Amsterdam Emergency Assistance
Amsterdam and Weesp residents facing sudden costs they cannot pay from their own income or savings, and that no other scheme covers, can apply for bijzondere bijstand. This is a general municipal safety net, not a student-specific fund. It typically covers things like legal aid contributions, moving or housing costs, or administration (bewindvoering). Your DUO student finance and loan capacity are weighed against what you can cover yourself, so it is not a routine top-up: there must be a genuine unexpected cost.
How to apply
Check whether your cost qualifies
Bijzondere bijstand covers specific unexpected costs, not general living expenses or study costs. Read the conditions to see whether your situation fits before applying.
Bijzondere bijstand conditionsGather your documents
You'll need: proof you live in Amsterdam or Weesp, proof of the unexpected cost, your income and savings, and an explanation of why you cannot pay it yourself.
Talk to a student advisor first if you're at UvA
A UvA student advisor (studieadviseur) can help you understand whether bijzondere bijstand or a university fund is the better fit for your situation.
UvA Student AdvisorsApply online or via a buurtteam appointment
Some costs (legal aid, bewindvoering, housing or moving costs) can be applied for online with DigiD. For anything else, book an appointment with a buurtteam in your district, or call 020 252 6000.
Apply for bijzondere bijstandCommon mistakes to avoid
Applying for routine study or living costs: bijzondere bijstand is only for sudden, unexpected costs no other scheme covers
Not checking whether your DUO finance or loan capacity is expected to cover the cost first
Applying without an Amsterdam or Weesp home address: you must live and be registered there, not just study at an Amsterdam institution
Tips for students
If you're at UvA, talk to a student advisor first: they can point you to whichever fund actually fits your situation
Be specific about the unexpected cost and why you can't cover it yourself: vague applications are less likely to succeed
For legal aid, bewindvoering, or housing costs specifically, you can apply online; anything else needs a buurtteam appointment
Official sources
Information is based on official 2026 eligibility rules and verified government sources. Amounts shown are maximums. This tool provides guidance only and is not legal or financial advice. View sources →