Summary
- This grant is for non-EEA students pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree in the Netherlands.
- The tuition fees in the Netherlands are relatively lower than in the UK, the USA, or Australia.
- The “Orientation Year” visa allows students to stay in the country for up to a year after graduation.
The Netherlands welcomes a large number of international students every year. With a progressive education system, the country has rightfully earned its reputation.
Scholarships in the Netherlands help reduce financial stress for international students. Many cover a large part of tuition fees and living costs.
Scholarships like the Erasmus+ grant and the Holland Scholarship make studying abroad affordable for international students. They also add value to your academic profile.
From government-funded grants to university-specific awards, each option has its benefits. This guide explains the various opportunities available to you. A quick guide to all the scholarships at your disposal.
Why consider studying a Master’s in the Netherlands with scholarships
Studying abroad is exciting, but it often comes with financial concerns. The Netherlands’ scholarship system supports international students financially. This helps you focus on your education and living experience. Here are some key advantages of studying in the country:
It is Affordable:
The tuition fees in the Netherlands are relatively lower than in the UK, the USA, or Australia. Public universities charge between €6,000 and €20,000 yearly for non-EU students. Scholarships often reduce the burden.
Strong Scholarship Support:
There are many scholarships in the Netherlands available for Indian and international students, like:
- Orange Tulip Scholarship: Country-specific funding
- Holland Scholarship: €5000 for the first year of study
- Erasmus+ programmes: Mobility and exchange options
- University-specific grants: Offered by top universities like Leiden, Utrecht, and TU Delft
Easy Post-Study Opportunities:
The “Orientation Year” visa allows students to stay in the country for up to a year after graduation. This helps them find employment or start a business venture of their own.
Multicultural Environment:
The Netherlands hosts over 115,000 international students from more than 160 countries. Dutch universities promote global perspectives, enriching both academic and social life.
Globally Renowned:
Dutch universities have consistently ranked high globally. They are known for their research output and industry links.
Overview of the Netherlands’ government scholarships
The Dutch government offers several scholarship programs to support international students. These scholarships attract students outside the European Economic Area (EEA). This makes Dutch higher education accessible worldwide. Below is an overview of government-funded scholarships for postgraduate studies.
| Netherlands’ government scholarship programs | Description | Eligibility | Funding details |
| NL Scholarship | This grant is for non-EEA students pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree in the Netherlands. | Non-EEA nationals applying for a full-time program at participating Dutch institutions. | €5,000 awarded in the first year of study; not a full-tuition scholarship. |
| Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degrees | Prestigious international master’s programs are delivered by a consortium of universities across Europe. | Students worldwide who apply to specific Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree programs. | Full scholarships covering tuition, travel, installation, and subsistence costs. |
| Orange Tulip Scholarship Programme | Managed by Nuffic, this program offers scholarships to students from Neso countries. | Students from Neso countries (e.g., India, China, Indonesia). | Varies by institution; may cover partial or full tuition fees and other expenses. |
| Maastricht University NL-High Potential Scholarship | Combines the NL Scholarship and the university’s High Potential Scholarship.. | Non-EU/EEA students admitted to a participating master’s program at Maastricht University. | Up to €34,000, covering tuition fees and living expenses. |
| HAN University NL Scholarship | This scholarship is offered by HAN University of Applied Sciences. It is supported by the Dutch Ministry of Education. | Non-EU/EEA students enrolled in a full-time English-taught master’s program at HAN. | €5,000 distributed over the first year (€2,500 per semester). |
Top scholarships in the Netherlands for international and Indian students
Studying in the Netherlands can be a smart investment. With the right scholarship, international students can manage tuition and living expenses. The table below lists the best of the Netherlands’ scholarships for Indian and international students:
| The Netherlands’ scholarship programs for international students | Host institution(s) | Coverage | Eligibility |
