Masters Degree Scholarship Programmes in the Netherlands for International Students 2027

Masters Degree Scholarship Programmes in The Netherlands For International Students: A Complete Guide for 2027

There are Masters Degree Scholarship Programmes in The Netherlands For International Students that can help talented students pursue postgraduate education without having to shoulder the entire financial burden themselves.

The Netherlands has become an attractive destination for international students because of its internationally recognized universities, wide selection of English-taught Master’s programmes and opportunities to learn in a multicultural environment. Whether you studied engineering, business, agriculture, public health, environmental science or another discipline, you may find a postgraduate programme that matches your academic background and career goals.

However, one important distinction must be made from the beginning: not every scholarship in the Netherlands is fully funded. Some awards cover tuition fees, others provide a one-time financial contribution, and a smaller number offer comprehensive support that includes tuition, living expenses and other essential costs.

Understanding these differences can help you focus on opportunities that match your financial circumstances.

This guide explores some of the most important Master’s scholarship programmes to investigate for the 2027/2028 academic session, their general eligibility requirements, how to prepare a competitive application and where to begin your search.

If studying in the Netherlands has been part of your plans, this is a good place to start.

Why Study in the Netherlands as an International Student?

Before choosing a scholarship, it is worth understanding why the Netherlands attracts students from different parts of the world.

The country offers a combination of academic quality, international exposure and career development opportunities that appeal to graduates seeking more than just another qualification.

1. Internationally recognised universities

Dutch universities offer Master’s programmes in areas such as:

• Business administration and management.
• Economics, finance and accounting.
• Computer science and information technology.
• Engineering and renewable energy.
• Agriculture and food science.
• Environmental science and sustainability.
• Public health and life sciences.
• International relations and development studies.
• Education and social sciences.
• Artificial intelligence and data science.

Many programmes emphasise research, independent thinking, teamwork and practical problem-solving.

A Dutch Master’s degree can strengthen your professional profile and help you compete for opportunities in your home country or internationally.

However, employment after graduation is not guaranteed, and career opportunities depend on your qualifications, experience, language skills and the relevant country’s immigration rules.

2. English-taught Master’s programmes

You do not necessarily need to speak Dutch to study at a Dutch university.

Many institutions offer Master’s programmes taught entirely in English, making them accessible to international applicants.

Nevertheless, you may need to provide proof of English proficiency through an accepted examination, such as IELTS or TOEFL, unless the university grants you an exemption.

Always check the language requirements of your chosen programme before applying.

3. A multicultural learning environment

The Netherlands welcomes students from many countries, creating opportunities to interact with people from different cultures and academic backgrounds.

This exposure can help you develop communication skills, build international connections and understand how professionals approach problems in different parts of the world.

For students interested in international careers, these experiences can be valuable beyond the classroom.

4. Opportunities for research and professional development

Depending on your field of study, Dutch universities may offer access to research facilities, industry partnerships, academic conferences and practical projects.

Students studying environmental science, agriculture, engineering, technology and public health, for example, may find programmes that connect academic learning with real-world challenges.

Your choice of university should therefore depend not only on the scholarship but also on the quality and relevance of the programme.

5. Scholarship opportunities for international students

Several Dutch universities and funding organizations provide financial assistance to international students.

Some scholarships are open to applicants from many countries, while others target specific nationalities, regions or academic disciplines.

For students who cannot afford international tuition fees independently, identifying the right scholarship can make the difference between postponing a dream and pursuing it.

Types of Master’s Degree Scholarships Available in the Netherlands

Scholarships are not all structured in the same way. Before applying, understand what each award actually covers.

Fully funded scholarships

A fully funded scholarship generally covers tuition fees and provides substantial financial support for living expenses. Depending on the programme, it may also cover travel, visa-related expenses and health insurance.

However, the precise benefits vary, so read the official scholarship conditions carefully.

These scholarships are particularly suitable for students who cannot afford to finance their education independently.

Tuition fee scholarships

Tuition fee scholarships pay all or part of the university’s tuition charges.

Although this can significantly reduce the cost of studying, you may still need money for accommodation, food, transport, insurance and other personal expenses.

