Studying abroad—doesn’t it sound like a dream? Now, imagine doing so in the vibrant, forward-thinking Netherlands, a country known not just for its picturesque canals and tulips but for offering some of the most outstanding educational opportunities in Europe. Whether you’re looking to dive into an undergraduate or postgraduate program, the Netherlands is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for international students. But here’s the real kicker—studying in this academic haven doesn’t need to break the bank, thanks to the generous scholarships available.
In 2025, the Dutch education system continues to offer financial support for students from all over the world, with opportunities spanning from partial tuition waivers to full scholarships that cover everything—tuition fees, living costs, travel expenses, and even health insurance. Sounds too good to be true? Well, it’s not. The Netherlands is deeply committed to attracting top talent and fostering an environment that supports diversity, creativity, and innovation. From large universities to specialized institutions, these scholarships aim to level the playing field and make sure that financial concerns don’t stand in the way of academic success.
Imagine being able to immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Netherlands, studying in a world-class environment that emphasizes collaboration and multicultural engagement. With these scholarships, you can focus on what truly matters—your studies, personal growth, and the countless new experiences that studying abroad offers. So, let’s dive into the top scholarships in the Netherlands for 2025 that could turn your academic dreams into a reality!
Top Scholarships in the Netherlands for 2025: Your Gateway to Studying in Dutch Universities
The Netherlands continues to be a top choice for international students in 2025, offering a range of scholarships that provide significant financial support. These scholarships, open to both EU/EEA and non-EEA students, support Bachelor’s and Master’s programs across a variety of fields, covering tuition fees, living expenses, and sometimes even travel costs. From the Eric Bleumink Scholarships at the University of Groningen, which covers all major expenses, to the University of Twente Scholarships for both EU/EEA and non-EEA students, these programs are designed to attract talented individuals worldwide. Scholarships like the NL Scholarship, available across multiple Dutch institutions, and the prestigious Leiden University Excellence Scholarships offer partial to full funding, emphasizing academic achievement and global diversity. With the Dutch commitment to fostering international education and cross-cultural exchange, these scholarships provide international students with the opportunity to study in a vibrant, multicultural environment while easing their financial burdens.
1. Eric Bleumink Scholarships: A Path to Excellence at University of Groningen
The Eric Bleumink Scholarship, offered by the University of Groningen, stands as one of the most prestigious opportunities for international students. It’s designed for individuals who not only possess excellent academic credentials but also demonstrate potential for making a significant impact in their chosen field. This scholarship goes above and beyond the basics, covering a wide range of expenses including tuition fees, travel costs, books, subsistence, and even health insurance.
If you’re selected for this scholarship, you’re essentially being set up for success in a dynamic, multicultural environment. The University of Groningen is known for its research-driven approach and high academic standards, and as a recipient of the Eric Bleumink Scholarship, you’ll be part of a community that’s shaping global change.
- Coverage: Full tuition fees, travel costs, living expenses, books, and health insurance.
- Ideal For: High-achieving students with a passion for making a difference in their field of study.
2. Leiden University Excellence Scholarships: Fostering Global Talent
Leiden University, one of the oldest and most prestigious institutions in the Netherlands, offers the Excellence Scholarship to international students pursuing a Master’s degree. The program is designed to support talented individuals from all over the world, regardless of their background, as long as they can show exceptional academic ability.
Leiden is known for its world-class research and diverse academic offerings, and receiving this scholarship means you’ll have the opportunity to study in an environment that encourages intellectual curiosity and innovation. If you’re looking to broaden your academic horizons and experience life in one of the Netherlands’ most historic cities, this scholarship is for you.
- Coverage: Full tuition fees for the duration of your program.
- Eligibility: Open to students from all nationalities pursuing Master’s degrees.
3. NL Scholarships for International Students: A Broad Range of Opportunities
The NL Scholarships are offered by several Dutch institutions and provide flexible support depending on the program. These scholarships range from partial tuition fee waivers to full coverage, making them accessible to a wide range of students. It’s perfect for those who might not need full funding but still require a boost to cover their academic and living expenses.
These scholarships aim to attract the brightest minds from across the globe, ensuring that the Netherlands continues to foster a diverse and global academic community. Whether you’re pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree, these scholarships offer a chance to study at some of the best institutions in Europe.
