| Netherlands Government Scholarships 2025‑2026 Announced |
Great news for international students! The Netherlands Government has announced its scholarship opportunities for the 2025‑2026 academic year. These scholarships are designed to support non‑EEA (non‑European Economic Area) students who wish to pursue full‑time Bachelor’s or Master’s programmes at Dutch higher education institutions. Here’s everything you need to know to take advantage of these opportunities.
What is the NL / Holland Scholarship?
Also known as the NL Scholarship (formerly Holland Scholarship), this is a one‑time grant funded by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science in collaboration with Dutch universities and universities of applied sciences. It’s not a full‑tuition scholarship, but helps cover the initial costs of studying in the Netherlands.
Key Details
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Value | €5,000, awarded once, during the first year of study. |
| Level of study | Full‑time Bachelor’s or Master’s programmes. |
| Eligible candidates | Students from non‑EEA countries (i.e. outside EU / EEA). Applicants must not already hold a degree from a Dutch institution. |
| Participating Institutions | Dutch research universities & universities of applied sciences. Several prominent ones are involved. |
| Deadline | Varies by institution. Usually between Feb ‑ May 2025 for the 2025‑26 intake. Always check with the university you are applying to. |
Eligibility Criteria – What You Need to Have
If you want to apply, here are the main requirements:
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Nationality: Must be a non‑EEA citizen.
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Program Type: Must be full‑time Bachelor’s or Master’s degree.
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Prior Degree: Should not have previously studied in the Netherlands or hold a degree from a Dutch institution.
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Admission: Be accepted (or in the process of applying) into a participating Dutch institution. You’ll likely need to meet the admission & language requirements of that institution.
What This Means & How Much It Helps
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The scholarship does not cover full tuition or living expenses. It is meant as financial support to ease the burden of your first year.
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Given the cost of housing, food, insurance, etc., €5,000 can be a substantial help but likely not enough to cover all expenses. Be sure to plan for additional funding.
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It’s a great opportunity both for academic advancement and experiencing study in an international environment.
Highlights of Participating Institutions
Some of the universities and applied sciences schools participating (or reported to participate) include:
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Major Dutch research universities (e.g., Utrecht, Groningen, Erasmus, Delft, Maastricht, Radboud, etc.)
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Universities of Applied Sciences like Gerrit Rietveld Academie, Fontys, Hanze, HU Utrecht, HKU etc.
How to Apply & Important Tips
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Check university web‑sites: Each institution sets its own deadlines and might have additional requirements.
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Apply for admission first: Often you need an admission offer (or at least an application in progress) before applying for the scholarship.
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Prepare strong documentation: Academic transcripts, statements of purpose / motivation letters, possibly financial plans if required.
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Watch the deadlines: Missing the date can disqualify you even if you meet every other criterion.
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Language requirements: Some programmes will require proof of English (or Dutch) proficiency. Don’t wait until the last minute to prepare.
Other Related Opportunities
Beyond the NL/Holland Scholarship, there are also other programmes:
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MENA Scholarship Programme (MSP) – For mid‑career professionals from Middle East & North Africa, short courses or special trainings.
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University‑specific scholarships (e.g., Radboud, TU Delft, etc.) which may offer fuller funding, especially for master’s candidates. Check your target university.
Final Thoughts
If you’re considering studying in the Netherlands for 2025‑2026, the NL/Holland Scholarship offers a valuable financial boost. While it won’t cover everything, it can make a difference—especially for non‑EEA students trying to settle in and manage the costs of relocating. Start your preparations early, double‑check all requirements, and apply broadly (if you qualify).
Wishing you the best of luck with your application! 🎓
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