Scholarships in Holland for International Students 2026/27: Best Opportunities to Study in the Netherlands
Studying in the Netherlands can be an excellent opportunity for international students who want a high-quality European education, internationally recognized qualifications, and an international academic environment. Dutch universities offer a wide range of English-taught programmes, but tuition fees and living expenses can still make studying abroad expensive.
Fortunately, there are several scholarships in Holland for international students that can help reduce the financial burden. Depending on the scholarship, funding may contribute toward tuition fees, living expenses, travel, insurance, visa-related costs, or other study expenses.
Funding opportunities are available through Dutch universities, the Dutch government, international organisations, and other institutions. However, eligibility requirements, award amounts, deadlines, and coverage vary, so applicants should always check the latest information before applying.
In this guide, you will learn about some of the most important scholarships in Holland for international students in 2026, including their eligibility requirements, potential benefits, application process, deadlines, and practical ways to strengthen your application.
Why the Netherlands Is a Top Destination for International Students
The Netherlands is one of Europe’s popular destinations for international education. Dutch higher education institutions are known for their international outlook, research opportunities, practical teaching methods, and wide selection of English-taught programmes.
International students may choose the Netherlands because of advantages such as:
- High-quality higher education
- Many English-taught degree programmes
- Internationally recognized qualifications
- A multicultural academic environment
- Strong research and innovation opportunities
- Connections with European and international employers
However, tuition, accommodation, food, transportation, insurance, and other living expenses can add up quickly. This is why finding suitable scholarships before applying can make a significant difference to your study-abroad budget.
Why Scholarships in Holland for International Students Are Worth Pursuing
Scholarships can make studying abroad more financially manageable. Some awards provide a fixed grant, while others can cover substantial portions of tuition and living expenses.
Depending on the scholarship, financial support may help with:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation and living expenses
- Health or liability insurance
- Travel expenses
- Visa-related costs
- Other study-related expenses
It is important to remember that not every scholarship is fully funded. Some provide only a partial contribution, while others cover several major expenses. Always read the specific scholarship conditions before assuming that an award will cover your entire study budget.
Best Scholarships in the Netherlands for International
| Scholarship | Study Level | Funding | Typical Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| NL Scholarship | Bachelor’s and Master’s | €5,000 for the first year | Eligible non-EEA students |
| Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters | Master’s | Full scholarships available for selected students | Students worldwide, subject to programme requirements |
| Maastricht University NL-High Potential Scholarship | Master’s | Tuition, living expenses and other eligible costs | Eligible non-EU/EEA applicants |
| Eric Bleumink Fund | Master’s | Varies according to current conditions | Selected international applicants |
| University Scholarships | Bachelor’s and/or Master’s | Varies by institution | Depends on university and programme |
The NL Scholarship, formerly known as the Holland Scholarship, is one of the best-known funding opportunities for international students. It is intended for eligible students from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) who want to pursue a bachelor’s or master’s degree at a participating Dutch higher education institution.
NL Scholarship for International Students in the Netherlands
The NL Scholarship was formerly called the Holland Scholarship. It is financed by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science together with participating Dutch research universities and universities of applied sciences.
The scholarship is designed for international students from outside the EEA who want to study a full-time bachelor’s or master’s programme at a participating institution.
The current award is €5,000, paid during the first year of study. The award is a contribution toward study costs rather than a full-tuition scholarship.
Applicants should check the participating institutions and their individual requirements because universities can have additional selection criteria and deadlines. Visit the official Study in NL scholarship information.
NL Scholarship Benefits
- €5,000 scholarship award
- Available for eligible bachelor’s and master’s programmes
- Paid during the first year of study
- Available through participating Dutch higher education institutions
NL Scholarship Eligibility Requirements
Applicants generally need to meet conditions such as:
- Being a national of a country outside the EEA
- Applying for a full-time bachelor’s or master’s programme at a participating Dutch institution
- Meeting the admission requirements of the chosen institution
- Meeting any additional scholarship requirements established by the participating institution
- Not already holding a degree from an educational institution in the Netherlands
Because participating universities may set additional requirements, applicants should check the scholarship information provided by their chosen institution before submitting an application.
