Dreaming of Studying in the Netherlands? Discover the NL Scholarship for International Students
For students in the United States and other countries, studying in the Netherlands can open the door to respected bachelor’s and master’s programs. The NL Scholarship is a national scholarship program that supports talented international students from outside the European Economic Area.
The general award is €5,000 during the first year of study. It can reduce the cost of tuition and daily expenses, but it is not a full-tuition award. Applicants should create a realistic budget for housing, travel, insurance, and any remaining fees.
The program also helps Dutch institutions attract strong applicants from around the world. Each participating school sets its own eligibility rules, required documents, closing date, and selection process. Careful planning is essential before starting an application.
For the 2026–2027 academic year, applications opened on November 1, 2025. This guide provides clear information about the study options, funding limits, and key steps that can help students outside the EEA decide whether this opportunity fits their academic goals.
What Is the NL Scholarship?
This national award gives international students a clearer path into Dutch higher education. Its name, funding model, and partner schools help explain how the program works.
From Holland Scholarship to NL Scholarship
In June 2023, the Holland Scholarship changed its name to the NL Scholarship. The new name reflects a broader national identity. The June 2014 internationalization vision also shaped this effort by linking Dutch education with global talent.
Funding From the Dutch Ministry and Higher Education Institutions
The award is jointly financed by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science and participating institutions. In total, 47 Dutch higher education institutions support 2,112 students each academic year. These partners include research universities and universities of applied sciences.
Nuffic’s Integrity Code of Conduct sets clear standards. It addresses financial misconduct, abuse of power, money laundering, terrorist financing, bankruptcy, and shell companies. Applicants should view these rules as part of a fair and trusted education system.
| Program detail | Current information | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Former name | Holland Scholarship | Recognize older application references |
| Institutional reach | 47 institutions | Compare study options |
| Annual recipients | 2,112 students | Understand available competition |
NL Scholarship Eligibility for International Students
Eligibility depends on nationality, study level, and the Dutch institution you choose. Review each rule before preparing an application.
Nationality and European Economic Area Requirements
Applicants must hold a nationality outside the European Economic Area. This area includes European Union countries, Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway. U.S. citizens and other students outside these countries may qualify.
Eligible Bachelor’s and Master’s Programmes
You must seek a full-time bachelor’s or master’s degree at a participating Dutch institution. Check the selected programme page because schools may set extra criteria.
Previous Study and Institutional Requirements
Applicants cannot already hold a degree from education in the Netherlands. They also cannot qualify for statutory tuition fees or Dutch study grant and loan support.
For example, Utrecht University requires an eligible international master programme that starts September 1, 2026. A past exchange in the Netherlands does not automatically prevent eligibility. Confirm the date and rules on the university page.
| Requirement | Key rule | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Nationality | Outside the EEA | Passport status |
| Study load | Full-time degree | Participating programme |
| Prior education | No Dutch degree | Exchange exception |
Scholarship Amount and What It Covers
The standard NL Scholarship provides €5,000 during the first year of study. It can lower the cost of tuition and daily needs, but it does not pay the full tuition bill.
Please note: Students from the United States should plan for expenses beyond the award. These may include tuition, housing, transportation, health insurance, food, books, and residence costs.
“The award is paid during the first year of study.”
Funding can vary by institution and eligible degree. For example, Utrecht University lists awards of €5,000, €10,000, or €15,000 for selected programs. The amount depends on the program and its conditions.
Students entering a two-year degree at Utrecht University should review the payment schedule carefully. The university pays the listed amount during the first year, not automatically during both years.
- Compare the award with your full tuition balance.
- Estimate monthly living costs before accepting an offer.
- Review whether other scholarships can support later study.
This structure separates the national award from institution-specific support. Always read the university’s funding terms before making travel or enrollment plans.
Participating Dutch Research Universities and Universities of Applied Sciences
Students can choose from research-led institutions and practice-focused schools. The participating list for the 2026–2027 academic year helps applicants identify possible destinations, but it is not a guarantee that every program qualifies.
Participating Research Universities
The 2026–2027 academic year includes Eindhoven University of Technology, Maastricht University, Radboud University, the University of Groningen, the University of Twente, Utrecht University, VU Amsterdam, and Wageningen University & Research.
Specialized options also appear on the list. They include Protestant Theological University, Theological University Apeldoorn, and Utrecht Theological University. These Dutch research universities serve different academic interests and student goals.
Participating Universities of Applied Sciences
Universities of applied sciences include Aeres, Amsterdam, Breda, Fontys, HAN, and Saxion. Other choices include Amsterdam University of the Arts, ArtEZ, Codarts Rotterdam, Design Academy Eindhoven, The Hague University of Applied Sciences, Hanze, Hotelschool The Hague, HKU, and Zuyd.
Institutions may change each year. Before preparing an application, confirm the eligible programme, entry rules, deadline, and award terms with the school. The 2026–2027 list is a useful guide, while each university makes its own final decisions.
How to Apply for the NL Scholarship
A strong application starts with a clear timeline and careful document review. The 2026–2027 application opened on November 1, 2025. Each participating university sets its own deadline, eligible fields, and submission process, so use the official institution page for current information.
Application Documents and Financial Planning
Prepare academic records, programme materials, motivation answers, financial documents, and other required forms early. To apply scholarship funding at Utrecht University, applicants use the OSIRIS Online Application account. Select “NL Scholarship,” choose “View/Edit,” and complete the form linked to the chosen master programme.
A Statement of Financial Resources must explain how you will fund the full nominal length of the master programme. Selection considers academic background, motivation for studying in the Netherlands and at Utrecht, plus the quality and feasibility of the financial plan.
Institutional Deadlines and Selection Results
Utrecht’s application deadline is February 1 at 23:59 CET. Applicants who submit from January 27 onward may not have time to fix missing documents. The university aims to publish results by mid-April. Please note that payment terms and other criteria may differ across universities.
Conclusion
A careful final review can turn a promising Dutch study plan into a practical decision. The NL Scholarship offers eligible students useful support, but the €5,000 award does not cover full tuition or living costs.
Before you apply scholarship materials, confirm your non-EEA status, chosen programme, prior Dutch enrollment, and school-specific rules. Review official information for participating programmes at Utrecht University, the University of Groningen, and Eindhoven University of Technology.
Prospective master students should prepare transcripts, motivation statements, and a financial plan early. This step matters for any master programme, especially when a deadline falls months before classes begin. Utrecht’s February 1, 2026 date and mid-April results show why timing matters.
With careful planning, this opportunity can support a strong study path and broaden access to Dutch education. Check every requirement, track each deadline, and keep copies of submitted documents.
