Netherlands Government Scholarship 2026–27 | NL Scholarship
The Netherlands Government Scholarship 2026–27 (NL Scholarship) offers exceptional opportunities for talented international students from non-European Economic Area (EEA) countries who wish to pursue a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in the Netherlands. This prestigious scholarship is funded by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture, and Science, in collaboration with a network of Dutch research universities and universities of applied sciences.
Through the NL Scholarship, students gain access to world-class education, advanced research facilities, and rich international networking opportunities — all while studying in one of Europe’s most vibrant and innovative nations. Graduates of the program are well-prepared to continue toward a Ph.D., or take on advisory and leadership roles in both the public and private sectors.
About the NL Scholarship Program
The scholarship supports a wide range of academic disciplines, including:
- International Relations, Psychology, Anthropology, Urban Studies, Philosophy, Linguistics, Data Science, and Artificial Intelligence
- Law, Business, Economics, Marketing, Accountancy, Governance, and Human Resource Management
- Engineering, Innovation, Entrepreneurship, Communication, Ethics, and the Arts
With partnerships across 32 Dutch universities, recipients can choose from a diverse array of degree programs tailored to their interests and career goals.
Beyond academics, students will have the chance to explore the Netherlands’ cultural landmarks and lifestyle — an experience that is often financially out of reach without such support. The scholarship not only enhances academic growth but also fosters professional and personal development, equipping scholars with skills to succeed globally.
Program Details
| Detail | Description |
| Host Country | The Netherlands |
| Funded By | Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture, and Science (with participating universities) |
| Program Level | Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees |
| Recipients | International students from Non-EEA countries |
| Scholarship Amount | €5,000 (awarded in the first year of study only) |
| Participating Institutions | 32 Dutch Universities (Research and Applied Sciences) |
| Application Deadline | Varies by Institution. Check the specific university’s website (Deadlines often fall between February 1 and May 1, 2026). |
Participating Universities
Research Universities (2025–2026)
- Utrecht University
- University of Groningen
- Erasmus University Rotterdam
- Maastricht University
- VU Amsterdam
- Radboud University
- Delft University of Technology
- Eindhoven University of Technology
- University of Twente
- Theological University Apeldoorn
- Theological University Kampen
Universities of Applied Sciences (2026–27)
Aeres University of Applied Sciences, ArtEZ Institute of the Arts, Breda University of Applied Sciences, Codarts Rotterdam, Fontys University of Applied Sciences, The Hague University of Applied Sciences, Hotelschool The Hague, HU University of Applied Sciences Utrecht, HAN University of Applied Sciences, HKU University of Applied Sciences, Saxion University of Applied Sciences, Zuyd University of Applied Sciences, and many more.
Scholarship Benefits
- A €5,000 grant awarded in the first year of study
- Freedom to choose your preferred Dutch university and program
- Opportunity to study at leading institutions recognized worldwide
- Access to advanced research, training, and academic resources
✅ Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the NL Scholarship, applicants must meet the following strict requirements:
- Nationality: You must not be a national of a country within the European Economic Area (EEA).
- Degree Status: You must be applying for a full-time Bachelor’s or Master’s degree program.
- Prior Education: You must not already have a degree from an educational institution in the Netherlands.
- Admission: You must apply for and receive an admission offer from one of the 32 participating Dutch universities.
- University Requirements: You must fulfill all the specific admission and selection requirements of the university and program you are applying to.
📝 How to Apply
The application for the NL Scholarship is integrated into the admission process of the individual university you choose. You do not apply through a centralized government website.
- Select a University: Choose a Bachelor’s or Master’s program at one of the 32 participating Dutch higher education institutions (DHEIs).
- Apply for Admission: Apply directly for admission to your chosen degree program using that university’s specific online application system (e.g., Studielink).
- Submit Scholarship Application: During the admission process, or shortly after receiving an offer, the university will provide instructions or a separate form to apply for the NL Scholarship.
Required Application Documents (Commonly Requested):
- Motivation Letter: Explaining your academic goals and why you deserve the scholarship.
- Academic Transcript: Official copy of your latest academic records.
- Updated CV.
- Reference Letter.
- English Language Certificate (e.g., IELTS/TOEFL).
- Financial Statement/Budget Plan: Showing how you plan to manage your remaining finances.
- Copy of Passport/ID.
Application Deadline
Applications for the 2026–27 academic year are now open.
Deadlines vary by university — please visit the official website of your selected institution for detailed information.
Article Link:
