The Netherlands has become one of Europe's most attractive study destinations, offering world-class universities, innovative teaching methods, and a vibrant international community. With over 2,100 English-taught programs and a culture that embraces diversity and critical thinking, Dutch higher education provides exceptional opportunities for international students.
This comprehensive guide explores all major scholarship programs available for international students in the Netherlands, covering Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD opportunities, eligibility requirements, application processes, and expert strategies to maximize your funding success.
Why Choose the Netherlands for Your Studies?
Understanding the unique advantages of Dutch higher education helps explain why over 120,000 international students choose the Netherlands annually.
English-Taught Programs
The Netherlands offers the highest number of English-taught programs in continental Europe, with over 2,100 courses available at Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD levels across virtually all disciplines.
Innovative Teaching Methods
Dutch universities emphasize problem-based learning, encouraging students to develop critical thinking, creativity, and independent research skills. The informal, student-centered approach fosters collaboration between students and professors.
International Environment
Dutch society is highly international and English proficiency is widespread. Major cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht, and The Hague are truly multicultural, making integration easier for international students.
Quality Education and Research
Dutch universities consistently rank among the world's best, with thirteen research universities and universities of applied sciences offering cutting-edge facilities and internationally recognized degrees.
Strategic European Location
The Netherlands' central position in Europe provides easy access to major cities like Brussels, Paris, London, and Berlin, enriching your cultural experience and travel opportunities during studies.
Career Opportunities
Home to numerous multinational companies and innovative startups, the Netherlands offers excellent career prospects, particularly in technology, engineering, business, agriculture, and creative industries. International graduates receive a one-year search year visa to seek employment.
High Quality of Life
The Netherlands consistently ranks high for quality of life, safety, work-life balance, and happiness. Excellent infrastructure, cycling culture, and progressive social policies create an attractive living environment.
Understanding Tuition Fees in the Netherlands
Statutory Tuition Fees for EU/EEA Students
Students from European Union, European Economic Area countries, Switzerland, and Suriname pay statutory tuition fees of approximately €2,314 annually for both Bachelor's and Master's programs at research universities and universities of applied sciences.
Institutional Tuition Fees for Non-EU/EEA Students
International students from outside the EU/EEA pay institutional tuition fees ranging from €6,000 to €20,000 annually for Bachelor's programs and €8,000 to €25,000 annually for Master's programs, depending on the institution and field of study.
Business programs, medicine, and specialized Master's degrees typically have higher fees, while humanities and social sciences programs generally cost less.
Holland Scholarship
The Holland Scholarship is the Netherlands' primary government-funded scholarship program for international students from outside the European Economic Area.
Program Overview
This scholarship is funded by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science in cooperation with Dutch research universities and universities of applied sciences.
Coverage: One-time payment of €5,000 to help cover tuition fees or living expenses during the first year of study. While not a full scholarship, this substantial amount significantly reduces financial burden.
Eligibility Requirements: Non-EEA nationality, applying for full-time Bachelor's or Master's program at participating Dutch institutions, meeting specific academic requirements of your chosen program, not having previously studied in the Netherlands, and not receiving other Dutch scholarships.
Number of Scholarships: Hundreds of Holland Scholarships are awarded annually across participating institutions.
Application Process: Apply directly through the institution where you're seeking admission. Each university has its own application procedure and deadlines, typically between December 1 and May 1 for programs starting in September.
Selection Criteria: Academic excellence, motivation, and fit with the program. Some institutions prioritize specific countries or regions.
Participating Institutions
Most Dutch research universities and universities of applied sciences participate in the Holland Scholarship program, including University of Amsterdam, Utrecht University, Leiden University, Delft University of Technology, Erasmus University Rotterdam, and numerous universities of applied sciences throughout the country.
Orange Tulip Scholarship Programme
The Orange Tulip Scholarship is administered by the Dutch diplomatic missions in various countries, offering scholarships specifically for students from those nations.
Program Structure
Unlike centralized programs, Orange Tulip Scholarships are country-specific, with different opportunities and amounts depending on your home country.
Coverage: Varies significantly by country and institution, ranging from partial tuition waivers to full tuition coverage plus living expenses. Some countries offer €5,000 to €25,000 or more.
Eligible Countries: The program operates in countries including Brazil, China, India, Indonesia, Mexico, Russia, South Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, and others. Available scholarships vary annually by country.
Application Process: Check with the Dutch embassy or consulate in your country for specific opportunities, requirements, and deadlines. Applications typically open between October and March.
Selection Criteria: Academic excellence, leadership potential, motivation to study in the Netherlands, and often demonstrated intention to contribute to bilateral relations between the Netherlands and your home country.
Country-Specific Examples
Orange Tulip Scholarship Brazil: Multiple scholarships ranging from €5,000 to full tuition coverage offered by various Dutch universities.
Orange Tulip Scholarship China: Numerous opportunities across institutions with varying amounts, often including full or partial tuition waivers.
Orange Tulip Scholarship Indonesia: Scholarships supporting Indonesian students at Bachelor's, Master's, and sometimes PhD levels.
University-Specific Scholarships in the Netherlands
Dutch universities offer extensive scholarship programs for international students, often providing more generous funding than national programs.
University of Amsterdam (UvA) Scholarships
As one of the Netherlands' leading research universities, UvA provides various scholarship opportunities for international students.
Amsterdam Excellence Scholarship (AES): Full tuition waiver plus €25,000 living expenses for outstanding Master's students.
Eligibility: Exceptional academic records placing students in top 5 percent of their class, admission to UvA Master's program, and non-EU/EEA nationality.
Amsterdam Merit Scholarship: Tuition waiver or partial tuition reduction for talented students not selected for AES but demonstrating strong academic merit.
Faculty-Specific Scholarships: Individual faculties offer additional scholarships including Economics and Business scholarships, Science faculty scholarships, and Humanities scholarships with varying amounts and criteria.
Application Deadline: Typically January to February for programs starting in September.
Utrecht University Scholarships
Utrecht University offers comprehensive scholarship programs for international Master's students.
Utrecht Excellence Scholarships: Full tuition waiver plus €11,000 living expenses annually for exceptional students, or tuition waiver only for strong candidates.
Coverage Options: Full scholarship includes tuition plus living expenses, partial scholarships cover tuition only.
Eligibility: Outstanding academic achievements, admission to Utrecht Master's program, and non-EU/EEA nationality.
Faculty Scholarships: Additional opportunities through specific faculties including Law, Economics and Business, Social Sciences, Science, Humanities, and Veterinary Medicine.
Application Process: Automatic consideration upon admission application, though applicants must indicate scholarship interest.
Leiden University Scholarships
One of the Netherlands' oldest and most prestigious universities, Leiden offers various scholarship programs.
Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS): Tuition waiver plus €16,000 to €20,000 annual stipend for living expenses for top Master's students.
Coverage Tiers: Different levels of funding from full scholarship to partial tuition waivers depending on academic merit.
Eligibility: Exceptional academic records, non-EU/EEA nationality, and admission to Master's programs at Leiden.
Faculty-Specific Programs: Faculties including Archaeology, Governance and Global Affairs, Humanities, and Science offer additional scholarships.
Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) Scholarships
As the Netherlands' premier technical university, TU Delft provides substantial scholarships for engineering and technology students.
TU Delft Excellence Scholarships: Full tuition waiver plus €17,500 annual stipend for living expenses for outstanding Master's students.
Justus & Louise van Effen Excellence Scholarships: Full tuition plus monthly stipend of approximately €1,100 for excellent students in all Master's programs.
Eligibility: Outstanding academic achievements (typically top 5 to 10 percent of class), admission to TU Delft Master's programs, and non-EU/EEA nationality.
Fields Covered: All engineering disciplines including mechanical, civil, electrical, aerospace, chemical engineering, computer science, and industrial design.
Erasmus University Rotterdam Scholarships
Known for excellence in business, economics, and social sciences, Erasmus University offers competitive scholarships.
Erasmus University Holland Scholarship: €5,000 one-time payment for first year.
Rotterdam School of Management (RSM) Scholarships: Various scholarships for MBA and Master's in Management programs including merit-based awards, diversity scholarships, and women in business scholarships ranging from €5,000 to full tuition coverage.
Erasmus Mundus Programmes: Full scholarships for joint Master's programs in which Erasmus participates.
Excellence Fellowships: Faculty-specific scholarships for top performers in economics, social sciences, law, and health policy.
Wageningen University & Research Scholarships
World-leading in agriculture, food sciences, and environmental studies, Wageningen offers excellent scholarship opportunities.
Wageningen University & Research Scholarship: Full or partial tuition waiver for outstanding international Master's students.
Coverage: Ranges from €5,000 to full tuition waiver plus €15,000 living expenses depending on candidate excellence.
Eligibility: Admission to Wageningen Master's programs, excellent academic records, and non-EU/EEA nationality.
Specializations: Agriculture, food technology, environmental sciences, plant sciences, animal sciences, nutrition, and related fields.
University of Groningen Scholarships
This northern Dutch university provides various scholarship opportunities across disciplines.
Eric Bleumink Fund: Full tuition plus living expenses (approximately €16,000 annually) for talented students from developing countries.
University of Groningen Talent Grants: Partial tuition waivers for excellent students, typically €5,000 to €10,000.
Faculty-Specific Scholarships: Additional opportunities through Economics and Business, Medical Sciences, Spatial Sciences, and other faculties.
Radboud University Scholarships
Located in Nijmegen, Radboud offers comprehensive scholarship programs.
Radboud Scholarship Programme: Full or partial tuition waiver with possible additional stipend for living expenses.
Coverage Tiers: Top candidates receive full tuition plus €11,000 living expenses, other excellent students receive tuition waivers.
Eligibility: Non-EU/EEA students with outstanding academic records admitted to Master's programs.
Maastricht University Scholarships
Known for problem-based learning methodology, Maastricht provides scholarship opportunities.
High Potential Scholarships: Full tuition waiver plus living expenses for exceptional students.
Coverage: Full tuition plus €13,000 to €16,000 annual stipend.
Specializations: International business, European studies, health sciences, law, and arts and social sciences.
Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) Scholarships
Focusing on technology and engineering, TU/e offers scholarships for technical students.
ATLAS Scholarship: Full tuition waiver plus travel expenses and visa costs for selected international students.
TU/e Master Scholarships: Various faculty-specific scholarships ranging from partial to full tuition coverage.
VU Amsterdam Scholarships
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam provides multiple scholarship opportunities.
VU Fellowship Programme (VUFP): Full or partial tuition waivers for outstanding Master's students.
Coverage: Varies from €5,000 to full tuition plus €15,000 living expenses depending on candidate quality.
Universities of Applied Sciences Scholarships
Dutch universities of applied sciences (hogescholen) also offer scholarships, particularly for Bachelor's programs.
The Hague University of Applied Sciences
Offers Holland Scholarships and institutional scholarships for international students in fields including international business, European studies, and technology.
Saxion University of Applied Sciences
Provides scholarships for Bachelor's and Master's programs, typically ranging from €2,500 to €5,000 annually.
Fontys University of Applied Sciences
Offers Holland Scholarships and additional institutional funding for students in engineering, ICT, business, and creative industries.
Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences
Provides various scholarships for international students, particularly in business, technology, and health programs.
Erasmus+ Scholarships in the Netherlands
Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees
Dutch universities participate extensively in prestigious Erasmus Mundus programs offering full scholarships.
Coverage: Full tuition fees, monthly living allowance of approximately €1,400, travel costs, and insurance for entire program duration, typically two years.
Dutch Institutions Participating: Most major Dutch universities participate in various Erasmus Mundus consortia across disciplines.
