NL Scholarship Programme
The NL Scholarship is a partial scholarship for non-EEA international students pursuing a full-time bachelor's or master's degree at participating Dutch higher education institutions. It provides a one-time payment of 5,000 EUR to assist with study costs.
Quick Facts
Status
Applications OpenFunding
Partial FundingDeadline
Varies - check the website of the specific institution
Country
NetherlandsAbout the NL Scholarship Programme
The NL Scholarship, formerly known as the Holland Scholarship, is financed by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science alongside various Dutch research universities and universities of applied sciences. It aims to attract talented international students from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) to the Netherlands.
The scholarship is not a full-tuition award. It consists of a single payment of 5,000 EUR provided during the first year of the study programme. Recipients must use these funds to offset the costs associated with their education in the Netherlands.
Eligibility is restricted to students who do not hold a degree from an educational institution in the Netherlands. Applicants must also meet the specific academic and admission requirements set by their chosen Dutch institution.
The programme is managed through participating institutions. A list of eligible research universities and universities of applied sciences is updated annually, and students must apply directly to these institutions to be considered for the award.
Eligible Levels
Eligible Fields
Why Choose This Scholarship?
Supported by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science
Available for both research universities and universities of applied sciences
Provides immediate financial assistance in the first year of study
Access to high-quality Dutch higher education institutions
What the Scholarship Covers
Eligibility Requirements
4 requirements
Documents Checklist
1 document required
How to Apply - Step by Step
Check the list of participating Dutch research universities or universities of applied sciences
Visit the website of the chosen institution to verify specific eligibility criteria and deadlines
Apply for the desired full-time bachelor's or master's programme at the institution
Submit the scholarship application directly to the institution according to their instructions
Application Timeline
1 November
Application Opening
Varies by institution
Application Deadline
Insider Tips & Pro Tips
Verify if your chosen university is on the current list of participating institutions for the specific academic year
Check the institution website early as deadlines vary significantly between universities
Ensure you meet the specific academic requirements of the university before applying for the scholarship
Do not assume this covers full tuition as it is a partial contribution
Contact the international office of your target university for specific application procedures
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questions - click any to expand
No, it is a partial scholarship providing a one-time payment of 5,000 EUR in the first year of study.
Non-EEA students who are applying for a full-time bachelor's or master's programme at a participating Dutch institution and do not hold a degree from a Dutch institution.
You must apply directly to the participating Dutch research university or university of applied sciences of your choice.
Ready to Apply?
Head to the official portal and start your application today.
Apply on Official Website →Accuracy notice: Information on this page was verified as of May 2026. Scholarship details - including deadlines, eligibility criteria, and required documents - can change without notice. Always confirm the latest requirements on the official website before submitting your application.
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