Frequently Asked Questions
Check out the answers to frequently asked questions at IBHS. From specific details to general information, we’ll make sure you’re well-informed. Your questions, our answers—everything you need for a smooth start
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About IBHS
When can you start a program at IBHS | SDO University of Applied Sciences?
IBHS offers two start dates. Students can begin their studies in October or in January.
I'm a new student. What's the process for starting in January?
Students starting in January begin with an individualized program so that they can enter the program fully prepared.
Do I need to register by May 1?
Depending on available spots, you can still enroll late with us. As a private, non-publicly funded school, we do not follow the May 1 rule. So if you’re still taking makeup exams or would prefer to transfer, you can enroll late. Of course, you can also enroll now to secure a spot in the program.
Is there also a program for international students?
The language of instruction at IBHS | SDO University of Applied Sciences is Dutch. This automatically means that all students must be proficient in Dutch. If international students wish to study at IBHS | SDO University of Applied Sciences, they will follow the same program as students with Dutch citizenship.
What is the relationship between IBHS and SDO University of Applied Sciences?
SDO University of Applied Sciences is the accredited institution responsible for delivering education, conducting examinations, and awarding degrees. IBHS | SDO University of Applied Sciences is the brand under which SDO University of Applied Sciences offers full-time programs. This brand was created because the abbreviation SDO (Stichting Deeltijd Opleidingen) causes confusion among full-time students. SDO University of Applied Sciences is the accredited educational institution that provides instruction and conducts examinations, and from which students receive their diplomas. This is noted on the IBHS website under “Procedures” in the FAQ section and in the exam schedule. This is also explicitly stated in the study agreement (registration form) and is visible in the layout of our campus on Prinsengracht in Amsterdam.
I suffer from fear of failure. Can I get help?
In our small, intimate setting, all students receive the guidance they need to reach their full potential.
I have dyslexia/dyscalculia. Is this taken into account?
Students who can provide a diagnosis of dyslexia or dyscalculia may receive additional accommodations (such as extra time on exams) through the SDO University of Applied Sciences Exam Committee. Depending on the type of dyslexia or dyscalculia you have, we’ll work with you to find a solution that’s right for you.
What prior education is required?
Our admission requirements include a VWO, HAVO, or MBO4 diploma (all tracks) or a so-called 21+ admission test. The 21+ test is administered at IBHS | SDO University of Applied Sciences by mutual agreement.
What does IBHS | SDO University of Applied Sciences think about artificial intelligence (AI)?
IBHS | SDO University of Applied Sciences encourages the use of AI to teach students how to work with it and take advantage of its positive potential. At the same time, we teach our students to be mindful of AI’s use and highlight its downsides. We have updated our curriculum and corresponding assessment methods. For example, we have introduced more and more diverse assessment methods and have expanded and deepened our assignments. We use software to check for plagiarism and the use of AI. We have also added more oral exams. Through oral exams (presentations), examiners can effectively verify that the submitted work is indeed the result of the student’s own efforts.
I haven't finished my vocational education yet. Can I enroll at IBHS | SDO University of Applied Sciences?
Does your prior education not sufficiently align with the program you wish to pursue? If so, an intake interview and assessment will be scheduled with you. Based on the interview and assessment, there is a chance that you will still be admitted to the program.
Can I take the 21+ entrance exam?
At IBHS | SDO University of Applied Sciences, students can take a 21+ test by arrangement.
What are the annual tuition costs?
The program costs €19,500 per year.
Should tuition be paid annually, monthly, or in installments?
Every student has the option to pay the amount in a single payment or in monthly installments. If you pay the tuition in a single payment, you will receive a €500 refund to your account.
Can I finance the program through DUO?
You can finance your studies at IBHS | SDO University of Applied Sciences through DUO. Visit the DUO website for more information on applying for student financial aid.
Are there any additional costs, such as a field trip, clothing, etc.?
In addition to tuition, there is a €500 registration fee, the cost of the annual business trip (depending on the location), a laptop, and any additional study materials (you will receive access to the digital learning environment and standard textbooks free of charge through IBHS).
What kind of accredited diploma will I receive upon completion of the program?
