Frequently Asked Questions

Is Azusa accredited or government recognized?

According to the Dutch legal regulations governing higher education in The Netherlands, Azusa is an accredited University of Professional Education.   You may go to the following websites for a diagram and explanation of the Dutch education system.  Structure of Dutch Education System  or Study in Holland

Are students at Azusa eligible for government grants?

Students who are Dutch citizens or who have permanent residence in the Netherlands, age 30 and under, are usually eligible and have a rights to loans and scholarships.  Those who come from other EU countries, according to the European Court of Justice also may be eligible.  Loans and scholarships, even those which cover maintenance costs, fall under European Union law.  To obtain information on eligibility and the process for applying for these funds go to: IB Groep - Student Grants

Grants are ONLY available for full-time students.

What are the requirements for becoming a student at Azusa? What is the program of study that is offered?

Please refer to the Study Guide 2007-08 for this information.  Click here to view this document.

How do I apply to become a student?  How long does the application process take?

There are a couple of ways to apply for student status at Azusa.  You may call or write and ask us to send you an application and reference forms.  Or you may download the application and reference forms from this website.  You should submit your application at least three months prior to your intended arrival.  If you are from outside the EU/EEA and need a Student Visa, more time will be needed for the process. It could take 3-4 months to process your application, receive and process our reference forms and for you to receive a Student Visa.  Click on the form you want to download: application form; reference form.

How will I be informed if I am accepted as a student?

You will be informed within two weeks upon the completion of your application process by letter and/or email.

Do I need a student Visa to study at Azusa?

If you are an EU/EEA citizen or a citizen from any of the other listed countries you do not need a visa prior to coming to The Netherlands:  Austria, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, New Zealand, Northern Ireland, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, United States of America, Vatican City State.

However, there are regulations that you should be aware of before coming to study in The Netherlands.  Upon arrival in the Netherlands you must register at the local town hall and apply for an ID card.  Carefully read the information on the following website regarding visas, residence permits and work permits.  Study in Holland

If you are a citizen of any other country than those listed above, you must apply for a student visa (MVV) according to Dutch immigration laws prior to coming to The Netherlands. 

If you are living in The Netherlands and are “in process” you should contact us to discuss your options.

What is the procedure for obtaining a student visa (MVV)?

Azusa does not issue visas.  This is only a governmental process.  We will file the visa application papers for you.  However, you must complete the required information forms in the Guidelines and Questionnaire for MVV - student visa and complete the financial obligations and supply all verified documentation.  We will assist you in the process as much as is our responsibility and we are able.  However, you are responsible to follow the procedures. 

Is it possible to be a part-time student?

Yes, we welcome part-time students.  You must follow the same application procedure as for full time students.  Please note that student visas are NOT given for part-time students.

How much does it cost for part-time students?

The tuition fees for part-time study are based on an amount (€) per study point.  The current amount is listed on our Schedule of Fees.  Most of the Azusa classes are 2 or 3 study points.  This does not include the cost of books or other fees.  Each class will require different books that will have a variety of prices.  There are also student fees for the use of the library and computer lab for all students.

How much does it cost for full-time students?

Please refer to our Schedule of Fees for the current tuition rates.  There are additional costs for books, student fees, etc.  The cost for staying in Amsterdam will depend on your choice of your own living accommodations.  See the note below about housing.

How do I pay or transfer funds for fees and tuition costs to Azusa?

We accept Euros or a bank transfer to one of our accounts. 

Giro 4353483  

RABOBank account number: 30.55.90.200  / IBAN: NL60 RABO 0305 5902 00  /  BIC: RABONL2U

Is campus housing available?  How do I locate housing near Azusa?

Azusa shares the campus of the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam where there is no on campus housing, i.e., dormitories, apartments.  There is a housing office at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam that will help you locate student housing near the campus. This must be done several months prior to your arrival.  The other option is to contact a friend who lives in the Netherlands or a local pastor for help.

Also click on the following websites for information:

Looking for a room in Amsterdam - VU site

Studying and living in Amsterdam

Students for students - living in Amsterdam

Kamernet

You are responsible to secure your own acceptable housing. 

Where do Azusa classes meet?

All classes meet on the campus of the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam.  We are privileged to share their facilities and resources.

Where are the Azusa offices?

Our offices are located on the 13^th and 14th floors of the main building of the Vrije Universiteit in the Faculty of Theology.  Our main office is 13A-12.

When do classes begin?

School usually begins on the last week of August with an introduction week.  Classes begin on the first week of September. Please refer to the current school calendar.  The exact days and hours of the individual classes are listed on the class schedule.

How do I get to Azusa?

There are several ways to get to Azusa.  Since we share the facilities of the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam you can find complete instruction by following the instructions on this website:  Directions to Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam - click on Route description.

Are credits from other seminaries, colleges or universities accepted by Azusa?

All prior learning experiences will be evaluated on an individual basis.  The criteria for acceptance of any credits for advanced standing are determined by the Dutch education code and current Azusa policy.  You should submit certified copies of your previous transcripts for evaluation.

What is the language proficiency requirement for studying in English at Azusa?

We accept students with a minimum score of 450 on the paper based TOEFL, 135 on the computer based exam and 45 on the Internet based exam.  We also accept students with a score of 68 on the Michigan Proficiency Exam.  We will evaluate scores from other standardized English exams and your previous education in English on a case by case basis.

NB:  Azusa reserves the right to change any information on this FAQ without prior notice that may reflect changes in policy.

Please call us for more information at: +31(0)20.598.66.98   Ask for Huib Zegwaart or Jim Rossi   Or email us at: info@azusa.nl or  jim.rossi@agmd.org

© 2005: Azusa Theological Seminary