The Maastricht University NL Scholarship is a highly competitive funding opportunity for international students from outside the EU/EEA, Switzerland, and Surinam who want to pursue a master’s degree in the Netherlands. It is designed to support talented students who have strong academic records and the potential to contribute meaningfully to their field of study and university community. Funded by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science together with Maastricht University, this scholarship can significantly reduce the financial pressure of studying abroad by helping cover tuition fees, living expenses, insurance, and visa-related costs.

For many students, studying at Maastricht University is an exciting chance to experience one of Europe’s most respected universities while learning in an international and innovative academic environment. However, because the scholarship is limited and highly selective, applicants must do more than simply meet the basic requirements. They need to submit a complete, well-prepared application and show academic excellence, motivation, and a clear fit with their chosen programme. Since only a small number of awards are granted each year, understanding the eligibility rules, benefits, required documents, and application process is essential for anyone hoping to succeed.

Maastricht University NL Scholarship Program Summary

The Maastricht University NL Scholarship is a prestigious funding opportunity for talented international students who want to pursue a master’s degree in the Netherlands. It offers financial support to help reduce the cost of tuition and living expenses while studying at Maastricht University.

Eligibility for the Maastricht University NL Scholarship

Before applying, students should carefully review the official eligibility requirements. Applicants must satisfy both the scholarship requirements and the admission requirements of their chosen master’s programme. Meeting the minimum eligibility criteria does not guarantee selection because only a limited number of scholarships are awarded each year.

General Eligibility Criteria

• Hold a nationality outside the EU/EEA, Switzerland, and Surinam.
• Be eligible to obtain a Dutch entry visa and residence permit if required.
• Not possess dual nationality of an EU/EEA country or Switzerland.
• Meet all admission requirements for the selected master’s programme.
• Not have previously completed a degree-seeking higher education programme in the Netherlands (exchange students are generally eligible).
• Agree to act as a Maastricht University Scholarship Ambassador during and after their studies.
• Submit only one scholarship application. Multiple scholarship applications are not permitted.

Age and Academic Requirement

• Applicants should be 35 years old or younger on the specified reference date mentioned by Maastricht University.
• Applicants should demonstrate outstanding academic performance, normally with a minimum GPA of 7.5/10 or its equivalent.
• Preference is generally given to applicants who have not yet obtained a master’s degree.

Benefits of the Maastricht University NL Scholarship

The Maastricht University NL Scholarship is among the most valuable scholarship opportunities available for non-EU/EEA students wishing to study in the Netherlands. It significantly reduces the financial burden associated with pursuing a master’s degree abroad.

Financial Benefits

• Full tuition fee coverage.
• Living expenses for the duration of the programme.
• Health and liability insurance.
• Visa and residence permit costs.
• Pre-academic training costs where applicable.
• Support through the International Student Ambassador Programme where applicable.

Academic and Personal Benefits

• Studying at one of the Netherlands’ leading research universities.
• Learning through Maastricht University’s internationally recognized Problem-Based Learning (PBL) system.
• Exposure to an international classroom with students from around the world.
• Opportunities to build professional and academic networks.
• Participation in ambassador activities that strengthen leadership and communication skills.
• Enhanced career opportunities through an internationally recognized master’s degree.

Documents Required for the Maastricht University NL Scholarship

Preparing your application documents early can greatly improve the quality of your application. Since applicants can submit the scholarship application only once, every document should be complete and accurate before submission.

• Valid Passport
• Academic Transcripts
• Degree Certificate
• Official GPA Statement or Grade Explanation
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Motivation Letter
• Recommendation Letters or Referee Information
• Additional Programme-Specific Documents

How to Apply for the Maastricht University NL Scholarship

Applying for the Maastricht University NL Scholarship involves both applying for admission to an eligible master’s programme and completing the scholarship application process. Since the scholarship is highly competitive and applications are submitted online, it is important to prepare all required documents well before the deadline. Applicants should carefully read the scholarship instructions and programme-specific admission requirements to avoid mistakes or incomplete submissions.

Step-by-Step Application Process

• Visit the official Maastricht University website and explore the list of master’s programmes that participate in the NL Scholarship. Ensure you meet the admission requirements for your chosen programme before starting your application.
• Submit an online application for admission to your selected full-time master’s programme through the Maastricht University application system. You must receive a student ID number after submitting your programme application before you can proceed with the scholarship application.
• Once your programme application has been submitted, complete the online scholarship application according to the instructions provided by Maastricht University.
• Fill in all requested personal details carefully, including your contact information, nationality, educational background, and other required information. Make sure all information matches your official documents.
• Upload all required supporting documents, including your passport, academic transcripts, CV, motivation letter, GPA information, recommendation letters (if required), and any programme-specific documents. Ensure that every document is clear, complete, and submitted in the required format.
• Before submitting, carefully review every section of your application. Double-check your uploaded documents and personal information to ensure there are no errors or missing files.
• Submit your scholarship application before the official deadline. Late or incomplete applications are generally not considered, so avoid waiting until the final day.
• Shortlisted applicants may be contacted by the faculty for additional assessments or interviews if required. The exact selection process may vary depending on the master’s programme.

Application Tips

• Write a genuine and well-structured motivation letter explaining your academic goals, career plans, and why Maastricht University is the right choice for you.
• Choose a master’s programme that closely matches your educational background and future career objectives.
• Demonstrate your academic achievements through strong grades and relevant extracurricular activities.
• Ask referees for recommendation letters well before the deadline.
• Prepare all required documents early to avoid last-minute problems.
• Carefully proofread your application to eliminate spelling and grammatical mistakes.
• Follow every instruction provided by Maastricht University and submit only complete applications.

Deadline for the Maastricht University NL Scholarship

The scholarship is offered once each academic year. Applicants must first submit their application for admission to an eligible master’s programme before completing the scholarship application. Because application dates may change from year to year, applicants should check the official Maastricht University website regularly for the latest deadlines and announcements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)