International students are choosing to study in the Netherlands more and more because of its high-quality education system, many English-taught programmes, and good job prospects after graduation. Even though tuition costs are not as high as they are in the US or UK, studying in the Netherlands still costs a lot of money.
That is why scholarships are so important. This in-depth guide will show you the best scholarships in the Netherlands for international students. It will cover fully funded and high-value options, eligibility requirements, and useful tips to help you get the money you need.
Why should you study in the Netherlands on a scholarship?
Students from all over the world come to the Netherlands for its unique academic and cultural experiences.
Some of the main benefits are:
- Degrees that are recognised around the world
- More than 2,000 programmes taught in English
- A place where research and new ideas thrive
- Access to job markets in Europe
- Job openings for “Orientation Year” after study
Even with these benefits, non-EU students have to pay between €6,000 and €20,000 a year in tuition, plus living expenses. Scholarships can help lower or even get rid of these costs.
Different kinds of scholarships in the Netherlands
Knowing what kinds of scholarships are available will help you apply wisely.
1. Scholarships that cover all costs
These pay for things like tuition, living expenses, travel, insurance, and sometimes even housing.
2. Scholarships that only cover part of the cost
These give a set amount or a discount on tuition.
3. Scholarships from the government
The Dutch government pays for it, and it is often open to students from outside the EU.
4. Scholarships for college
Dutch universities give these out based on need or merit.
5. Programmes in the EU or around the world
For example, Erasmus scholarships let students study in more than one country.
Best Fully Funded Scholarships in the Netherlands
These are the most valuable and well-known scholarships out there.
1. The Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP)
One of the few government scholarships that pays for everything.
What It Talks About:
- All tuition costs
- Costs of living
- Costs of travel
- Insurance
Who It’s For:
- People who are in the middle of their careers in developing countries
This programme is all about areas that are important for development, like health, agriculture, and water management.
2. Joint Master’s Degrees from Erasmus Mundus
A very famous scholarship in Europe.
What It Talks About:
- Full cost of school
- Monthly payment
- Costs of travel
- Study in more than one country
This is one of the best fully funded options for master’s students, and many programmes include Dutch universities.
3. The University of Maastricht NL-High Potential Grant
One of the most generous scholarships in the Netherlands.
What It Talks About:
- Full waiver of the tuition fee
- Monthly payment
- Insurance for health
- Costs of travel and visas
There are about 21 full scholarships given out each year, so it’s very competitive.
4. University of Groningen Eric Bleumink Scholarships
A master’s degree scholarship that pays for everything.
What It Talks About:
- Fees for school
- Costs of living
- Costs of travel
- Insurance and books
This scholarship is for students from all over the world who are doing well in school.
5. The Utrecht Excellence Scholarship
A top-tier chance that is fully funded.
What It Talks About:
- All tuition costs
- Money for living
There are only a few scholarships given out each year, so it is very selective.
Best Dutch Government Scholarships
6. NL Scholarship (previously known as the Holland Scholarship)
This is one of the easiest scholarships to get.
What It Talks About:
- 5,000 euros for the first year of school
Who can apply:
- International students from outside the EU/EEA
- People who want to get a bachelor’s or master’s degree
It’s a great place for many students to start, even though it isn’t fully funded.
The Best Scholarships for College in the Netherlands
A lot of Dutch universities have their own scholarships.
7. The University of Twente Scholarship (UTS)
What It Talks About:
- €3,000 to €22,000 a year
- Possible extension for the second year
This scholarship is given to master’s students who do well.
8. Programme for Radboud Scholarships
What It Talks About:
- Big drop in tuition
- Funding that is only part or almost all of the way there
Very picky and given to the best students.
9. The Amsterdam Merit Scholarship
What It Talks About:
- €2,000 to €25,000, depending on the faculty
Available for outstanding master’s students who are not from the EU.
10. The Leiden University Excellence Scholarship
What It Talks About:
- Up to €15,000 a year
One of the most sought-after scholarships in the Netherlands.
11. The Fellowship Programme at VU Amsterdam
What It Talks About:
- Full or partial payment of tuition
Open to master’s students from other countries.
Other Important Scholarships
12. The Justus and Louise van Effen Excellence Scholarships at TU Delft
- Fully funded or funding with a high value
- For programmes in engineering and technology
13. The Orange Tulip Scholarship
- Scholarships that are only for people from certain countries
- Available for certain nationalities
14. Scholarships from HAN NL
- As much as €12,500
- For students who are getting their bachelor’s or master’s degrees
Requirements for eligibility
Most scholarships have their own requirements, but they all need:
- A high GPA means good academic performance.
- Getting into a Dutch university
- IELTS/TOEFL tests for English language skills
- Statement of purpose
- Letters of recommendation
- Resume or CV
Some scholarships also ask for:
- Experience working (especially OKP)
- Proposal for research (for PhD programmes)
How to Get a Scholarship in the Netherlands
You need to plan and pay attention to the details when you apply for scholarships.
Step 1: Pick Your Programme
Choose a course that fits with your career goals.
Step 2: Apply to get in
Before you can get most scholarships, you need to get an offer of admission.
Step 3: Get your papers ready
Most of the time, you will need:
- Transcripts from school
- Resume or CV
- Statement of purpose
- Letters of recommendation
- Passport
Step 4: Apply for financial aid
Send in your scholarship application through the university or the scholarship system.
Step 5: Get ready for interviews
Some scholarships, especially those that pay for everything, require interviews.
Sample Checklist for Scholarship Applications
- Passport that is still good
- Transcripts from school
- Resume or CV
- Statement of purpose
- Letters of recommendation
- Results of the English test
- Letter of acceptance
Scholarships Without IELTS in the Netherlands
Some colleges and universities will accept applications without an IELTS if:
- You learnt English before.
- You show that you know English well.
But many scholarships still prefer IELTS scores.
Ways to Improve Your Odds
1. Get Started Early
Most of the time, deadlines are between December and May.
2. Put your mind on doing well in school
To get competitive scholarships, you need to get good grades.
3. Show leadership and make a difference
Scholarships don’t just look at grades.
4. Make your application fit your needs
Stay away from generic personal statements.
5. Apply for more than one scholarship
Apply to as many places as you can to improve your chances.
Things You Shouldn’t Do
- Not meeting deadlines
- Sending in applications that aren’t complete
- Writing essays that are weak or too general
- Not paying attention to eligibility requirements
Last Thoughts
The Netherlands has a lot of scholarships for international students. Some, like the Orange Knowledge Programme and Erasmus Mundus, pay for everything. Others, like the Utrecht Excellence Scholarship and University of Twente Scholarship, are only available to students at certain universities.
Even though there is a lot of competition, the chances are real and can be reached with the right plan. You can get money to study in the Netherlands without having to worry about money if you plan ahead, build a strong academic and leadership profile, and apply consistently.