After earning the required credits, you will receive a legally recognized diploma from SDO University of Applied Sciences.
The CROHO numbers for the programs offered by SDO University of Applied Sciences are 34035 (bachelor’s) and 80074 (AD).
The curriculum is described in detail in SDO University of Applied Sciences’ Education and Examination Regulations (OER). These regulations can be found on our website.
Which books should I buy?
At the start of each academic term, you will receive the required textbooks free of charge through IBHS; any elective textbooks are at your own expense.
If I get sick, will I get my tuition refund?
In the unlikely event that you become so ill that you are unable to come to work for an extended period, we will work together to find a suitable solution.
If I fail a few exams, can I retake them?
An exam week follows at the end of each study period. Make-up exams are scheduled prior to the next study period. In the unlikely event that you fail this exam as well, you can retake it the following year along with the next cohort of students.
What is the course load for this program?
The program requires a significant amount of dedication and hard work. On average, the program requires 45 hours of study time per week. ([[4 years × 60 EC × 28 hours] / 3 years] / 50 weeks)
Do I have summer vacation and/or winter vacation?
At Christmas, you’ll have two (2) weeks off to recharge. Time off in January depends on your academic progress. In the summer, you’ll have three (3) to four (4) weeks of vacation, depending on your internship.
Can I take extra days off for vacation?
No, our study program doesn’t allow for taking extra days off. The schedule is designed so that you have enough time to plan a vacation.
Is attendance mandatory?
The program is fast-paced and intensive: coaching sessions, lectures, and hands-on practice alternate at a rapid pace. You’ll definitely need those class hours!
What requirements must my internship meet?
A suitable internship meets a number of important criteria. For example, the work must be relevant to the student’s program of study; there must be a supervisor within the organization who possesses professional knowledge relevant to the program at a minimum of the higher professional education (HBO) level; and a safe work environment must be guaranteed. The first internship lasts 3 to 4 months, and the second and third internships last 6 months.
Can I do an internship abroad during my first year?
Of course. Enhancing your personal development is a top priority at IBHS | SDO University of Applied Sciences. We encourage you to gain work and life experience abroad!
Can I do my graduation internship abroad?
Your graduation internship is linked to a graduation project (in the form of a consulting report). It is important that the internship company be able to provide sufficient support for the research involved. In addition, we have weekly school days during the graduation internship. For this reason, and in the student’s best interest, we exercise some caution regarding graduation internships abroad.
I want to switch from a publicly funded program to a private program. Can I get course exemptions?
That depends entirely on your situation. Based on the courses you have taken, the corresponding course material, and the method of assessment, the Exam Committee at SDO University of Applied Sciences will determine whether you are eligible for any exemptions.
How long does the program last?
The entire bachelor’s degree program at a university of applied sciences lasts three (3) years, with each academic year concluding with a term project. Each academic year consists of three (3) study periods. Study period 1 runs from October through January, study period 2 from February through May, and study period 3 from June through September. Semesters 1 and 2 begin with a Business Week, followed by four (4) weeks of classes, another Business Week, four (4) weeks of classes, a review week, and an exam week.
Do I work individually or in a group?
With the guidance of a coach, you’ll work on both individual and group assignments.
Are there coaching sessions? If so, how often?
Coaching sessions are scheduled regularly as part of the curriculum. If you need more sessions than scheduled, you can request them.
Do I have a designated academic advisor?
Your first point of contact is the coaches. They’ll help you reach your full potential. During coaching sessions, the coaches will help you with your assignments.
Is there a counselor at school?
At the school, we have knowledgeable counselors and staff members who can help you resolve academic and personal issues. We also have an external counselor for issues you’d prefer to discuss with someone who isn’t affiliated with the school. IBHS | SDO University of Applied Sciences has appointed an external counselor through Vertrouwensunie. The appointed confidential advisor is Ms. Najat Ahmadi, and she can be reached at https://melden.vertrouwensunie.nl/sdo-hogeschool/.
Are these degrees recognized internationally?
The degrees awarded by SDO University of Applied Sciences are internationally recognized.
Is it easy to get to the school by public transportation?
The school is easily accessible by public transportation.
Where can I park if I'm coming by car?
