How to Get Into PPLE, Political Science, and European Studies at the University of Amsterdam (UvA).
Dreaming of studying in the heart of Europe? The University of Amsterdam (UvA) is a top choice for students pursuing politics, law, international relations, and European affairs - and for good reason. Whether you're aiming for the interdisciplinary PPLE program, the classic Political Science degree, or the culture-rich European Studies track, this guide explains how to get in - and how to stand out.
What’s covered
Why UvA? What makes it one of Europe´s top destinations.
Full breakdown of PPLE, Political Science, and European Studies.
Entry requirements (IB, A-levels, GPA, etc.)
Application steps, assessments, and deadlines.
Motivation letter tips.
Advice for EU & U.S. applicants.
Getting into UvA’s PPLE, Political Science, or European Studies isn’t easy - but with the right guidance, it’s absolutely possible.
Our Think Smart Admissions Experts will help you stand out with a compelling application, from your motivation letter to program-specific requirements. Get in touch today and take the first step toward studying in Amsterdam.
Why Study at the University of Amsterdam?
Choosing UvA, means choosing an institution at the forefront of academic excellence, social impact, and international diversity.
1. A Top Global University.
UvA consistently ranks among the Top 60 universities worldwide (QS 2025) and is known for world-leading research in the social sciences, law, and humanities.
2. A City Built for Students.
Located in Amsterdam - one of Europe´s safest and most vibrant cities - UvA gives students access to global institutions, NGOs, EU-related events, and a multicultural atmosphere. English is widely spoken in the city, making it ideal for international students.
UvA’s PPLE, Political Science, and European Studies are some of the most competitive programs in Europe. Maximise your chances with TS Admissions experts - specialists in top European university applications.
3. Progressive, Critical, and Interdisciplinary.
UvA encourages critical inquiry and open-minded thinking. Programs like PPLE (Politics, Psychology, Law, Economics) and European Studies are designed to tackle real-world issues from multiple perspectives - not just theory.
4. Internationally Connected.
With over 7,000 international students from 100+ countries, UvA is a global community. English-taught bachelor´s degrees are standard, and many graduates go on to study or work across Europe or beyond.
The Three Main Programs:
PPLE - Politics, Psychology, Law and Economics.
UvA´s flagship interdisciplinary degree for students interested in solving global challenges across multiple fields - from human rights to global governance to behavioral economics.
- Duration: 3 years.
- Location: Amsterdam.
- Language: English.
- Tuition: ~€4,700/year (EU), ~€11,600/year (non-EU)
Entry requirements:
Secondary Diploma: Equivalent to Dutch VWO.
Grades:
o IB: 36+ points (6s & 7s in key subjects).
o A-levels: 3 subjects with strong results (essay-based preferred).
o Dutch VWO diploma, combined with mathematics A or B (final grade 6.0 or higher) and English.
Math Proficiency: Must have math in your diploma or pass one of:
o VWO mathematics A/B with grade 6.0+.
o Online Mathematics Placement Test (OMPT-A) ≥ 70%.
o KdVI exam grade 6+.
Application steps:
1. Register via Studielink + upload transcript, CV, letter before 1st of February.
2. Take the online critical thinking / writing assessment.
3. Selected candidates write a study plan & financial plan, take an entrance exam.
4. Final interview with the PPLE admissions committee.
Interested in improving your chances of getting into UvA’s PPLE, Political Science, or European Studies? Our team of Think Smart Admissions Experts can help - contact us for support today!
Why is it competitive?
Selectivity, limited cohort size, and multidisciplinary rigor make PPLE one of Europe´s most sought-after programs - prepare thoroughly and clearly to show your analytical and cross-disciplinary strengths.
Political Science:
What it’s about:
A staple of UvA’s social sciences department, this three-year program teaches students to analyze governance, policy, and international relations. Taught in English (with Dutch options available), it's designed for those who want to engage deeply with political systems and theories.
