The Netherlands is a great place for international students to earn a degree. Students from all over the world can come to the Netherlands to pursue a degree in sciences, arts, engineering or even management.
The best part is that you don’t have to spend a dime to study in the Netherlands.
With plenty of scholarship options available, you just need to know the criteria and methods of applying. And which universities offer these scholarships. That’s what this article covers.
Table of Contents
Types of Scholarships in Netherlands
Different types of funding exist to help students with their education in the Netherlands. Each kind of scholarship fits different student needs and backgrounds.
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Government-Funded Scholarships
The Dutch government wants talented students to come study here through special funding programs. The Holland Scholarship helps students from outside Europe pay for school and living costs.
Students from developing nations can apply for the Orange Knowledge Program for studies. These programs look for the best students, so you need to prepare a strong application.
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University-Specific Scholarships
Dutch schools give out their own money to bring great international students to their programs. The University of Amsterdam helps students through their Merit Scholarship for top performers.
TU Delft offers Excellence Scholarships to engineering students who show great promise. Each university chooses students based on their grades and achievements in school.
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Research Scholarships
Students doing master’s or PhD work can get special funding for their research projects. Utrecht University gives scholarships that cover both school costs and living expenses. Research funding lets students focus on their work without worrying about money.
Many programs help pay for research materials and going to academic meetings.
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Exchange Scholarships
Students can study in the Netherlands for a short time through exchange program funding. The Erasmus+ program helps students move between European schools for part of their studies. This funding covers travel costs and living expenses during your time abroad.
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Private and Non-Governmental Scholarships
Private groups also help students come to study in the Netherlands through different scholarship programs.
The Nuffic Scholarship supports students in many different study areas at Dutch schools. Wageningen University gives special funding to students from developing countries through its scholarship program. These scholarships often include extra help getting settled in the Netherlands.
Eligibility Criteria and Application Process
Academic Requirements
Most scholarships look for students with strong grades from their previous schools. Some programs want test scores like the GRE or GMAT for graduate studies. Your past academic work should show you can handle university studies in the Netherlands.
Language Proficiency
You need to prove your English skills since most Dutch programs teach in English. Most schools accept IELTS or TOEFL scores as proof of language ability. A score of 6.5 or higher on IELTS usually meets the requirements.
Motivation Letters and Other Documents
You’ll need to write a motivation letter. Just be honest about why you want to study here! Professors’ recommendations help too. Ask your professors early; they get busy!
Keep your documents organized. Make copies of everything. You don’t want to miss out because of missing paperwork! Some scholarships might want extra things like your CV or research proposal. Make a checklist to stay on track.
Application Deadlines
Each scholarship program has its own timeline for applications throughout the year. Many programs that start in fall 2024 need applications by early 2024. Check deadlines carefully and submit everything on time to be considered.
Want to boost your chances? Here are some useful tips!
- Start preparing at least a year before you want to study. This gives you time to take language tests and get documents ready.
- Join online groups for international students in the Netherlands. They share tons of helpful advice!
- Consider applying to multiple universities. Each has different scholarships, so you have more chances to get funding.
Top Universities in the Netherlands for International Students
University of Amsterdam
The University of Amsterdam welcomes students from everywhere with strong programs in many subjects. Its social science and business programs draw students from across the globe. Students love studying in Amsterdam because of its rich culture and student-friendly environment.
Delft University of Technology
TU Delft leads the way in engineering and technology education in the Netherlands. Their programs connect students with top companies and research projects. The school offers great support to help international students succeed in their studies.
Leiden University
Leiden University brings together history and modern learning in its many academic programs. Students choose Leiden for its strong programs in law and social sciences. The university helps international students find their place in the Dutch education system.
Utrecht University
Utrecht University makes its mark with excellent research programs and modern teaching methods. Their environmental and life science programs attract students from many countries. The school provides strong support services to help international students adjust to life here.
Erasmus University Rotterdam
Erasmus University stands out for its business and economics programs in Rotterdam’s dynamic environment. Students benefit from the school’s connections with international companies and organizations. The university helps students build careers through internships and job placement services.
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
VU Amsterdam offers strong programs in natural sciences and social studies to international students. Their research programs give students hands-on experience in modern facilities. The university creates a welcoming space for students from different backgrounds.
Maastricht University
Maastricht University uses modern teaching methods that help students learn through solving real problems. The school’s location near other European countries gives students unique cultural experiences. Students learn in small groups and get personal attention from their teachers.
Radboud University
Radboud University combines strong academics with a friendly campus environment in Nijmegen. Their science and humanities programs welcome students from around the world. The university offers good support services to help international students succeed.
Tilburg University
Tilburg University excels in social sciences and business studies with an international focus. Students enjoy the school’s modern campus and strong connections to industry. The university helps students develop both academic and professional skills.
University of Groningen
The University of Groningen brings together traditional education with modern research opportunities. Their programs span many fields, from science to the arts and humanities. Students find a welcoming community and plenty of support services here.
Netherlands Scholarships 2024 FAQs
Can I apply for multiple scholarships in the Netherlands?
Yes, you can apply for several scholarships to increase your chances of getting funding. Check if the programs allow combining different scholarships.
Are scholarships in the Netherlands fully funded?
Some scholarships cover all costs, but most pay for only part of your expenses. The Orange Knowledge Program offers full funding.
Do I need to speak Dutch to study in the Netherlands?
Most programs use English for teaching, so Dutch language skills aren’t required. Learning basic Dutch helps with daily life.
Conclusion
Studying in the Netherlands opens doors to great opportunities for international students. Many scholarships can help make your Dutch education possible and affordable. Each program has its own requirements and application process to follow.
Start your planning early to create the strongest possible application for these opportunities. The Netherlands welcomes students from everywhere, and these scholarships help make that welcome real.