A tuition waiver should not automatically be described as a fully funded scholarship.

Partial scholarships

Partial scholarships provide a specified amount of financial assistance towards education expenses.

For example, an award might contribute €5,000 towards your first year of study without covering your entire tuition fee.

Partial scholarships can be helpful if you have personal savings, family support or another reliable source of funding.

University-specific scholarships

Many Dutch universities administer their own scholarship programmes.

These awards may be based on academic excellence, nationality, financial circumstances, intended course of study or a combination of factors.

Some require you to receive admission to a particular Master’s programme before you can apply for the scholarship.

Others have separate application forms and earlier deadlines.

Government-supported scholarships

Some scholarship schemes receive financial support from the Dutch government and participating higher education institutions.

The eligibility rules, participating universities and financial benefits depend on the specific scheme.

It is important to distinguish currently available scholarships from older programmes that no longer accept applications.

For example, the Orange Knowledge Programme ended in 2024, so prospective students should not treat it as an active source of new scholarship applications.

Top Masters Degree Scholarship Programmes in the Netherlands for International Students in 2027

Several universities offer funding opportunities worth investigating for the 2027/2028 academic year.

The following programmes differ in their financial coverage and eligibility requirements. Some are particularly competitive, and scholarship availability may depend on the Master’s programme you choose.

1. Wageningen University & Research Africa Scholarship Programme

The Africa Scholarship Programme at Wageningen University & Research is an important opportunity for eligible African students who want to pursue a Master’s degree in the Netherlands.

Wageningen University is particularly known for its work in agriculture, food systems, environmental science, sustainability and related research fields.

The scholarship aims to attract talented African students and support capacity building across the continent.

What does the scholarship cover?

According to the university’s published information, the Africa Scholarship Programme includes:

• Tuition fees for the duration of the Master’s programme.
• A living allowance for up to 24 months.
• Travel to and from the Netherlands.
• Visa-related costs.
• Health insurance costs.

This makes it a particularly attractive opportunity for eligible students seeking substantial financial support.

Who can apply?

The published requirements include:

• Citizenship of an African country.
• An application for an eligible MSc programme at Wageningen University & Research.
• Unconditional admission to the Master’s programme.
• A First Class Honours degree or equivalent, with a GPA of at least 80% in the bachelor’s degree.
• Completion of the university’s academic and English-language requirements.

The university also states that applicants must submit a complete Master’s application before the relevant scholarship deadline.

Deadline for the 2027 intake

The published deadline is 1 December 2026.

Applicants should ensure that all admission requirements are satisfied by the deadline, including the submission of required academic documents.

The scholarship is highly competitive. Meeting the minimum criteria does not guarantee selection, and applicants should carefully review the university’s current requirements before proceeding.

For full eligibility conditions and scholarship details, visit the official Wageningen University Master’s Scholarships page.

2. Anne van den Ban Fund

The Anne van den Ban Fund is another funding opportunity associated with Wageningen University & Research.

It supports students from eligible developing countries who wish to pursue Master’s education in areas connected with the fund’s objectives.

For students interested in agriculture, food systems, development and related disciplines, it may be worth investigating.

However, applicants should not assume that every international student or every Master’s programme qualifies.

Potential benefits

Depending on the applicable award conditions, support may include:

• Tuition fees.
• Living expenses.
• Travel costs.
• Visa expenses.
• Health insurance.

The precise award conditions must be confirmed with the university.

How does the application process work?

The fund uses a selection process connected with admission to eligible Master’s programmes at Wageningen University.

Applicants should first examine the relevant Master’s admission requirements and scholarship conditions.

Do not assume that there is a separate application available to every student. Check whether you must be nominated or invited for consideration.

Important deadline note: The university’s current scholarship information should be checked for the applicable application deadline and the fund’s requirements for the 2027 intake.

Because scholarship arrangements can change, confirm the current conditions before relying on this opportunity as your main funding plan.

3. Maastricht University NL-High Potential Scholarship

Maastricht University offers the NL-High Potential Scholarship to eligible talented students from outside the European Union and European Economic Area who want to pursue participating Master’s programmes.

