The University of Amsterdam (UvA), located in the Netherlands, is one of Europe’s leading research universities, known for its competitive admissions process. For the most recent admission cycle (Class of 2028), the overall acceptance rate is estimated at around 4.0%, reflecting the university’s high selectivity. This rate is influenced by a growing applicant pool, particularly from international students, and the university’s reputation for academic excellence. While UvA does not always publish detailed admission statistics publicly, historical data and regional trends for top European universities provide a reliable basis for these estimates. Factors such as program-specific quotas and the increasing popularity of English-taught programs also contribute to the competitive landscape.
Over the past decade, the University of Amsterdam has seen a trend of increasing competitiveness, driven by a rise in global applications, especially for programs in business, social sciences, and humanities. The lack of early decision options means that all applicants face similar timelines, though international students often encounter stricter criteria, contributing to lower acceptance rates for this group. Compared to peer institutions like Utrecht University or Leiden University, UvA’s selectivity is on par or slightly higher, particularly for English-taught undergraduate programs. As application numbers continue to grow, prospective students are encouraged to focus on strong academic records and program-specific requirements to stand out in this highly competitive environment. For the most accurate and up-to-date data, visiting the official UvA admissions website at uva.nl is recommended.