The NL Scholarship in Netherland 2026

The NL Scholarship, previously known as the Holland Scholarship, is a great opportunity for international students who want to study in the Netherlands at one of the country's respected universities. This scholarship is specially designed for students from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) who wish to pursue a bachelor's or master's degree in the Netherlands. If you are planning to pursue a bachelor's or master's degree in the Netherlands, this scholarship can help you take the first step toward your academic journey at a world-class institution.

If you want to explore other opportunities alongside this scholarship, you can check fully funded scholarships in Netherlands for international students for more options in the same country.

Quick Overview

• Scholarship Name: NL Scholarship (formerly Holland Scholarship)

• Host Country: Netherlands

• Funding Organization: Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science, together with Dutch research universities and universities of applied sciences

• Program Levels: Bachelor's or Master's degree (full-time)

• Target Applicants: Students from outside the European Economic Area (EEA)

• Scholarship Value: €5,000 (one-time payment in the first year of study)

• Application Period: Opens 1 November 2025 (deadlines vary by institution)

For students interested in other European opportunities, list of all open scholarships in Europe provides additional options to consider.

About the NL Scholarship

The NL Scholarship is funded by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science along with several Dutch research universities and universities of applied sciences. The main purpose of this scholarship is to attract talented international students and give them the chance to experience high-quality education in the Netherlands, known for its innovative teaching methods and international environment.

The scholarship is specially designed for students from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) who wish to pursue a bachelor's or master's degree in the Netherlands.

For students interested in other government-funded programs, fully funded scholarships in Germany for international students offers another excellent option in Europe.

Scholarship Value

It is important to understand that the NL Scholarship is not a full-tuition scholarship but provides meaningful financial support.

• €5,000 one-time payment – provided during the first year of your studies at a participating Dutch institution

• This amount can help cover part of your tuition fees or living expenses, reducing the overall cost of studying abroad

• The one-time payment is designed to help students transition to life in the Netherlands and manage initial costs

Important Note

• Students should arrange additional funding to cover the remaining costs of their studies, as the scholarship alone does not cover all expenses

For students comparing funding packages, fully funded scholarships in Switzerland for international students provides another perspective on comprehensive scholarship benefits.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the NL Scholarship, you must meet certain criteria that ensure the scholarship reaches its intended recipients.

• Nationality: Must be from a country outside the European Economic Area (EEA)

• Programme: Must apply for a full-time bachelor's or master's programme at one of the participating Dutch higher education institutions (part-time students are not eligible)

• Admission Requirements: Must meet the specific admission requirements of the chosen university, including academic qualifications and language proficiency

• Previous Study: Must not have previously obtained a degree from an educational institution in the Netherlands

Note: Each institution may have different academic and language requirements, so it is important to carefully check the official website of the university before applying.

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Participating Research Universities

Many respected Dutch research universities are participating in the NL Scholarship for the 2026–2027 academic year, offering excellent academic programs.

• Eindhoven University of Technology

• Maastricht University

• Radboud University

• University of Groningen

• University of Twente

• Utrecht University

• VU Amsterdam

• Wageningen University & Research

• Protestant Theological University

• Theological University Apeldoorn

• Utrecht Theological University

These universities are known for their strong academic programs and international environment that welcomes students from around the world.

For students interested in research-focused opportunities, fully funded scholarships in Sweden for international students offers another perspective on European research education.

Participating Universities of Applied Sciences

In addition to research universities, many universities of applied sciences are also part of the NL Scholarship programme, offering practical, career-focused education.

• Aeres University of Applied Sciences

• Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences

• Breda University of Applied Sciences

• Fontys University of Applied Sciences

• The Hague University of Applied Sciences

• Hanze University of Applied Sciences

• HAN University of Applied Sciences

• HU University of Applied Sciences Utrecht

• NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences

• Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences

• Saxion University of Applied Sciences

• Zuyd University of Applied Sciences

Creative Institutions

• Amsterdam University of the Arts

• ArtEZ Institute of the Arts

• Codarts Rotterdam

• Design Academy Eindhoven

• Gerrit Rietveld Academie

• University of the Arts The Hague

For students interested in creative fields, fully funded scholarships in Italy for international students offers another perspective on arts education in Europe.

How to Apply

The application process for the NL Scholarship is handled directly by the participating universities, with no central application system.

Step-by-Step Application Process

• Step 1: Apply for admission to your chosen programme at a participating institution

• Step 2: During the admission process, indicate your interest in the NL Scholarship

• Step 3: Follow the specific instructions provided by the university regarding scholarship application

• Step 4: Check the deadlines carefully on the university's website – they vary by institution

Important Dates

• Application period for 2026–2027: Opens 1 November 2025

• Deadlines: Vary depending on the university and programme (some institutions have earlier deadlines)

Tip: Apply as early as possible to avoid missing important dates.

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Integrity and Ethical Standards

The scholarship follows strict ethical and professional standards to maintain trust and fairness in the selection process.

• The programmes managed under the NL Scholarship follow an Integrity Code of Conduct that ensures all activities are carried out responsibly and transparently

• Unacceptable behaviour includes:

• Bankruptcy or insolvency issues

• Failure to pay taxes or social security contributions

• Involvement in criminal organisations

• Money laundering, terrorist financing

• Other serious financial or criminal misconduct

Institutions and individuals involved in the scholarship must follow these rules to maintain fairness and trust in the program.

Important Notes

• The list of participating institutions may change every year – always check the most recent information on the official website of the university you wish to attend

• Studying in the Netherlands offers many benefits, including high-quality education, international learning environment, and a wide range of English-taught programmes

Why Choose the Netherlands

• High-Quality Education: Dutch universities are known for innovative teaching methods and strong academic standards

• International Environment: Welcoming atmosphere with students from around the world

• English-Taught Programmes: Wide range of courses taught in English

• Strategic Location: Easy access to other European countries

• Innovative Culture: The Netherlands is known for its creativity, technology, and progressive values

• Career Opportunities: Strong connections with international companies and organizations

For students interested in other European destinations, fully funded scholarships in Denmark for international students offers another excellent option in Northern Europe.

Tips for a Strong Application

• Research Participating Universities: Identify which institutions offer programmes in your field and check if they are participating in the NL Scholarship

• Check Deadlines: Each university sets its own deadline – note them carefully

• Apply Early: Start your university application as soon as the period opens (1 November 2025)

• Meet Admission Requirements: Ensure you have the required academic qualifications and language proficiency

• Indicate Scholarship Interest: Clearly express your interest in the NL Scholarship during the application process

• Prepare Documents: Have transcripts, language certificates, and other materials ready

• Follow University Instructions: Each institution has its own procedures – follow them carefully

Final Thoughts

If you are ready to explore new opportunities and gain a world-class education, the NL Scholarship could be your chance to study in the Netherlands and build a bright future. The €5,000 one-time payment helps reduce the financial burden of studying abroad, making Dutch education more accessible to talented students from outside Europe.

The scholarship is open to non-EEA students applying for full-time bachelor's or master's programmes at participating Dutch research universities and universities of applied sciences. Application periods open 1 November 2025, with deadlines varying by institution.

Start your research now, identify which participating universities offer programmes in your field, check their specific deadlines, and prepare your application materials early to ensure you don't miss this valuable opportunity. The NL Scholarship is your gateway to experiencing high-quality education in one of Europe's most innovative and welcoming countries.

Good luck with your application

Apply Now

For more information and to find participating universities, visit the official Study in NL website. Since the specific scholarship page may have moved, start from the main homepage:

Apply for NL Scholarship 2026 Netherlands