√Hidden Scholarships in the Netherlands for Global Learners

When people talk about studying in the Netherlands, popular scholarships like the Holland Scholarship or the Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP) usually steal the spotlight. But what many students don’t know is that there are hidden scholarship opportunities quietly offered by Dutch universities, foundations, and private organizations that can fully or partially fund your studies.

These scholarships might not appear on the first page of Google or be widely advertised — yet they’re real, valuable, and often less competitive than the well-known ones.

If you’re a global learner dreaming of studying in the Netherlands, this article uncovers the hidden gems of Dutch scholarships — from lesser-known university awards to unique funding programs offered by industries, NGOs, and research institutes.

Why the Netherlands Is a Top Study Destination

Before we dive into hidden scholarships, let’s quickly remind ourselves why studying in the Netherlands is worth your time and effort:

• World-Class Education: Dutch universities are globally ranked for innovation, research, and teaching quality.
• English-Friendly: Thousands of programs are offered entirely in English.
• Strong Job Market: The Netherlands is home to multinational companies like Philips, Shell, ING, and Heineken — all open to international talent.
• Affordable Tuition: While tuition is lower than in the UK or US, scholarships make it even more budget-friendly.
• Safe and Inclusive: The country is known for its equality, tolerance, and multicultural atmosphere.

All of these make the Netherlands an ideal destination — especially if you can find scholarships that cover your major expenses.

1. Hidden University Scholarships

Many Dutch universities offer internal or departmental scholarships that don’t get as much publicity as the big government programs. Here are a few to keep your eye on:

a. Radboud Encouragement Scholarship

Offered by Radboud University, this scholarship is open to talented students from non-EU/EEA countries.

Eligibility:

• Non-EU/EEA nationality
• Excellent academic performance
• Admitted to an English-taught master’s program

Benefits:

• Full tuition fee waiver
• Visa and insurance costs covered
• Monthly living allowance

While not as famous as the Holland Scholarship, this award can fully support your study journey.

b. VU Fellowship Programme (VUFP)

The Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam) offers the VU Fellowship Programme for talented non-EU/EEA master’s students.

Eligibility:

• Excellent academic results
• Admitted to an English-taught master’s program

Benefits:

• Full tuition coverage
• Access to additional support through the HSP Talent Programme, which provides living expenses.

This fellowship is a hidden gem for international students interested in Humanities, Law, Environmental Studies, or Business.

c. Utrecht Excellence Scholarship

Utrecht University provides a limited number of scholarships for highly talented non-EU/EEA students.

Coverage:

• Full tuition fees
• Living expenses up to €11,000 per year

Utrecht’s programs in Earth Sciences, Psychology, and Business are globally recognized, and this scholarship offers a pathway to join them tuition-free.

d. Wageningen University Africa Scholarship Programme

If you’re from an African country, Wageningen University offers a specialized scholarship that many don’t know about.

Fields Covered:
Agriculture, Food Technology, Environmental Science, and Climate Studies.

Coverage:

• Full tuition and living costs
• Visa fees and insurance
• Research support

This initiative promotes leadership and sustainability — perfect for students passionate about solving global environmental challenges.

e. HAN Holland Scholarship and Honors Programme

HAN University of Applied Sciences offers scholarships for both undergraduate and master’s students in technical and business-related fields.

Benefits:

• €2,500–€12,500 (depending on program and academic performance)
• Extra mentorship for high achievers

The HAN Honors Programme also provides internship opportunities in collaboration with Dutch industries.

2. Foundation and Private Organization Scholarships

Beyond universities, several Dutch organizations, companies, and charities fund international students — often without being widely advertised.

a. Nuffic Scholarships

Nuffic, a Dutch organization for international cooperation in education, manages several small-scale funding initiatives.

These include:

• StuNed Scholarships: For Indonesian students pursuing master’s programs.
• MSM Scholarships: For business professionals applying to Maastricht School of Management.
• OKP Fellowships: For professionals from partner countries.

Benefits:
Most programs cover tuition, housing, visa fees, and travel.

b. Shell Netherlands Scholarships

Shell collaborates with Dutch universities like TU Delft and Eindhoven University of Technology to fund outstanding students in Engineering, Energy, and Environmental Science.

Coverage:

• Full tuition
• Monthly allowance
• Internship or job opportunity after graduation

This is an excellent opportunity for those who want both financial aid and career prospects in the energy sector.

c. Orange Tulip Scholarship (OTS)

The Orange Tulip Scholarship is one of the Netherlands’ best-kept secrets. It’s managed by the Netherlands Education Support Offices (Neso) in selected countries.

Eligible Countries: Indonesia, India, Vietnam, Brazil, Mexico, and others.

Coverage:

• Partial to full tuition
• Some programs offer living cost allowances

Each university decides its own benefits, so students should check the Neso website or the university’s OTS page for updates.

3. Research and Field-Specific Grants

Some scholarships are offered by research institutions or professional bodies that support specific fields of study.

a. Delta Scholarship for Water Studies

Offered by IHE Delft Institute for Water Education, this scholarship targets students from developing countries who want to study Water Management, Hydrology, or Environmental Engineering.

Coverage:

• Tuition fees
• Housing
• Living allowance

b. European Space Agency (ESA) Research Fellowship

For students in Aerospace Engineering, Physics, or Earth Sciences, ESA provides funding to study or conduct research at Dutch universities like TU Delft or Leiden.

Benefits:

• Monthly stipend
• Research expenses and travel funding

4. Tips to Find Hidden Scholarships in the Netherlands

Finding lesser-known scholarships requires some digging. Here’s how to uncover them:

1. Check Individual University Websites: Many departments list scholarships separately.
2. Explore Nuffic Neso Offices: They promote national and regional scholarship programs.
3. Follow Dutch Embassy Announcements: Embassies often share scholarship news for students in their region.
4. Search Research Institutes: Institutions like TNO or IHE Delft offer funding in specific disciplines.
5. Network with Current Students: Join online forums or Facebook groups for tips from current scholars.

Conclusion

The Netherlands is not just a country of tulips, windmills, and famous universities — it’s also a place full of hidden opportunities for ambitious global learners. While scholarships like the Holland and Orange Knowledge Programmes are widely known, many other university, private, and research scholarships quietly offer life-changing financial support.

From Radboud and Utrecht Excellence Scholarships to industry-funded programs by Shell or field-specific grants like IHE Delft’s Delta Scholarship, these hidden awards can open the door to a world-class education without the financial burden.

So don’t stop at the big names — dig deeper, research smart, and apply widely. You might just uncover the scholarship that helps you achieve your dream of studying in the Netherlands — and beyond.