If you’ve ever dreamed of studying in the Netherlands, the NL Scholarship 2025-2026 presents an excellent opportunity. Offered by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture, and Science, this scholarship is designed for talented non-EEA international students pursuing full-time bachelor’s or master’s programs at participating Dutch universities and universities of applied sciences.
Unlike a full scholarship, the NL Scholarship provides €5,000 in financial support to help offset tuition or living expenses during your first year of study. The award is competitive and recognizes students with strong academic achievements and extracurricular involvement.
In this article, you’ll find the scholarship benefits, eligibility requirements, a list of participating universities, and a step-by-step guide to applying successfully.
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NL Scholarship 2025-2026 Overview
- Host Country: Netherlands
- Funded by: Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture, and Science
- Study Level: Undergraduate & Master’s
- Eligible Institutions: Participating Dutch research universities and universities of applied sciences
- Duration: 1 year (non-renewable)
- Scholarship Value: €5,000 (not full tuition)
- Eligible Nationalities: Non-EEA students
- Language Requirement: English
- Application Deadlines:
- February 1, 2025
- May 1, 2025
- June 1, 2025 (depending on institution)
NL Scholarship 2025 Benefits
The NL Scholarship provides:
- One-time grant of €5,000 in the first year of study.
- Funding can be applied toward tuition fees or living expenses.
Note: The NL Scholarship does not cover the full cost of tuition or living expenses in the Netherlands. Students are responsible for arranging additional funding if needed.
Participating Universities
The NL Scholarship is offered at a wide range of Dutch research universities and universities of applied sciences.
Research Universities:
- 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:
- Aeres University of Applied Sciences
- Amsterdam University of the Arts
- ArtEZ Institute of the Arts
- Breda University of Applied Sciences
- Codarts Rotterdam
- Design Academy Eindhoven
- Fontys University of Applied Sciences
- Gerrit Rietveld Academie
- The Hague University of Applied Sciences
- Hanze University of Applied Sciences
- Hotelschool The Hague
- Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences
- HU University of Applied Sciences Utrecht
- Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences
- HAN University of Applied Sciences
- HKU University of Applied Sciences
- HZ University of Applied Sciences
- NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences
- Saxion University of Applied Sciences
- University of the Arts, The Hague
- Zuyd University of Applied Sciences
Tip: Each institution sets its own application deadline and may have program-specific requirements. Check your chosen university’s website for details.
Eligibility Criteria for NL Scholarship 2025
To qualify for the NL Scholarship 2025-2026, applicants must:
- Hold non-EEA nationality.
- Apply for a full-time bachelor’s or master’s program at a participating Dutch university.
- Meet the specific admission requirements of the university and chosen program.
- Not already holding a degree from a Dutch educational institution.
- Demonstrate academic excellence and strong extracurricular involvement.
Required Documents
- Completed university application form
- Motivation letter (max. 500 words) describing:
- Your academic achievements
- Your extracurricular activities (e.g., volunteering, leadership roles)
- Why you deserve the NL Scholarship
- Copy of passport or ID
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Proof of English proficiency (if required by the institution)
How to Apply for NL Scholarship 2025
- Choose a Participating Institution
- Select a Dutch research university or university of applied sciences offering the NL Scholarship.
- Apply for Admission
- Submit your application for a full-time bachelor’s or master’s program at the chosen university.
- Indicate NL Scholarship Interest
- During the online application, check the box for NL Scholarship and upload your motivation letter.
- Submit and Wait for Confirmation
- The university will review applications and notify successful scholarship recipients directly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the NL Scholarship fully funded?
No. It is a one-time €5,000 award, which can help cover part of your tuition or living expenses.
2. Can I receive the NL Scholarship for more than one year?
No, the scholarship is only awarded once, in the first year of your program.
3. Do I need IELTS or TOEFL to apply?
English proficiency is required for admission to Dutch universities, but the specific test requirements depend on the institution.
4. Can students from the EU apply?
No. The scholarship is exclusively for non-EEA international students.
5. How competitive is the scholarship?
Highly competitive. Selection is based on academic excellence, motivation, and extracurricular achievements.
Final Thoughts
The NL Scholarship 2025-2026 is an excellent opportunity for non-EEA students who wish to experience world-class education in the Netherlands while receiving partial financial support.
If you are academically strong and motivated, this scholarship can help you start your Dutch study adventure and open doors to international career opportunities.
Don’t wait—explore your chosen university, prepare a compelling motivation letter, and apply before the deadlines!
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