The Netherlands has become one of Europe’s most attractive study destinations for international students. Known for its world-class universities, innovative teaching methods, English-taught degree programs, and welcoming multicultural environment, the country attracts thousands of students every year from Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas.
Although tuition fees and living expenses can be significant, many students successfully finance their education through scholarships offered by the Dutch government, universities, international organizations, and private foundations. Whether you’re planning to pursue a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD degree, numerous funding opportunities are available to help reduce the financial burden of studying abroad.
In this guide, you’ll discover the best Netherlands scholarships for international students in 2027, including the Holland Scholarship, Erasmus+, and university-specific funding. You’ll also learn about eligibility requirements, application tips, and strategies to improve your chances of receiving financial support.
Why Study in the Netherlands?
The Netherlands consistently ranks among the best countries for higher education due to its strong academic reputation and innovative learning environment. Dutch universities emphasize critical thinking, research, collaboration, and practical experience, preparing graduates for successful international careers.
Some of the biggest advantages of studying in the Netherlands include:
- Internationally recognized degrees
- More than 2,000 English-taught programs
- Globally ranked universities
- Excellent research facilities
- Safe and welcoming society
- Strong graduate employment opportunities
- Central location for travel across Europe
- Multicultural student communities
Graduates from Dutch universities are highly sought after in industries such as Engineering, Information Technology, Artificial Intelligence, Finance, Healthcare, Environmental Science, Agriculture, and Business Management.
Benefits of Scholarships in the Netherlands
Scholarship benefits vary depending on the funding provider, but many programs offer substantial financial support to help students complete their studies.
Depending on the scholarship, recipients may receive:
- Partial or full tuition coverage
- Living allowance
- Accommodation support
- Travel assistance
- Health insurance contribution
- Research funding
- Study materials
- Internship opportunities
- Academic mentoring
- Professional networking events
Fully funded scholarships allow students to focus on their academic goals while minimizing financial stress.
Top Netherlands Scholarships for International Students in 2027
1. Holland Scholarship
The Holland Scholarship is one of the best-known funding opportunities for international students who wish to study in the Netherlands.
It is available to eligible students applying for bachelor’s or master’s programs at participating Dutch universities.
Applicants are generally selected based on:
- Academic excellence
- Motivation
- Admission to an eligible program
- Nationality requirements established by the scholarship
Because competition is high, applicants should prepare strong academic records and compelling personal statements.
2. Erasmus+ Scholarship
The Erasmus+ program is one of Europe’s largest international education initiatives.
It supports students pursuing exchange programs, joint master’s degrees, and international mobility opportunities across participating European universities.
Benefits may include:
- Tuition support
- Monthly living allowance
- Travel assistance
- Mobility grants
Erasmus+ is particularly attractive for students seeking international exposure while studying in multiple European countries.
3. Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP)
The Orange Knowledge Programme supports professionals from eligible countries who wish to strengthen their knowledge and skills through education and training in the Netherlands.
The program focuses on areas such as:
- Agriculture
- Water management
- Public health
- Governance
- Sustainable development
Applicants should carefully review the eligibility requirements and participating institutions before applying.
4. University of Amsterdam Scholarships
The University of Amsterdam offers several scholarship opportunities for talented international students pursuing graduate and undergraduate programs.
Funding opportunities may include:
- Merit scholarships
- Faculty awards
- Excellence scholarships
- Research funding
The university is internationally recognized for Business, Economics, Artificial Intelligence, Social Sciences, Law, and Humanities.
5. Delft University of Technology Excellence Scholarships
Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) is among Europe’s leading engineering and technology institutions.
International students pursuing master’s degrees may qualify for prestigious excellence scholarships based on:
- Outstanding academic performance
- Research potential
- Leadership qualities
- Professional achievements
Engineering, Robotics, Aerospace, Civil Engineering, and Computer Science remain some of Delft’s strongest academic disciplines.
6. Maastricht University Scholarships
Maastricht University offers funding opportunities for highly qualified international students enrolling in selected master’s programs.
Scholarships may help cover tuition fees and living expenses, making postgraduate education more accessible for outstanding applicants.
7. Radboud University Scholarship Programme
Radboud University provides scholarships to talented international students admitted to eligible English-taught master’s programs.
Selection often considers:
- Academic achievements
- Motivation letter
- Career objectives
- Overall application quality
Who Can Apply?
Eligibility requirements differ between scholarship providers, but applicants generally need to meet academic and admission standards.
Common requirements include:
- Valid passport
- Admission to an eligible Dutch university
- Academic transcripts
- Degree certificates
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Personal statement
- Letters of recommendation
- Proof of English language proficiency where required
- Research proposal for many doctoral programs
Some scholarships also evaluate leadership experience, volunteer work, professional achievements, or research potential.
How to Improve Your Chances of Winning a Scholarship
Receiving a scholarship requires more than good grades. Scholarship committees often evaluate applicants holistically.
Here are some practical tips:
Maintain Excellent Academic Results
Strong academic performance remains one of the most important selection criteria.
Write a Powerful Motivation Letter
Explain why you chose the Netherlands, your career goals, and how the scholarship will help you make a positive impact in your field and community.
Gain Leadership Experience
Participation in student organizations, volunteer work, internships, or community projects can strengthen your application.
Apply Early
Many scholarship deadlines occur months before the academic year begins. Preparing your documents early helps you avoid unnecessary stress.
Apply to Multiple Scholarships
Don’t rely on a single funding opportunity. Applying for several scholarships increases your chances of success.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many applications are rejected because of avoidable errors.
Avoid these common mistakes:
- Missing application deadlines
- Submitting incomplete documents
- Weak motivation letters
- Generic personal statements
- Poor proofreading
- Ignoring scholarship requirements
- Applying without meeting eligibility criteria
Carefully review every application before submitting it.
Final Thoughts
The Netherlands offers exceptional educational opportunities for international students seeking high-quality degrees in an innovative and globally connected environment. Through scholarships such as the Holland Scholarship, Erasmus+, and university-specific funding programs, thousands of students receive financial support each year to pursue bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral studies.
The key to success is preparation. Research universities carefully, understand the scholarship requirements, prepare strong supporting documents, and submit your applications well before the deadlines. With determination and a competitive application, you can significantly improve your chances of earning funding to study in one of Europe’s leading education destinations.