The NL Scholarship 2026-2027, formerly known as the Holland Scholarship, is one of the most attractive opportunities for international students who want to study in the Netherlands. Designed for talented learners from outside the European Economic Area (EEA), this scholarship offers financial support for those pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree at top Dutch institutions. Backed by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science, alongside leading research universities and universities of applied sciences, the NL Scholarship helps more students access world-class higher education in the Netherlands.
What Is the NL Scholarship?
The NL Scholarship provides a one-time €5,000 grant to support your first year of study in the Netherlands. While it does not cover full tuition or living expenses, it significantly reduces the financial burden of studying abroad. Its main goal is to attract motivated and high-achieving international students to Dutch universities and help them begin their academic journey in Europe.
Benefits of the NL Scholarship 2026-2027
Students awarded the NL Scholarship receive:
- A €5,000 financial grant in their first academic year
- Access to top Dutch universities with globally recognized programs
- An opportunity to study in a multicultural, innovative, and research-driven environment
- Strong career advantages, as Dutch degrees are respected worldwide
- A chance to build international networks and explore new professional pathways
The scholarship is competitive, making it especially valuable for students seeking European scholarships, study-in-Netherlands opportunities, and international funding options.
Participating Universities: Where You Can Study
The NL Scholarship is offered across a wide range of Dutch institutions, including both research universities and universities of applied sciences. These include some of the Netherlands’ most prestigious institutions, such as:
Research Universities
- Leiden University
- Utrecht University
- University of Groningen
- Erasmus University Rotterdam
- Maastricht University
- VU Amsterdam
- Radboud University
- Tilburg University
- Delft University of Technology
- Eindhoven University of Technology
- University of Twente
- Wageningen University
- Protestant Theological University
- Theological University Apeldoorn
- Theological University
Universities of Applied Sciences
- Aeres University of Applied Sciences
- Amsterdam University of the Arts
- ArtEZ Institute of the Arts
- Breda University of Applied Sciences
- Codarts Rotterdam
- Driestar Educatief
- Fontys University of Applied Sciences
- Gerrit Rietveld Academie
- The Hague University of Applied Sciences
- Hanze University of Applied Sciences
- Hotelschool The Hague
- HU University of Applied Sciences Utrecht
- Inholland University of Applied Sciences
- Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences
- HKU University of Applied Sciences
- HZ University of Applied Sciences
- Saxion University of Applied Sciences
- NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences
- Van Hall Larenstein University of Applied Sciences
- Zuyd University of Applied Sciences
With dozens of participating institutions, students can choose programs in engineering, social sciences, arts, business, environmental studies, technology, and more.
Eligibility Criteria for the NL Scholarship 2026-2027
To qualify for the NL Scholarship, applicants must:
- Hold non-EEA nationality
- Apply for a full-time Bachelor’s or Master’s program at a participating university
- Not have previously studied in the Netherlands for a full degree
- Meet the admission and language requirements of their chosen institution
- Be applying specifically for programs included under the scholarship scheme
Each university sets its own additional criteria, so applicants should review the requirements of their chosen program before applying.
Required Documents for Application
Although document requirements vary by institution, applicants typically need to submit:
- A completed application form
- A valid passport or ID
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Proof of English (or Dutch) language proficiency
- A motivation letter outlining goals and reasons for applying
- A detailed CV
- Letters of recommendation from teachers or supervisors
Strong, well-written documents improve your chances of securing the scholarship.
Application Deadlines
Deadlines depend entirely on the participating university. Some institutions open applications early, while others have later deadlines. Applicants must carefully check the dates for their selected university and submit all documents before the specified deadline. Early preparation is recommended, as late submissions are not accepted.
How to Apply for the NL Scholarship 2026-2027
Here is a simple process to follow:
- Choose Your Program and University
Identify the Bachelor’s or Master’s program you want to study and confirm it is eligible for the scholarship. - Check the Requirements
Make sure you meet all eligibility criteria, academic requirements, and language standards. - Prepare the Necessary Documents
Gather academic transcripts, recommendation letters, proof of English proficiency, your CV, and a strong motivation letter. - Apply for Admission
Submit your application to the university’s official portal and indicate your interest in the NL Scholarship. - Submit the Scholarship Application
Some institutions require a separate scholarship application; others include it within the admission process. - Await Notification
If selected, you will receive an award letter confirming your scholarship and admission.
Why Study in the Netherlands?
The Netherlands is known for its outstanding quality of education, innovative teaching methods, and wide range of English-taught programs. Students benefit from:
- A welcoming and multicultural environment
- High employability after graduation
- An excellent research ecosystem
- A central location in Europe with easy travel access
- A strong focus on creativity, innovation, and practical learning
Dutch universities are globally ranked and appreciated for their commitment to academic excellence and student success.
Final Thoughts
The NL Scholarship 2026-2027 is an excellent chance for promising students from non-EEA countries to begin a world-class academic career in the Netherlands. Although it is not fully funded, the €5,000 grant helps ease the financial load during your first year and opens the door to high-quality education and global opportunities. Students interested in studying in Europe, especially in a diverse and innovative country like the Netherlands, should consider applying early and preparing strong documents.
Apply Now: https://www.studyinholland.nl/finances/holland-scholarship