· Duration: 3 years (English-taught; Dutch track available).
· Tuition: ~€4,700/year (EU), ~€11,600/year (non-EU).
Entry requirements:
IB: 32+ points.
A-levels: At least 3 subjects.
US GPA: ~3.2+ equivalent.
Math & English: included in diploma or with additional proficiency exams like TOEFL.
No entrance exam required - just submit transcript, CV, motivation letter, and proof of English.
A pro tip for the Political Science admission: If you're drawn to political journalism, advocacy, or academic research, tie your motivation letter to current global issues - migration, climate policy, digital democracy. Show how you’ve engaged in these topics, whether through reading, volunteerism, or structured school activities.
European Studies
This highly interdisciplinary program brings together European politics, history, law, economics, and languages over three years of study. You’ll choose from specializations such as politics, culture, law, economics and a European language (20+ options).
Tuition:
~€4,700/year (EU), ~€11,600/year (non-EU).
Requirements:
Diploma equivalent to VWO.
IB 32+ points.
A-levels: At least 3 subjects.
US GPA: ~3.2+ equivalent.
English proficiency included in your diploma or additional proficiency exam like TOEFL.
No entrance exam; application via transcript, CV, and motivational statement.
Ideal candidates are those fluent in multicultural settings - mention your multilingual skills or interest in EU policies. UvA emphasizes critical thinking, encouraging you to form your own perspective on European integration and identity.
Understanding the admissions deadlines.
You should also have an understanding of the general timeline for the admissions process, so that you don’t miss anything important.
Applying to UvA takes preparation, especially for PPLE. Applications open in October, and if you're applying to PPLE, you’ll need to submit your full application by February 1st. This includes your transcript, CV, motivation letter, and proof of both English and mathematics proficiency. After that, you’ll be invited to complete an online assessment in January or February. If successful, you’ll be asked to submit a study plan and may be invited for a final interview. Offers go out by March-April.
For Political Science and European Studies, the process is simpler. No tests or interviews - just a complete application submitted by May 1st. Results typically arrive in late spring. Regardless of program, you’ll need to submit final documents by July, arrange housing and insurance by August, and prepare for classes to start in September.
University of Amsterdam Admissions Timeline
| Step | PPLE Deadline & Duration | PS/EurStudies Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Preparation | Sep–Dec 2025 (document prep/test) | Apr–Jul 2025 |
| Apply via Studielink + documents | 1 Feb 2026 (2 hours) | 1 May 2026 (2 hours) |
| Online Assessment (PPLE only) | Jan–Feb 2026 (prep + test day) | N/A |
| Additional steps/interview | Mar–Apr 2026 (1–2 weeks) | N/A |
| Conditional Offer | Mar–Apr 2026 | May–June 2026 |
| Submit final diploma | May–July 2026 (2–3 weeks) | May–July 2026 |
| Visa + insurance (non-EU) | Apr–May 2026 (2–3 months) | Apr–May 2026 (2–3 months) |
| Housing + tuition payment | May–July 2026 | Apr–July 2026 |
| Semester start | Early September 2026 | Early September 2026 |
Tips for EU and U.S. Students
EU/EEA students benefit from lower tuition fees (~€4,700) and don’t need a visa. However, you’ll still need to prove English proficiency and arrange local health insurance. Translation of documents and housing can take time, so start early.
U.S. applicants apply directly through Studielink - not Common App. You’ll need your GPA (3.2+), transcripts, and possibly SAT/ACT or AP scores. If your high school wasn’t in English, you'll need a TOEFL or IELTS score. After acceptance, you’ll apply for a Dutch student visa (MVV), which can take up to three months.
Final thoughts.
The University of Amsterdam offers some of Europe’s best programs for students interested in politics, society, and global affairs. Whether you're applying to PPLE, Political Science, or European Studies, UvA values critical thinkers with real passion.
It’s a competitive but fair process - and with the right support, very achievable. If you’d like help preparing your application, we’re here for you.