It is one of the opportunities worth investigating if you are looking for financial assistance at a Dutch research university.

The scholarship is competitive, and applicants must meet both the university’s admission requirements and the scholarship’s eligibility conditions.

What should applicants know?

• It is intended for eligible non-EU/EEA applicants.
• Only participating Master’s programmes qualify.
• Academic performance and other selection criteria matter.
• Applicants must follow the university’s admission and scholarship application procedures.
• The exact funding package and award conditions should be checked in the official scholarship information.

For the 2027/2028 academic year, Maastricht University’s published scholarship schedule lists an application period from 1 October 2026 to 1 February 2027, with a separate programme-admission deadline of 10 December 2026 for the scholarship route.

The earlier admission deadline is particularly important. Waiting until February to begin the process could mean missing the opportunity to be considered.

Before applying, confirm that your intended programme participates and that you meet all the relevant conditions.

4. VU Fellowship Programme at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

The VU Fellowship Programme, commonly known as VUFP, offers eligible international students the opportunity to pursue a Master’s degree at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam.

It is a merit-based scholarship designed for talented students from outside the EU/EEA who meet the university’s academic and programme requirements.

What does the scholarship cover?

The VUFP covers tuition fees.

It does not automatically cover accommodation, food, health insurance or other living expenses.

Students who receive a tuition fee waiver must therefore make a separate financial plan for their stay in the Netherlands.

The university may also offer eligible applicants the opportunity to be considered for the NL Scholarship, which provides an additional contribution towards living costs. However, receiving the VUFP does not guarantee that additional award.

Who should consider applying?

The programme may suit students who:

• Hold a non-EU/EEA passport.
• Have an excellent academic record.
• Meet the requirements for an eligible full-time English-taught Master’s programme.
• Can arrange sufficient funding for expenses not covered by the scholarship.

For the 2027/2028 intake, the university’s published schedule indicates that applications open on 1 November 2026 and close on 1 February 2027.

Applicants are advised to submit their Master’s programme applications well before the scholarship deadline. The university recommends 1 December 2026 as the programme application deadline for prospective VUFP applicants.

Because the award is highly competitive, prepare your academic documents and motivation statement early.

5. NL Scholarship

The NL Scholarship, formerly known as the Holland Scholarship, is a funding opportunity for international students from outside the European Economic Area who wish to study for a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in the Netherlands.

It is supported by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science and participating higher education institutions.

Unlike some fully funded awards, the NL Scholarship is a partial financial contribution.

How much is the scholarship worth?

The scholarship provides €5,000 towards the first year of study.

It is not a full-tuition scholarship and does not cover all living expenses.

This distinction is important because international students must demonstrate that they can meet the financial requirements of their study and residence arrangements.

Who can apply?

General conditions include:

• Being a national of a country outside the EEA.
• Applying for a full-time Bachelor’s or Master’s programme at a participating institution.
• Meeting the institution’s admission and scholarship requirements.
• Not already holding a degree from a Dutch higher education institution, where this condition applies.

Participating institutions set their own application deadlines and additional requirements.

The scholarship may be useful as part of a wider funding plan, particularly for students who can combine it with personal savings or other permitted funding sources.

Before applying, confirm that your chosen university offers the scholarship for your intended intake.

Comparison of Master’s Scholarships in the Netherlands for International Students

The following table summarises the main opportunities discussed in this guide.

Important: These dates and conditions reflect published information available as of October 2026. Scholarship rules can change, so applicants should confirm the latest requirements with the relevant university before submitting an application.

What Are the General Eligibility Requirements for Netherlands Master’s Scholarships?

Although each scholarship has its own rules, there are several requirements you should prepare for.

Understanding them early can save you time and help you avoid applying for opportunities for which you are not eligible.

1. A recognized bachelor’s degree

Most Master’s programmes require applicants to hold a bachelor’s degree or an equivalent qualification.

Your previous degree should normally be relevant to the programme you intend to study.

For example, an applicant seeking admission to a Master’s programme in public health may need a background in a related health or scientific discipline, depending on the university’s requirements.

Similarly, a program in data science may require previous studies in computing, mathematics, statistics or another relevant field.