There are plenty of parking options around the school. However, this is downtown Amsterdam, so it’s not exactly cheap.
How much does parking cost?
Street parking fees are high. The City of Amsterdam offers several Park & Ride options. For up-to-date parking information, please visit the City of Amsterdam’s website.
Is there a bike rack available?
Bicycles and mopeds can be parked in front of the building. There is no separate, enclosed bicycle parking area inside the building.
What is the average group size?
Each group has a maximum of 8 to 12 students.
What are the school's hours of operation?
The school’s regular hours of operation are Monday through Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
How easy is it to get to the school?
We are available daily from 9:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. at 020-210 15 10. Of course, you can also email us at info@ibhs.nl.
Can I study in the building after school?
The classrooms remain open for up to one hour after the last class. With prior approval, you may stay longer to study or work on your group assignments together.
What does the class schedule look like?
The curriculum is varied. Class, coaching, and project hours alternate with field trips and workshops.
How heavy is the course load?
In addition to the four-day study program at school, you’ll also spend at least one day a week on your studies. You can choose to do this at school.
What are the fields of study?
In our broad, practice-oriented bachelor’s program in business, we combine different areas of study to gain new insights. Development from a broad foundation. We offer one (1) BBA in Business Administration program based on six (6) pillars
- Business and Entrepreneurship;
- Creative Business & Innovation;
- Business Technology & Artificial Intelligence;
- International Business & Sustainability;
- Value-Based Business Management;
- Personal Development & Critical Thinking.
A broad bachelor’s program gives you the flexibility to tailor a large part of your studies to your own interests and ambitions. This way, you can discover—through hands-on experience—which field interests you and what you want to specialize in as you progress through your studies.
What does a typical school week look like?
A varied curriculum is offered on 4 school days. The fifth school day is set aside for special activities and working on projects and assignments.
Is there a restaurant where I can have lunch?
IBHS is located at Prinsengracht 701, right next to Leidsestraat. There are plenty of options for lunch in downtown Amsterdam.
Is it okay to eat or drink anything during class?
Drinking is allowed during class.
Are there any “school rules”?
Students study and work at the school. To promote a positive environment for studying, working, and living, the school has established a number of guiding principles and rules. We call these the Rules of Business, and they are based in part on (government) health and safety regulations, the maintenance of order, and the idea that there are values and standards within the school that everyone is expected to adhere to. Students, faculty, staff, visitors, and third parties must comply with these rules.
Can I just drop by for information, or do I need to make an appointment?
If you’d like to learn more about the school, New Thinking, business in practice, the atmosphere, our students, the program, and what makes studying at IBHS so unique, we recommend that you schedule an appointment for a personal consultation by calling 020-210 15 10.
In what language are classes taught?
Classes are taught in Dutch; the course materials and textbooks are a mix of Dutch and English.
Will I receive an accredited diploma?
After earning the required credits, you will receive a legally recognized diploma from
SDO University of Applied Sciences. The CROHO numbers for SDO University of Applied Sciences’ degree programs are 34035 (bachelor’s) and 80074 (AD). The curriculum is described in detail in SDO University of Applied Sciences’ Education and Examination Regulations (OER). These OER can be found on our website.
SDO University of Applied Sciences is the accredited institution responsible for providing education, administering exams, and awarding degrees. IBHS | SDO University of Applied Sciences is the brand under which SDO University of Applied Sciences offers full-time programs. This brand was created because the abbreviation SDO (Stichting Deeltijd Opleidingen) causes confusion among full-time students. SDO University of Applied Sciences is the accredited educational institution that provides instruction and administers exams, and from which students receive their diplomas. This is noted on the IBHS website under “Procedures” in the FAQ section and in the exam schedule. This is also explicitly stated in the study agreement (registration form) and is visible in the layout of our campus on Prinsengracht in Amsterdam.
What qualifications can be earned?
In the bachelor’s program in business administration (CROHO 34035) at a university of applied sciences, you can earn your BBA degree after three (3) years and complete your first year of study after one (1) year.
In the associate degree (AD) program in business administration (CROHO 80074), you can earn your AD degree after two (2) years.
What does the program cover?
The curriculum is described in detail on the SDO University of Applied Sciences website.
