Entry requirements
For admission to the Bioinformatics and Systems Biology Master's programme it is required to hold at least a Bachelor's degree from an accredited research university, with at least three full years of academic study amounting to a minimum of 180 ECTS or equivalent. The programme is aimed at science bachelor graduates (chemistry, biology, biotechnology, biomedical sciences, artificial intelligence, computer science, mathematics, physics or similar) with a strong interest in biological research topics and computational (quantitative) methods. The master requires proficiency in three key subjects: Mathematics, Programming, and (Molecular) Biology. If you have had prior training in all three key subjects you are directly admissible, if in two of the three key subjects, your GPA should be at least 6.5 on the Dutch 10 point scale (the VU international office will translate your grades to this scale); if only in one key subject, your GPA needs to be at least 7.0. In all other cases, you will be directed to our pre-master programme, which depending on your prior training and background, consists of a selection of the courses that are listed below.
For your admission you are requested to provide:
- Your Curriculum Vitae
- A motivation letter of at most one A4. This letter should contain one paragraph on why you would like to enrol into this programme. Most importantly, for each of the three key subjects Mathematics, Programming and Molecular Biology state your proficiency and what you worked on during the MSc. Please clearly indicate which courses, programs or other activities prove sufficient training and background in these subjects.
- An official transcript of your academic grades, including your GPA.
- Proof of English proficiency (can also be provided after conditional admission).
- Thesis (or alternative piece of academic writing)
- A description of the relevant courses followed and literature used during your previous higher education
General English language proficiency requirements
VU Amsterdam requires all applicants to take an English test. You can, however, begin your application without having the test results. Exceptions are made for students who have completed a bachelor or master in Canada, USA, UK, Ireland, New Zealand or Australia.
The minimum English language proficiency requirements for admission to this master programme are:
- IELTS: 6.5 overall
- TOEFL Internet-based test: 92 overall
- Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English (CAE): A, B, C
- Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): A, B, C
