Scholarships in the Netherlands for International Students (Top Dutch Universities + 2025 Funding Options)

The Netherlands has emerged as one of the most attractive study destinations in Europe, offering world-class education, high-ranking universities, and a wide range of programs taught in English. For international students aiming to study in the Netherlands in 2025, securing a scholarship can significantly ease the financial burden. This guide highlights the top Dutch universities offering scholarships, available government and institutional funding options, and how to apply successfully.

ناف سے نیچے کی محبت اور ناک سے اوپر کی انائیں دونوں ہی زلالت دیتی ہے ۔

ناف سے نیچے کی محبت اور ناک سے اوپر کی انائیں دونوں ہی زلالت دیتی ہے ۔

پسندیدہ شخص سے بھی دل بھر سکتا ے ، مگر جس سے محبت ہو اس سے دل نہیں بھر میں فرق سکتا ، پسند اور محبت ہوتا ہے ، کیونکہ پسند بدلتی رہتی ہے ، لیکن محبت نہیں بدلتی ۔

محبت کا نکاح نامے سے کوئی تعلق نہیں ، پر کبھی کبھی نکاح نامے پر کسی کا سائن ہوتے ہی کسی کی محبت کو طلاق ہو جاتی ہے ۔

نکاح نامے میں محبت کا خانہ نہیں ہوتا ، لیکن نکاح اگر مرضی کے خلاف ہو اور دل میں پہلے سے کوئی موجود ہو تو دو زندگیوں کا خانہ خراب ضرور ہوتا ہے ۔

آجکل لوگ چاہتے ہیں کہ رشتے بھی سمارٹ فون کی طرح ہوں ، دل کریں تو خوب لطف اندوز ہو اور دل کریں تو سائلنٹ موڈ پر چھوڑ دیں ۔

ہوتا ہے ہر شخص میں کچھ نہ کچھ اچھا ضرور بھی کسی کی معاملے میں قاضی نہ بنو کیونکہ ہر ولی کا ایک ماضی ہے اور ہر گنہگار کا ایک مستقبل

بزرگ فرماتے ہیں : کہ ایسی عورت سے شادی کرو جس عورت کے چہرے پر غصے کی حالت میں بل نہ آتے ہوں اور ہر حال میں صابر اور شاکر ہوں وہ آپ کو دولت سے مالامال کر دے گی


Why Study in the Netherlands?

The Netherlands offers a unique academic environment that combines innovation, research excellence, and practical application. With more than 2,100 English-taught programs, the country welcomes thousands of international students each year. Dutch degrees are globally recognized, and the multicultural society ensures a rich student experience.

Key benefits include:

  • Affordable tuition compared to the US or UK

  • Strong employability outcomes

  • Student-friendly visa and post-study work policies

  • Scholarships and grants for both EU and non-EU students


Top Scholarships in the Netherlands for 2025

1. Holland Scholarship

Funded by: Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science
Eligible students: Non-EU/EEA international students
Amount: €5,000 (awarded in the first year only)
Level: Bachelor’s and Master’s
Participating universities: University of Amsterdam, Leiden University, Delft University of Technology, and others

This scholarship is highly competitive and is awarded to students with exceptional academic records and strong motivation.


2. Erasmus University Holland Scholarship

Funded by: Erasmus University Rotterdam in collaboration with the Dutch government
Eligible students: Non-EU/EEA students applying for bachelor’s or master’s programs
Amount: Up to €15,000
Fields: Business, Economics, Law, Social Sciences, and more

Aimed at academically talented students, this scholarship supports those who demonstrate leadership potential and community engagement.


3. Amsterdam Merit Scholarship

Institution: University of Amsterdam (UvA)
Level: Master’s degree programs
Amount: €6,000 – €25,000 depending on the faculty
Eligibility: Excellent academic performance and non-EU/EEA nationality

The scholarship is awarded for one academic year with the possibility of extension depending on academic results.


4. TU Delft Excellence Scholarships (Justus & Louise van Effen)

Institution: Delft University of Technology
Level: Master’s degree programs
Coverage: Full tuition fees + monthly living allowance
Eligibility: Outstanding international applicants

This is one of the most generous and prestigious scholarships in the Netherlands for engineering and technology students.


5. Utrecht Excellence Scholarship

Institution: Utrecht University
Level: Master’s programs
Coverage: Full tuition or tuition + €11,000 living expenses
Eligibility: Non-EU/EEA students with academic excellence

Only a limited number of scholarships are available each year, making it highly selective.


6. VU Fellowship Programme (VUFP)

Institution: Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
Level: Master’s programs
Coverage: Tuition fee waiver
Eligibility: Non-EU/EEA international students

Students must apply for both the master’s program and the scholarship separately. An optional NL Scholarship of €5,000 for living expenses may also be available.


7. Orange Tulip Scholarship Programme (OTS)

Target Group: International students from selected countries such as India, China, Brazil, Mexico, and Indonesia
Administered by: Nuffic Neso Offices
Offered by: Dutch higher education institutions
Coverage: Partial to full tuition, sometimes with living costs

OTS is a great opportunity for students in partner countries to gain support tailored to their region.


Top Dutch Universities That Offer Scholarships

  • Delft University of Technology

  • University of Amsterdam

  • Utrecht University

  • Leiden University

  • Erasmus University Rotterdam

  • Maastricht University

  • Radboud University

  • Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

  • Wageningen University & Research

  • Tilburg University

These institutions not only provide merit-based scholarships but also offer need-based and faculty-specific grants.


How to Apply for Scholarships in the Netherlands

  1. Choose your university and program: Visit the university’s website to see available scholarships for your chosen course.

  2. Review scholarship requirements: Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for GPA, nationality, and English proficiency.

  3. Prepare documents: Common requirements include:

    • Academic transcripts

    • Motivation letter

    • Recommendation letters

    • CV or resume

    • Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL)

  4. Apply early: Most deadlines fall between December 2024 and March 2025.

  5. Track the results: Most scholarships announce results by late spring or early summer.


Tips to Increase Your Chances

  • Maintain a strong academic record

  • Write a compelling and personalized motivation letter

  • Highlight leadership roles, volunteering, or extracurricular achievements

  • Apply to multiple scholarships where allowed

  • Follow application instructions precisely..