Netherlands Government Scholarship 2026-27 | NL Scholarship

Introduction

The NL Scholarship (previously known as the Holland Scholarship) is a national programme financed by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture & Science together with participating Dutch higher education institutions.
While the scholarship does not cover full tuition, it offers a significant boost: a €5,000 grant in the first year of study for eligible international students.
This means that students from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) can reduce their financial burden and enjoy high-quality education in the Netherlands — a country known for its English-taught programmes, global mindset, and research-driven universities.

Eligibility & Application Process

To be eligible for the NL Scholarship 2026-27, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Hold a nationality outside the EEA.
• Apply for a full-time Bachelor’s or Master’s programme at one of the participating Dutch research universities or universities of applied sciences.
• Meet the admission requirements of the institution you apply to (language proficiency, academic background, etc.).
• Not already hold a degree from a Dutch higher‐education institution.

The application process usually involves:

• Applying for admission to your chosen programme at a participating university.
• Submitting the scholarship application or being considered automatically (depending on the institution).

Make sure you check your chosen university’s deadline and guidelines for the scholarship.

Netherlands an attractive study destination

Studying in the Netherlands comes with many advantages:

• A wide range of high-quality English-taught programmes and excellent teaching standards.
• A multicultural environment and strong support for international students.
• The NL Scholarship adds financial aid, making it more feasible for non-EEA students to join Dutch universities.
• Dutch institutions are strong in research, innovation, and global connections, giving students a competitive edge.

Final Thoughts

If you are an international student from outside the EEA seeking a top-tier education in Europe, the NL Scholarship 2026-27 offers a valuable chance to study in the Netherlands with financial support. Although it doesn’t cover full tuition fees, the €5,000 grant and the opportunity to join a world-renowned university make it a worthy option to explore early.

Before applying, gather your transcripts, proof of language proficiency, motivation letter and make sure you fully understand the admission and scholarship deadlines of your chosen institution. With careful preparation and strong academic performance, you can position yourself well for this opportunity.

Apply now