Netherlands Scholarships 2025 – Fully Funded Scholarships

The Netherlands is renowned for its high-quality education system and offers numerous fully funded scholarships for international students. These scholarships provide an excellent opportunity for students to pursue their academic dreams without the financial burden. Here’s a detailed look at some of the top fully funded scholarships available in the Netherlands for 2025.

1. Netherlands Government Scholarship

The Netherlands Government Scholarship, also known as the Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP), is a prestigious scholarship funded by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It aims to enhance the development of individuals and organizations in higher and vocational education.

Key Features:

• Level of Study: Masters and short courses
• Coverage: Tuition fees, cost of living, visa, round-trip travel tickets, and health insurance
• Eligibility: Applicants must be from eligible countries and work in specific sectors such as education, government, or NGOs¹.

2. NL Scholarship

The NL Scholarship, formerly known as the Holland Scholarship, is designed for international students from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) who wish to pursue a bachelor’s or master’s degree in the Netherlands.

Key Features:

• Level of Study: Bachelor’s and Master’s
• Coverage: €5,000 for the first year of study
• Eligibility: Non-EEA nationality, applying for a full-time program at a participating Dutch institution, and meeting specific requirements of the chosen institution².

3. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMD)

The Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMD) are prestigious, integrated, international study programs, jointly delivered by an international consortium of higher education institutions. These scholarships are funded by the European Union.

Key Features:

• Level of Study: Master’s
• Coverage: Tuition fees, travel costs, installation costs, and subsistence allowance
• Eligibility: Open to students from all over the world, with specific eligibility criteria depending on the program³.

4. University-Specific Scholarships

Many Dutch universities offer their own fully funded scholarships for international students. Some notable ones include:

• Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS): For excellent non-EEA/non-EFTA students enrolling in a master’s degree program.
• University of Groningen Talent Grant: For students from specific countries enrolling in a master’s degree program.
• VU Amsterdam Fellowship Programme (VUFP): For highly motivated students from outside the EU/EEA enrolling in a master’s degree program⁴.

5. Research Scholarships

For those interested in research, the Netherlands offers several scholarships aimed at PhD and postdoctoral research. These scholarships are often provided by universities, research institutions, and government bodies.

Key Features:

• Level of Study: PhD and Postdoctoral
• Coverage: Varies by program, typically includes tuition fees, research costs, and living expenses
• Eligibility: Specific to the research field and institution⁴.

How to Apply

Applying for these scholarships typically involves several steps, including:

1. Research: Identify the scholarship that best fits your academic goals and check the eligibility criteria.
2. Prepare Documents: Gather necessary documents such as academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and proof of English proficiency.
3. Apply: Submit your application through the official scholarship portal or the university’s website.
4. Follow Up: Keep track of your application status and be prepared for any additional requirements or interviews.

Conclusion

The Netherlands offers a wealth of opportunities for international students through its fully funded scholarships. These scholarships not only provide financial support but also open doors to world-class education and cultural experiences. If you’re considering studying abroad, the Netherlands should definitely be on your list.