Princess Catharina-Amalia of the Netherlands marked a major milestone as she celebrated her graduation from the University of Amsterdam on July 14, surrounded by her closest family members. The 21-year-old heir to the Dutch throne participated in the ceremony at the Royal Concertgebouw after completing the Politics, Psychology, Law and Economics (PPLE) program.
Wearing her graduation cap and holding a certificate of attendance, Amalia posed for official photos shared by the Dutch Royal House. She was joined by Queen Máxima, King Willem-Alexander, her sisters Princess Alexia and Princess Ariane, and her grandmother Princess Beatrix.
Although Amalia has completed most of her degree requirements, she has not yet received her official diploma. The reason? A recent injury. According to the Royal House, “one course has been postponed” after the Princess sustained a broken arm last month following a horse riding accident. Once that course is completed, her bachelor’s degree will be formally awarded.
The University of Amsterdam shared on Instagram, “Due to a broken arm, she still has one course left to complete, but the diploma will follow soon 🎓.”
Amalia’s final thesis, “Beyond Disclosure: Bridging the Gap Between the Artificial Intelligence Act and the Charter of Fundamental Rights with Deepfaked Bodies,” explored the intersection of artificial intelligence and human rights—underscoring her academic dedication despite recent setbacks.
The royal’s time at university has been anything but typical. Just a month into her studies in 2022, De Telegraaf reported that Amalia was forced to move back home due to serious security threats. Dutch media revealed that heightened protection measures were implemented amid concerns over a possible kidnapping or attack.
In a surprising development revealed in April 2024, it was confirmed that the Princess had spent over a year secretly living in Spain to ensure her safety while continuing her studies remotely. According to De Telegraaf, she attended Spanish colleges while remaining enrolled at the University of Amsterdam.
Amalia later returned to Madrid to publicly express her gratitude to those who protected her during that challenging time. “Madrid is like a second home to me, especially in a time that was difficult in the Netherlands,” she said during a plaque unveiling ceremony at a tulip garden she donated to the city. “In this very Dutch way I want to thank everyone who took care of my safety and well-being in Madrid.”