| NL Scholarship | Select Dutch universities | €5,000 grant for the first year of study | Non-EEA students applying for full-time bachelor’s or master’s programs |
| Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degrees (EMJMD) | Consortia including Dutch universities | Full tuition, travel, installation, and subsistence costs | Students worldwide are applying to specific joint master’s programs |
| Utrecht Excellence Scholarship (UES) | Utrecht University | Tuition fees (ranging from €5,000 to €17,000) | Only selected non-EU/EEA students admitted to eligible master’s programs |
| University of Twente Scholarships (UTS) | University of Twente | €3,000 to €22,000 for one year; renewable for second year upon meeting criteria | Select students from EU/EEA and non-EU/EEA countries |
| Maastricht University NL-High Potential Scholarship | Maastricht University | €34,000 per year (includes tuition fee waiver and monthly stipend) | Chosen non-EU students admitted to master’s programs |
| Radboud Scholarship Programme (RSP) | Radboud University | -tuition reduced to €2,601
-covers visa, residence permit, health, and liability insurance |
Non-EEA students admitted to eligible master’s programs |
| Eric Bleumink Fund Scholarships | University of Groningen | Full tuition fees, international travel, subsistence, books, and health insurance | Select students from developing countries admitted to the master’s programs |
| VU Amsterdam Fellowship Programme (VUFP) | Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam | Full or partial tuition fee waivers, with the NL Scholarship for living costs | Non-EU/EEA students admitted to English-taught master’s programs |
| Leiden University Excellence Scholarships (LExS) | Leiden University | Up to €15,000 towards tuition fees | Chosen non-EU/EEA students admitted to eligible master’s programs |
| Justus & Louise van Effen Excellence Scholarships | Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) | Full tuition fees and a contribution towards living expenses | Select international applicants admitted to MSc programs at TU Delft |
| Rotary Scholarships for Water and Sanitation Professionals | IHE Delft Institute for Water Education | Approximately €32,500 covering tuition, insurance, subsistence allowance, accommodation, and airfare | Water and sanitation professionals admitted to eligible programs at IHE Delft |
Scholarship opportunities for Master’s and MBA programs in the Netherlands
It is worth highlighting the scholarship opportunities for Master’s and MBA students. These programs provide tuition waivers and full living costs coverage. This makes postgraduate study far more accessible for international students. Below are some scholarship opportunities available in the Netherlands, specifically for MBA and master’s programs:
Maastricht School of Management (MSM) Scholarship:
Offers various scholarships that combine up to a 35% discount on the full tuition fee.
Amsterdam MBA SDG Scholarship:
It is one of the most lucrative MBA scholarships available in the Netherlands.
This program provides 3 scholarships worth €10,000 each to MBA candidates at the Amsterdam Business School who have contributed to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals in their careers.
Amsterdam Merit Scholarship (AMS):
-Awards scholarships equal to the tuition fee.
-€5,000 allowance for non-EU students admitted to Master’s programs.
Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS):
-Offers scholarships ranging from €10,000 to the full tuition fee.
-This applies to “outstanding” non-EEA students enrolling in eligible Master’s programs.
Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degrees (EMJMD):
-EU-funded scholarships offering full tuition coverage, travel expenses.
-Provides a monthly stipend of approximately €1,400 for students enrolled in a dual degree.
Maastricht University NL-High Potential Scholarship:
-It provides 21 full scholarships worth €34,000 each.
-This covers tuition fees and living expenses for students admitted to Maastricht University.
How to get a scholarship in the Netherlands: application tips
Getting a scholarship in the Netherlands to study a master’s takes careful planning. These application tips may come in handy and help you get your dream scholarship:
Research Early:
Start exploring the Netherlands’ scholarship options well in advance. Most application deadlines fall between December and February.
Maintain Solid Academics:
A strong academic record is crucial. Most of these scholarship programs are merit-based and competitive.
A Compelling SOP:
Make sure you craft a unique and compelling SOP or statement of purpose. Articulate your academic goals and reasons for applying. Tailor each letter to a specific scholarship and institution.
Ensure Eligibility:
Double-check all necessary criteria like program requirements, language proficiency, and nationality.
