√Study in the Netherlands: Top Scholarships for International Students

The Netherlands has become one of the most attractive study destinations for international students — and for good reason. Known for its innovative education system, English-taught programs, and vibrant international community, the country also offers excellent scholarship opportunities for those dreaming of studying abroad without breaking the bank.

Whether you want to pursue a degree in business, engineering, or the arts, there are numerous scholarships in the Netherlands that cover tuition, living expenses, or even full study costs. This guide explores the top scholarships available in 2025, including government-funded, university-based, and private opportunities.

Why Study in the Netherlands?

Before diving into the scholarships, let’s look at why the Netherlands is a great place for international students:

• Affordable, high-quality education: Dutch universities are globally ranked and offer relatively lower tuition compared to other Western countries.
• Over 2,000 English-taught programs: You don’t need to speak Dutch to study here.
• International community: Students from over 150 countries study in the Netherlands.
• Strong job market: Post-study work visas and connections with global companies like Philips, Shell, and ING make it ideal for career growth.

With these benefits in mind, let’s explore the top scholarships that can help you study in the Netherlands for free or at a reduced cost.

1. Holland Scholarship

The Holland Scholarship is one of the most popular awards for non-European students who wish to study in the Netherlands. It is funded by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science, together with Dutch research universities and universities of applied sciences.

Key Details:

• Amount: €5,000 for the first year of study
• Eligible Students: Non-EU/EEA international students applying for bachelor’s or master’s degrees
• Participating Universities: University of Amsterdam, Leiden University, Delft University of Technology, and more
• Deadline: Usually February to May (varies by university)

This scholarship doesn’t cover full tuition but significantly helps reduce first-year expenses.

2. Orange Tulip Scholarship (OTS)

The Orange Tulip Scholarship is designed to attract talented students from specific countries, such as Indonesia, Vietnam, India, and Mexico, to study in the Netherlands.

What it covers:

• Full or partial tuition fee waiver
• In some cases, living expenses and visa costs

Who can apply:
Students from selected countries applying to participating Dutch institutions.

Pro Tip: Check if your country is part of the OTS network on nesoindonesia.or.id or the official Nuffic Neso website.

3. Erasmus+ Scholarships

The Erasmus+ program provides funding for students to study across European countries, including the Netherlands. It supports both full-degree programs and exchange semesters.

Benefits:

• Full or partial tuition coverage
• Travel and living allowances
• Exposure to multiple European institutions

Many Dutch universities, such as Maastricht University and University of Groningen, participate in Erasmus+ master’s programs — a perfect choice if you want a multi-country study experience.

4. Amsterdam Merit Scholarship (AMS)

The Amsterdam Merit Scholarship is offered by the University of Amsterdam to highly talented non-EU/EEA students pursuing undergraduate or master’s programs.

Coverage:

• Tuition fee + living expenses (up to €25,000 per year)
• Renewable based on academic performance

Eligibility:
Outstanding academic results, motivation letter, and proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL).

The AMS is among the most competitive scholarships in the Netherlands, ideal for top-performing students.

5. Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS)

Leiden University offers this prestigious award to excellent international students enrolling in master’s programs.

Benefits:

• Covers 25%, 50%, or 100% of tuition fees
• Option to combine with external funding sources

Eligible Programs: All master’s programs (except LLM Advanced Studies and the MSc in International Relations).

Leiden University, one of Europe’s oldest institutions, is known for its strong programs in law, social sciences, and international relations.

6. Maastricht University Holland High Potential Scholarship

Maastricht University offers one of the most generous scholarship packages for non-EU/EEA students.

What it includes:

• Full tuition fee coverage
• €12,350–€13,800 annual living stipend
• Visa, health insurance, and pre-academic training costs

Eligible Programs: All master’s programs offered by the university.

This program is funded by both the Holland Scholarship and Maastricht University’s own contributions.

7. TU Delft Excellence Scholarships (Justus & Louise van Effen Scholarship)

For students in the fields of engineering, design, and technology, TU Delft offers full scholarships through the Justus & Louise van Effen Foundation.

Scholarship Benefits:

• Full tuition fee coverage
• Monthly allowance (€30,000–€35,000 total per year)
• Membership in the Delft Global Initiative

Eligibility:
Exceptional academic performance and admission to one of TU Delft’s MSc programs.

This scholarship attracts top students who want to contribute to solving global challenges through innovation.

8. Radboud Scholarship Program

The Radboud University Scholarship is a partial tuition reduction for talented international students enrolling in English-taught master’s programs.

Coverage:

• Tuition reduced from €17,000 to around €2,500
• Visa, health insurance, and residence permit costs

Fields of Study: Arts, humanities, sciences, and social sciences.

While not fully funded, this scholarship makes studying at Radboud University very affordable.

9. Utrecht Excellence Scholarship

Utrecht University offers this scholarship to international students demonstrating outstanding academic performance and motivation.

Benefits:

• Tuition fee + €12,000 living expenses per year
• Available for select master’s programs

Selection Criteria:
Academic excellence, motivation, and leadership potential.

This program is ideal for students aiming to study in the Netherlands’ cultural heart — Utrecht.

10. Erasmus University Holland Scholarship

At Erasmus University Rotterdam, the Holland Scholarship is extended through its own funding to cover non-EU/EEA student costs.

Amount: €5,000–€15,000
Eligibility: Bachelor’s and master’s students in business, economics, or social sciences.

Erasmus University is a top destination for business and economics students worldwide, offering great academic and networking opportunities.

How to Apply for Scholarships in the Netherlands

Applying for scholarships requires preparation and attention to deadlines. Follow these key steps:

1. Choose your program and university — start at least 10–12 months before your intended start date.
2. Check eligibility for each scholarship carefully.
3. Prepare essential documents:
   • Academic transcripts
   • Recommendation letters
   • Motivation statement
   • English test results (IELTS/TOEFL)
4. Apply online through the university portal or Nuffic’s official website.
5. Submit before the deadline — late submissions are not accepted.

Conclusion

Studying in the Netherlands is a smart choice for students who seek a world-class education, diverse cultural exposure, and career opportunities in Europe. The scholarships listed above — from the Holland Scholarship and Orange Tulip Program to university-specific awards — make it possible to study in one of the world’s most innovative countries without worrying about high tuition fees.

Whether you’re interested in technology at TU Delft, business at Erasmus University, or social sciences at Leiden, there’s a scholarship waiting for you.

Start preparing now, stay organized with your applications, and turn your dream of studying in the Netherlands into reality — with financial support that makes it all possible.