Application and admission

Specific entry requirements

Applicants must hold a Dutch Bachelor's degree or its equivalent in

• Biomedical Sciences
• Psychobiology
• Psychology
• Cognitive Science
• Artificial Intelligence
• Computer Science
• Linguistics 
• Philosophy

Applicants with Bachelor's degrees in other fields may also be admitted provided they have an adequate academic background in the field of neuroscience and/or cognitive sciences.

Grade Point Average and Motivation

Applicants are expected to have an overall grade point average (GPA) equivalent to at least:

• 3.5 (GPA American system)
• 2.1 (a 2nd class honours / upper division British system)
• 7,5 (Dutch EC-system)

Admission, however, will not be granted based on a sufficient grade point average alone. Applicants are also assessed on the basis of their motivation and the content of their prior coursework. Motivation is assessed on the basis of a written letter of intent. Applicants' prior academic coursework should demonstrate their active interest in cognitive and/ or neural research.

References

Applicants must submit two letters of reference from academic staff members at their degree institution testifying to the applicant's ability to conduct independent research and report on the results.

The Master Brain and Cognitive Sciences uses a specific format for these references. Please make sure the referee uses the reference form that can be downloaded by following the link below. This can be filled out digitally, but we would like to point out that we need the academic staff members' original signatures.

Intake

Applicants may be invited to an admission interview with the programme manager. This interview is used to determine students' motivation, academic potential and progress and ambition. The programme manager and the Board of Examiners consult to determine whether the student is suited for admission to the Research Master's programme in Brain and Cognitive Sciences.

Deadline

• Dutch students should apply before April 15 (after this date - first come first serve policy)
• EU/EEA students are advised to apply before April 1 (if you apply later then May 1, then please first contact the International Office)
• Non-EU/EEA students are advised to apply before February 1

In case you missed the deadline or if you cannot submit the necessary documents on time, please contact us through the emailaddress below.

Application procedure International students

International applicants must also fulfil the general entry requirements set by the Faculty of Science regarding proficiency in English. For this information and more information on the application procedure for international students, please follow the link below.

Application procedure Dutch students

Dutch applicants must fill out the Brain and Cognitive Sciences Application Form and opt for the track of their choice. (International Students apply via the international office, see application procedure -international students).

Applicants should submit the following:

• A completed application form (see link below)
• One passport photo (please write your name on the back).
• A statement of motivation. State in about 300 words the reasons why you wish to attend the programme.
• Certified copies of all academic diplomas. All copies of diplomas must have the seal and the signature of the school administration.
• Official transcripts of all university courses/examinations taken, and credits and grades obtained.
• Two letters of reference from academic staff members (see link above for format reference letter).
• Curriculum vitae.
• A copy of your passport (identity-page) or identity card.
• Written work (preferably the BA thesis or third year paper assignment).

Only complete applications will be taken into consideration. Please download the application form below, and send a completed version together with all other required documents to:

Institute for Interdisciplinary Studies (IIS)
Master Brain and Cognitive Sciences Application form
Sarphatistraat 104
1018 GV Amsterdam

Further information for Dutch students:

Dutch students can contact the study advisors for further questions regarding admission requirements or the application procedure.