The Netherlands is one of the most popular study destinations in Europe, known for its high-quality education system, diverse student population, and innovative research opportunities. For international students, scholarships play a crucial role in making education more accessible. Many universities and organizations in the Netherlands offer scholarships to help cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other associated costs. In this article, we will explore the top 8 scholarships available for international students in the Netherlands in 2025.
1. Holland Scholarship
The Holland Scholarship is one of the most prominent scholarships for international students outside the European Economic Area (EEA) who wish to study in the Netherlands. Funded by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture, and Science, this scholarship is available for both bachelor’s and master’s degree programs at participating Dutch universities.
Key Benefits:
- €5,000 for the first year of study.
- Available for students pursuing a degree in various fields of study, including engineering, arts, social sciences, and more.
- The scholarship is a one-time payment and is intended to help cover living expenses.
Eligibility:
- Open to non-EEA students.
- Applicants must be enrolled in an eligible program at a participating Dutch university.
- Must meet the academic requirements set by the university and the scholarship program.
2. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EU)
The Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMD) program is a highly prestigious scholarship offered by the European Union. It provides funding for students to study in two or more European countries, including the Netherlands, for a joint master’s degree. The program is designed to promote international academic collaboration and increase the mobility of students across Europe.
Key Benefits:
- Full coverage of tuition fees, travel expenses, and living allowances.
- Opportunities to study in multiple European countries, including the Netherlands.
- Provides a joint or multiple master’s degrees from participating institutions.
Eligibility:
- Open to international students from outside the EU/EEA.
- Available for students pursuing a master’s degree in specific fields, such as engineering, technology, and social sciences.
3. University of Amsterdam – Amsterdam Excellence Scholarship (AES)
The Amsterdam Excellence Scholarship (AES) is offered by the University of Amsterdam to highly talented students from non-EU/EEA countries. This scholarship is available for exceptional students applying to master’s degree programs at the university. The AES aims to attract the brightest minds from around the world and support them financially in their academic endeavors.
Key Benefits:
- Covers tuition fees and living expenses for up to one year.
- Provides financial support of up to €25,000 for international students.
- Open to a wide range of master’s degree programs at the University of Amsterdam.
Eligibility:
- Open to non-EU/EEA students.
- Applicants must have an excellent academic record and demonstrate potential for leadership.
- Must meet the specific program requirements for admission to the University of Amsterdam.
4. Leiden University Excellence Scholarship Programme (LExS)
The Leiden University Excellence Scholarship Programme (LExS) is a competitive scholarship available to non-EU/EEA students who wish to study at Leiden University. This scholarship supports highly talented students who are applying for a master’s program at the university and helps them cover their tuition fees and living costs.
Key Benefits:
- Partial or full tuition fee waiver (ranging from €10,000 to €15,000).
- Covers living expenses for the duration of the program.
- Available for a wide range of disciplines, including humanities, law, and social sciences.
Eligibility:
- Open to non-EU/EEA students.
- Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence and meet specific admission criteria for the master’s programs at Leiden University.
5. VU University Amsterdam – VU Fellowship Programme
The VU University Amsterdam offers the VU Fellowship Programme to talented international students who wish to study a master’s degree at the university. The program is designed to attract the best international students and offer financial assistance to help with tuition and living expenses.
Key Benefits:
- Covers tuition fees and living expenses.
- Provides a grant of up to €15,000 per year.
- Available for a wide range of master’s programs at VU University.
Eligibility:
- Open to non-EU/EEA students.
- Applicants must have an excellent academic record and meet the specific entry requirements for their chosen program.
6. Orange Tulip Scholarship (OTS)
The Orange Tulip Scholarship (OTS) is a scholarship program designed for students from specific countries who wish to pursue higher education in the Netherlands. The scholarship is offered by Dutch universities in collaboration with Nuffic (the Dutch organization for internationalization in education). The program covers both undergraduate and master’s degrees.
Key Benefits:
- Covers tuition fees and living expenses.
- Available for students from specific countries, including Brazil, China, Indonesia, India, and South Korea.
- Students can choose from various programs offered by participating Dutch universities.
Eligibility:
- Open to students from the selected countries.
- Available for students pursuing both bachelor’s and master’s degrees at participating universities in the Netherlands.
7. Tilburg University Scholarships for International Students
Tilburg University offers a range of scholarships for international students, including the Tilburg University Top Talent Scholarship and the Tilburg University Scholarship for Students from Non-EU Countries. These scholarships are available for students applying to master’s programs at the university.
Key Benefits:
- Full tuition fee coverage.
- A stipend for living expenses (for some scholarships).
- Available for a wide range of master’s programs at Tilburg University.
Eligibility:
- Open to non-EU/EEA students.
- Applicants must meet the specific academic and program requirements for admission.
8. The Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture, and Science (OCW) Scholarships
The Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture, and Science (OCW) offers a variety of scholarships for international students wishing to study in the Netherlands. These scholarships are provided to students from countries that are part of the Dutch government’s international cooperation programs. The funding can be used for both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in various disciplines.
Key Benefits:
- Full or partial tuition fee coverage.
- Assistance with living costs and travel expenses.
- Available for students from specific countries with bilateral agreements with the Netherlands.
Eligibility:
- Open to students from countries that have agreements with the Dutch Ministry.
- Applicants must meet the eligibility criteria set by the specific scholarship program.
The Netherlands continues to be a welcoming and vibrant study destination for international students, and these scholarships make it easier to access top-tier education in the country. Whether you are applying for a master’s degree or looking to explore diverse fields of study, these scholarships provide valuable financial support and open doors to academic and professional success.