Primary education
The right school for your child
How does the admission policy work and how can I register my child?
View the explanationAmsterdam has more than 200 primary schools
View the primary schoolsFrequently asked questions
Are you new to the Netherlands? Education for newcomers
All children between the ages of 4 and 17 have a right to education. Are you new to the Netherlands? If so, register your child at primary school (4-12 years old) or secondary school (12-17 years old) as soon as possible.
I am late in registering. What can I do?
After the closing date, you can only choose from the schools that have spots left at that time. A list of schools that still have spots can be found on the BBO's website.
When can I register my child for primary school?
If you enter your child's date of birth in the form on the procedure page, you will read when you need to do what to register your child.
When is my child subject to compulsory education?
A child is subject to compulsory education from the age of 5. That is when the child has to go to school. Most children start school from the age of 4. Compulsory education lasts until the age of 16. More information on compulsory education can be found here.
My child needs specific care (care needs), do I get priority?
A child with care needs will not be given (extra) priority. You will follow the normal process of application and registration as described here. From the moment you have enrolled your child in a school, the school must arrange care for your child within 10 weeks. If that fails, this school will look for another suitable school for your child.
About Primary Education School Finder
In Amsterdam, there are ground rules when registering and enrolling children for primary school. These rules were created to ensure a clear and fair way of registration and placement. School Finder explains these rules and helps you take the right steps.