The Netherlands is one of the best places in Europe to study because it has high-quality schools, courses taught in English, and excellent job prospects. Tuition isn’t always free, but many scholarships can help pay for your education, sometimes even in full.
This guide talks about the best scholarships in the Netherlands for international students in 2026. It goes over who can apply, what the benefits are, and how to do it right.
Why should you study in the Netherlands?
Before looking into scholarships, it’s important to know why the Netherlands is a wonderful place to live.
Some of the main benefits are the following:
- A lot of programmes taught in English
- Universities that are known around the world
- A strong job market after graduation
- A welcoming environment for people from other countries
- Visa for work after studying (Orientation Year visa)
Now let’s look at the different types of scholarships that are out there.
Best Scholarships in the Netherlands for Students from Other Countries
NL Scholarship (Most Popular)
The NL Scholarship, which used to be called the Holland Scholarship, is the most well-known government-funded scholarship.
Important Information
- Available for bachelor’s and master’s degrees
- Open to international students from outside the EEA
- Provided by the Dutch government and universities
Pros
- €5,000 grant (only for the first year)
- Paid once, can’t be renewed
Who can apply
- Must come from outside the EEA
- You must apply for a full-time program.
- Should not have gone to school in the Netherlands before
Important Note
This award isn’t a full scholarship, but it cuts down on the cost of your first year by a lot.
Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degrees (Fully Funded)
The program is one of the best fully funded choices in Europe.
Pros
- Full payment for tuition
- Monthly payment
- Money for travel
- Insurance
Best For
- Students in a master’s programme
- Candidates who are very competitive
Plus
You can study in several European countries, such as the Netherlands.
Orange Tulip Scholarship (for a specific country)
This scholarship is only for students from certain countries.
Pros
- Covering part or all of the tuition
- Different for each college
Best For
- Students from countries that qualify (including some that are still developing)
Scholarships for specific universities in the Netherlands
Many colleges and universities have their own scholarships.
NL-High Potential Scholarship from Maastricht University
Pros
- Full payment for tuition
- Monthly payment
- Insurance for health
Best For
- Students in a master’s programme
Due date
- Every year, usually in February
The Radboud Scholarship Programme
Pros
- Lower tuition costs (big discount)
- Pays for visas and insurance
Notice
Not included are living costs.
The University of Twente Scholarship (UTS)
Pros
- €3,000 to €22,000 a year
Best For
- Master’s students who do well
VU Amsterdam Fellowship Programme
Pros
- Full or partial payment of tuition
Best For
- Master’s students from other countries
Eric Bleumink Scholarships at the University of Groningen
Pros
- Fully paid for (tuition and living costs)
Best For
- Very good students in school
The Justus & Louise van Effen Scholarship at TU Delft
Pros
- All of the tuition
- Money for living
Best For
- Students in engineering and technology
Different kinds of scholarships in the Netherlands
Knowing the different types will help you make the right choice.
Scholarships with Full Funding
- Mundus Erasmus
- Eric Bleumink
- High Potential in Maastricht
These include:
- Paying for school
- Cost of living
- Go on a trip
Some scholarships
- NL Grant
- Radboud Grant
These are lower tuition, but they might not cover all costs.
Scholarships for College
- Offered directly by schools
- Different in value and coverage
What you need to do to get a scholarship in the Netherlands
Most scholarships have the same rules.
Requirements for school
- Good grades in school
- Degree that is relevant
Requirements for Language
- TOEFL or IELTS
- Proof of English proficiency
What documents do you need?
- Transcripts from school
- CV
- Your personal statement
- Letters of recommendation
Other Requirements
- Experience in leading
- Activities outside of school
- Goals for your career and motivation
How to Apply Step by Step
Step 1: Pick a Programme
Choose a course that:
- Fits your background
- Is available in English
Step 2: Fill out an application for admission
Send in your application to a Dutch university.
Step 3: See if there are any scholarships available
Go to the university’s scholarship page to make sure you qualify.
Step 4: Apply for Financial Aid
Some scholarships ask for:
- Application on its own
- Letter of motivation
- More papers
Step 5: Wait for the Results
Schools typically inform students about their scholarship decisions after they receive acceptance.
How much it costs to study in the Netherlands
Knowing how much things cost helps you make better plans.
Fees for School
- €6,000 to €15,000 a year
Costs of Living
- €800 to €1,200 a month
Scholarships help a lot with these expenses.
Job Opportunities for Students
International students in the Netherlands are able to:
- Work part-time, up to 16 hours a week
- Full-time work in the summer
This job helps pay for living expenses.
Things to do after school
You can apply for these after you graduate:
- Visa for the Orientation Year (one year to look for work)
This visa lets you:
- Job
- Get some experience
- Change to a long-term stay
How to Get Scholarships in the Netherlands
Apply soon
Deadlines are strict, and everyone is trying to meet them.
Keep your grades up.
Most scholarships are based on merit.
Write a letter of motivation that is strong
Tell me more:
- Your objectives
- Why the Netherlands
- Your plan for your career
Apply for More Than One Scholarship
Don’t rely solely on a single opportunity.
Pick Universities That Are Competitive Smartly
Find a balance between top schools and schools that aren’t as excellent.
Things You Shouldn’t Do
- Putting in late
- Not following the rules for eligibility
- Sending in weak papers
- Not applying for more than one scholarship
- Picking the wrong course
The Best Way to Succeed
The best way to do it is the following:
- Send in your application to Dutch universities
- Aim for both fully funded and partially funded scholarships
- Make strong documents
- Apply early
- Don’t rely solely on a single opportunity. Obtain a scholarship and work part-time.
Final Thoughts
In 2026, the Netherlands will have many scholarships for international students. These can be partial grants like the NL Scholarship or fully funded programmes like Erasmus Mundus, as well as awards specific to each university.
The secret to success is simple:
- Apply early
- Aim for more than one scholarship
- Make your academic profile strong
- Pick the right programme
If you have the right plan, you can cut your study costs by a lot and even study in the Netherlands without spending too much money.