Some universities consider applicants from different academic backgrounds, while others have strict subject prerequisites.

Always check the entry requirements before applying.

2. A strong academic record

Many competitive scholarships prioritise academic excellence.

Some programmes specify a minimum GPA or grade classification, while others evaluate applicants using their country’s grading system.

Do not assume that a particular percentage automatically qualifies you for a scholarship.

Universities may consider grading scales, institutional standards, course difficulty and other academic information when assessing international qualifications.

If your grades are not exceptionally high, do not give up immediately. Investigate scholarships with different eligibility requirements and consider whether your professional experience or other achievements are relevant to the selection process.

3. English-language proficiency

Many Master’s programmes in the Netherlands are taught in English.

Depending on the university and course, you may need to demonstrate proficiency through an accepted test, such as IELTS Academic or TOEFL iBT.

Some institutions accept other qualifications or grant exemptions to applicants who meet specified conditions.

The required score varies by programme.

Check the university’s official language requirements rather than relying on general advice from social media.

4. A convincing motivation letter or statement of purpose

Your motivation letter should explain why you want to study the programme, why you selected the university and how the degree fits your future plans.

A strong letter does more than repeat information from your CV.

It connects your academic background, relevant experience, interests and career objectives.

For example, an applicant interested in sustainable agriculture could explain how the Master’s programme would help them develop the knowledge and skills needed to address food security challenges.

Your explanation should be specific, realistic and relevant to the course.

5. Academic references

Some universities require letters of recommendation from lecturers, research supervisors or professional referees.

Choose people who can discuss your academic abilities, relevant experience, work ethic or potential for postgraduate study.

Ask for references early and provide your referees with enough information to write meaningful recommendations.

6. A valid passport and supporting documents

International applicants may need:

• A valid passport.
• Academic transcripts.
• Degree certificates.
• An updated CV.
• Proof of English proficiency.
• A motivation letter.
• Recommendation letters.
• A portfolio or writing sample, where relevant.
• Additional programme-specific documents.

You may also need documents relating to immigration, financial resources or previous academic qualifications.

Prepare digital copies in the format requested by the university.

How to Apply for Master’s Degree Scholarships in the Netherlands

Finding a scholarship is only the first stage. You must also understand how to apply and when to submit your documents.

The following steps provide a practical starting point.

Step 1: Choose your preferred Master’s programme

Begin by identifying the subject you want to study.

Instead of searching for every available scholarship in the Netherlands, narrow your search to programmes that match your qualifications and career goals.

Consider questions such as:

• Is the programme related to my bachelor’s degree?
• Is it taught in English?
• Does the university accept international applicants?
• What are the admission requirements?
• Does the university offer scholarships for my nationality?
• Is the programme eligible for the scholarship I want?

Your answers will help you avoid spending time on unsuitable opportunities.

Step 2: Identify scholarships that match your circumstances

Once you have selected a programme, investigate the scholarships available at that university.

Pay attention to whether the award is fully funded, tuition-only or partial.

If you cannot afford your living expenses independently, prioritise opportunities that provide a living allowance rather than relying entirely on tuition waivers.

You should also check whether the scholarship is open to applicants from your country.

Some awards target specific regions, nationalities or fields of study.

Step 3: Apply for admission

Many scholarships require applicants to apply for a Master’s programme before they can be considered for funding.

In some cases, you must receive an admission offer before submitting your scholarship application.

In others, admission and scholarship applications may be submitted through connected procedures.

Follow the university’s instructions carefully.

Do not assume that applying for admission automatically enters you into every scholarship competition.

Step 4: Prepare your scholarship application

Depending on the programme, you may need to submit a separate application form, motivation letter, academic documents and references.

Make sure that every document answers the question or meets the requirement for which it was requested.

Before submitting, check that:

• Your name is consistent across your documents.
• Your transcripts and certificates are legible.
• Your motivation letter is tailored to the scholarship.
• Your referees have submitted their recommendations, if required.
• You have included all mandatory documents.
• You have followed the instructions on file format and document length.

An incomplete application can prevent you from being considered.

