Jul 30, 2025
Getting a world-class education doesn’t have to come with a heavy price tag not when you’re studying in Netherlands. For international students, it offers some of the most generous and accessible scholarships, funded by both the Dutch Government and Top-Ranked Universities.
These scholarships don’t just lower the cost of studying. They open the door to a globally recognized education system, with over nine Dutch universities ranked in the QS World University Rankings 2026 top 200. Add to that a wide range of English-taught programs and an education model that focuses on real-world skills, and you’re looking at an opportunity that goes beyond the classroom.
And it doesn’t stop at graduation. With the Orientation Year permit, international students can stay back for up to 12 months to explore job opportunities or start their careers without needing a separate work permit.
If you're aiming for quality education, strong career prospects, and financial support that actually makes a difference, the Netherlands deserves a spot at the top of your list.
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In Netherlands, scholarships for international students fall broadly into two categories: Government-Funded and University-Specific. Both aim to improve access to quality education and support academic excellence among students from outside the European Economic Area (EEA).
These Scholarships are funded by the Dutch Government or its Official Agencies. They are designed to attract talented individuals from around the world and often focus on specific academic levels or fields. Most of these scholarships are awarded for full-time Master’s or Bachelor’s Programs at participating Dutch institutions.
The financial coverage and duration may vary, but Government-Funded Scholarships generally contribute toward tuition fees, living costs, or both. Some are aimed at students from specific regions or with relevant professional backgrounds.
Dutch Universities also offer scholarships directly through their own institutional funds. These are typically rewarded based on academic merit, potential, or financial need. Some of them allocate scholarships across all faculties, while others target specific departments or programs.
The amount and structure of these scholarships can vary widely. They may cover partial or full tuition, and in some cases, provide additional support for living expenses. Application processes are managed by each University, and eligibility criteria are clearly outlined on their official websites.
With a clear understanding of the two main scholarship types, it's time to explore the opportunities available. Below are some of the prominent scholarships you can apply for to study in Netherlands.
Scholarship Type: Merit-Based (Government-Funded)
Amount Covered: €5,000 (one-time grant)
Eligibility Criteria:
Scholarship Type: Merit-Based (University Funded with NL Scholarship add-on)
Amount Covered: NL Scholarship (€5,000) + possible additional tuition support (exact additional value varies by program)
Eligibility Criteria:
Must demonstrate academic excellence
Scholarship Type: Merit-Based (University + Government Funded)
Amount Covered: Up to approximately €30,000 (includes full tuition fee waiver and monthly stipend for living expenses)
Eligibility Criteria:
Scholarship Type: Merit-Based (University Funded)
Amount Covered: Full tuition OR tuition + one year of living costs
Eligibility Criteria:
Scholarship Type: Merit-Based (University Funded)
Amount Covered: Reduces tuition from ~€18,000 to €2,601, plus covers visa, residence permit, and basic insurance (approximate benefit: €15,000–€16,000)
Eligibility Criteria:
Scholarship Type: Merit-Based (University Funded)
Amount Covered: €3,000 – €22,000 for one academic year (renewable for a second year in qualifying two-year Master’s programs)
Eligibility Criteria:
We have highlighted some of the most well-known scholarships offered by the Dutch government and top Universities in Netherlands, particularly those that KC Overseas Education actively represents. However, this is not an exhaustive list.
There are many more scholarship opportunities available, and you are encouraged to carry out thorough research and explore additional options that align with your academic goals before moving forward with the application process.
Securing a scholarship in Netherlands requires a well-structured approach. Here’s a step-by-step guide, grounded in official information from Study in NL and university portals:
Begin by selecting an English-taught Masters or Bachelor’s Program. Each program lists whether scholarships are available. This ensures you apply for opportunities relevant to your chosen course of study.
Review the eligibility criteria for the scholarships linked to your program. While basic requirements include non-EEA nationality and enrollment in a full-time program at a participating institution, specific awards may require additional qualifications such as academic performance, final transcripts, or professional experience
You must have at least provisional acceptance or be in the final stages of admission to the university program before applying for most scholarships. The Study in NL portal advises completing your admission first to unlock access to scholarship applications.
Typical scholarship applications require:
Ensure you gather all required documentation, as incomplete applications are often rejected.
Deadlines vary by institution and scholarship. While many follow standard admission timelines, scholarships like the NL Scholarship have their own schedules. Check both program and scholarship deadlines on the respective University portal.
Once you have admission (or conditional offer), apply via the university’s scholarship portal or through Study in NL where applicable. Some Universities use OSIRIS or my.utwente.nl upload motivation letters and other documents as instructed.
Decision timelines differ between scholarships and universities. Universities generally aim to announce awards before tuition deadlines. If shortlisted, you will be contacted directly by email or via your application portal.
If granted a scholarship, carefully review acceptance terms, which may include maintaining academic standards, visa requirements, or full-time enrolment. Failing to meet conditions may result in withdrawal of the scholarship.
If you're applying for Netherland scholarships for the first time, it’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed by the number of steps and details involved. What’s the easiest way to get started? Connect with KC Overseas Education.
We are partnered with many of the leading Dutch Universities, including those mentioned in this article. Our team will help you identify the programs that best match your academic background and goals and guide you toward the scholarships you’re most likely to receive.
From shortlisting eligible scholarships to writing compelling scholarship essays and submitting complete applications our Europe team assist you every step of the way. Ready to begin your university admission or scholarship application process? Get in touch with us and move forward with expert guidance tailored to your goals.
Yes. Students may apply for admission and scholarships to multiple Dutch institutions and programs concurrently. Many universities encourage applying to more than one, especially if program eligibility or scholarship criteria differ.
Yes. Most scholarships require a valid English test score such as IELTS, TOEFL, or Cambridge certificates. Specific score thresholds vary by institution (e.g., IELTS ≥ 6.5, TOEFL iBT ≥ 90) and must be met before finalizing your scholarship application.
Some university-specific scholarships can be renewed, but this depends on the program length and performance. For instance, the University of Twente Scholarship can be extended for a second year of a two-year Master’s program if academic progress is satisfactory (e.g. passing 50 % of ECTS).
Yes. Even with a scholarship, a non‑EEA student must apply for a Dutch residence permit (MVV/TEV). The University usually assists during the admission process, but applicants must submit required documents like scholarship award letter, proof of funds, and health insurance to the Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND) before the start of the program.
No. Scholarships listed (government-funded and University-specific) are offered only for full-time, on-campus studies. Part-time or online programs are not eligible. This ensures scholarship recipients fully engage with campus life and meet the EU’s study visa requirements.
Deferring after scholarship acceptance depends on University rules. Some scholarships (like NL Scholarship) might be forfeited if a student delays enrollment. Deferment requests must be submitted directly to the University’s scholarships office well in advance and are granted only under exceptional circumstances.