It is impossible to define a "typical" Dutch person. You will meet many types of people in the Netherlands who have different opinions, attitudes, and habits. The more you interact with Dutch people, the more likely you are to form lasting relationships with them and better understand their culture. During these interactions, use common sense and a sense of objectivity. Be prepared to discuss your views freely and openly, and try to listen with an open mind. You may arrive in the Netherlands with some preconceptions about the Dutch and may encounter some Dutch people with preconceptions about...

The Dutch monetary unit is the euro (€). The euro functions similarly to the US dollar in that it is subdivided into 100 cents. There are eight-euro coins denominated in 2 and 1 euros, then 50, 20, 10, 5, 2, and 1 cents. In the Netherlands, 1- and 2-euro cents are not used. Each euro coin has a common European face and a face designed by each monetary member EU state. All coins can be used in every monetary member EU country. There are seven-euro notes which are differently sized and colored, and come in denominations of 500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10, and 5. The notes, unlike the coins, do not...

Housing Introduction The housing provided by the IES Abroad Amsterdam Center will be conveniently located in a nice, safe area. Rooms are likely smaller than you are used to, and commuting is an absolute must as universities do not own housing in the Netherlands. Most universities are not campuses. As you fill out your Housing Form, keep in mind the following factors that are considered when housing placements are made: IES Abroad only locates housing in safe areas of the city. Cohabitation in IES Abroad located housing is prohibited. Switching after arrival is most likely not possible or you...

Before departing for the Netherlands, you should exchange between about €50 - €150 in order to cover incidental expenses during your first few days in Amsterdam. Euros can be purchased at large banks in your home country and at most international airports. Dutch Bank Account Credit or Debit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, Discover, or American Express are NOT widely accepted in the Netherlands. The Maestro card is recognized across Europe and will be the most dependable way to access money during your semester. You will be issued a Maestro bank card by opening a Dutch bank account. Thus, we...

For more location-specific tips, check out these packing tips from former IES Abroad students. Keep in mind the climate of Amsterdam when packing. January tends to be the coldest month out of the spring semester. In spring, warm weather returns by May. The temperature is usually in the low 60s (~15°C). For current weather conditions in Amsterdam, visit Amsterdam's Amsterdam's weather channel. When packing clothes, remember to bring layers as temperatures can vary considerably between morning, mid-day, and evening. However, warm winter clothing, including heavy sweaters, winter outwear, a good...

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While in Amsterdam, you will take 15-17 IES Abroad credits (a minimum of 30 ECTS) per semester at the Vrije Universiteit (VU) and IES Abroad Amsterdam. Create your own academic experience by selecting from the following required and optional components: 2-5 VU courses (required, credits vary) Up to 3 IES Abroad area studies course (optional, credits vary) Please note that 2 ECTS is equivalent to 1 US credit. For example, a course worth 6 ECTS is worth 3 US credits.

Additionally, you will participate in the VU-led orientation to get to know the VU Staff, fellow VU students, and facilities. Please pay attention to the emails you receive directly from the VU. When in doubt of any of the emails or correspondence you receive about your semester in Amsterdam, please reach out to your Program Advisor at study@iesabroad.org.

Please pay attention to the emails you receive directly from the UvA. When in doubt of any of the emails or correspondence you receive about your semester in Amsterdam, please reach out to your Program Advisor at study@iesabroad.org.

There are four main steps to enroll in courses at the UvA: You have already completed the first step by submitting your course preferences in your Academic Statement of Purpose as part of your application. You should meet with your academic advisor and study abroad coordinator to verify which courses will transfer back to your college or university. Go over alternative courses as well, in case your first choices are unavailable during registration. This is a very important step in receiving credit at your home college or university for the classes you take abroad. Submit your Study Plan. The...