CIEE staff completes comprehensive diversity equity and inclusion (DEI) training. Staff provide students with advice, resources, and ongoing support both before and during their study abroad program in Amsterdam.
For more detailed information on diversity in Amsterdam, visit our Diversity in Amsterdam page.

Study Abroad Scholarships & Grants

APPLY IN 1,2,3!

You may be wondering if there are any scholarships to study in Amsterdam. CIEE offers scholarships and grants for study abroad programs in Amsterdam to students with demonstrated financial need, proven academic merit, and for specific CIEE programs. Students can apply for scholarships through 3 simple steps:

  1. Search for and apply to your dream program
  2. Review all available funding opportunities
  3. Complete the Scholarship & Grants portion of your application

STUDY ABROAD SCHOLARSHIPS

NEED-BASED SCHOLARSHIPS

Based on students' Estimated Family Contribution (EFC) from their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and enrolled institution. Complete the Scholarships & Grants portion of your program application to be considered for all awards to which you are eligible. 

MERIT SCHOLARSHIPS

Based on academic achievement. Complete the Scholarships & Grants portion of your program application, along with an essay, to be considered for all awards to which you are eligible. 

OTHER SCHOLARSHIPS

Other scholarship awards are based on program or alumni status. 

VIEW OUR SCHOLARSHIPS & GRANTS

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TALK TO A STUDENT WHO'S LIVED IT...

Ask an Ambassador

Reach out to one of our Student Ambassadors to learn what CIEE Study Abroad is really like from alums who've lived it! Address any questions you may have about Amsterdam, from your academic interests and travel planning to housing and cultural differences. 

CONNECT WITH AN AMBASSADOR

Amsterdam Study Abroad Reviews

  • "It was the experience of a lifetime to study abroad and CIEE is what made this experience possible."

    Kaleinani N., Occidental College
  • "I had a fantastic time and met some really great people."

    Margaret O., Franklin Pierce University
  • "I would be likely to recommend CIEE because of the welcoming and helpful staff. The excursions and orientation made adjusting so much easier"

    Madeline J., University of Utah
  • "I had a great time this semester and I'm really glad that I chose CIEE."

    Cole L., Wesleyan University