- Coverage: Partial or full tuition fees depending on the program.
- Perfect For: Students seeking a flexible, competitive funding option across various disciplines.
4. HAN Scholarships: Open Doors for Non-EEA Students
HAN University of Applied Sciences offers scholarships for non-EEA students pursuing undergraduate and master’s programs. These scholarships are designed to make studying in the Netherlands more accessible for talented students who might otherwise face financial challenges. While the coverage isn’t full, the partial tuition fee waivers can significantly reduce the financial burden, allowing you to focus on your studies rather than worrying about costs.
HAN is renowned for its practical approach to education, offering students hands-on learning experiences in various fields, from engineering to social sciences. If you’re looking for an opportunity to study in a supportive and dynamic environment, HAN scholarships can provide that stepping stone.
- Coverage: Partial tuition fee waivers.
- Eligibility: Non-EEA students pursuing Bachelor’s or Master’s programs.
5. Minerva Scholarship Fund: A Gateway to Leiden’s Rich Academic Tradition
Leiden University is not only one of the oldest institutions in the Netherlands but also a hub of intellectual diversity. The Minerva Scholarship Fund aims to support international students who wish to pursue a higher degree at Leiden University. This scholarship offers financial aid for both tuition fees and living expenses, making it one of the more comprehensive options available.
Leiden’s interdisciplinary approach to education ensures that students are well-equipped to tackle global challenges, and with the Minerva Scholarship Fund, you’ll be able to focus on your studies while gaining invaluable international experience.
- Coverage: Tuition fees and living expenses.
- Eligibility: Open to all international students with a strong academic background.
6. University of Twente Scholarships: A Chance for Academic Growth
If you’re looking for a place that fosters creativity, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary learning, the University of Twente might just be your perfect match. Offering scholarships for both EU/EEA and non-EU/EEA students, these scholarships support Master’s students by covering partial or full tuition fees, allowing them to immerse themselves in the university’s innovative academic environment.
Twente’s focus on entrepreneurship and technology means that students here are exposed to cutting-edge research and real-world problem-solving experiences. The University’s strong international community adds to the dynamic, making it a place where you can thrive academically while engaging with peers from diverse backgrounds.
- Coverage: Partial and full tuition fee waivers.
- Eligibility: Open to both EU/EEA and non-EU/EEA students in Master’s programs.
7. University of Amsterdam Merit Scholarships: Rewarding Excellence
For outstanding students from outside the EEA, the University of Amsterdam offers a merit-based scholarship that covers both tuition fees and living expenses. Known for its rigorous academic standards and diverse international community, the University of Amsterdam provides an ideal environment for those looking to challenge themselves and grow as scholars.
This scholarship aims to support the next generation of academic leaders, encouraging students who excel in their fields to pursue higher education at one of Europe’s top universities.
- Coverage: Tuition fees and living expenses.
- Eligibility: Non-EEA students with outstanding academic records.
8. Maastricht University Scholarships: High Potential Meets High Achievement
Maastricht University is renowned for its international focus and its commitment to providing high-quality education in an innovative and research-driven environment. Among the various scholarships it offers, the Holland-High Potential Scholarship stands out. This scholarship covers both tuition fees and living expenses, allowing students to concentrate fully on their studies without the constant stress of financial strain.
The university’s interdisciplinary approach fosters collaboration across borders and fields, making it a great fit for students interested in addressing global challenges. Whether you’re looking to pursue a master’s program in business, law, or social sciences, Maastricht University’s diverse community and strong international connections will help you develop the skills needed to thrive in today’s interconnected world.
- Coverage: Tuition fees and living expenses.
- Eligibility: Open to outstanding students from outside the EU/EEA.
9. Radboud University Scholarship: A Comprehensive Funding Solution
Radboud University in Nijmegen offers a scholarship program aimed at excellent non-EEA students pursuing master’s degrees. This scholarship covers both partial tuition fees and a living expenses allowance, making it a great opportunity for those seeking to study in the Netherlands without breaking the bank.
Radboud University’s emphasis on research and innovation ensures that students have access to cutting-edge academic resources. With a strong focus on personal development and creating a diverse academic community, this scholarship allows recipients to grow both personally and professionally, all while living in one of the Netherlands’ most vibrant university towns.
- Coverage: Partial tuition fee and living expenses.
