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Program Overview
Program Overview
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Popular Subject Areas
Multi-Disciplinary Studies with a Fieldwork Component
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Location
Amsterdam
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Host University
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
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Term
Summer 2 2025
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Program Dates
Late Jul, 2025 - Early Aug, 2025
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Program Length
Summer
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Application Deadline
Mar 25, 2025
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Forms and Payment Deadline
Apr 10, 2025
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Credit
3 ECTS Credits
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Eligibility
3.00 Minimum GPA*
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Cost
$4,450
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Study Abroad Program Description
In this interdisciplinary and academically rigorous program at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU), you will take an intensive, in-depth look into your chosen course of study. All classes are instructed in English with other international students. Course offerings are highly specialized, focusing on research methodology across various disciplines. Each course also has an experiential learning component. You will use Amsterdam as your classroom as labs, field trips, and other activities facilitate deeper engagement with course material.
You will make course selections upon application to the program. This is a tentative selection as admission into all courses is dependent upon approval by the host university; VU will vet your completion of the stated pre-requisites before granting admission to a course.
VU follows a modular academic structure. The summer is divided into two sessions (called blocks) which are each two weeks in length. You will take one course during each block that correspond with the program title.
*Eligibility
MINIMUM GPA
Students must have a minimum grade point average of 3.00.
MINIMUM ADMISSIONS PREREQUISITES
There is no language prerequisite for this program.
- You must hold at least a Sophomore standing at the time of study.
- You must submit a recent resume and letter of intent before your application is considered complete.
What's Included
Comprehensive Advising and Support
Comprehensive Advising and Support
A team of helpful ISA staff members is here to support you through the entire study abroad process, from finding the perfect program through re-entry. The Program Advisors will help you choose your program based on your unique objectives. Once you’ve selected your program, you will work with your Program Manager on the application process as well as pre-departure forms and finances. Your Program Manager will also assist with academics, housing, visas, and city-living/cultural guidance.
In addition to individual advising, you will receive virtual resources to help prepare you for your time abroad. This includes the ISA Student Portal, which houses your program application, pre-departure forms/resources, and the online orientation. The online orientation is a pre-cursor to the on-site orientations and offers city-specific resources about living in your host city, communication, packing, diversity abroad, how to be academically successful, and more.
24-Hour Emergency
24-Hour Emergency
The ISA Health, Safety, and Security team facilitates an in-house on-call system with a U.S.-based employee and manager who are on-call and available in case of emergency 24-7. ISA regular office hours are Monday through Thursday, 7:00am - 7:00pm and Friday, 7:00am - 5:00pm Central Time.
If you are a parent or student needing assistance in an emergency situation outside of the regular office hours, please call the ISA office at 512-480-8522 to access the ISA emergency contact information for that particular week. Students who experience an emergency while abroad will also have access to on-site staff 24-hour emergency assistance.
Comprehensive Health, Safety, and Security Support
Comprehensive Health, Safety, and Security Support
Health, Safety, and Security (HSS) for ISA students is jointly managed by our resident staff and HSS team. This team works to monitor risk at program locations, respond to any crises that may arise, and develop policies to further ensure the health, safety, and security of students abroad with ISA.
Airport Reception*
Airport Reception*
Ground transportation is provided from the airport as long as you arrive during the ISA designated arrival date and time and at the appropriate airport. Upon acceptance into your program, you will receive the “How to Book Your Flight” form which outlines the specific details for airport reception.
*Airport reception is not provided for most Intensive Month or J-Term programs, as well as programs that combine 2 intensive months, such as Quarter programs.
Visa Support
Visa Support
Your ISA Program Manager will be available to help you with the visa process for your program country, if applicable. They will provide resources, guidance on necessary steps to obtain your visa, and deliver supporting visa application materials to you as needed.
Tuition at the Host University
Tuition at the Host University
Tuition and administrative fees at the host university are included in the program price. Classes are held at the host university and are taught by local and/or visiting faculty. Some classes will have additional fees that are not included in the program price.
Housing
Housing
Housing is guaranteed and included in the price of all ISA programs, with the exception of Pacific programs, in which housing is offered at an additional cost. Accommodation options will vary according to program site and session. For more details about ISA's housing options and applicable security deposits, please refer to the housing tab for your program of interest.
Bridging Cultures Orientation
Bridging Cultures Orientation
The Bridging Cultures Orientation will be delivered to you in the first few days of your time abroad. It is designed to prepare you for a successful, positive, and rewarding experience that will influence the rest of your life. This is accomplished through introducing you to your host city’s culture and infrastructure as well as through goal setting, intercultural awareness, diversity and professional development activities.
Internet Access
Internet Access
As an ISA student, you will enjoy free internet access at ISA on-site offices, computer labs at the host university, and/or your ISA housing.
ISA Discovery Model
ISA Discovery Model
ISA programs facilitate learning and development through co-curricular activities. We rely on host universities to provide quality instruction in the classroom, but ISA is the main facilitator of learning outside of the classroom. Efforts to promote student learning are shaped by a teaching and learning framework we call the ISA Discovery Model.