Step 5: Submit everything before the deadline

Scholarship deadlines are often strict.

For the 2027/2028 academic session, applicants should pay particular attention to the December 2026 deadlines at Wageningen University and the earlier admission deadline for Maastricht University’s NL-High Potential Scholarship.

The VU Fellowship Programme has a published scholarship deadline of 1 February 2027, but prospective applicants are advised to apply for their Master’s program much earlier.

Set reminders for admission deadlines, scholarship deadlines and any additional document submission dates.

Whenever possible, submit your application several days before the deadline.

Step 6: Monitor your application

After submitting your application, check your email and university portal regularly.

The university may request additional documents, clarification or an interview.

Respond promptly and follow any instructions provided.

If you receive a scholarship offer, read the conditions carefully before accepting it.

Confirm the funding amount, payment arrangements, duration and any academic requirements attached to the award.

How to Write a Strong Scholarship Application

A scholarship application is an opportunity to demonstrate why you are a suitable candidate.

Your goal is not simply to show that you need financial assistance. You should also explain why the programme is relevant to your background and ambitions.

Write a clear and personal statement of purpose

A strong statement of purpose usually addresses four questions:

1. What is your academic and professional background?
2. Why do you want to pursue this particular Master’s degree?
3. Why have you chosen this university?
4. How will the qualification support your future goals?

Use specific examples to support your answers.

If you have completed a research project, worked on a relevant initiative or gained professional experience, explain how it influenced your decision to pursue postgraduate study.

Avoid generic statements that could apply to any university or scholarship.

Demonstrate your potential to contribute

Scholarship committees may want to understand how you intend to use the knowledge and skills you gain.

Your plans do not need to involve solving every problem in your country or transforming an entire industry.

Instead, describe realistic goals.

For example, you might want to improve agricultural productivity, strengthen public health programmes, develop digital solutions or contribute to environmental research.

Explain how the programme will help you take meaningful steps towards those objectives.

Highlight relevant achievements

Your application should present a clear picture of your strengths.

Depending on your background, you may highlight:

• Academic awards.
• Research experience.
• Relevant employment.
• Volunteering.
• Leadership responsibilities.
• Professional certifications.
• Community projects.
• Publications or presentations.

Quality matters more than quantity. Focus on achievements that demonstrate your readiness for the programme.

Proofread your application

Spelling mistakes, inconsistent information and unclear writing can make an application less convincing.

Read your documents carefully before submission.

You can also ask a trusted person to review your statement of purpose and CV for clarity.

Make sure your application reflects your genuine experiences and ambitions. Do not invent achievements or exaggerate your qualifications.

How Much Does It Cost to Study in the Netherlands Without a Scholarship?

Even if you receive a scholarship, understanding the cost of studying abroad is important.

International students should budget for tuition, accommodation, food, transport, insurance, study materials and other living expenses.

Tuition fees

Tuition fees depend on the university, programme and your nationality or fee category.

Students from outside the EU/EEA generally pay institutional tuition fees that can be substantially higher than the statutory fees charged to eligible EU/EEA students.

The amount varies by institution and programme.

Some specialised courses, particularly certain business programmes, may cost more than others.

Always use the university’s current fee information when preparing your budget.

Accommodation

Housing can be one of the biggest challenges for international students in the Netherlands.

Accommodation costs vary by city, neighbourhood and housing type.

Students in popular university cities may face strong competition for rooms, so it is wise to start looking for accommodation as early as possible.

Do not assume that your university will automatically provide a room.

Food and transport

Your monthly budget should also include groceries, public transport, telephone service, personal expenses and study materials.

Cooking at home, using student discounts where available and planning purchases can help you manage your expenses.

However, your budget should be realistic. Avoid assuming that you can cover all your costs through part-time work.

Visa and insurance expenses

Depending on your nationality and circumstances, you may need a residence permit, an entry visa or other immigration documentation.

Health insurance requirements also depend on your circumstances and activities in the Netherlands.

Confirm the applicable requirements with your university and the relevant authorities.

The most important lesson is simple: Do not accept a scholarship based solely on the headline award amount. Calculate the total cost of attendance and compare it with the actual funding you will receive.

