Summer: Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (Worldstrides)
The Program
Study during the summer at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, a top research university in Amsterdam.
Challenge yourself academically at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU), while living in one of Europe’s most innovative and bike-friendly cities. Spend your summer in Amsterdam studying alongside Dutch and international students on a vibrant, modern campus in the dynamic Zuidas district — the city's thriving business and academic hub. Designed for rising juniors and seniors, each intensive course is two weeks long and features an experiential learning component that uses the city as your classroom through labs, field trips, and other activities designed to deepen your engagement. Courses focus on research methodology across disciplines like earth and life sciences, business and economics, social sciences, and humanities — all taught in English by top faculty.
Program Locations
Netherlands
Amsterdam
Amsterdam is the capital and largest city in the Netherlands. It is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While studying at VU, you'll see the historic canals, the Van Gogh Museum, the Royal Palace of Amsterdam and more. Whether you're walking or biking around, you will admire its artistic heritage.
Founded in 1880, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU) is one of the Netherlands’ top research institutions—and the first to be established without ties to the church or state. VU is known for its globally minded community that fosters collaboration, innovation, and independence. Located in Amsterdam’s vibrant Zuid district, VU’s sleek, modern campus offers easy access to the city center and Schiphol Airport, making it a convenient hub for both academic and cultural exploration.
Academics
Rutgers is partnering with the study abroad provider Worldstrides to bring this opportunity to our students.
Each session or term is 2 weeks long. Students can pick a 3- credit course in each session (45 contact hours). To view what courses are available in 2027, click here: Worldstrides Courses Amsterdam.
Housing and Meals
Students will share double rooms in student residences. Student residences in Amsterdam typically feature shared bedrooms, bathroom, kitchen and living space. Refundable security deposit is required.
Financial Information
Program Costs
| Credits | NJ Resident | non-NJ Resident |
|---|---|---|
| 3 credits | TBD |
Program Cost includes:
- Tuition
- Housing
- 24/7 In country Support
- Administrative Fees
- Emergency Medical Access Abroad
Out-of-Pocket Costs
| Airfare | $1,100 |
| Meals | $300 |
| Books and Classroom Materials | $50 |
| Local Transportation | $100 |
| Personal Expenses | $300 |
| Total | $1,850.00 |
Out-of-Pocket Cost includes:
The above costs are estimations and represent the known out-of-pocket costs students encounter during their time abroad.
Some of these expenses will be paid for prior to going abroad, such as an airline ticket, while some of these expenses, such as meals and personal expenses, will be paid in-country as part of your daily expenses. As you plan, you will need to budget these costs and spend wisely throughout your time abroad.