Study Abroad in Amsterdam
College Study Abroad
Explore Amsterdam with CIEE
Get ready to experience life on two wheels when you study abroad in Amsterdam, Netherlands, a city where canals, culture, and creativity intersect. Bike past 17th-century townhouses on your way through the city, browse vintage treasures at Waterlooplein Market, or spend an afternoon relaxing in Vondelpark. Explore world-renowned museums like the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum, discover vibrant neighborhoods filled with cafés and galleries, and enjoy cozy evenings along Amsterdam’s iconic canals. With its rich history, thriving arts scene, and progressive spirit, Amsterdam study abroad offers a one-of-a-kind experience that blends cultural immersion, innovation, and everyday adventure.
While abroad, choose from a variety of study abroad programs in Amsterdam designed to support your academic goals across subjects like business, communications, sustainability, social sciences, humanities, international studies, and the arts. Whether you're exploring Dutch culture, studying at a top-ranked university, or engaging with one of Europe’s most innovative and internationally connected cities, Amsterdam study abroad gives you the opportunity to expand your global perspective while experiencing the creativity, diversity, and quality of life that make the Dutch capital so distinctive.
Top Activities in Amsterdam with CIEE
Every CIEE Amsterdam study abroad program includes frequent cultural excursions uniquely designed to complement the program’s academics and enhance students’ cultural immersion. In Amsterdam, past excursions have included:
- Embark on overnight trips to dynamic cities like Rotterdam, Maastricht, or The Hague, each with a unique blend of history and modern innovation
- Pedal through postcard-like landscapes on bike tours through Amsterdam’s countryside, passing windmills, tulip fields, and charming villages
- Experience a world-class symphony orchestra at the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra
About CIEE Amsterdam
Situated in the heart of the Plantegebuurt in Amsterdam East, CIEE Amsterdam boasts four classrooms, a student lounge with complimentary books, an office space, Wi-Fi access, and a charming outdoor patio.
Academics in Amsterdam
CIEE Amsterdam
CIEE Amsterdam is located on the Rapenburgerstraat in the historical Plantage district of Amsterdam. Now an educational facility, this site has been a gunpowder factory in the 17th century Jewish girls' orphanage throughout the 18th century.
Located five minutes by bike or 15 minutes on foot from the main UvA campus and 30 minutes away from the VU Campus, CIEE Amsterdam is very centrally located and well connected to public transport, allowing student easy commutes to housing, classes, and cultural activities throughout the city.
University of Amsterdam (UVA)
UvA is the third-oldest university in the Netherlands and one of the largest universities in Europe, serving more than 40,000 students from 100+ different nationalities, divided across seven major faculties. CIEE students take classes at two different mini campuses: The historic inner-city campus and the newly designed “Roeterseiland” campus.
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU)
With a student body of 30,000, 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 in Amsterdam’s Zuidas knowledge district.
Community Impact Initiative in Amsterdam
CIEE’s Community Impact Initiative invites you to connect more deeply with Amsterdam by becoming an active member of its community. You’ll work alongside local organizations on projects that reflect real, on-the-ground needs, building relationships, gaining cultural insight, and contributing to meaningful, lasting impact. Your experience may span key focus areas like Food Security, Community Development + Public Health, and Youth Development + Education initiatives.
In Amsterdam, your service work may include:
- Sharing low-cost, community meals and connecting with local residents through Resto VanHarte
- Supporting newcomers with refugee backgrounds through community-building at BOOST
Study Abroad Programs in Amsterdam
- Amsterdam, Netherlands
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- Amsterdam, Netherlands
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- Amsterdam, Netherlands
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- London, England
- Amsterdam, Netherlands
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- London, England
- Amsterdam, Netherlands
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- Amsterdam, Netherlands
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- Amsterdam, Netherlands
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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
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.
Amsterdam is a great location for students looking to study abroad in Europe because it’s a highly bike-able city that provides students with a quintessential Netherlands experience. Students can immerse themselves in centuries of old architecture and beautiful landscapes, while attending world-renowned universities.
The cost of studying abroad in Amsterdam varies depending on the specific program that you choose and how long you plan to study abroad for. For detailed cost information, we recommend researching each individual Amsterdam study abroad program page.
For costs not included in your program’s outlined fees, it’s important to consider factors surrounding your individual journey while abroad.
Read more: How Much Does it Cost to Study Abroad?
As a tourist in any city, you’ll want to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Research the areas of Amsterdam you’ll be going to, ask friendly locals for their opinions, and learn basic Dutch phrases in case of emergency. Stay in well-lit areas at night, avoid walking alone once it’s dark, and always use official transportation services.
In the event of an emergency, remember that CIEE staff are available 24/7 and can be reached at 1-800-40-STUDY (1-800-407-8839).
Read More: Student Safety Tips
Amsterdam’s culture is often regarded as open-minded, creative, and relaxed. The city is known for its welcoming international atmosphere, making it easy for students to feel welcome and included from day one.
You’ll find a strong emphasis on balance, as people work hard but also value free time, socialization, and being outdoors. Expect bike-friendly streets, cozy cafés, and a thriving arts scene with museums, music, and festivals year-round. For students, Amsterdam offers a friendly environment where you can explore freely, connect with people from around the world, and enjoy a very high quality of life.
Amsterdam is a very walkable city with plenty of reliable transportation options including a tram, bus and subway system. You can also safely traverse the city with your own bike, which is a popular option among locals!
If you’re staying in The Netherlands for more than 90 days, U.S. citizens will typically need a visa to study abroad in Amsterdam. We will help guide you through the exact steps and timelines needed to acquire visas or other necessary documents!
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.
No, you don’t need to know Dutch to study abroad in Amsterdam. CIEE courses are offered in English, and English is commonly used in academic settings and major urban areas.
That said, learning some basic Dutch phrases can make daily life easier and help you connect more with the local culture, restaurants, and neighborhoods – but it’s not required to thrive during your time abroad.
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.
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:
- Search for and apply to your dream program
- Review all available funding opportunities
- 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.
Study Abroad Amsterdam Blog
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Safety at CIEE Amsterdam
At CIEE, your health, safety, and well-being are always a top priority, so you can focus on making the most of your study abroad experience. From trained on-site staff who are local community experts to 24/7 support for students and families at 1-800-40-STUDY (1-800-407-8839), we’re here whenever you need us. Every program location is carefully reviewed for health, safety, and academic quality. Our global teams continuously monitor local conditions and stay connected with trusted partners, government officials, and U.S. embassies around the world. With guidance, resources, and real people ready to help every step of the way, you can feel confident living, learning, and exploring abroad with CIEE.
Student Housing in Amsterdam
CIEE Amsterdam offers a variety of housing options for you to choose from. Our Amsterdam housing options are located in neighborhoods with convenient access to public transportation, shops, and restaurants. Available housing options vary by program.
CIEE Amsterdam Staff
Kallan Picha
Center Director