Introduction
The NL Scholarship is a prestigious grant offered to international students from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) to pursue full-time bachelor’s or master’s degrees at Dutch higher education institutions. Administered by the Dutch Ministry of Education in collaboration with universities, it’s designed to attract global talent.
About the Scholarship
Previously known as the Holland Scholarship, the NL Scholarship was renamed in 2023 to align with the country’s global branding transitioning from “Holland” to “NL.” Despite the name change, the scholarship’s mission to promote Dutch higher education internationally remains steadfast.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be a citizen of a non-EEA country
- Be applying for a full-time bachelor’s or master’s program at an eligible Dutch institution
- Not hold a degree from the Netherlands
- Meet the specific admission criteria of the chosen institution.
Scholarship Benefits
- Standard award: €5,000 one-time payment in the first year
- Some universities may offer double (€10K) or triple (€15K) awards based on merit.
- Funds are credited against tuition; they do not cover living expenses, visa, or insurance.
Application Process
- No separate application portal, you apply through your chosen university
- Each institution handles student applications and scholarship consideration via its internal system.
- Visit the specific university’s site for deadlines, document requirements, and submission procedures.
Key Dates and Deadlines
- Scholarship deadlines typically fall between February and July, depending on the institution.
- Notifications generally arrive between March and May, based on recent student reports.
Selection Process
- Selection criteria are highly merit-based, focusing on academic achievement, motivation, and program fit.
- Some schools may review motivation letters, transcripts, CVs, and supporting documents and may even request interviews
Tips to Increase Your Chances
- Start early, ensure applications are complete well before deadlines.
- Submit a compelling motivation letter, detailing your study goals and financial need.
- Provide clear academic records and strong references.
- Research each institution’s specific procedures and fulfil them precisely.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
| Question | Answer |
| Who is eligible? | Non-EEA students applying for full-time bachelor’s or master’s programs. |
| What is covered? | A one-time grant (€5K–€15K) applied to tuition only. |
| Is it a full scholarship? | No; it partially supports tuition and does not cover other expenses. |
| When to apply? | Usually between February and July; check each university. |
| How do I apply? | Via the host university; no centralized application. |
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Additional Resources
- Full details: Study in NL – NL Scholarship page. Study in NL
- Overview and context: Nuffic Dutch Education site. Nuffic