What is the level of the program?
What is the level of the program?
How long is the program?
The entire bachelor’s degree program at a university of applied sciences lasts three (3) years, with each academic year concluding with a term project. Each academic year consists of three (3) study periods. Study period 1 runs from October through January, study period 2 from February through May, and study period 3 from June through September. Semesters 1 and 2 begin with a Business Week, followed by four (4) weeks of classes, another Business Week, four (4) weeks of classes, a review week, and an exam week.
Who is this program intended for?
Our program is designed for young people between the ages of 17 and 28 who want to reach their full potential. Our motto is New Thinking! The world is changing at an ever-faster pace. This calls for different skills, a different approach, and a different way of thinking. Entrepreneurship, a drive to take action, creativity, innovative thinking, an international mindset, tech savvy, ambition, and analytical skills will be crucial. These are mutually reinforcing skills that are essential for every student to recognize opportunities and think in terms of possibilities. They strengthen critical problem-solving, creativity, and innovative research skills. To enroll in the program, you must have completed HAVO, VWO, or MBO4.
Can I get any exemptions?
If your prior education is relevant to the program, you may be eligible for course exemptions. This will be discussed during the introductory meeting.
What study materials do I need to purchase?
In addition to tuition, there is a €500 registration fee, the cost of the annual business trip (depending on the location), a laptop, and any additional study materials (the digital learning environment and standard textbooks are provided free of charge by IBHS).
At the start of each academic term, you will receive the required textbooks free of charge through IBHS; any elective textbooks are at your own expense.
Do I still have a cooling-off period after signing the study agreement?
Participants are entitled to a 14-day (statutory) cooling-off period.
Who owns the copyright to the course materials?
The learning materials provided by the school remain the property of the educational institution. The copyright to the institution’s own study materials rests with the educational institution, the publisher, or the (other) rights holder. Students are not permitted to reproduce study materials or to transfer them to third parties or allow them to be used in any way without the prior written consent of the educational institution and/or the publisher and/or the (other) rights holder.
Is there a complaints policy or procedure?
Our complaints policy and procedure are outlined in the Education and Examination Regulations (OER) and on our website.
Will the information I provide be treated confidentially?
We handle your information with care. All of our employees sign a confidentiality agreement.
What are the teachers' backgrounds?
All instructors are professionals and entrepreneurs who have had successful careers in the business world and are certified to teach.
What are the cancellation policies?
The cancellation policy is listed on the back of the study agreement, on our website, and has been filed with the Chamber of Commerce.
1. September Intake
a. An Agreement may be canceled and terminated in writing without stating a reason before July 1, prior to the start of the program, within fourteen (14) days of its signing. In that case, the Institution agrees to refund the registration fee minus one hundred euros (€100) in administrative fees. In the event of cancellation or termination after fourteen (14) days but before July 1, prior to the start of the program, the full registration fee is due.
b. In the event of cancellation or withdrawal between July 1 and September 1 prior to the start of the program, the student is required to pay the full registration fee, as well as ten percent (10%) of the total program costs for the first academic year.
c. In the event of cancellation or termination after September 1, prior to the start of the program or during the program, the student is liable, as of the cancellation date, not only for the monthly installments already due but also for a “cancellation fee” equal to thirty-five percent (35%) of the total program costs for the academic year in question.
d. For these purposes, a partial month counts as a full month.
2. January Enrollment
a. An Agreement may be canceled and terminated in writing without stating a reason before December 1, prior to the start of the program, within fourteen (14) days of its signing. In that case, the Institution agrees to refund the registration fee minus one hundred euros (€100) in administrative fees. In the event of cancellation or termination after fourteen (14) days but before December 1, prior to the start of the program, the full registration fee is due.
b. In the event of cancellation or withdrawal between December 1 and January 1 prior to the start of the program, the full registration fee, as well as ten percent (10%) of the total program costs for the first academic year, is due.
c. In the event of cancellation or termination after January 1, prior to the start of the program or during the program, the student is liable, as of the cancellation date, not only for the monthly installments already due but also for a “cancellation fee” equal to thirty-five percent (35%) of the total program costs for the academic year in question.
d. For these purposes, a partial month counts as a full month.
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