VISA Q&A
Everything you need to know about VISA
Comprehensive student services for your entire MBA journey
Supported from day one—and every day after
Your AAoL experience goes far beyond the classroom. From the moment you accept your offer until long after graduation, our student support system helps you navigate academic challenges, build your career, maintain your wellbeing, and thrive in Amsterdam. You're never alone in this journey.
AAoL got you covered
Your complete support system
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Academic support
Stay on track academically with regular advisor check-ins, course selection guidance, and study strategy support. Whether you’re excelling or struggling, we ensure you have the resources and encouragement to succeed.
Personal leadership coaching
Your dedicated leadership coach focuses entirely on your personal development—identifying strengths, addressing blind spots, and crafting your authentic leadership style. This isn’t therapy; it’s professional development tailored to you.
Career services
Transform your MBA into career advancement with professional guidance, resume reviews, interview preparation, and direct connections to Amsterdam’s business ecosystem. We help you articulate your value and land opportunities.
Health & wellbeing
Your health matters. Access resources for physical and mental wellbeing, understand Dutch healthcare, and get support when you need it. Studying abroad is rewarding but can be challenging—we’re here to help.
Social integration
Build your Amsterdam network beyond AAoL through structured opportunities to meet international students, join activities, and discover the city’s social scene. Your MBA cohort is amazing, but your network should be even bigger.
Practical student support
Navigate Dutch bureaucracy, understand your rights as an international student, and get help with everyday challenges. From residence permit renewals to dealing with difficult landlords—we’ve got your back.
All the essentials
Living in Amsterdam
Learn more about how AAoL helps smoothen your next chapter in life: leadership MBA in Amsterdam
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Frequently Asked Questions
If there any challenges that occur during your stay or application, we are there to help you. In the meantime you can always look at our frequently asked questions.
A: International students with residence permits can work up to 16 hours per week during the academic year, or full-time during official holiday periods. Your student visa includes this work authorization. We provide guidance on finding part-time opportunities, though our intensive MBA schedule makes working challenging for most students.
A: This is completely normal for international students. Connect with your leadership coach, join student social activities, and reach out to our wellbeing support team. We can also connect you with counseling resources. Many students find that staying busy with cohort activities and exploring Amsterdam helps tremendously.
A: The Netherlands offers a “zoekjaar” (search year) permit that allows you to stay for one year after graduation to find work. We provide guidance on applying for this during your final semester. Many AAoL graduates use this to launch careers in the Netherlands or elsewhere in Europe.
A: Contact your academic advisor (for academic/cohort conflicts) or housing coordinator (for housing issues) immediately. We provide mediation support and help resolve conflicts constructively. Don’t let small issues become big problems.
A: Absolutely. Once you have your residence permit and registered address, family members can apply for tourist visas to visit. Having a Dutch address actually makes their visa applications easier to approve.
A: Amsterdam is incredibly diverse and accommodating. We help you find halal/kosher food options, prayer spaces, vegetarian/vegan restaurants, and connect you with relevant student communities. Your housing coordinator can also help find accommodation that meets your specific needs.
A: Yes, absolutely. All wellbeing and mental health services are completely confidential. Your personal information is protected, and seeking support never impacts your academic standing or future opportunities.
A: Life happens. If you need to pause your studies due to health, family, or personal circumstances, contact your academic advisor immediately. We’ll discuss your options, help you understand visa implications, and create a plan for your return. Many students have successfully taken leaves and returned to complete their MBA.
A: We provide connections to international student organizations, professional networking groups, sports clubs, volunteer opportunities, and cultural associations. Amsterdam has a thriving international community—we help you find your place in it.
You're not just getting an MBA—you're joining a community
AAoL students become part of a tight-knit international community that extends far beyond graduation. From your first day in Amsterdam to years into your career, you’ll have a network of fellow leaders who understand your journey because they lived it alongside you.
- 🌍 Alumni network spanning industries and continents
- 💼 Lifetime access to career support and coaching resources
- 🎓 Invitations to AAoL events, workshops, and reunions
- 🤝 Mentorship opportunities with graduates who've been where you are
- 👥 A global family of leaders who support each other's success