According to this model, student learning and development is organized into five areas of discovery: 1. Intercultural, 2. Historical, 3. Sociopolitical, 4. Professional and 5. Environmental
Throughout the duration of your ISA program, we provide you with the opportunity to pursue these five areas of discovery through the Bridging Cultures Orientation, excursions, cultural activities, and references to non-ISA sponsored events and opportunities.
Excursions*
Excursions*
Organized excursions are included with each program to complement the academic component of your abroad experience. These complementary experiences are designed to engage student learning outside of the classroom in the five areas of the Discovery Model. Transportation and guided tours are included, as well as hotel accommodations and breakfast during multi-day excursions. Additional optional excursions may be offered during each program that are not included in the program cost.
*Excursions are not included for Intensive Month, J-Term, some summer sessions, as well as some programs that combine 2 intensive months, such as Quarter programs.
Cultural Activities
Cultural Activities
The ISA program staff develops unique cultural activities custom-designed to invite you to experience the local color of your host city, while learning about the history and culture of your new surroundings. Speaking the native language with locals, tasting the regional cuisine, and partaking in the native traditions are only a few of the ways these cultural activities lead to full appreciation of the program city.
Insurance
Insurance
A Blanket Accident and Sickness Policy is included in the program and covers you during the official on-site period of the program. This is not an optional benefit; every ISA participant will be covered by this policy. A full description of coverage can be found on the ISA website.
We recommend that you maintain comprehensive health insurance while abroad. This is particularly important if you have any pre-existing conditions but is also beneficial if you have an injury or illness while abroad and require further treatment upon your return home. Please be sure to consult with your current insurance provider to confirm coverage policies while traveling abroad.
Official Transcript from the Host University
Official Transcript from the Host University
Upon completion of the ISA program, your host university will issue an official transcript with all coursework taken abroad. ISA's Academic Records Department will process and forward the official transcript to the appropriate office at your home university, and a photocopy will be sent to your permanent home address for your records. ISA will provide a cover letter to accompany the transcript with important academic information, including the host university's grading system and recommended U.S. letter grade equivalencies, translated course titles, and credit conversion recommendations.
Professional Development Toolbox
Professional Development Toolbox
The Professional Development Toolbox, available in the online orientation section of the student portal, will help you identify the skills and key competencies you have developed through your personal, academic, and cultural experiences. This toolbox helps you to articulate the transferable skills developed through study abroad in a way that shows potential employers or post-graduate universities the benefits our you will provide them as a direct result of your experience abroad.
Full-Time Resident Staff
Full-Time Resident Staff
The full-time resident staff is available to assist you with all aspects of your experience abroad. The resident staff provides support during official course registration and arranges the Bridging Cultures Program orientation, excursions, weekly meetings, cultural activities, and much more. Staff members are trained to ensure the well-being of each program participant and are dedicated to facilitating a positive and meaningful study abroad experience.
Scholarship Opportunities
Scholarship Opportunities
As an ISA participant, you will have the opportunity to apply for scholarships or grants that can be applied directly to assist with your study abroad program. ISA offers over $1,000,000 in scholarships and grants each year. To see what opportunities are available, please visit the Support & Funding page.
Academics
Credits
ECTS Credits
3
Contact Hours
45
Recommended U.S. Semester Credits
3
Recommended U.S. Quarter Units
4
Academic Information
Course Availability
- This program is primarily for Juniors and Seniors. There are a few courses for Freshman and Sophomore level students, look for "Beginner" in the course description.
- All students are required to indicate course selection upon application to the program. This is a tentative selection as all course eligibility will be determined by VU.
- Additional upper division courses may be available.
- Students are expected to complete self-study hours in order to keep up with class material.
- Requests for detailed course descriptions can be made to the Amsterdam Program Manager.
Course Selection
- Eligibility for courses is dependent upon the fulfillment of the posted pre-requisites. Please note that local VU students are on an academic track very different than in the US; they do not take general education courses and are often at a higher level of study than their US counterparts within the same discipline.
- All course selections are dependent upon approval from VU.
- The academic structure at VU is different than in the US with exams totaling up to 100% of final grade. Please consider each course’s assessment techniques as you make your course selection.
Course Credit and Transcripts
- Credits earned vary according to the policies of the students' home institutions. According to ISA policy and possible visa requirements, students must maintain full-time enrollment status, as determined by their home institutions, for the duration of the program.
- ISA recommends 3 U.S. semester credits/4.5 quarter units per 45 contact hours. Credit transfer is ultimately determined by the student's home university.
- Upon program completion, students will receive an official transcript issued by VU. The transcript will reflect ECTS credits for all courses taken.
Courses
Support & Funding
ISA is here to support you when it comes to navigating identity questions related to traveling abroad, providing resources and information for your accessibility needs, and identifying funding for your program abroad.
SUPPORT TEAM
Our U.S. staff is available to support you though every stage of your study abroad journey. Please reach out with any questions about ISA programs or life on-site to your country-specific Program Manager.
