If you’re planning to study in Amsterdam, you might be wondering: do Amsterdam universities require GRE or GMAT scores? The short answer is: it depends on the university and program. Most bachelor’s and many master’s programs do not require these tests, but some competitive fields—especially business and economics—may ask for GMAT or GRE. This guide covers the exact requirements for the University of Amsterdam (UvA), Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU), and other institutions, plus tips on how to strengthen your application without test scores.
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General Policy on GRE and GMAT at Dutch Universities
Dutch universities generally place less emphasis on standardized tests like the GRE or GMAT compared to the US. Instead, they focus on your academic background, grades, motivation, and sometimes work experience. However, some English-taught master’s programs—particularly in business, finance, and economics—may require or recommend a GMAT or GRE score to assess quantitative and analytical skills.
Why Some Programs Require GRE or GMAT
Programs that are highly quantitative or have many international applicants use these tests to compare candidates from different educational systems. For example, a GMAT score can demonstrate your ability to handle the math-heavy curriculum of an MSc in Finance. Similarly, the GRE is sometimes accepted as an alternative for students from non-European backgrounds.
Programs That Typically Do NOT Require GRE/GMAT
- Most bachelor’s programs (except some selective ones)
- Many master’s in humanities, social sciences, law, and arts
- Research-oriented master’s programs (research master’s) often rely on GPA and thesis quality
University of Amsterdam (UvA) GRE and GMAT Requirements
The University of Amsterdam is the largest university in the Netherlands. Most of its programs do not require GRE or GMAT. However, some selective master’s programs do.
UvA Economics and Business (EB)
The Amsterdam Business School (ABS) and the Faculty of Economics and Business have specific requirements:
- MSc in Business Administration – No GMAT or GRE required. Admission is based on your bachelor’s degree, GPA, motivation, and possibly an interview.
- MSc in Finance – GMAT or GRE is required (unless you have a Dutch university degree). Minimum GMAT score: 600. GRE equivalent: around 155-160 in quantitative section.
- MSc in Econometrics – GRE General Test required for non-EU/EEA applicants. Minimum quantitative score: 160.
- MSc in Economics – GMAT or GRE required for non-EU/EEA applicants. Minimum GMAT: 600.
UvA Other Faculties
Programs in Humanities, Social Sciences, Law, and Science generally do not require GRE or GMAT. For example, the popular MSc in Artificial Intelligence does not require these tests; instead, they look at your prior education and a motivation letter.
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU) GRE and GMAT Policy
VU Amsterdam has a similar approach: most programs do not require standardized tests, but some business and economics programs do.
VU School of Business and Economics
- MSc in Business Administration – No GMAT/GRE required.
- MSc in Finance – GMAT or GRE required for non-EU/EEA applicants. Minimum GMAT: 600.
- MSc in Economics – GMAT or GRE required for non-EU/EEA applicants.
- MSc in Marketing – No GMAT/GRE required.
VU Other Programs
Programs in Health Sciences, Law, Humanities, and Social Sciences do not require GRE or GMAT. Instead, they may ask for a writing sample or portfolio.
Erasmus University Rotterdam (EUR) – Not in Amsterdam but Often Compared
Although Erasmus University is in Rotterdam, many applicants consider both cities. EUR’s Rotterdam School of Management (RSM) and Erasmus School of Economics are known for requiring GMAT or GRE for certain programs:
- MSc in International Management (RSM) – GMAT or GRE required (GMAT average 640).
- MSc in Economics and Business (Erasmus School of Economics) – GMAT or GRE required for non-EU/EEA.
Other Amsterdam Institutions: Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences (HvA) and Others
The Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences (HvA) offers mainly bachelor’s programs and some master’s. They generally do not require GRE or GMAT. Admission is based on your diploma and sometimes an interview or portfolio.
Other specialized institutions like the Amsterdam University College (AUC) (liberal arts) and Conservatorium van Amsterdam (music) also do not require these tests.
Checklist: Do You Need to Take the GRE or GMAT for Amsterdam?
| Program Type | GRE/GMAT Required? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor’s (all fields) | No | Except some selective programs like PPLE at UvA |
| Master’s in Humanities/Social Sciences | No | Focus on GPA, motivation, writing samples |
| Master’s in Business (non-quantitative) | No | e.g., Business Administration, Marketing |
| Master’s in Finance/Economics | Often Yes | Check specific program page |
| Master’s in Data Science/AI | No | Require strong quantitative background |
| Research Master’s | No | Require high GPA and research proposal |
How to Strengthen Your Application Without GRE or GMAT
If the program you want does not require test scores, you can still stand out:
- High GPA – Most programs require a minimum GPA (e.g., 7.0/10 or 3.0/4.0).
