Top 8 Scholarships in the Netherlands for International Students 2025

Netherlands is known for its progressive education system, globally ranked universities, and a strong emphasis on student-centric learning, the Netherlands is a top destination for international students. With its vibrant multicultural environment and affordable education, it’s no wonder why students from across the globe are drawn here. 

But let’s address the elephant in the room—funding your studies. Fortunately, there are numerous scholarships in the Netherlands designed to ease the financial burden. From the government-funded NL Scholarship to prestigious university-specific awards like the Utrecht Excellence Scholarship, the Netherlands ensures that talented and deserving students have access to its academic opportunities. 

Whether you’re pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, or research studies, this guide is your go-to resource for understanding the top scholarships in the Netherlands for international students. Let’s dive in and explore how you can transform your dream of studying in the Netherlands into reality. 

Why Study in the Netherlands?

The Netherlands is a top-tier destination for international students. Here’s why: 

• Globally Ranked Universities: Institutions like Utrecht University and Leiden University consistently rank among the world’s top 100. 

• Diverse Courses: Over 2,000 programs are taught in English, covering fields like engineering, social sciences, business, arts, and healthcare, ensuring students from all disciplines find their ideal course. 

• Affordable Tuition Fees: Compared to other popular study destinations, the Netherlands offers relatively low tuition fees, with numerous scholarships in the Netherlands to ease financial burdens. 

• High Graduate Employability: Ranked among the top countries for job placements, Dutch graduates often land roles at multinational companies such as Shell, Philips, and Unilever. 

• Scholarships for All Levels: From the NL Scholarship to Erasmus Mundus programs, students have access to numerous funding opportunities, including fully funded scholarships for international students. 

• Accessible Location: Situated in the heart of Europe, the Netherlands offers easy access to neighboring countries like Germany, France, and Belgium for travel and networking. 

Related: List of Top Universities & Colleges in the Netherlands

Top 8 Scholarships in the Netherlands for International Students 2025

Whether you’re an undergraduate, postgraduate, or research student, these scholarships are tailored to suit various needs. Below is an in-depth look at the fully funded scholarships in the Netherlands for international students. 

1. NL Scholarship

A prestigious government-funded scholarship aimed at attracting non-EEA talent to study in the Netherlands. 

NL Scholarships Eligibility Criteria 2025

• Open to non-EEA international students. 

• Applicants must have secured admission to a participating Dutch university for a bachelor’s or master’s program. 

• Must meet the university’s specific admission and program requirements. 

NL Scholarships Benefits

• A one-time grant of €5,000, provided in the first year of study. 

• The scholarship partially covers tuition fees but does not include living expenses. 

How to Apply for NL Scholarships 2025?

1. Apply for admission to a participating Dutch university. 

2. Check your university’s specific application process and deadlines. 

3. Submit the scholarship application alongside supporting documents like:  

• Proof of admission. 

• Academic transcripts. 

• Statement of purpose. 

• Deadlines for NL Scholarship 2025 usually range from February to May 2025, varying by institution. 

2. University of Twente Scholarship (UTS)

A highly competitive merit-based scholarship for top-performing international master’s students. 

UTS Scholarship Eligibility Criteria 2025

• Open to applicants for a master’s program at the University of Twente. 

• Requires proof of academic excellence and leadership potential. 

• Applicants must meet the admission requirements of their chosen master’s program. 

UTS Scholarship Benefits

• Financial support ranges from €3,000 to €22,000 for one academic year. 

• Access to additional funding opportunities, such as the Kipaji Scholarship, for students from developing countries. 

How to Apply for UTS Scholarship 2025?

1. Apply for a master’s program at the University of Twente and receive a conditional admission letter. 

2. Access the UTS application form through the university’s online portal. 

3. Provide supporting documents, including:  

• A motivation letter. 

• Academic transcripts. 

• Proof of leadership activities or extra-curricular engagement. 

• Deadline for UTS Scholarships 2025: Submit your scholarship application before the May 1, 2025 deadline. 

3. Erasmus University Rotterdam Scholarships

Focused on promoting diversity and inclusion, this scholarship supports outstanding international students pursuing undergraduate and master’s programs. 

Erasmus University Rotterdam Scholarships Eligibility Criteria 2025

• Open to both undergraduate and master’s students at Erasmus University Rotterdam. 

• Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence and financial need. 

• Must have already secured admission to an eligible program. 

Erasmus University Rotterdam Scholarships Benefits

• Tuition fee reduction of up to 50%. 

• In some cases, a living expenses stipend may be included. 

How to Apply for Erasmus University Rotterdam Scholarships 2025?

1. Apply for admission to Erasmus University Rotterdam. 

2. Upon receiving admission, complete and submit the scholarship application form through the university’s online portal. 

3. Provide supporting documents, such as:  

• Academic transcripts. 

• Statement of financial need. 

• Motivation letter. 

• Deadline for Erasmus University Rotterdam Scholarship: April 2025 

4. Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS)

It is for academically exceptional master’s students; this scholarship is a beacon for those pursuing research-oriented programs. 

Eligibility Criteria for Leiden University Excellence Scholarship 2025

• Open to international master’s students from non-EEA countries. 

• Applicants must be in the top 10% of their class academically. 

• Admission to a master’s program at Leiden University is mandatory. 

