---

The Faculty of Medicine VU Amsterdam is the medical faculty of Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam), closely integrated with Amsterdam UMC.

Located in Amsterdam, this faculty is internationally recognized for clinical education, biomedical research, and innovation in healthcare. The program combines early clinical exposure, strong scientific training, and opportunities for research, preparing students for careers as physicians, researchers, and healthcare leaders.

---

Admission Process

1. Entry Requirements

The medical program follows a 6-year structure (Bachelor + Master). Applicants must have:

• Equivalent of the Dutch VWO diploma
• Required subjects: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics
• Dutch language proficiency (the standard program is taught in Dutch)

The program operates under numerus fixus, which limits annual enrollment and makes admission highly competitive.

---

2. Selection Procedure

Selection is based on:

• Academic performance and grades
• Selection examinations
• Motivation letters
• Decentralized admission procedures

International students must ensure diploma recognition and Dutch language competency.

---

Course and Curriculum

Years 1–3: Bachelor of Medicine

• Biomedical Sciences Foundation
• Early patient contact
• Problem-based and case-based learning
• Clinical skills development
• Research methodology

Years 4–6: Master of Medicine

• Clinical rotations at Amsterdam UMC
• Core specialties:
  • Internal Medicine
  • Surgery
  • Pediatrics
  • Psychiatry
  • Obstetrics & Gynecology
  • Neurology
• Research internship
• Electives (including international placements)

Graduates earn the Dutch medical degree and may register as basic physicians (basisarts) before entering specialist training.

---

Prospects After Graduation

Graduates can:

• Register as physicians in the Netherlands
• Enter competitive residency programs
• Pursue research or PhD opportunities
• Work in hospitals, public health, or academia

VU Amsterdam’s strong research focus provides opportunities for careers in academic medicine, clinical practice, and innovation.

---

Life as a Doctor in the Netherlands

Work Environment

Doctors in the Netherlands enjoy:

• Regulated working hours and structured residency
• Strong work-life balance
• Patient-centered, collaborative healthcare culture

Career & Salary

Physician salaries increase with specialization. The Dutch healthcare system is:

• Universal and insurance-based
• Primary care-focused and research-driven
• Quality-controlled and structured

International graduates must complete licensing and Dutch language requirements to practice.