Studying in the Netherlands
Completing a degree at a prestigious university in the Netherlands presents students with a globally recognized certification, alongside a plethora of employment opportunities. Additionally, several scholarships are available for students who may face financial constraints. The Netherlands stands out in higher education, boasting numerous esteemed universities that offer advanced teaching methods and a rich learning experience. Furthermore, it is known for having relatively low living and tuition costs compared to its neighboring countries, making it a popular choice for international applicants seeking scholarship programs available in the Netherlands.
What are the Most Prominent Scholarships in the Netherlands?
There are various scholarships available in the Netherlands, including:
Dutch Government Scholarship
This scholarship is funded by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture, and Science and supports bachelor’s and postgraduate programs for students from non-European countries. It aims to encourage these students to pursue their education in the Netherlands. Notably, this scholarship is awarded only once, with the financial support amounting to €5,000.
University of Twente Scholarship
Designed for postgraduate students, the University of Twente Scholarship is awarded to those who have demonstrated outstanding academic performance. The scholarship recognizes the achievements of graduate students in their specific programs and is open to applicants from both European and non-European countries. The scholarship amount ranges from €3,000 to €22,000 for the entire academic year.
Amsterdam Merit Scholarship
The University of Amsterdam, located in the city of Amsterdam, offers merit-based scholarships for outstanding international students. These scholarships are specifically available for students enrolled in undergraduate programs related to social sciences, behavioral sciences, economics, business, and psychology. The annual scholarship amount is €6,000.
Maastricht University High Potential Scholarship
This scholarship is regarded as one of the best options for international students in the Netherlands. It is a combination of the Maastricht University Scholarship, funded by the university, and the Holland Scholarship, financed by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture, and Science. It is awarded to international graduate students who exhibit excellence in their graduate studies. The scholarship amount varies by program and also covers annual living expenses of €11,400 for up to 12 months, in addition to visa application fees.
Leiden University CSC Scholarship
The China Scholarship Council (CSC) offers scholarships through Leiden University specifically for aspiring Chinese students. This scholarship is applicable for doctoral degrees and encourages graduate students who have excelled in their academic fields to pursue their PhDs. It is exclusively available to Chinese citizens and provides a monthly allowance of €1,350.
Erasmus University Rotterdam – L-EARN Scholarship
This scholarship is aimed at international students from developing countries (as per the World Bank’s classification). Its primary goal is to support economic development in these nations. The scholarship is available for postgraduate degrees, and recipients are expected to return to their home countries after completing their studies to contribute to the economy and social growth. The scholarship amounts range from €10,000 to €22,000.
Is Education in the Netherlands Free?
While studying in the Netherlands is relatively affordable compared to other countries in Europe, such as the United Kingdom, numerous scholarships are offered to international students, making education either free or significantly subsidized.