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Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is a public institution located in the Netherlands. A public research university on Amsterdam's modern Zuidas campus, founded in 1880 as a 'free' university, with a broad disciplinary range and social commitment.

#153

Shanghai (ARWU)

#185

QS World Rankings

#176

Times Higher Ed.

#171

Average ranking

Informational note: this page is an independent descriptive profile of Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, provided for information only and not affiliated with the institution or its official representatives.

Welcome to the dedicated profile of Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, a public institution located in the Netherlands.

Whether you are a future student looking for your ideal academic path or simply curious to discover this university, you will find here essential information about this institution: its international rankings, tuition fees, programs and the useful steps to study there.

About Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU) was founded in 1880 as a university independent of both state and church, hence its name: 'free university'. Around 30,000 students study on its compact, modern campus in the Zuidas business district. Programmes span law and criminology, economics and business, the social sciences, psychology, medicine (with Amsterdam UMC location VUmc), the humanities, theology and the natural sciences, including computer science. VU foregrounds values of social engagement and diversity - its motto celebrates 'free thinkers'. It offers many English-taught degrees and works closely with the University of Amsterdam on joint programmes and research institutes.

International rankings 2026

Average ranking

#171

Average calculated from the world rankings

Shanghai (ARWU)

#153

Academic Ranking of World Universities (Shanghai)

Times Higher Education

#176

World university ranking by Times Higher Education

QS World University Rankings

#185

World university ranking by QS (Quacquarelli Symonds)

About the rankings

Global university rankings evaluate higher education institutions according to different criteria:

  • Shanghai (ARWU) : focused on research and academic output.
  • Times Higher Education : assesses teaching, research and internationalisation.
  • QS World University Rankings : considers academic and employer reputation.
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Programs offered (28)

Additional information

Choosing a university is an important decision that can shape your academic and professional future.

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam offers a stimulating learning environment where students can develop their skills and pursue their passions.

To make an informed decision, we recommend that you:

  • Visit the campus if possible or explore the available virtual tours,
  • Contact the admissions office directly for specific questions,
  • Talk to alumni or current students,
  • Review the study programs to make sure they match your goals,
  • Find out about funding and scholarship opportunities.

WiniFac strives to provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information on universities around the world. We regularly update our database to give you a complete overview of the higher education options available.

Frequently asked questions about Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

Concise answers to prepare your application

Is Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam a public or private university?

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is a public institution located in the Netherlands.

What is the international ranking of Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam?

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is ranked on average at position #171 in international rankings. Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is ranked #153 in the Academic Ranking of World Universities (Shanghai/ARWU), which assesses the quality of research and academic output. Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is ranked #185 in the QS World University Rankings, which assesses academic and employer reputation. Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is ranked #176 in the Times Higher Education ranking, which assesses the quality of teaching, research and internationalisation.

How do I apply to Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam?

To apply to Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, check the official website directly (https://www.vu.nl/) for admission requirements, required documents and application deadlines.

Quick facts

Institution type

Public

Country

Netherlands

Website

vu.nl

Average ranking

#171

Last updated

2 octobre 2026

Rankings 2026

  • Shanghai (ARWU)#153
  • QS World Rankings#185
  • Times Higher Ed.#176

Official website

Visit the website of Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

All universities in the Netherlands

Explore the Netherlands country guide