Maastricht University Offers Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students in 2026

Maastricht, Netherlands – Maastricht University (UM) is offering fully funded scholarships to international students from outside the EU/EEA for the 2026 intake. These scholarships are available for Bachelor's and Master's degree programs, aiming to attract talented individuals to the renowned Dutch university. The deadline for application is February 1st, 2026.

Scholarship Details and Eligibility

The Maastricht University Scholarships are designed to cover all major expenses, making it a comprehensive opportunity for international students. UM boasts a significant international student population, with over 56% of its students coming from abroad.

Available Scholarships:

Maastricht University, NL-High Potential Scholarship (For Master’s) UM Brightlands Talent Scholarship (For Masters) UM Global Studies Scholarship (For Bachelors)

Benefits Covered:

Living expenses (food, housing, transportation, daily necessities) Health & liability insurance Visa application costs Tuition fees Pre-Academic Training Costs (if required)

Eligibility Criteria:

Nationality from a country outside the EU/EEA. No double nationality from an EU/EEA country. Application to a participating degree program at Maastricht University for the 2026 academic year. Fulfillment of admission requirements for the chosen program. Meeting the specific scholarship criteria.

How to Apply

The application process involves two key steps:

Register for one of the participating Master's or Bachelor's programs at UM via Studielink. Upon submission, a UM student ID number will be provided. Complete the Scholarship Application Form, accessible via a link provided after program application. The form requires a UM account login.

Required Documents for Scholarship Application:

Curriculum vitae Letter of motivation Proof of academic excellence Personal statement of financial needs Reference letter

Expert Perspective on International Scholarships

Dr. Anya Sharma, an education consultant specializing in international student mobility, emphasizes the importance of such scholarships. "Fully funded scholarships like those offered by Maastricht University are crucial for fostering global diversity in higher education. They remove financial barriers, allowing talented students from diverse backgrounds to access quality education and contribute to a globalized academic environment. These initiatives not only benefit the individual students but also enrich the university's research and learning ecosystem."

Historical and Current Context of Scholarship Programs

The provision of scholarships, particularly for international students, has a long history, evolving from primarily philanthropic endeavors to strategic investments in global talent. In the post-World War II era, scholarships gained prominence as a tool for fostering international relations and promoting educational exchange. Programs like the Fulbright Scholarship in the United States set a precedent for government-funded initiatives aimed at cultivating future leaders and promoting mutual understanding between nations.

Currently, scholarships are increasingly seen as a vital component of a university's strategy for attracting top students and enhancing its global reputation. Institutions recognize that a diverse student body contributes to a more vibrant and innovative learning environment. Furthermore, scholarships play a crucial role in addressing global challenges by supporting students who are passionate about fields such as sustainability, public health, and technology.

Maastricht University's Commitment

Maastricht University's significant investment in scholarships reflects its commitment to internationalization and academic excellence. By offering these fully funded opportunities, UM aims to attract exceptional students who will contribute to the university's research community and become future leaders in their respective fields.

Deadline Reminder

Prospective applicants are reminded that the deadline for the Maastricht University Scholarships 2026 is February 1st, 2026. Students are encouraged to begin the application process well in advance to ensure all requirements are met.

Another Expert Weighs In

Professor David Chen, a researcher in higher education policy, notes, "The trend towards fully-funded scholarships is a welcome development. It signals a shift towards equitable access to education, regardless of socioeconomic background. However, it's crucial that these scholarships are coupled with robust support systems to ensure that international students thrive academically and socially in their new environment. Universities need to invest in programs that address the unique challenges faced by international students, such as cultural adjustment and language barriers."