Fully Funded Scholarships in the Netherlands: A Complete Guide for International Students

The Netherlands is a popular destination for international students due to its high-quality education, multicultural environment, and globally recognized universities. From innovation in research to progressive teaching methodologies, Dutch institutions offer world-class academic experiences. Studying here also means access to Europe and an opportunity to immerse yourself in a vibrant and inclusive society.

What Are Fully Funded Scholarships?

Fully funded scholarships cover all major educational expenses, such as tuition fees, living costs, travel, insurance, and sometimes even personal development or research grants. These scholarships aim to remove financial barriers and allow talented students from all backgrounds to pursue higher education.

Top Fully Funded Scholarships in the Netherlands

1. Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP)

Overview: Funded by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the OKP offers scholarships to professionals from developing countries to study short courses or master’s programs.

Benefits:

  • Full tuition fees
  • Travel expenses
  • Insurance
  • Subsistence allowance

Eligibility:

  • Must be a national and resident of an OKP country
  • Employed in a relevant organization

2. Holland Scholarship

Overview: Funded by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science, and several Dutch research universities and universities of applied sciences.

Benefits:

  • €5,000 grant for the first year of study

Eligibility:

  • Non-EEA students applying for a full-time bachelor’s or master’s program
  • Must meet institutional admission criteria

Institutions Offering It: University of Groningen, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Leiden University, and more.

3. Eric Bleumink Fund at University of Groningen

Overview: This scholarship targets talented students from developing countries who wish to pursue a 1 or 2-year master’s program at the University of Groningen.

Benefits:

  • Tuition fees
  • International travel
  • Subsistence
  • Books and health insurance

Eligibility:

  • Excellent academic performance
  • Strong motivation
  • Must be conditionally admitted to the program

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

Overview: Aimed at international MSc students, particularly those with outstanding academic records.

Benefits:

  • Full tuition
  • Living expenses

Eligibility:

  • Admitted to one of TU Delft’s MSc programs
  • Excellent GPA

Application Deadline: Usually in December for the following academic year.

Tips for a Successful Scholarship Application

  • Tailor Your Motivation Letter: Show a strong link between your goals and the program you’re applying for.
  • Showcase Leadership Potential: Many scholarships seek future leaders and change-makers.
  • Provide Evidence of Achievements: Academic or professional awards, published work, and relevant experiences add value.
  • Proofread: Make sure your application is clear, grammatically correct, and well-structured.