Leiden University Excellence Scholarship Benefits

• Scholarship awards range from €10,000 to full tuition coverage. 

• Partial awards cover tuition fees, while full awards may include living costs. 

How to Apply for Leiden University Excellence Scholarship 2025?

1. Apply for a master’s program at Leiden University.

2. Indicate your interest in the LExS during the program application process.

3. Submit a motivation letter, academic records, and any additional documents requested by the university.

4. Deadline to apply for LExs: March 1, 2025

5. Utrecht Excellence Scholarship

A prestigious program for exceptionally talented international students, providing financial support for master’s studies. 

Utrecht Excellence Scholarship Eligibility Criteria 2025

• Open to non-EEA students admitted to a master’s program at Utrecht University. 

• Applicants must demonstrate a strong academic background. 

• Priority is given to students with outstanding records and leadership potential. 

Utrecht Excellence Scholarship Benefits

• Full tuition fee coverage for the duration of the program. 

• Additional €11,000 living allowance to support daily expenses. 

How to Apply for Utrecht Excellence Scholarship 2025?

1. Apply for a master’s program at Utrecht University. 

2. Students are automatically considered for the scholarship upon submission of their program application. 

3. Some programs may require additional documentation, such as a motivation letter or recommendation. 

4. Deadline to apply for Utrecht Excellence Scholarship: February 2025 

6. Erasmus Mundus Scholarship Programs

A prestigious EU-funded initiative designed to promote collaboration and academic excellence across European universities, offering fully funded scholarships to students worldwide. 

Erasmus Mundus Scholarship Eligibility Criteria 2025

• Open to students globally who are applying to Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s programs. 

• Must meet the academic and language requirements of the specific master’s program. 

Erasmus Mundus Scholarship Benefits

• Full tuition fee coverage for the entire program duration. 

• Monthly stipend of up to €1,100–€1,200 for living expenses. 

• Travel allowance and installation costs (vary depending on the location). 

How to Apply for Erasmus Mundus Scholarship 2025?

1. Research Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s programs on the official Erasmus Mundus portal. 

2. Submit an online application through the program’s designated website. 

3. Include supporting documents such as:  

• Academic transcripts. 

• Statement of Purpose. 

• Language proficiency certificates (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL).

7. Radboud University Scholarship

Designed for academically talented international students aiming to join a master’s program at Radboud University, this scholarship significantly reduces tuition costs. 

Eligibility Criteria for Radboud University Scholarship 2025

• Must have received unconditional admission to a master’s program at Radboud University. 

• Open to non-EU/EEA students. 

• Demonstrate academic excellence and alignment with Radboud’s values. 

Radboud University Scholarship Benefits

• Partial tuition waiver, reducing fees to approximately €2,200 (from the standard non-EU fee of €16,000–€18,000). 

• Covers costs for visa, residence permit, health insurance, and liability insurance. 

How to Apply for Radboud University Scholarship 2025?

1. Indicate interest in the Radboud Scholarship during the online application for your master’s program. 

2. No separate scholarship application is required, but ensure all required documents for admission are submitted. 

3. Provide additional documents like a CV and motivation letter, if requested. 

8. HAN University of Applied Sciences Scholarship

Focused on students excelling in technical and practical disciplines, this scholarship provides substantial financial support to international undergraduates and postgraduates. 

HAN University of Applied Sciences Scholarship Eligibility Criteria 2025

• Open to international students applying for bachelor’s or master’s programs at HAN University. 

• Must meet academic and program-specific requirements. 

HAN University of Applied Sciences Scholarship Benefits

• Up to €5,000 tuition discount for the first year of study. 

• Renewal opportunities for subsequent years based on academic performance. 

How to Apply for HAN University of Applied Sciences Scholarship 2025?

1. Gain admission to a bachelor’s or master’s program at HAN University. 

2. Submit a scholarship application through the HAN online portal. 

3. Include documents such as:  

• Academic records. 

• Motivation letter. 

• Proof of extracurricular achievements. 

• Deadline for HAN University of Applied Sciences Scholarship: April 2025

Tips for Securing a Scholarship in the Netherlands

Securing scholarships in the Netherlands requires preparation and strategy. 

• Start Early: Research opportunities well in advance. 

• Tailor Applications: Highlight achievements and tailor your essays to match scholarship values. 

• Prepare Strong Documents: Focus on your statement of purpose, recommendation letters, and academic transcripts. 

• Maintain Academic Excellence: Many scholarships are merit-based, so aim for top grades. 

• Seek Guidance: Consult professors or university advisors for application tips. 

Conclusion

Securing a scholarship in the Netherlands is not just about financial relief—it’s an opportunity to join a community of global scholars, gain exposure to cutting-edge education, and prepare for an internationally competitive career. As you prepare your applications, remember that each scholarship—be it the NL Scholarship, the Radboud University Scholarship, or the Erasmus Mundus Program—is designed to recognize and reward talent, ambition, and determination. Be authentic in your applications, focus on showcasing your unique strengths, and don’t hesitate to seek guidance along the way. 

The Netherlands awaits with open arms, ready to equip you with an education that will shape your future. So, why wait? Dive into this list of fully funded scholarships in the Netherlands for international students, take that leap of faith, and begin your journey toward academic excellence in one of Europe’s most innovative countries.