NL Scholarship 2026

If you are looking for study abroad scholarships and dream of a Masters in Netherlands, the NL Scholarship 2026 is one of the most prestigious options available. Financed by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture, and Science, this program aims to attract the brightest minds to Dutch research universities and universities of applied sciences.

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What is the NL Scholarship 2026?

The NL Scholarship is a financial contribution of €5,000 awarded to international students in their first year of study. It is important to note that this is a partial scholarship—it helps cover initial costs but does not provide a fully funded scholarship experience covering all tuition and living expenses. However, it significantly reduces the financial burden of international student fees.

Eligibility Criteria (Explained Simply)

To qualify for this financial aid, you must meet these simple requirements:

Non-EEA Status: You must not be a citizen of an EU/EEA country (including Switzerland and Surinam).
First-Time Student: You must never have studied at an educational institution in the Netherlands before.
Admission: You must apply for a full-time Bachelor’s or Master’s degree at a participating Dutch university.
Academic Excellence: Most universities require a high GPA or specific academic achievements.

Required Documents for Application

Preparation is key to getting university admission and scholarship approval. You will typically need:

A valid Passport or national ID.
Certified Academic Transcripts from your previous school/university.
A Motivation Letter (often the most critical part).
A professional CV/Resume.
Proof of English proficiency (IELTS or TOEFL scores).

How to Apply for the NL Scholarship 2026

The application process for the Holland Scholarship is unique because you do not apply to the government directly. Instead, you apply through your chosen Dutch university.

Step 1: Select a program at a participating Dutch research university or university of applied sciences.
Step 2: Check the scholarship section of that university’s website.
Step 3: Submit your university application along with your scholarship request.
Step 4: Wait for the selection committee to review your profile.

Important Dates and Deadlines

Missing the deadline is the most common reason students lose out on student finance opportunities.

Applications Open: November 1, 2025.
Primary Deadlines: Usually February 1, 2026, or May 1, 2026.
Decision Notification: Most students hear back by June or July.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I get the scholarship for every year of my degree? No, the NL Scholarship is a one-time payment of €5,000 awarded only in the first year.

Is there an age limit? While the scholarship itself doesn’t have a strict age limit, some high-level Masters programs or specific university criteria may apply.

Can I combine this with other grants? In many cases, yes! You can often pair this with university-specific international student loans or other private study grants.

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