Our on-site staff are there for you as soon as you arrive in country and will support you throughout your time abroad.
U.S. Team
Drew Beasley
Program Manager, Czech Republic, Germany, & the Netherlands
Drew's journey in experiential education all started while traveling through Indonesia and Fiji on his gap year. Feeling refreshed and transformed, Drew embraced every opportunity to study abroad while attending DePaul University. Drew has studied film in Rome, received a teaching certificate in Prague, backpacked through Patagonia, and lead diving trips in Belize. When not abroad, Drew works closely with the Gap Year Association and currently serves on their board of directors. At ISA, Drew is thrilled to help students study abroad and fall in love with new cities and countries around the world.
Jessie Llerena
Region & Account Manager, Europe
Born and raised in New Jersey, Jessie graduated from Rutgers University with a B.A in Psychology. Her love for traveling started at a young age from visiting family back home in Ecuador. She is passionate about helping people and delivering high quality care. In her free time, she likes to spend time with family and friends, play with her dog, Cash, work out, and travel (of course!). Jessie finds that studying abroad is important to learn about different cultures, as it creates lasting relationships and memories. She is excited to be a part of the ISA team and to support students through their studies overseas
AMSTERDAM TEAM
Lindsey Turneau
Resident Director, The Netherlands
Lindsey Turneau
Resident Director
Lindsey studied American History at Meredith College, where she was fortunate enough to study abroad three times (an Italy/ England program, Sweden & Sri Lanka). Studying abroad changed her perspective on the world and quite frankly, her life! Since 2008, she and her husband have lived in Singapore, Italy, Poland, Denmark and now The Netherlands. Two kids and a cat later, she’s very happy to share everything she loves about Amsterdam and Dutch life with students. In addition to travel, she is most happy being with her family and riding her bakfiets!
Identity Resources
Accessibility & Accommodations
With our wide portfolio of program types and locations, we’re confident there is a suitable, accessible program for each student.
Securing accommodations abroad can take time, so we ask that those with requests inform ISA early in the advising process. We recommend reaching out to your Program Manager or our Accessibility Team (accessibilityteam@worldstrides.com) to discuss your accessibility needs or accommodations abroad.
Destination Information
Our diversity pages for each ISA destination include information on Indigenous communities, languages, race and ethnicity, religion, LGBTQIA+, and disability access. We hope it will help when reflecting upon and contextualizing intersectionality in your host community.
Identity Blog
ISA offers students the opportunity to blog about their experiences abroad from their own diverse perspectives. These posts can be found on the ISA Student Blog, and interested students should email diversity@studiesabroad.com for more information.
Funding
All students should have the opportunity to study abroad. To help make this a reality, ISA offers a variety of scholarships to help cover your study abroad costs. To learn more about our scholarship opportunities, check out our scholarships & grants page!
If you receive financial aid from your home university, you can likely use those funds for study abroad, as well. Speak with your home university’s financial aid office to learn about your options. Check out steps for using financial aid.
Questions about scholarships and funding? Email us at higheredfinaid@worldstrides.org
Housing
Living in ISA housing will allow you the opportunity to experience aspects of the local lifestyle that are inaccessible to the average visitor. Regardless of your housing option, you will commute to your host university by public transportation or bike. With an open and adaptable mind, the experience of living in another culture can be highly rewarding.
We strive to match your housing preferences with our available accommodations, however, housing preference requests cannot be guaranteed.
Student Residence
While in Amsterdam you will be housed at an apartment-style student residence. The location may vary and will be in the greater Amsterdam area, accessible via public transportation and/or bicycle. Bedrooms and living spaces may be individual or shared, depending on availability.
You will pay a $300 refundable security deposit if living in this ISA housing option. ISA may retain some, or all, of this deposit in the event of damage to property, or if utility usage exceeds the allotted monthly amount.
Independent Housing
You may elect to secure housing independently. If you select this option, you will receive a discount equal to the housing portion of the program price.
Excursions
THERE’S MORE TO DISCOVER WITH ISA
Excursions are not included in this session, however, while you are abroad, you will have the opportunity to take part in cultural activities offered by the ISA resident staff.
Cultural Activities in Amsterdam
The ISA on-site team encourages you to explore the city and culture of Amsterdam. The team facilitates this by offering a robust calendar of events that showcases what makes Amsterdam special.
These activities vary each term, and previous offerings have included a walking and canal tour of the city, cheese and wine tasting, tour of Dutch National Opera and Ballet, stroopwafel tasting, and attending a classical musical rehearsal concert at the Royal Concertgebouw.
Cultural Activities in Amsterdam
The ISA on-site team encourages you to explore the city and culture of Amsterdam. The team facilitates this by offering a robust calendar of events that showcases what makes Amsterdam special.
These activities vary each term, and previous offerings have included a walking and canal tour of the city, cheese and wine tasting, tour of Dutch National Opera and Ballet, stroopwafel tasting, and attending a classical musical rehearsal concert at the Royal Concertgebouw.