Fully Funded Scholarships in Netherlands
Students searching for fully funded scholarships in Netherlands should understand that funding packages differ from one scholarship to another. Some programmes can cover tuition and living expenses, while others provide a fixed contribution toward study costs.
Maastricht University NL-High Potential Scholarship
The Maastricht University NL-High Potential Scholarship is a highly competitive scholarship for eligible non-EU/EEA students applying to participating master’s programmes.
For the 2026–2027 academic year, the scholarship package includes support for living expenses, tuition fees, health and liability insurance, visa application costs, pre-academic training, and other specified costs. Maastricht University lists the living allowance at €20,150 for a 13-month programme or €38,750 for a 25-month programme, subject to the scholarship conditions.
The scholarship is highly competitive. Maastricht University states that only about 2% of applicants receive the award, so meeting the basic requirements does not guarantee selection.
For the 2027–2028 academic year, the university states that applications will reopen in October 2026. Check the official Maastricht University NL-High Potential Scholarship page.
Eric Bleumink Fund
The Eric Bleumink Fund is associated with the University of Groningen and supports talented international students pursuing eligible master’s programmes. Because eligibility, nomination procedures, and funding conditions can change, applicants should verify the latest information directly with the university before relying on the scholarship for financial planning.
Erasmus Mundus Scholarships for Students Studying in Holland
Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters are international master’s programmes delivered by partnerships of higher education institutions in different countries. Students from around the world can apply to participating programmes, and full scholarships are available for highly ranked applicants.
Erasmus Mundus scholarships can cover participation costs and contribute toward travel, visa expenses, and living costs. Students apply directly to the institution or consortium responsible for the master’s programme.
Erasmus+ states that applicants should generally apply between October and January for courses starting the following academic year, although the exact deadline depends on the individual master’s programme.
Visit the official Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters information.
What Erasmus Mundus Scholarships Can Cover
- Participation or tuition-related costs
- Travel expenses
- Visa-related expenses
- Living allowance
- International study mobility
Because Erasmus Mundus programmes are delivered by international university consortia, applicants should carefully review the requirements and scholarship conditions of the specific programme they intend to join.
University-Specific Scholarships
In addition to national and international scholarship programmes, many Dutch universities provide their own scholarships for international students. These awards can be based on academic excellence, nationality, programme of study, leadership potential, or other criteria.
University scholarship opportunities change from one academic year to another. Therefore, applicants should check the scholarship page of their chosen institution before applying.
Maastricht University Scholarships
Maastricht University offers several scholarships for international students, including the NL-High Potential Scholarship for eligible non-EU/EEA master’s students. Other university scholarships may be available depending on the programme, nationality, and academic profile.
The university provides a scholarship guide that allows prospective students to identify funding opportunities based on their circumstances and intended programme.
See Maastricht University’s scholarship opportunities.
Radboud University Scholarships
Radboud University offers scholarship opportunities for talented international students applying to eligible master’s programmes. The value, eligibility requirements, and number of awards can vary, so applicants should review the current information for their intended programme.
Wageningen University & Research Scholarships
Wageningen University & Research offers funding opportunities for international students, particularly those interested in master’s programmes related to agriculture, food, environmental sciences, life sciences, and sustainability.
Applicants should review the specific scholarship conditions because not every award is available for every programme or nationality.
Saxion University of Applied Sciences Scholarships
Saxion University of Applied Sciences participates in the NL Scholarship scheme for eligible international students. Additional funding opportunities may also be available depending on the programme and academic year.
Zuyd University of Applied Sciences Scholarships
Zuyd University of Applied Sciences also participates in the NL Scholarship programme. International applicants should check the university’s current scholarship and admission pages to determine which opportunities apply to their intended programme.
How to Apply for a Dutch Scholarships
Applying for scholarships in the Netherlands requires careful planning. In many cases, you need to apply for admission to a degree programme before you can complete the scholarship process.
A practical application process looks like this:
- Research suitable universities and programmes. Identify Dutch institutions that offer your preferred course.
- Search for available scholarships. Look at university, national, and international funding opportunities.
- Review eligibility requirements. Pay attention to nationality, academic performance, degree level, programme requirements, and deadlines.
- Prepare your documents. Gather transcripts, certificates, your CV, motivation letter, references, passport, and language test results where required.
