MENA Scholarship Programme (MSP) 2025 | Fully Funded Short Courses in the Netherlands

Introduction

The MENA Scholarship Programme (MSP) 2025 is one of the most impactful capacity-building initiatives offered by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Designed specifically for professionals from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), this scholarship provides a unique opportunity to participate in fully funded short courses in the Netherlands. With a strong focus on knowledge sharing, leadership, and institutional development, MSP aims to strengthen both individuals and organisations across the region.

MENA Scholarship Programme

MSP is a short-course scholarship programme managed by Nuffic, the Netherlands’ official internationalisation organisation. Unlike long-term academic scholarships, MSP focuses on practical, skill-based trainings ranging from 2 to 13 weeks. These professional courses are offered by top Dutch institutions and aim to provide hands-on expertise in fields that directly support development within MENA countries.

The programme also prioritises diversity and inclusion by reserving 50% of all scholarships for women, ensuring stronger gender balance in leadership and skill-building opportunities.

Eligibility Criteria

The MENA Scholarship Programme is designed for young to mid-career professionals who can create real impact. To be eligible, applicants must:

Be between 20 and 45 years old
Hold citizenship of an eligible MENA country
Live and work in their home country at the time of application
Be employed by an organisation that benefits from their participation
Submit an employer statement confirming support and relevance of the training
Meet academic and English language requirements of the chosen course
Submit a government statement (if required by their country)

These requirements ensure that the scholarship strengthens institutions, not just individuals.

MSP Scholarship Cover

The MENA Scholarship Programme is fully funded, meaning it supports the major costs related to participating in short courses in the Netherlands. Coverage may include:

Course fees
Visa expenses
Travel costs
Accommodation during the training
Insurance (as applicable)

The exact financial coverage may vary depending on the selected course and institution, so applicants should check details for their chosen program.

Priority Themes for MSP 2025

Each MENA country has specific priority areas set by the Dutch government. Popular themes include:

Water management & climate resilience
Renewable energy & sustainability
Governance, human rights & rule of law
Entrepreneurship & economic development
Gender equality & social inclusion
Agriculture & food security
Urban planning & infrastructure
ICT, digital innovation & media

When applying, your motivation letter should clearly show how your selected course aligns with your country’s priority themes and your organisation’s development goals.

How to Apply for MSP 2025

Apply for Admission to a Short Course

Choose an eligible short course from a Dutch institution and apply directly to the university or training centre.

Apply for the MSP Scholarship

Once accepted for the course, submit your MSP application with the required documents, including:

Motivation letter
Employer statement
Government statement (if applicable)
Copy of passport or ID
CV and professional profile

Most institutions follow the May 2025 deadline for MSP applications, so early preparation is recommended.

Apply for MSP 2025

Gain international experience: Learn from leading Dutch experts and institutions.
Strengthen your career: Acquire new professional skills that directly enhance your role.
Support your organisation: Bring back knowledge that helps drive development and innovation.
Expand your network: Join a global alumni community of MENA professionals and Dutch partners.
Promote gender inclusion: With 50% of scholarships for women, the programme actively supports female leadership.

MSP is not just a scholarship—it is an investment in human capital and sustainable development across the MENA region.

Final Thoughts

The MENA Scholarship Programme (MSP) 2025 is an excellent opportunity for professionals who want to improve their skills, advance their careers, and contribute to meaningful change in their home countries. With fully funded short courses, a clear development focus, and strong institutional support, MSP continues to be one of the most respected scholarship programmes in the region.

Prepare your documents early, align your goals with your country’s priority themes, and take the next step toward becoming a stronger professional leader.
Apply now