Program Structure: Students study at multiple European universities, including periods in the Netherlands, gaining international perspectives and networks.
Eligibility: Bachelor's degree with strong academic record. Each program has specific requirements related to the field of study.
Application Deadline: Varies by program, typically October to January.
Erasmus+ International Credit Mobility
Supports exchanges between European and non-European institutions for study periods at Dutch universities.
Coverage: Travel costs and monthly living allowance of approximately €1,000 to €1,200 for the Netherlands.
Duration: Three to twelve months for study exchanges.
PhD Scholarships and Positions in the Netherlands
Standard PhD Positions
PhD candidates in the Netherlands are typically employed by universities rather than being students, receiving full salaries and employment benefits.
Salary Structure: PhD positions pay according to Dutch collective labor agreement scales, starting around €2,500 monthly in the first year and increasing to approximately €3,200 by the fourth year.
Duration: Typically four years full-time with clearly defined research projects.
Benefits: Employment contracts include pension contributions, paid vacation (typically 29 days annually), health insurance contributions, and professional development opportunities.
Application Process: PhD positions are advertised on university websites and academic job portals. Apply directly to specific positions rather than general PhD program applications.
NWO Scholarships
The Dutch Research Council (Nederlandse Organisatie voor Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek) funds numerous PhD positions and research projects.
NWO Talent Programme: Competitive grants for doctoral research across all disciplines with full salary support.
Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions
European Union research fellowships include numerous opportunities at Dutch universities and research institutions.
Coverage: Generous living allowances, mobility allowances, family allowances, and research funding.
Subject-Specific Scholarships
Engineering and Technology
The Netherlands' strong engineering sector supports numerous scholarships at technical universities.
Focus Areas: Civil engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, aerospace, water management, and sustainable technologies.
Agriculture and Food Sciences
Wageningen University leads globally in agriculture and food research, offering extensive funding in these fields.
Specializations: Agricultural innovation, food technology, plant breeding, animal sciences, and nutrition.
Water Management and Delta Technology
Given Dutch expertise in water management, special scholarships exist for hydraulic engineering and delta technology studies.
Programs: UNESCO-IHE Institute for Water Education and university water management programs offer targeted funding.
Business and Economics
Dutch business schools provide merit-based scholarships for MBA and Master's programs.
Institutions: Rotterdam School of Management, Amsterdam Business School, and Groningen Business School offer substantial scholarships.
International Development Studies
The Netherlands' commitment to international development supports scholarships in development-related fields.
NFP Fellowships: Netherlands Fellowship Programmes provide full scholarships for professionals from NFP countries pursuing Master's degrees in development-related fields.
Arts and Design
Dutch design schools and art academies offer scholarships recognizing the Netherlands' strong design heritage.
Institutions: Design Academy Eindhoven, Gerrit Rietveld Academie, and Royal Academy of Art offer various funding opportunities.
NFP Netherlands Fellowship Programmes
A special program deserving detailed attention for students from eligible developing countries.
Program Overview
NFP provides full scholarships for professionals from 61 countries to pursue Master's degrees, PhD studies, or short courses in the Netherlands.
Coverage: Full tuition fees, living expenses (€1,295 monthly), visa costs, travel expenses, insurance, study materials, and thesis research costs. One of the most comprehensive scholarship packages available.
Eligibility: Citizenship from one of 61 NFP countries in Africa, Asia, Latin America, or Caribbean, working in development-related sector, at least three years professional experience, and admission to participating Dutch institution.
Priority Themes: Good governance, private sector development, food and nutrition security, reproductive health and rights, water and climate, and other development priorities.
Eligible Countries: Include Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cambodia, Colombia, Ethiopia, Ghana, Indonesia, Kenya, Mali, Mozambique, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Vietnam, and many others.
Application Process: Apply through the institution offering your chosen program. Applications typically open in December and close in February or April depending on the course.
External Scholarships for Studying in the Netherlands
Fulbright Netherlands-USA
Fulbright Program supports American students pursuing graduate studies or research in the Netherlands.