- Apply for university admission. Complete the required admission process for your chosen programme.
- Submit the scholarship application. Some scholarships require a separate application, while others may consider eligible students through the admission process.
- Check your application carefully. Make sure every required document has been submitted before the deadline.
- Monitor your email and application portal. Universities may contact shortlisted applicants for additional information.
Requirements can vary considerably between institutions and programmes. Always follow the instructions published by the scholarship provider rather than relying on information from an older application cycle.
Common Requirements for Scholarships in Holland for International Students
There is no single set of requirements for every scholarship in the Netherlands. However, international applicants are commonly asked to provide some combination of the following:
- Academic transcripts
- Degree certificates or proof of current study
- Valid passport or identification document
- Curriculum vitae or resume
- Motivation letter or scholarship essay
- Recommendation letters
- English-language proficiency evidence where required
- Proof of admission or application to an eligible programme
- Additional documents requested by the university or scholarship provider
Do not assume that meeting the minimum requirements guarantees an award. Competitive scholarships may assess applicants based on academic results, motivation, leadership, research potential, career objectives, and the overall strength of the application.
How to Write a Strong Scholarship Motivation Letter
Your motivation letter is an important part of many scholarship applications. Instead of simply explaining that you need financial assistance, use the letter to show why you are a strong candidate and how the scholarship fits into your academic and professional plans.
A strong motivation letter can explain:
- Why you chose your particular field of study
- Why you want to study in the Netherlands
- What academic achievements you have already made
- What problems or opportunities you want to address through your education
- How your proposed programme connects with your career goals
- How you expect to use your education after graduation
- Why you are a good match for the particular scholarship
Avoid copying a generic scholarship essay and changing only the university name. Tailor every application to the scholarship, programme, and institution.
How to Increase Your Chances of Winning Scholarships in Holland
Scholarships can be highly competitive, particularly when an award covers a significant portion of tuition or living expenses. A strong application therefore needs more than good grades alone.
Build a Strong Academic Record
Academic performance is an important selection factor for many merit-based scholarships. Keep your grades strong and highlight relevant academic achievements in your application.
Demonstrate Leadership and Initiative
Where relevant, discuss leadership positions, volunteering, community projects, research activities, internships, competitions, or other experiences that demonstrate initiative.
Connect Your Goals to Your Proposed Programme
Scholarship committees want to understand what you intend to accomplish. Explain how the programme will help you develop the knowledge and skills needed for your future career.
Apply Before the Deadline
Do not wait until the final day. Starting early gives you time to request references, correct errors, obtain missing documents, and improve your motivation letter.
Scholarship Deadlines in the Netherlands
There is no single scholarship deadline for all Dutch universities. Each institution and programme may establish its own application schedule.
| Scholarship Type | Typical Timing | Important Note |
|---|---|---|
| NL Scholarship | Varies by participating institution | Check the university’s deadline |
| Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters | Often October–January | Deadline depends on the individual programme |
| University Scholarships | Often several months before study begins | Check the specific university |
| Maastricht University Scholarships | Before the start of the academic year | Scholarship deadlines can be earlier than programme deadlines |
For Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters, the official Erasmus+ guidance says applications are generally submitted between October and January for courses beginning the following academic year, although the exact deadline is set by each master’s programme.
For the NL Scholarship, applicants should check the deadline established by the participating institution because participating universities can have different application dates.
Cost of Studying in Holland Without a Scholarship
Even after receiving a scholarship, international students should prepare a realistic financial plan. A scholarship may cover only certain expenses, and the amount you receive can depend on the specific programme.
Tuition Fees
Tuition fees vary according to the institution, programme, nationality, and degree level. Non-EEA students often pay higher tuition fees than students covered by the statutory tuition fee system.
Living Expenses
Students should also budget for accommodation, food, transportation, health insurance, study materials, personal expenses, and other costs. Expenses can vary significantly depending on the city and individual lifestyle.
This is why scholarship applicants should calculate their expected total cost before accepting an award. A €5,000 grant, for example, can be valuable without necessarily covering the entire cost of studying abroad.
