NL Scholarship 2026/27: Fully Funded Study Opportunity for International Students in the Netherlands

Apply for the NL Scholarship 2026/27 in the Netherlands. A €5,000 grant for international students pursuing bachelor’s or master’s studies at top Dutch universities.

11/20/20252 min read

Are you an international student outside the EEA looking to study in one of Europe’s most innovative education hubs? The NL Scholarship offers a fantastic opportunity to pursue a bachelor’s or master’s degree in the Netherlands and experience a truly global learning environment.

✨ What’s the NL Scholarship All About?

  • Funded by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture & Science and partner universities and applied sciences institutions.

  • Designed for students from non-EEA countries who want to begin their studies in the Netherlands. (Opportunities Pedia)

  • Gives you access to a vibrant academic setting with English-taught programmes, top-level research and high-impact networks.

🎁 Key Benefits at a Glance

  • A cash award of €5,000 given in the first year of study.

  • Access to leading Dutch universities and universities of applied sciences.

  • A rich cultural experience coupled with international networking opportunities.

  • Opens doors to global careers and professional pathways.

  • Eligible for both bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes.

🏫 Participating Institutions

Here are some of the institutions taking part:
Research Universities:

  • Leiden University

  • Utrecht University

  • University of Groningen

  • Erasmus University Rotterdam
    … and more.

Universities of Applied Sciences:

  • The Hague University of Applied Sciences

  • Amsterdam University of the Arts

  • Han University of Applied Sciences
    … among others.

✅ Who Can Apply?

To be eligible:

  • You must be from outside the EEA (European Economic Area).

  • You must apply for a bachelor’s or master’s programme at a participating Dutch university or university of applied sciences.

  • You cannot hold dual citizenship with an EU/EEA country.

  • You should meet the entry requirements of your chosen study programme (academic transcripts, English proficiency etc).
    -Note: The scholarship is not for someone who has already studied in the Netherlands.

📄 What Documents Are Needed?

Prepare the following:

  • Completed NL Scholarship application form.

  • Valid passport or national ID copy.

  • Academic transcripts and certificates.

  • Proof of English language proficiency.

  • A motivational (cover) letter explaining why you’re a strong candidate.

  • A professional Curriculum Vitae (CV).

  • Two or more recommendation letters.

📅 Deadlines & How to Apply

  • The exact application deadlines vary by institution — so it’s crucial to check the official website of your chosen university.

  • General steps to apply:

    1. Confirm you meet eligibility criteria.

    2. Gather all required documents.

    3. Apply online via the university’s application portal or the official scholarship site.

    4. Submit your supporting documents (CV, motivational letter, recommendations).

    5. Wait for the selection results.

🌍 Why Study in the Netherlands?

Studying in the Netherlands gives you access to:

  • A high-quality higher education system with forward-looking research programmes.

  • English-taught degrees and a multicultural campus community.

  • Strategic location in Europe – great for travel, internships and global exchanges.

  • A society widely ranked for safety, openness and innovation.

📝 Final Tips Before You Submit

  • Start your application early — collect transcripts, proofs and references well ahead of time.

  • Tailor your motivational letter: reflect on your ambitions, how studying in the Netherlands will support them, and what you’ll contribute to the campus community.

  • Ensure your CV is clear, updated and professional.

  • Verify all details on the official university or scholarship website before submitting.

  • Use reliable visuals and optimize this blog post for SEO (keywords such as “NL Scholarship 2026”, “study in Netherlands scholarship”, “international students Netherlands”) so you’re AdSense-ready.

📌 Ready to apply? Visit the official portal of the NL Scholarship or your chosen university and get started. This could be the stepping-stone to your next big leap.