- Relevant coursework – Especially for quantitative programs: have you taken calculus, statistics, or econometrics?
- Motivation letter – Explain why you want to study in Amsterdam and how your background fits.
- Recommendation letters – From professors or employers who can speak to your abilities.
- Work experience – For business programs, internships or jobs can compensate for lack of test scores.
- English proficiency – IELTS or TOEFL scores are almost always required (e.g., IELTS 6.5-7.0).
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying to Amsterdam Universities
- Assuming all programs require GRE/GMAT – Most don’t, so check carefully before paying for a test.
- Ignoring the English test requirement – Even if no GRE is needed, you’ll need IELTS/TOEFL.
- Not checking specific program pages – Requirements can change yearly; always verify on the university’s official website.
- Submitting a generic motivation letter – Tailor it to the program and mention why Amsterdam.
- Missing deadlines – Some programs have early deadlines (e.g., 1 March for non-EU).
Frequently Asked Questions About GRE and GMAT for Amsterdam Universities
Can I apply to an Amsterdam university without a GRE or GMAT if the program recommends it?
If a program recommends but does not require the test, you can apply without it. However, submitting a good score may strengthen your application, especially if your GPA is below average.
What is the minimum GMAT score required for Amsterdam universities?
For programs that require GMAT, the minimum is typically 600. Competitive programs may expect 650 or higher. Check the specific program page.
Do Amsterdam universities accept the GRE instead of the GMAT?
Yes, many programs that require a test accept both. For example, UvA’s MSc Finance accepts either GMAT or GRE. The GRE quantitative score should be around 155-160.
Are there any bachelor’s programs in Amsterdam that require GRE or GMAT?
Very few. One exception is the PPLE (Politics, Psychology, Law and Economics) bachelor at UvA, which has a selection procedure but does not require a standardized test. Always check the admission requirements.
Do I need a GRE or GMAT for a PhD in Amsterdam?
No, PhD positions in the Netherlands are usually paid jobs and do not require GRE or GMAT. Admission is based on your master’s degree, research proposal, and interview.
If my program doesn’t require GRE/GMAT, should I still take it to boost my application?
It’s usually unnecessary. Dutch universities value your academic record and motivation more. Taking the test may be a waste of time and money. Focus on your GPA, relevant experience, and a strong motivation letter.
Final Recommendations: Navigating GRE and GMAT for Amsterdam Universities
To summarize: Amsterdam universities generally do not require GRE or GMAT scores for most programs. The exceptions are some master’s programs in finance, economics, and econometrics, where a GMAT or GRE is mandatory for non-EU/EEA applicants. Always verify on the official program website, as requirements can change. If you’re unsure, contact the admissions office directly. By focusing on your academic record, motivation, and English proficiency, you can build a strong application without the stress of standardized tests.
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Does VU Amsterdam require GRE for any programs? The article mostly talks about UvA.
The article mentions VU has a similar approach, with most programs not requiring tests. However, some business and economics programs may require GMAT or GRE. It’s best to check the specific program.
I’m applying for a master’s in Artificial Intelligence at UvA. No GRE needed, but do they consider work experience?
The article states that for AI, admission relies on prior education and a motivation letter. Work experience is not typically required but could strengthen your application if it’s relevant.
What about research master’s programs? Do they ever ask for GRE?
The article says research-oriented master’s programs often rely on GPA and thesis quality rather than GRE/GMAT. However, some might recommend it, so check the program details.
Can I submit a GRE instead of GMAT for the MSc in Finance at UvA?
Yes, the article notes that a GRE equivalent is accepted, with a recommended quantitative score of 155-160. Be sure to check the program’s exact requirements.
I’m an international student looking at the MSc in Finance at UvA. Does the 600 GMAT minimum apply to EU applicants too?
According to the article, the GMAT requirement for UvA’s MSc in Finance applies unless you have a Dutch university degree. EU applicants who graduated outside the Netherlands may still need to submit a GMAT score.
I appreciate that Dutch universities focus on academic background over test scores. Are there any tips for strengthening an application without a GMAT?
Yes, the article suggests highlighting your GPA, relevant coursework, motivation letter, and any work or research experience. Strong letters of recommendation can also help.
It’s good to know most bachelor’s programs don’t require these tests. What about the bachelor’s in Economics and Business at UvA?
The article mentions that most bachelor’s programs do not require GRE or GMAT, but some selective ones might. For UvA’s BSc in Economics and Business, it’s best to check the specific program page, as requirements can change.
I’m from India and applying for MSc in Econometrics at UvA. The article says GRE required for non-EU/EEA. Is that still the case for 2025?
The article is for 2025, so yes, non-EU/EEA applicants to UvA’s MSc in Econometrics need a GRE with a minimum quantitative score of 160. Always verify on the university website.