Coverage: Living allowance, travel costs, insurance, and possible tuition contribution.
Eligibility: U.S. citizenship, Bachelor's degree, strong academic record, and clear research or study objectives.
DAAD Scholarships for Germans Studying in Netherlands
German students can use DAAD scholarships to study in the Netherlands through various programs.
China Scholarship Council (CSC)
Chinese students may receive CSC funding for studies at Dutch universities through bilateral agreements.
Coverage: Tuition fees and living expenses for duration of studies.
Brazilian Government Scholarships
CAPES and CNPq support Brazilian students pursuing graduate studies in the Netherlands.
Corporate Scholarships
Companies like Unilever, Shell, Philips, and ING offer scholarships for students in relevant fields at Dutch universities.
Living Costs and Budgeting in the Netherlands
Average Monthly Expenses
International students need approximately €900 to €1,400 monthly to cover living expenses in the Netherlands, depending on location and lifestyle.
Detailed Breakdown: Accommodation €350 to €700 (varies significantly by city and housing type), food and groceries €200 to €300, health insurance (mandatory) €50 to €100, transportation €35 to €70 with student discounts, study materials €30 to €60, and personal expenses €150 to €300.
Cost Variations by City
Amsterdam is the most expensive city, requiring €1,200 to €1,400 monthly. Other major cities like Rotterdam, Utrecht, The Hague, and Eindhoven require €1,000 to €1,200 monthly. Smaller university cities like Groningen, Nijmegen, Maastricht, and Enschede are more affordable at €900 to €1,100 monthly.
Proof of Financial Means
The Dutch immigration service (IND) requires proof of financial means for visa applications. For the 2024-2025 academic year, students must demonstrate access to approximately €11,400 annually (reduced from tuition) for living expenses.
Student Discounts
The Netherlands offers excellent student benefits including heavily discounted public transportation with student travel cards, museum discounts with museum cards, cinema and entertainment discounts, student meal deals at university facilities, and discounts at many shops and restaurants with student ID.
Working While Studying in the Netherlands
Work Regulations for International Students
Non-EU/EEA students can work up to 16 hours weekly during the academic year or full-time during June, July, and August with appropriate work permits.
EU/EEA students can work without restrictions or permits.
Finding Student Employment
Common student jobs include student assistant positions at universities, tutoring and language teaching, hospitality work in cafes and restaurants, retail positions, and internships related to your field.
Typical Earnings: Student jobs pay €10 to €13 per hour, allowing you to earn €640 to €830 monthly working 16 hours weekly.
Highly Skilled Migrant Work
After graduation, students can apply for orientation year permits allowing one year to seek employment. Graduates finding jobs meeting salary requirements can transition to highly skilled migrant permits.
How to Apply for Scholarships in the Netherlands
Application Timeline
Start scholarship research 12 to 18 months before your intended start date, allowing adequate time for preparation, testing, and applications.
Language Requirements
For English-taught programs, you need IELTS (minimum 6.0 to 6.5 depending on program) or TOEFL (minimum 80 to 90 iBT). Some programs accept Cambridge English qualifications or other recognized tests.
Required Documents
Standard application materials include certified academic transcripts and degree certificates, curriculum vitae or resume, motivation letter explaining your interest in the program and Netherlands, letters of recommendation (typically two), language proficiency certificates, passport copy, and possibly portfolio for creative programs or GMAT/GRE scores for business programs.
Application Portals
Most applications are submitted through Studielink (national application portal) or directly through university websites. Scholarship applications often occur simultaneously with admission applications.
Application Deadlines
Deadlines vary by institution and program. General timeframes include December 1 for some competitive scholarships, March 1 for many institutional scholarships, April 1 for general applications, and May 1 for final applications. Always verify specific deadlines for your chosen programs.
Tips to Increase Your Scholarship Success Rate
Start Early
Early applications demonstrate strong interest and allow time to address any issues or missing documents.
