International students have one of their top study destinations in the Netherlands that makes available tons of scholarships in Netherlands for 2025. The country is known for high-quality education standards, mixtures of cultures, and research-driven universities; the Netherlands also offers funding options to ease the cost of pursuing higher education. These scholarships discussed below offered by universities such as Leiden University, the University of Amsterdam, and Delft University of Technology are fully funded; therefore, tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs of international students will be covered by such scholarships.
The Dutch government, universities, and various organizations provide generous scholarships to attract talented students from around the world. Some of the most prestigious scholarship programs include the Holland Scholarship, Orange Knowledge Programme, and Erasmus Mundus Scholarships. In this blog, we will explore the best scholarships in the Netherlands for 2025, detailing eligibility criteria, benefits, and application processes.
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1. Holland Scholarship
The Holland Scholarship is one of the most sought-after scholarships for international students who want to study in the Netherlands. It is funded by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture, and Science and is available for students applying for Bachelor’s and Master’s programs.
Eligibility:
- Open to non-EEA international students.
- Must apply for a full-time Bachelor’s or Master’s program at a participating Dutch university.
- Must meet the academic and language proficiency requirements of the university.
What it Covers:
- One-time grant of €5,000 (does not cover full tuition or living expenses)
2. Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP)
Providing professionals from eligible nations the means to take short courses or Master’s degrees in the Netherlands, the esteemed fully funded Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP) is a purposeful resources for students around the world. This initiative seeks to improve the knowledge and abilities of people in important fields, therefore advancing their native economies.
Eligibility:
- Open to students from OKP partner countries.
- Must be working in a field relevant to the program’s focus areas (e.g., agriculture, water management, health, education).
- Must have work experience and employer support.
What it Covers:
- Full tuition fee coverage.
- Living expenses, visa costs, travel expenses, and insurance.
3. Radboud Scholarship Programme
The Radboud Scholarship Programme is a prestigious and highly competitive scholarship provided by Radboud University for talented international students seeking admission to its English-taught Master’s programs. This scholarship aims to support outstanding students by reducing financial barriers and fostering academic excellence.
Eligibility:
- Open to non-EEA students.
- Must apply for an English-taught Master’s program at Radboud University.
- Strong academic record and motivation letter required.
What it Covers:
- Partial tuition fee waiver (reduces tuition to the amount paid by Dutch students).
- Covers visa, residence permit, and health insurance costs.
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4. University of Amsterdam Merit Scholarship
The University of Amsterdam Merit Scholarship is a competitive opportunity aimed at attracting exceptional international students from outside the EEA who wish to pursue a Master’s degree at one of Europe’s top-ranked research universities. This scholarship is designed to recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and a strong commitment to chosen fields of study.
Eligibility:
- Non-EEA students applying for a Master’s degree.
- Must demonstrate excellent academic performance and motivation.
What it Covers:
- Full or partial tuition coverage.
- Monthly stipend for living expenses.
5. TU Delft Excellence Scholarship
The Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) Excellence Scholarship provides full funding for outstanding international students applying for Master’s programs.
Eligibility:
- Open to non-EEA students.
- Must have an excellent academic record.
- Must submit a statement of purpose and recommendation letters.
What it Covers:
- Full tuition fee coverage.
- Living expenses stipend.
6. Leiden University Excellence Scholarship
The Leiden University Excellence Scholarship is a prestigious opportunity for academically exceptional international students aiming to pursue their Master’s studies at Leiden University, one of the oldest and most respected institutions in the Netherlands. This merit-based scholarship reflects the university’s commitment to attracting global talent and nurturing future leaders from across the world.
Eligibility:
- Non-EEA students applying for a Master’s program at Leiden University.
- Strong academic performance.
What it Covers:
- Partial tuition fee reduction (€10,000 – €15,000).
8. Maastricht University High Potential Scholarship
The Maastricht University (UM) High Potential Scholarship is a prestigious and fully funded opportunity aimed at attracting exceptionally talented students from outside the EU/EEA who aspire to pursue a full-time Master’s program at one of the most international universities in the Netherlands. It not only supports academic growth but also empowers students to contribute to a global learning environment enriched with innovation and diversity.
Eligibility:
- Open to non-EU/EEA students.
- Must meet admission requirements for a participating Master’s program.
- Outstanding academic record and a strong motivation letter are required.
What it Covers:
- Full tuition fee.
- Living expenses (€12,350–€23,750) depending on the program duration.
- Health insurance and visa costs.
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With the range of scholarships in Netherlands available in 2025, pursuing further learning is more achievable than ever. International students now have several financial assistance solutions customized to different academic paths, from partial scholarships like the Holland Scholarship to full ride offers including the Orange Knowledge Programme and the Mastract University High Potential Scholarship. These awards not only relieve financial pressures but also give access to some of the most innovative colleges in a dynamic, worldwide linked nation.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the best scholarships in Netherlands for international students?
Top choices include the Holland Scholarship, Erasmus Mundus, and Orange Knowledge Programme.
Can international students apply for scholarships in Netherlands?
Yes, international students from outside the EU/EEA can apply for many scholarships in Netherlands. There are numerous opportunities for students from diverse countries, especially those interested in pursuing Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD programs.
Do scholarships in Netherlands cover living expenses?
Yes, several scholarships in Netherlands, such as the Orange Knowledge Programme and Holland Scholarships, offer comprehensive support that includes full tuition coverage as well as allowances for living expenses, travel, and sometimes even insurance.
Can I apply for multiple scholarships in Netherlands?
Yes, you can apply for multiple scholarships in Netherlands as long as you meet the eligibility criteria for each one. However, some universities may have rules regarding overlapping funding, so it’s essential to read the scholarship terms carefully.
What are the eligibility requirements for scholarships in Netherlands?
Eligibility requirements vary depending on the scholarship, but generally, they include academic excellence, a strong motivation letter, and proficiency in English. Some scholarships, such as the Holland Scholarship, are only available to students from non-EEA countries, while others are open to students from all around the world.