- Eligibility: Excellent students from outside the EU/EEA pursuing a Master’s degree.
10. Utrecht University Excellence Scholarships: Unlock Your Potential
Utrecht University, known for its outstanding reputation and forward-thinking approach to education, offers the Excellence Scholarships to exceptional students from non-EU/EEA countries. These scholarships provide tuition fee coverage and sometimes include a living expenses allowance, depending on the student’s academic profile.
Utrecht University encourages students to engage with real-world issues through interdisciplinary studies, helping them develop into proactive global citizens. As a recipient of this scholarship, you’ll be part of a prestigious institution that values academic excellence, innovation, and a sustainable future. The academic programs here are designed to push students beyond the confines of traditional learning, offering them the chance to solve global problems in a supportive and resource-rich environment.
- Coverage: Tuition fees and living expenses allowance (depending on the scholarship type).
- Eligibility: Exceptional students from non-EU/EEA countries.
Why Study in the Netherlands?
You might be wondering—why the Netherlands? Well, beyond the scholarships, there are a host of reasons why studying in this dynamic country could be one of the best decisions you ever make.
- World-Class Education: The Netherlands boasts a high standard of education, with numerous universities consistently ranking among the best in the world. The teaching method emphasizes creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving, preparing students for real-world challenges.
- Multicultural Environment: The Dutch educational system attracts students from all over the world, fostering a rich multicultural environment where you can exchange ideas, learn from diverse perspectives, and build a global network.
- English-Taught Programs: Most Dutch universities offer a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in English, making it an ideal destination for non-Dutch speakers.
- Work-Life Balance: Students in the Netherlands often praise the relaxed yet productive atmosphere. With a mix of academic rigor and ample opportunities for extracurricular activities, the Dutch education system values a healthy work-life balance.
- Vibrant Student Life: The Netherlands is home to some of Europe’s most student-friendly cities. Whether you’re in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, or Utrecht, you’ll find a mix of academic excellence, cultural experiences, and a lively student community.
Final Thoughts
Studying in the Netherlands in 2025 offers endless opportunities for international students, not only through the many generous scholarships available but also through the rich academic and cultural experiences waiting for you. Whether you’re interested in research, business, technology, or the humanities, Dutch universities provide a stimulating environment to help you reach your goals. With the support of scholarships, you can focus on your studies and immerse yourself in the Dutch way of life without worrying about the financial burden.
The Netherlands truly values diversity, academic excellence, and cross-cultural exchange, making it an exceptional place to further your education. Don’t miss out on these opportunities—apply for these scholarships and take your academic journey to the next level!
FAQs on Top Scholarships in the Netherlands for 2025
What expenses are covered by the Eric Bleumink Scholarship?
The Eric Bleumink Scholarship at the University of Groningen covers tuition fees, travel costs, books, subsistence, and health insurance.
Who can apply for the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship?
This scholarship is open to international students of all nationalities pursuing Master’s degrees at Leiden University.
Does the NL Scholarship cover all tuition fees?
The NL Scholarship provides either partial or full tuition coverage, depending on the specific program and institution.
Is the HAN Scholarship available for both Bachelor’s and Master’s programs?
Yes, the HAN Scholarship at HAN University of Applied Sciences is available to non-EEA students for both Bachelor’s and Master’s programs.
What type of support does the Minerva Scholarship Fund provide?
The Minerva Scholarship at Leiden University covers tuition fees and living expenses for eligible students.
Can EU/EEA students apply for the University of Twente Scholarship?
Yes, the University of Twente Scholarship is open to both EU/EEA and non-EU/EEA students pursuing Master’s programs.
Who qualifies for the University of Amsterdam Merit Scholarship?
The University of Amsterdam Merit Scholarship is available to outstanding non-EEA students in Bachelor’s and Master’s programs.
What scholarships are offered by Maastricht University?
Maastricht University offers the Holland-High Potential Scholarship and others, covering tuition fees and living expenses.
Does the Radboud University Scholarship include living expenses?
Yes, the Radboud University Scholarship provides partial tuition coverage and a living expenses allowance for non-EEA Master’s students.
Who is eligible for the Utrecht University Excellence Scholarship?
This scholarship is for exceptional students from non-EU/EEA countries and covers tuition fees with a possible allowance for living expenses.