Craft Compelling Motivation Letters
Your motivation letter should be specific, authentic, and demonstrate clear understanding of the program and how it aligns with your goals. Avoid generic statements.
Highlight Dutch Connections
Explain why the Netherlands specifically appeals to you. Reference Dutch expertise in your field, specific professors, research facilities, or teaching methods.
Demonstrate International Outlook
Dutch universities value international perspectives and cultural diversity. Highlight international experiences, language skills, and cross-cultural competencies.
Show Future Impact
Many scholarships seek students who will make meaningful contributions. Articulate clear career goals and how Dutch education will help you achieve them.
Apply to Multiple Programs and Scholarships
Don't limit yourself. Applying to several institutions and scholarships increases your chances of success.
Prepare Strong Recommendations
Choose recommenders who know you well academically or professionally and can provide specific examples of your abilities and potential.
Student Life in the Netherlands
Accommodation
University housing is limited, so apply early. Private rental markets offer alternatives including student rooms, shared apartments, or studios. Housing corporations and websites like Kamernet and Room help students find accommodation.
Cycling Culture
The Netherlands is the world's cycling capital. Most students use bicycles as primary transportation, reducing costs and embracing Dutch lifestyle.
Dutch Directness
Dutch communication style is notably direct and straightforward. This extends to academic settings where critical thinking and challenging ideas are encouraged.
International Community
Strong international student networks, ESN chapters, and university associations facilitate social integration and cultural exchange.
Cultural Activities
Museums, festivals, concerts, and sporting events are abundant. Student discounts make cultural participation affordable.
Post-Graduation Opportunities
Orientation Year Permit
International graduates receive one-year permits to seek employment matching their qualifications after completing studies.
Career Prospects
The Netherlands faces skills shortages in technology, engineering, healthcare, and international business. English-speaking international graduates have good employment prospects.
Salary Expectations
Entry-level salaries for Master's graduates typically range from €2,500 to €3,500 monthly (approximately €30,000 to €42,000 annually), varying by field and employer.
Startup Culture
The Netherlands supports entrepreneurship with startup visas and innovation hubs, particularly in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Eindhoven.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to speak Dutch?
Not for English-taught programs. However, learning Dutch enhances daily life and expands job opportunities. Many universities offer free or subsidized Dutch language courses.
Can I work on a scholarship?
Most scholarships allow part-time work within visa regulations. Some even encourage work experience as part of learning.
How competitive are Dutch scholarships?
Competition varies significantly. University excellence scholarships are highly competitive with 5 to 15 percent acceptance rates, while Holland Scholarships have somewhat higher success rates.
Are scholarships renewable?
Most Dutch scholarships are one-time awards or cover specific periods. Some multi-year programs provide annual funding contingent on satisfactory academic progress.
What if I don't get a scholarship?
Consider combining partial scholarships with part-time work, personal savings, or education loans. Many students successfully finance studies through multiple sources.
Conclusion: Your Path to Studying in the Netherlands
The Netherlands offers exceptional educational opportunities combining academic excellence, innovative teaching methods, and a vibrant international community. With over 2,100 English-taught programs and numerous scholarship opportunities, Dutch higher education is accessible to talented international students from around the world.
Success in securing scholarships requires strong academic records, well-crafted applications demonstrating genuine interest in the Netherlands, and strategic planning. Whether through Holland Scholarship, Orange Tulip Scholarship, generous university funding, or the comprehensive NFP programme, multiple pathways exist to make your Dutch education dream achievable.
The Netherlands' commitment to internationalization, innovation, and quality education creates an enriching environment for personal and professional growth. The country's multicultural society, excellent infrastructure, and strategic European location provide not just education but a transformative life experience.
Start your journey today by researching programs aligning with your interests, connecting with Dutch university international offices, and preparing strong scholarship applications. Your path to studying in the Netherlands begins with that first step of exploration and commitment.
Planning your complete financial strategy? Explore our guides on student loans in the Netherlands and international student insurance to ensure comprehensive preparation for your Dutch education adventure.