NL Scholarship

The NL Scholarship is financed by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science and Dutch research universities and universities of applied sciences. The scholarship is intended for international students from outside the European Economic Area (EEA = the EU countries, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway) who wish to study for a master's degree in the Netherlands. The scholarship provides financial support to help cover the costs of studying at Utrecht University, with available amounts of €5,000, €10,000, or €15,000 awarded in the first year of studies. To be eligible, applicants must not hold an EU/EEA passport, must not have been previously enrolled at a Dutch educational institution (exchange programmes excepted), and must apply for an international master's programme at Utrecht University starting September 1, 2026. Selection is based on academic background, motivation demonstrating how the experience in the Netherlands connects to future goals, and a realistic financial plan showing ability to cover remaining costs. The scholarship is awarded through a competitive selection process with applications due before February 1, with results published by mid-April. Applicants must submit both an application to an eligible master's programme and a separate NL Scholarship application through the OSIRIS Online Application portal, including a Statement of Financial Resources demonstrating their complete funding plan.