Practical steps towards choosing your Master’s

Before you choose a Master’s programme, you need to be clear about what it is that you want and what your capabilities are. We recommend that you take some time to explore the options so you can make a choice that suits you.

• Perhaps you are considering doing a Master’s programme abroad.
• Or maybe a Research Master’s programme that prepares you for a PhD?
• Are you looking for something more practical? Dual masters have a unique combination of learning and working and are therefore a perfect academic preparation for a particular profession.

Through the Master's choice e-learningExternal link you can be helped in the process of choosing your Master's at your own pace and initiative. The module is non-binding; there are no costs or credits involved.

Selection

An increasing number of Master’s programmes are applying entry-level selection. Each Master’s programme can set its own admission requirements for prospective students and the deadline for applications can vary according to the university or faculty. It is important that you understand the procedure and know what you need to submit and when. The sooner you know what requirements apply for your preferred Master’s programme, the better placed you will be to take full advantage of the options. For example, you will be able to make strategic choices about the electives you opt for or take extracurricular courses. You can find further information on the degree programme page on Canvas.

If you are looking for tips on writing a motivation letter for a Master’s degree programme, be sure to take a look at this page. If you have any concerns about a selection procedure, you can book an individual appointment with one of our careers advisers.

Pre-Master's programme

You will need to take a Pre-Master’s or bridging programme if the subject area of your university Bachelor’s degree certificate does not match the Master’s programme you have chosen. In some cases, it is only possible to start the Master’s programme if you already have a Bachelor’s in the same subject area. Pre-Master’s programmes last between six months and a year.

Start of Master’s programmes

The start date for most Master’s programmes is in September. Some Master’s also allow February entry.

Your financial situation can be a key factor in your choice of Master’s.

Tuition fee calculator

Go to uva.nl to see the current tuition feesExternal link for your the programme you're interested in.

Loans and scholarships

On the UvA website you can find out about UvA scholarships and loansExternal link and living expensesExternal link. 

Consider how you plan to pay for your Master’s

In addition to student grants and loans from the government, there are also other ways to pay for your studies. You might consider whether you have time for a job alongside your Master’s. Perhaps you have some savings set aside or your parents are willing to make a contribution? Whatever your circumstances, it is very important to consider how to pay before starting a Master’s programme.