Netherlands NL Scholarship Opens Doors for International Students in 2026/27

The Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture, and Science is offering the Netherlands NL Scholarship for the 2026/27 academic year, providing a significant opportunity for international students from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) to pursue Bachelor's or Master's degrees at Dutch universities. Applications are now being accepted, offering a €5,000 contribution towards the first year of study.

Funding Higher Education in the Netherlands

The NL Scholarship, formerly known as the Holland Scholarship, aims to attract talented individuals from around the globe to study at participating Dutch higher education institutions. This initiative not only benefits students by alleviating financial burdens but also enriches the academic environment within the Netherlands through increased diversity and global perspectives.

Scholarship Details and Participating Institutions

The scholarship provides a one-time payment of €5,000 towards tuition fees for the first year of study. Students are encouraged to explore additional scholarship opportunities offered by individual universities, as the NL Scholarship can often be combined with other funding sources. The program covers a wide range of disciplines across both research universities and universities of applied sciences.

Participating Dutch Research Universities:

Eindhoven University of Technology Maastricht University Protestant Theological University Radboud University Theological University Apeldoorn University of Groningen University of Twente Utrecht Theological University Utrecht University VU Amsterdam Wageningen University & Research

Participating Dutch Universities of Applied Sciences:

Aeres University of Applied Sciences Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences Amsterdam University of the Arts ArtEZ Institute of the Arts Breda University of Applied Sciences Codarts Rotterdam Design Academy Eindhoven Driestar Christian University Fontys University of Applied Sciences Gerrit Rietveld Academie The Hague University of Applied Sciences Hanze University of Applied Sciences Hotelschool The Hague HAN University of Applied Sciences HKU University of Applied Sciences HU University of Applied Sciences Utrecht HZ University of Applied Sciences NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences Saxion University of Applied Sciences Thomas More Hogeschool University of the Arts, The Hague Zuyd University of Applied Sciences

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the NL Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Be a non-EEA national. Be applying for a full-time Bachelor's or Master's degree program at a participating Dutch university. Meet the specific requirements of the chosen institution. Not hold a degree from a Dutch educational institution.

Expert Perspective: The Importance of Internationalization in Higher Education

Dr. Anya Sharma, a professor of International Education at the University of Amsterdam, emphasizes the critical role of international scholarships in fostering global collaboration and knowledge exchange. "Scholarships like the NL Scholarship are vital for creating diverse learning environments. They allow students from various backgrounds to contribute their unique perspectives, enriching the educational experience for everyone involved. Furthermore, these programs help build bridges between cultures and promote a more interconnected world," Dr. Sharma stated.

Historical Context and Current Trends

The Netherlands has a long-standing tradition of welcoming international students, dating back centuries. The Dutch government has consistently invested in initiatives aimed at attracting global talent, recognizing the economic and social benefits of a diverse student population. The NL Scholarship is a continuation of this commitment, adapting to the evolving needs of the international education landscape. Current trends indicate a growing demand for international education, driven by globalization and the increasing importance of cross-cultural skills in the workforce.

Application Process and Deadlines

There is no separate application for the NL Scholarship. Students must apply directly to their chosen Dutch university. Each university has its own specific deadline for applications, so prospective students are advised to check the individual university websites for details.

Analytical Viewpoint: The Scholarship's Impact on Dutch Universities

According to a recent study by the Nuffic, the Dutch organization for internationalization in education, scholarships like the NL Scholarship not only benefit individual students but also contribute to the overall quality and reputation of Dutch universities. "International students bring fresh ideas and perspectives that stimulate innovation and research. They also help to internationalize the curriculum, making Dutch universities more competitive on the global stage," the study concluded.

A Gateway to Higher Education

The Netherlands NL Scholarship 2026/27 represents a significant opportunity for international students to pursue their academic aspirations in a vibrant and intellectually stimulating environment. By providing financial support and promoting diversity, the scholarship contributes to both individual success and the advancement of higher education in the Netherlands.