Common Scholarship Application Mistakes
Avoidable mistakes can weaken an otherwise strong scholarship application. Before submitting your documents, check for the following problems:
- Applying after the deadline
- Ignoring the scholarship’s nationality requirements
- Applying for an ineligible programme
- Submitting incomplete documents
- Using the same generic motivation letter for every application
- Failing to follow the university’s application instructions
- Providing inaccurate or unverifiable information
- Waiting until the last minute to request recommendation letters
- Assuming that every scholarship is fully funded
Taking time to review the requirements carefully can prevent simple mistakes from damaging your application.
Scholarships in Holland for International Students: 2026 Application Timeline
Preparing early is one of the best ways to manage the scholarship application process. Instead of searching for funding only after receiving admission, start researching scholarships while you are choosing your programme.
| Preparation Period | Recommended Action |
|---|---|
| 12–15 months before study | Research Dutch universities, programmes, and scholarships |
| 10–12 months before study | Check admission requirements and prepare language tests |
| 8–10 months before study | Prepare your CV, motivation letter, transcripts, and references |
| 6–8 months before study | Submit university applications where required |
| 4–6 months before study | Complete outstanding scholarship applications |
| 2–4 months before study | Plan accommodation, finances, insurance, and visa arrangements |
| 1–2 months before study | Finalize travel and arrival preparations |
Why Starting Early Matters
Starting early gives you more time to compare opportunities and prepare a stronger application. It also gives you room to deal with unexpected delays, such as obtaining official documents or waiting for recommendation letters.
- More time to research funding opportunities
- Better preparation for admission requirements
- More time to improve your motivation letter
- Enough time to obtain recommendation letters
- Less pressure close to application deadlines
What to Do After Receiving a Scholarship
Receiving a scholarship is an important milestone, but there are still several things to complete before travelling to the Netherlands.
- Read the scholarship award letter carefully.
- Confirm the conditions attached to the award.
- Complete any remaining university admission requirements.
- Arrange your accommodation as early as possible.
- Prepare the required immigration and visa documents if applicable.
- Plan your finances for expenses that the scholarship does not cover.
- Follow the university’s instructions for enrolment and arrival.
Remember that receiving a scholarship does not necessarily mean that every study and living expense will be covered. Understanding exactly what your award includes will help you create a realistic financial plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can international students get scholarships to study in the Netherlands?
Yes. International students can apply for various scholarships offered by Dutch universities and international organisations. Eligibility depends on the scholarship, nationality, programme, and academic level.
Is the NL Scholarship fully funded?
No. The NL Scholarship provides a €5,000 award during the first year and is a contribution toward study costs rather than a full-tuition scholarship.
Can students from Africa apply for scholarships in the Netherlands?
Yes. Students from African countries can apply for scholarships for which they meet the nationality and programme requirements. Some scholarships are open to students worldwide, while others are restricted to particular nationalities or regions.
Do I need admission before applying for a scholarship?
It depends on the scholarship. Some require applicants to apply for or obtain admission to an eligible programme first, while others have a separate scholarship application process that runs alongside university admission.
Are there fully funded scholarships in the Netherlands?
Yes. Some scholarship programmes can provide substantial funding, including support for tuition and living expenses. However, fully funded opportunities are usually highly competitive and may be limited to specific programmes or degree levels.
What is the best scholarship in Holland for international students?
There is no single best scholarship for everyone. The right option depends on your nationality, degree level, academic background, field of study, and financial needs. The NL Scholarship, Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters, and university-specific scholarships are useful starting points for eligible applicants.
Final Thoughts
Studying in the Netherlands can be a valuable academic and personal experience, but the cost of international education means that financial planning should begin early. Fortunately, there are several scholarships in Holland for international students that can help reduce the financial burden.
The key is to look beyond one scholarship. Compare the NL Scholarship, Erasmus Mundus opportunities, university-specific awards, and other funding programmes that match your nationality and chosen field of study.
Most importantly, check official sources for the latest eligibility requirements, scholarship amounts, participating universities, and deadlines. Scholarship information can change between academic years, so information from an older application cycle should never be treated as a guarantee for 2026 or 2027.
With early preparation, a strong academic profile, a focused motivation letter, and careful attention to application requirements, you can put yourself in a much stronger position when applying for financial support to study in the Netherlands.