Can International Students Work While Studying in the Netherlands?

Some international students may be able to work part-time while studying, but the rules depend on their immigration status.

For students from outside the EU/EEA, employment generally requires the appropriate work authorization, and restrictions may apply to working hours.

Students should confirm the current rules before accepting employment.

Part-time work may help with some personal expenses, but it should not be treated as a guaranteed source of funding.

Finding a job can take time, and balancing work with demanding postgraduate studies can be challenging.

If you receive a scholarship, check whether it has conditions relating to employment, academic performance or other sources of income.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for Netherlands Scholarships

Even qualified applicants can weaken their chances by making avoidable mistakes.

Here are some problems to watch out for.

1. Applying without checking eligibility

Do not apply simply because a scholarship is advertised as being for international students.

Check nationality restrictions, academic requirements, eligible programmes and funding conditions.

2. Missing the admission deadline

Some scholarships have an earlier university admission deadline than the scholarship application deadline.

Maastricht University’s NL-High Potential Scholarship is one example where applicants need to pay attention to the separate programme-admission deadline.

Plan both stages together.

3. Assuming every scholarship is fully funded

A tuition fee waiver does not automatically pay for accommodation or food.

Likewise, a one-time financial award may not cover the full cost of your studies.

Read the funding conditions carefully.

4. Sending the same motivation letter everywhere

A generic statement may fail to explain why you are a good fit for a particular programme.

Tailor your application to the scholarship’s objectives and the university’s academic strengths.

5. Ignoring document requirements

Some universities have specific rules for transcripts, translations, references and proof of English proficiency.

Follow the published instructions instead of assuming that documents accepted by one institution will automatically be accepted by another.

6. Relying on one scholarship

Scholarships are competitive, and even excellent applicants can be unsuccessful.

Apply to several suitable opportunities where possible, while ensuring that you can meet each institution’s requirements and deadlines.

7. Trusting scholarship agents who promise guaranteed admission

Be cautious of anyone who promises a guaranteed scholarship in exchange for an unusually high fee.

Scholarship decisions are made by the relevant institutions or funding bodies.

Use official university channels to confirm opportunities and submit applications.

Where to Find More Master’s Scholarships in the Netherlands

The most reliable starting point is the official Dutch study information platform, which provides information about scholarships and funding options for international students.

You can explore the official scholarship and funding guide for international students to understand the types of support available and how to identify relevant opportunities.

You should also investigate individual university scholarship pages because institutions may offer awards that are not included in general scholarship listings.

When researching an opportunity, confirm:

• Whether applications are open for 2027/2028.
• Whether your nationality is eligible.
• Whether your intended Master’s programme qualifies.
• The exact financial benefits.
• The admission and scholarship deadlines.
• Whether a separate application is required.
• Whether you must secure admission before applying.
• Whether the scholarship can be combined with other funding.

These checks can help you distinguish genuine, relevant opportunities from outdated scholarship announcements.

Frequently Asked Questions About Master’s Scholarships in the Netherlands

1. Are there fully funded Master’s scholarships in the Netherlands for international students?

Yes. Some Dutch universities offer scholarships that cover tuition fees, living expenses and additional costs.

Wageningen University’s Africa Scholarship Programme is one example for eligible African applicants.

However, many other scholarships provide only tuition fee waivers or partial financial assistance. Check the specific award conditions before applying.

2. Can students from any country apply for Master’s scholarships in the Netherlands?

Not always.

Some scholarships are open to applicants from many countries, while others target specific nationalities or regions.

The NL Scholarship, for example, is intended for eligible students from outside the EEA, subject to the applicable institutional requirements.

Other awards have narrower eligibility criteria.

3. Can I apply for a Netherlands scholarship with a Second Class Upper degree?

Possibly.

The answer depends on the scholarship and university.

Some highly competitive scholarships require exceptionally strong academic results, while other programmes may accept a broader range of qualifications.

Check how the university evaluates your country’s degree classification and grading system.

4. Is IELTS compulsory for Master’s scholarships in the Netherlands?

Not in every case.

