The Netherlands has become one of the world's leading destinations for international students, attracting thousands of talented learners every year. With globally recognized universities, innovative teaching methods, and a welcoming multicultural environment, studying in the Netherlands offers both academic excellence and valuable career opportunities.
However, tuition fees and living expenses can be significant for international students. Fortunately, numerous fully funded scholarships in the Netherlands help remove financial barriers by covering tuition, living costs, travel expenses, insurance, and other academic-related costs.
This guide explores the best fully funded scholarships in the Netherlands, eligibility requirements, application tips, and strategies to maximize your chances of success.
Why Study in the Netherlands?
The Netherlands consistently ranks among Europe's top education destinations. Dutch universities are known for research excellence, practical learning, and strong international partnerships.
Some major advantages include:
- High-quality education recognized worldwide
- Hundreds of English-taught degree programs
- Safe and student-friendly cities
- Strong employment opportunities after graduation
- International classrooms with students from around the world
- Excellent research facilities and innovation culture
Many Dutch universities also collaborate closely with multinational companies, offering internships and networking opportunities that enhance students' career prospects.
Are Fully Funded Scholarships Available in the Netherlands?
Yes. Although the Netherlands offers fewer government-funded scholarships than some countries, several prestigious scholarships provide complete financial support for international students.
A fully funded scholarship may cover:
- Full tuition fees
- Monthly living allowance
- Accommodation support
- Health insurance
- Visa expenses
- Airfare
- Research funding
- Study materials
Coverage varies depending on the scholarship program.
Top Fully Funded Scholarships in Netherlands
1. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master's Scholarships
The Erasmus Mundus Scholarship is one of Europe's most prestigious funding programs. Many Erasmus Mundus master's degrees are offered by Dutch universities in partnership with institutions across Europe.
Benefits
- Full tuition fees
- Monthly stipend
- Travel allowance
- Installation allowance
- Health insurance
Eligibility
Applicants generally need:
- Bachelor's degree
- Excellent academic record
- English language proficiency
- Admission into an Erasmus Mundus program
This scholarship is highly competitive but offers one of the most comprehensive financial packages available.
2. Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP)
The Orange Knowledge Programme supports professionals from selected developing countries who wish to pursue short courses or master's programs in the Netherlands.
Benefits
Recipients often receive funding for:
- Tuition
- Living expenses
- Visa
- Travel costs
- Insurance
Best For
- Mid-career professionals
- Development-related fields
- Leadership and capacity-building programs
Eligibility depends on the applicant's country of residence and professional background.
3. Holland Scholarship
Although not fully funded on its own, the Holland Scholarship can significantly reduce study costs for international students from outside the European Economic Area (EEA).
Benefits
- One-time financial grant during the first year
Many students combine this scholarship with university-specific funding to cover most educational expenses.
4. University-Specific Excellence Scholarships
Many Dutch universities offer generous scholarships that can become fully funded when combined with institutional support.
Examples include scholarships offered by universities such as:
- Delft University of Technology
- Leiden University
- Utrecht University
- University of Amsterdam
- Maastricht University
- Radboud University
- Eindhoven University of Technology
Coverage varies but may include:
- Full tuition
- Monthly stipend
- Research funding
- Living allowance
Applicants should carefully review each university's scholarship opportunities.
5. Joint Research Scholarships
PhD candidates frequently receive fully funded research positions rather than traditional scholarships.
These positions usually include:
- Full salary
- Tuition waiver
- Health insurance
- Pension benefits
- Paid holidays
Unlike many countries, PhD students in the Netherlands are often considered university employees.
Eligibility Requirements
Although requirements differ across scholarship programs, most applicants should prepare:
Academic Excellence
Strong grades remain one of the most important selection criteria.
Competitive applicants often demonstrate:
- High GPA
- Academic awards
- Research achievements
- Published work (if applicable)
English Language Proficiency
Most programs require proof of English proficiency through exams such as:
- IELTS
- TOEFL
- Cambridge English qualifications
Some universities waive this requirement if previous education was completed in English.
Motivation Letter
An outstanding motivation letter should explain:
- Academic goals
- Career plans
- Why the Netherlands
- Why the chosen university
- Expected impact after graduation
Admissions committees value authenticity and clear long-term objectives.
Recommendation Letters
Strong recommendation letters should come from professors, supervisors, or employers who know your academic or professional abilities well.
Personalized recommendations carry greater weight than generic references.
Relevant Experience
Depending on the scholarship, applicants may benefit from:
- Volunteer work
- Research experience
- Leadership activities
- Professional employment
- Community involvement
Scholarship committees often seek candidates with both academic excellence and leadership potential.
Required Documents
Prepare the following documents well before application deadlines:
- Passport
- Academic transcripts
- Degree certificates
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation letter
- Recommendation letters
- English proficiency certificate
- Research proposal (for research degrees)
- Portfolio (for design or architecture programs)
Double-check document requirements for each scholarship.
Application Timeline
Many scholarships open applications between October and February for programs beginning the following academic year.
A suggested preparation timeline:
12 Months Before
- Research universities
- Identify scholarship opportunities
- Improve English proficiency
9 Months Before
- Prepare CV
- Draft motivation letter
- Contact referees
6 Months Before
- Submit university applications
- Apply for scholarships
- Complete language tests
3 Months Before
- Attend interviews if required
- Prepare visa documents
Planning early greatly improves application quality and reduces last-minute stress.
Tips to Increase Your Chances
Competition for fully funded scholarships is intense. Consider these strategies:
Maintain Excellent Academic Performance
High grades remain the strongest foundation for scholarship success.
Build Leadership Experience
Universities appreciate applicants who contribute beyond the classroom.
Examples include:
- Student organizations
- Community projects
- Entrepreneurship
- Social initiatives
Tailor Every Application
Avoid sending identical motivation letters to multiple universities.
Instead, customize each application by highlighting:
- Specific faculty members
- Research interests
- University strengths
- Career alignment
Apply to Multiple Scholarships
Do not rely on a single funding opportunity.
Submitting several strong applications significantly increases your chances of receiving financial support.
Meet Every Deadline
Late applications are generally not considered.
Create a calendar with:
- Scholarship deadlines
- University deadlines
- Language test dates
- Visa timelines
Organization is essential.
Living Costs in the Netherlands
Even with a scholarship, understanding living expenses is helpful.
Typical monthly costs include:
| Expense | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | €500–€900 |
| Food | €200–€350 |
| Transportation | €50–€120 |
| Health Insurance | €100–€150 |
| Miscellaneous | €150–€300 |
Fully funded scholarships often cover most or all of these expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can international students receive fully funded scholarships in the Netherlands?
Yes. Several government-funded, university-funded, and European scholarship programs provide comprehensive financial support for eligible international students.
Do I need IELTS to receive a scholarship?
Many universities require proof of English proficiency, although some may waive the requirement if previous education was completed in English or if alternative qualifications are accepted.
Are scholarships available for bachelor's students?
Scholarship opportunities for bachelor's degrees exist but are generally more limited than those available for master's and PhD students.
Can I work while studying?
Yes. International students may be allowed to work part-time under Dutch regulations, though specific rules depend on nationality and visa conditions. Scholarship recipients should also review any work restrictions attached to their funding.
Which scholarship is the most prestigious?
The Erasmus Mundus Joint Master's Scholarship is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious and comprehensive funding opportunities available for international students studying in the Netherlands.