The Netherlands is one of the most preferred study destinations in Europe for international students due to its globally ranked universities, English-taught programs, and strong academic environment. Every year, thousands of students search for fully funded scholarships in Netherlands to pursue Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD degrees without financial burden. For the 2026 academic year, the Dutch government, top universities, and reputable foundations are offering a wide range of scholarships that cover tuition fees, living expenses, health insurance, and in some cases travel costs. These opportunities make studying in the Netherlands accessible to talented students from all over the world.
This guide provides a complete and updated list of fully funded scholarships in Netherlands for international students in 2026, along with clear information about eligibility, benefits, and the application process. Whether you are planning to study engineering, business, social sciences, or research-based programs, this article will help you identify the most suitable Dutch scholarships and understand how to apply step by step. By reading this guide, students can confidently plan their studies in the Netherlands and increase their chances of securing financial support for their education.
1. Holland Scholarship (NL Scholarship – Dutch Government)
The Holland Scholarship is funded by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture, and Science in collaboration with Dutch research universities and universities of applied sciences.
Eligibility
- Open to non-EU/EEA international students
- Admission to a Bachelor’s or Master’s program in the Netherlands
- Strong academic background
- First time studying in the Netherlands
What It Covers
- Scholarship grant for the first year of study
- Contribution toward tuition and living expenses
- Merit-based selection
- Offered by participating Dutch universities
- Click here to check complete process of this scholarship
2. Orange Tulip Scholarship Programme (OTS)
The Orange Tulip Scholarship is one of the most well-known scholarship programs for international students applying to Dutch universities.
Eligibility
- Open to students from selected countries
- Admission to a participating Dutch university
- Academic excellence required
- Country-specific criteria may apply
What It Covers
- Full or partial tuition fee waiver
- Living cost support (varies by institution)
- University-specific benefits
- Networking and academic support
- Click here to check complete process of this scholarship
3. Erasmus University Rotterdam (EUR) Excellence Scholarships
Erasmus University Rotterdam offers merit-based scholarships for outstanding international students enrolling in Master’s programs.
Eligibility
- Open to non-EU/EEA students
- Admission to a Master’s program at EUR
- Excellent academic performance
What It Covers
- Full or partial tuition fee waiver
- Merit-based financial support
- Academic mentoring
- Renewal based on performance
- Click here to check complete process of this scholarship
4. University of Amsterdam (UvA) Excellence Scholarships
The University of Amsterdam provides several prestigious scholarships for high-achieving international Master’s students.
Eligibility
- Open to non-EU/EEA students
- Admission to a Master’s program at UvA
- Outstanding academic record
What It Covers
- Full tuition fee coverage
- Monthly living allowance (selected programs)
- Academic and research support
- Click here to check complete process of this scholarship
5. Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS)
Leiden University offers the Excellence Scholarship Programme to attract top international students.
Eligibility
- Open to non-EU/EEA students
- Admission to a Master’s program at Leiden
- High academic achievement
What It Covers
- Full or partial tuition fee waiver
- Merit-based award
- Academic networking opportunities
- Click here to check complete process of this scholarship
6. Utrecht Excellence Scholarships
Utrecht University offers Excellence Scholarships for international students pursuing Master’s programs.
Eligibility
- Open to non-EU/EEA students
- Admission to a Master’s program at Utrecht University
- Strong academic background
What It Covers
- Full tuition fee coverage
- Living allowance (selected awards)
- Academic support and mentoring
- Click here to check complete process of this scholarship
7. Maastricht University High Potential Scholarships
This scholarship is one of the most generous fully funded scholarships offered by a Dutch university.
Eligibility
- Open to non-EU/EEA students
- Admission to a Master’s program at Maastricht University
- Academic excellence and motivation required
What It Covers
- Full tuition fee waiver
- Monthly living allowance
- Health insurance
- Visa and residence permit costs
- Click here to check complete process of this scholarship
8. TU Delft Excellence Scholarships (Justus & Louise van Effen)
TU Delft offers one of the most competitive scholarships in Europe for engineering and technology students.
Eligibility
- Open to international students worldwide
- Admission to a Master’s program at TU Delft
- Excellent academic results
What It Covers
- Full tuition fee coverage
- Monthly living allowance
- Health insurance
- Academic and research support
- Click here to check complete process of this scholarship
9. Eindhoven University of Technology Scholarships
Eindhoven University offers scholarships for international students in science and engineering disciplines.
Eligibility
- Open to non-EU/EEA students
- Admission to a Master’s program
- Strong academic background
What It Covers
- Full or partial tuition fee waiver
- Monthly allowance (selected awards)
- Academic mentoring
- Click here to check complete process of this scholarship
10. Radboud University Scholarships
Radboud University offers scholarships to international students enrolling in English-taught Master’s programs.
Eligibility
- Open to non-EU/EEA students
- Admission to Radboud University
- Strong academic performance
What It Covers
- Partial or full tuition fee waiver
- Reduced visa and residence costs
- Academic and career support
- Click here to check complete process of this scholarship
11. VU Amsterdam Fellowship Programme (VUFP)
VU Amsterdam provides fully funded and partial scholarships to outstanding international students.
Eligibility
- Open to non-EU/EEA students
- Admission to a Master’s program at VU Amsterdam
- Academic excellence required
What It Covers
- Full or partial tuition fee waiver
- Academic mentoring
- Professional development support
- Click here to check complete process of this scholarship
12. University of Groningen Eric Bleumink Fund
The Eric Bleumink Fund Scholarship is one of the most comprehensive fully funded scholarships in the Netherlands.
Eligibility
- Open to students from developing countries
- Admission to a Master’s or PhD program at the University of Groningen
- Excellent academic performance
What It Covers
- Full tuition fees
- Monthly living allowance
- Travel costs
- Health insurance
- Click here to check complete process of this scholarship
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are there fully funded scholarships in the Netherlands for international students in 2026?
Yes. Several Dutch universities and government programs offer fully funded or high-value scholarships, especially at the Master’s and PhD levels.
Do Dutch scholarships cover living expenses?
Some scholarships, such as Maastricht University High Potential and Eric Bleumink Fund, fully cover living expenses, while others focus mainly on tuition fees.
Is IELTS mandatory for scholarships in the Netherlands?
Most programs require proof of English proficiency, but exemptions may apply depending on prior education.
Can international students work while studying in the Netherlands?
Yes, international students can work part-time, subject to work permit regulations.
What is the best fully funded scholarship in the Netherlands?
Popular options include the Maastricht High Potential Scholarship, TU Delft Excellence Scholarship, and Eric Bleumink Fund.