Apply for Admission:
Most scholarships require you to first apply to a Dutch university. Often, you must have an admission offer before applying for the scholarship.
Apply to Multiple Scholarships:
Increase your chances by applying to several scholarships for which you are eligible.
To ease the process and avoid any confusion, you may start using a planner. Always keep the necessary documents handy.
Netherlands university-specific scholarship programs
Many universities offer specific scholarships to attract international students.
| The Netherlands’ university-specific scholarships | University | Coverage | Eligibility |
| University of Twente Scholarship (UTS) | University of Twente | €3,000–€22,000 for one year; renewable for second year upon meeting academic criteria | -non-EU/EEA, students admitted to eligible MSc programs
– Selection based on academic excellence and motivation. |
| Utrecht Excellence Scholarship (UES) | Utrecht University | -Tuition fee, or
-Tuition plus required living expenses for one year; renewable for the second year |
-non-EU/EEA students in the top 10% of the graduating class
– admitted to eligible Master’s programs. |
| Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS) | Leiden University | €10,000–€19,000 towards tuition fees | -non-EEA/EFTA students with outstanding academic records -admitted to eligible Master’s programs (excluding certain programs). |
| Radboud Scholarship Programme | Radboud University | Tuition reduced to €2,601; covers visa, residence permit, health, and liability insurance | -non-EU/EEA students with excellent academic records
– admitted to eligible English-taught Master’s programs. |
Eligibility criteria and application process for Netherlands scholarships
First, choose the scholarship you want to apply for. Then, learn the steps of the application process. Most universities follow a similar structure in this regard:
Common eligibility criteria
- Nationality: Most scholarships are open to students from non-EEA countries.
- Academic excellence: A solid academic record – often in the top 10% of your class.
- Program admission: You must receive admission to the graduate program of your choice
- Previous education: Some scholarships prefer a non-Dutch educational background
General application process
-
- Identify universities and courses that align with the scholarships you are aiming for
- Review each scholarship’s official criteria. There may be specific requirements that you don’t want to miss.
- Gather all required documents – letters of recommendation, motivation letters, etc.
- Submit scholarship applications through the university’s admissions portal with the program application.
Common mistakes to avoid when applying for scholarships
Now that you are aware of what to do, it is important to be aware of what not to do:
- Scholarship deadlines may close earlier than university admission dates. It is important to set reminders to avoid last-minute hassles.
- If you fail to attach important documents like academic transcripts, it may lead to immediate rejection. Make sure to attach all documents with your application.
- Make sure you meet all the basic criteria for eligibility for a scholarship program.
- Tailor the motivation letter to the scholarship program and your academic goals.
- Apply to related scholarship programs only.
- Make sure you apply to the program before you apply for the scholarship.
Conclusion
With the right scholarship, studying in the Netherlands becomes a real possibility. The country offers many funding options for international students. These include government scholarships and university-specific programs.
Scholarships help reduce financial stress. They also open doors to excellent education and global exposure.
Know your options. Check the eligibility. Apply with care. A strong application can turn your goal into reality.
Take the next step. Your journey to the Netherlands starts here.
FAQs
1. What are the top scholarships available for studying in the Netherlands?
The NL scholarship and EMJMD are the top options. Other options include: the Radbod scholarship, UTS, UES, and Maastricht University NL-High Potential Scholarship.
2. How can Indian students apply for scholarships in the Netherlands?
Indian students can apply through the official websites of Dutch universities. Or, they can apply via the scholarship providers’ official websites.
3. Are there scholarships for MBA programs in the Netherlands?
Yes, some universities offer merit or need-based MBA scholarships in the Netherlands.
4. What are the eligibility criteria for the Netherlands government scholarships?
A non-EEA nationality and strong academics. Most importantly, admission to a full-time Dutch graduate program.
5. How do I increase my chances of getting a scholarship in the Netherlands?
Focus on maintaining excellent grades. Craft a strong statement of purpose and check for eligibility. Make sure not to miss deadlines.
