IELTS score requirement for University of Amsterdam
University of Amsterdam based in Amsterdam publishes 2 named IELTS levels (Standard, Higher). The level that applies to your application depends on the specific course you intend to study, not on whether you are applying at undergraduate or graduate level. The cards below show the institutional starting points; the tier table further down explains which level each cluster of courses uses.
Typical English-taught bachelor's requirement; programmes such as PPLE require 7.0 with not more than one sub-score at 6.5.
Standard for many English-taught master's (e.g. several Graduate School of Science programmes). Competitive programmes require 7.0 overall with all sub-scores at least 6.5.
Last verified 2026-06-02. The figures on this page are taken from University of Amsterdam's own admissions page. Verify against the official source before relying on a specific number; programme directors can revise English requirements between intakes.
About UvA and its IELTS requirement
Amsterdam's standard English-taught requirement is IELTS 6.5 with no sub-score below 6.0, rising to 7.0 (all sub-scores 6.5+) for competitive programmes such as PPLE. Note UvA does not accept the IELTS One Skill Retake or IELTS Online.
Translating the published minimum into a study target
Undergraduate applicants to UvA need an overall IELTS Academic band of 6.5 with no band below 6.0. In CEFR terms this corresponds to B2. Typical English-taught bachelor's requirement; programmes such as PPLE require 7.0 with not more than one sub-score at 6.5.
For graduate study the institutional minimum is overall 6.5 with no band below 6.0 (CEFR B2). Standard for many English-taught master's (e.g. several Graduate School of Science programmes). Competitive programmes require 7.0 overall with all sub-scores at least 6.5.
UvA uses multiple named IELTS levels
University of Amsterdam publishes 2 named English-language levels and applies a different one depending on the course you are applying to. The right target is the level the specific programme requires, not the lowest published level. Confirming the level on the programme page before you sit the test saves a retake.
How to prepare for the UvA IELTS minimum
A target of 6.5 (CEFR B2) is achievable for candidates with strong school-level English and 4-8 weeks of focused IELTS practice. The fastest gains usually come from Listening and Reading because the question types are predictable and trainable. Sit a full-length practice test first, identify the section that pulls your overall down most, and drill that section before scheduling the live exam.
Named IELTS levels at this university
This university publishes more than one named level. The correct target depends on the course you apply to — confirm against the programme page.
Many English-taught bachelor's and master's programmes
Competitive programmes (e.g. PPLE, several Science master's)
Other English tests UvA accepts
IELTS Academic accepted; TOEFL iBT and Cambridge C1/C2 Advanced also accepted. IELTS Indicator, One Skill Retake and IELTS Online are NOT accepted. Many programmes state requirements in CEFR (C1) terms; the IELTS equivalent varies by faculty, so confirm per programme. Results must be under two years old.
Alternatives and thresholds change between intakes. Confirm on the official admissions page before relying on a specific alternative test.
Common questions
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See where you stand against the UvA minimum
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