Scholarships & Funding
How to Fund Your Studies in the Netherlands
Scholarships help reduce costs but are competitive and limited.
This guide explains available options and how to apply.
Types of Funding Available
Funding includes:
Government scholarships
University scholarships
Faculty scholarships
External funding
Most are merit-based
The Netherlands Government Scholarship
Known as the Holland Scholarship
Provides:
€5,000 one-time grant
Available for non-EU students.
Does not cover full costs.
University Scholarships (Major Institutions)
Many universities offer scholarships.
Examples include:
University of Amsterdam Merit Scholarship
Utrecht Excellence Scholarship
Maastricht High Potential Scholarship
Delft Excellence Scholarship
NHL Stenden also offers scholarships for selected international students.
Competition is high.
EU Students — What Funding Exists?
EU students benefit from lower tuition fees
Funding options include:
DUO student finance
Faculty awards
Internships
Scholarships are limited.
Non-EU Students — Funding Strategy
Funding should combine:
Scholarships
Personal savings
Family support
Part-time work (within limits)
Annual costs typically range:
€20,000–€40,000
Lower in Leeuwarden and Groningen.
Application Timeline for Scholarships
12 months before start:
Research options
October–January:
Apply for scholarships
Spring:
Selection process
Summer:
Final decisions
Always apply early
How Competitive Are Scholarships?
Highly competitive.
Strong grades and motivation letters improve success.
Apply to multiple opportunities.
Common Mistakes Students Make
Expecting full funding
Applying too late
Applying to too few scholarships
Always prepare backup funding.
Alternative Funding Routes
Part-time work
Education loans
Savings
Plan realistically.
What You Should Budget
Annual costs include:
Tuition: €2,600–€22,000
Living costs: €10,000–€18,000
Lower in smaller cities like Leeuwarden.
Funding Strategy Recommendation
Confirm total costs
Apply early
Prepare documents
Plan backup funding
Do not relocate without financial preparation.
Final Advice
Scholarships help — but preparation is essential.
Combine multiple funding sources.
Plan early.