Some universities accept alternative English-language tests or grant exemptions when applicants meet specific conditions.

However, many English-taught Master’s programmes require formal proof of English proficiency.

Check the requirements of your chosen programme before applying.

5. When should I apply for Netherlands Master’s scholarships for 2027/2028?

Start as early as possible.

For example, Wageningen University’s Africa Scholarship Programme has a published deadline of 1 December 2026, while the VU Fellowship Programme and Maastricht University’s NL-High Potential Scholarship have published scholarship deadlines of 1 February 2027.

Some programmes require admission applications before these scholarship deadlines.

Do not wait until the scholarship deadline to begin preparing your documents.

6. Can I apply for multiple scholarships in the Netherlands?

You may be able to apply for several scholarships, provided you meet each programme’s conditions.

However, some institutions restrict applicants to one scholarship or have rules governing whether awards can be combined.

Check the terms of each scholarship before submitting multiple applications.

7. Does the NL Scholarship cover full tuition fees?

No. The NL Scholarship provides €5,000 towards the first year of study.

It is a partial financial contribution, not a full-tuition or fully funded scholarship.

Applicants must arrange additional funding for any remaining tuition and living expenses.

8. Can I stay in the Netherlands after completing my Master’s degree?

Eligible graduates may have options to remain in the Netherlands after graduation, depending on their circumstances and the immigration rules in force at the time.

One route is the Dutch orientation year residence permit, which allows eligible graduates to spend a period in the Netherlands seeking employment or exploring other permitted opportunities.

Eligibility requirements apply, so graduates should consult the relevant immigration authorities before making plans.

9. Do I need work experience to apply for a Master’s scholarship?

Not necessarily.

Some Master’s scholarships focus primarily on academic excellence, while particular programmes may require relevant professional experience.

Read the requirements carefully to determine whether work experience is compulsory, preferred or unnecessary.

10. Can I study in the Netherlands without paying tuition fees?

Some scholarship recipients receive full tuition fee coverage.

However, this does not mean that every international student can study without paying tuition or living expenses.

Even when tuition is covered, you may need money for accommodation, food, insurance and other costs unless the scholarship also provides sufficient support for these expenses.

11. Are Netherlands scholarships available for students pursuing a second Master’s degree?

Some scholarships may permit applications from students who already hold a Master’s degree, while others prioritise or restrict eligibility to applicants pursuing their first Master’s qualification.

For example, the Wageningen Africa Scholarship Programme’s published requirements indicate a preference for applicants who do not already hold a Master’s degree.

Check the specific scholarship rules before applying.

12. Is it possible to get a Netherlands scholarship without an admission offer?

The process varies.

Some scholarships require you to receive admission before applying for funding, while others allow the scholarship and admission procedures to run alongside each other.

Follow the official application instructions for your chosen university.

Final Thoughts: Start Preparing for Your Netherlands Master’s Scholarship Today

Pursuing a Master’s degree in the Netherlands can be an exciting step towards your academic and professional goals. The country offers a range of postgraduate programmes, and scholarships can make these opportunities more accessible to talented students from different backgrounds.

However, success begins with choosing the right opportunity.

Masters Degree Scholarship Programmes in The Netherlands For International Students differ in their funding arrangements, academic requirements, eligible nationalities and application deadlines. Some provide comprehensive financial support, while others cover tuition fees or contribute towards the first year of study.

Start by identifying programmes that match your academic background. Then compare their admission requirements, confirm your eligibility and prepare your documents well before the deadline.

If you need a fully funded scholarship, prioritise opportunities that explicitly cover tuition and living expenses. If you are considering a partial scholarship, calculate how much additional money you will need to complete your degree.

Most importantly, rely on official university information rather than unverified social media announcements or promises of guaranteed scholarships.

The earlier you begin, the more time you will have to prepare a strong application and identify alternative funding opportunities.

Your dream of studying in Europe does not have to end because the cost seems overwhelming. With careful research, realistic financial planning and a well-prepared application, you can take meaningful steps towards making it possible.

Start researching your preferred Master’s programmes today, check the latest scholarship requirements, and give yourself enough time to prepare for the 2027/2028 academic session.