This course advances on Mathematics 2. You will learn about eigenvalues, orthogonalization, different matrix decompositions and applications in optimisation (quadratic forms). This theory will be valuable for data analysis later. You will use Python for calculations.

Gain fundamental insights into classical mathematical statistics and learn to work with basic statistical models.

Get acquainted with supervised learning, with a focus on regression and classification methods. Practice and discuss topics such as bias-variance trade-off and cross-validation and model selection in high dimensional regression.

Learn how to approach the economy in a mathematical, model-based manner. Focus on microeconomic theory and evaluating and analysing microeconomic arguments and models.

Learn how to develop the multiple regression model with applications, especially to cross-sectional data. Make extensive use of matrix algebra and multivariate statistical theory. Use software packages EViews and R or Python for the execution of applications and simulations.

Learn about econometric models that are important for interpreting quantitative results. Discuss how they can explain measurement errors, simultaneous equation bias, self-selection, censoring and truncation. Develop the initial skills and techniques for correct modelling of economic variables.

Learn about the parts of univariate and multivariate time series analysis that are most relevant for analysing (macro)economic and financial time series.

Learn how to use the research techniques and theories in economics and actuarial science, that were discussed during your Bachelor’s years. You will collect your own data sets and analyse them. You will also discuss scientific articles and critically evaluate their underlying theory, assumptions and techniques.

Your eligibility is based on the following criteria: 

1. Academic Bachelor’s degree with a focus on mathematics and statistics. You should have completed a level of mathematics, statistics and programming that is comparable to the following courses of the Bachelor's in Econometrics and Data Science: 
   • Mathematics 4: Multivariate Analysis
   • Probability Theory and Statistics 1
   • Probability Theory and Statistics 2
   • Programming and Numerical Analysis
2. GPA selection minimum of 7.5 (with a GPA lower than 7.5, you need excellent grades on the courses mentioned above).

Students with an EU academic degree + EU nationality:

Your eligibility is based on the following criteria: 

1. Academic Bachelor’s degree with a focus on mathematics and statistics. You should have completed a level of mathematics, statistics and programming that is comparable to the following courses of the Bachelor's in Econometrics and Data Science: 
   • Mathematics 4: Multivariate Analysis
   • Probability Theory and Statistics 1
   • Probability Theory and Statistics 2
   • Programming and Numerical Analysis
2. GRE test: minimum score: 155 and preferably 158 in the Quantitative Reasoning section (please take your GRE test before the application deadline).
3. TOEFL iBT Test: minimum total score of 92 with a minimum of 22 per subscore. You can use the institution code 9011 to have your score report sent to us. 
4. IELTS Academic: overall band score of 6.5. Minimum score per subscore: Speaking and Writing a 6.5 and Listening and Reading a 6.0. Please note that the IELTS Indicator test is not allowed. 
5. Cambridge C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency: overall score of 180 and a minimum of 180 per skill. 

Other test versions or modules are not accepted. Examples of this include but are not limited to: IELTS Indicator, IELTS One Skill Retake, TOEFL Home Edition, TOEFL MyBest Scores, etc.

Validity of scores 

Test scores may not be older than 2 years, counting back from the start of the programme. For example, if you are applying for the September 2025 intake, we do not accept English proficiency tests taken before September 2023. Scores older than 2 years are only valid in combination with certain study programmes (check the exemptions). Sufficient test scores received after the application deadline are accepted, as long as your English proficiency test was taken before the application deadline. 

We do not require a specific minimum GPA for this programme, but we will compare and assess the performance on all selection criteria to make an informed decision regarding placement into the programme.

Students with a non-EU/EEA degree

We recommend starting with the Master's Qualifying Programme at the Cambridge Education Group. Their programme is more extensive than our pre-master’s programme, offering additional courses which allow you to better prepare for your Master's progression. Additionally, they provide assistance with:

• your student visa;
• guaranteed accommodation in Amsterdam’s challenging housing market;
• tailor made academic assistance where needed.

Students that progress to one of our Master’s after having completed this programme have shown to perform exceptionally well in our Master’s programmes. Please note that you will be unconditionally admitted to the Master's after finishing this Master’s Qualifying Programme.

Depending on your academic background, you may qualify to apply for the Pre-Master’s programme offered by UvA Economics and Business. This programme is not tailor-made to fit your specific academic background which means you do need to meet all the specific entry requirements in order to start. Please note that it does not offer additional services such as guaranteed student accommodation.

We do not have a pre-Master’s programme available for students with previous education from a Dutch University of Applied Science (HBO). You can apply for our BSc Econometrics and Data Science.

The application deadline for the September 2025 intake:  

Register in Studielink – Select the programme: BSc Econometrics and Data Science - pre-Master's programme. After that choose: Econometrics.

After registering in Studielink, you will receive your UvAnetID. This will give you access to check the status of your personal enrolment Checklist. There you find the subsequent steps that you need to take in order to complete your enrolment.  

In order to check if you are eligible for the programme you need to upload and submit your documents in our online application system Embark. Make sure you keep an eye on the deadlines! 

You will most likely receive your results within 4-6 weeks after we have received a complete application, but in peak moments (January till June) evaluating your application may take a few weeks longer.

The tuition fees for your pre-Master’s programme depend on the number of ECTS credits you need to obtain. Please take into account that it is not possible to arrange payment of your tuition fees until the programme has officially admitted you to the pre-Master’s programme. The tuition fees for pre-Master's programmes are usually not calculated until August.