Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Vrije Universiteit Faculty of Economics and Business Administration
Exchange program for Business students

Location
Vrije Universiteit (Free University) is located in Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands. Amsterdam is unusual in that it has all the advantages of a big city – culture, history, food, entertainment, and good public transport – with relatively few of the disadvantages: it is physically small, beautiful, relatively quiet and, largely thanks to its canals, has relatively little traffic. This university of 17,000 students is located in the southwest of the city and is easily reached by public transport. The Netherlands has a maritime climate, bringing lots of rain and only moderate variations in temperature between the four seasons.

Program of Study
Students take English-medium business classes from professors well-known in their fields. Classes in other disciplines are also available, and students may take a beginning Dutch language course for an additional €400. Courses are usually taught through a mix of large lectures and small group tutorials. Each semester consists of 2 periods, in each of which students usually take 2 classes. Courses are available in such areas as economics, management, and marketing.  Grading scale:  9-10 = Berry A   8 = A-   7 = B   6 = C   5.5 – 5.9 = D  below 5.5 = F

Living Arrangements
Students live in the Vrije University Guesthouse for exchange students or other university housing. Accommodation consists of furnished rooms with private or shared facilities.

Costs

Students pay Berry College semester tuition.  Meals are self-catered, and housing fees are between €1350 (about $1900) and €2300 ($3200) per semester. Upon arrival a deposit of €450 ($625) must be paid. Students purchase insurance of $30/month and should budget $650/month for food and personal expenses.  There is a €410 ($560) residence card fee.  Prices are subject to change, and other fees may apply. 

Eligibility
Juniors and seniors with a minimum 3.0 GPA are encouraged to apply for selection. This program requires a great deal of independent study.

What Berry Students Say

I literally have met people from everywhere! The cultural differences make it SO tough to work with.  We just see everything differently, so if nothing else, I'm learning how to adapt . . . I guess that's just part of this enriching phase!