The NL Scholarship 2027 is a competitive and prestigious financial award funded by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science, in collaboration with Dutch research universities and universities of applied sciences. It is specifically designed to support highly motivated international students from outside the EU/EEA who wish to pursue a Master’s degree in the Netherlands.

At Utrecht University, the NL Scholarship provides partial financial support to outstanding students, enabling them to access high-quality education, develop advanced academic skills, and build strong international career prospects.

Degree Level

The NL Scholarship at Utrecht University is available for:

• Master’s Degree Programmes

The scholarship is awarded for the first year only, even if the selected Master’s programme has a duration of two years.

Available Subjects

The NL Scholarship applies to selected international Master’s programmes at Utrecht University. Participating fields may include, but are not limited to:

• Social Sciences

• Natural Sciences

• Life Sciences

• Economics and Business

• Law

• Humanities

• Environmental and Earth Sciences

Not all Master’s programmes are eligible. Applicants must carefully review the “Tuition fees and financial support” section of their chosen programme before applying.

Scholarship Benefits

The NL Scholarship offers partial financial support during the first year of study.

Available award amounts:

• €5,000

• €10,000

• €15,000

Important notes:

• This is not a fully funded scholarship

• The amount is paid once during the first year

• Students must independently cover remaining tuition fees and living expenses

Eligible Nationalities

Applicants must meet the following nationality requirements:

• Be a citizen of a non-EU/EEA country

• Not hold an EU/EEA passport

• Not be eligible for the Dutch study grant and loan system

Students who previously participated in an exchange programme in the Netherlands may still be eligible to apply.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the NL Scholarship at Utrecht University, applicants must:

• Be a non-EU/EEA international student

• Not be eligible for statutory tuition fees

• Have never studied at a Dutch higher education institution

• Apply for an eligible international Master’s programme

• Submit a strong and realistic financial plan

• Demonstrate the ability to cover remaining study and living costs

Applicants must also show strong academic readiness and clear motivation aligned with their academic and professional goals.

Selection Criteria

Applications are evaluated based on:

• Academic background and performance in the Master’s application

• Quality of the motivation letter, explaining:

  • Why studying in the Netherlands is relevant

  • How Utrecht University supports future career plans

• Strength and feasibility of the financial plan, supported by:

  • Statement of Financial Resources

  • Personal savings and/or external funding

A complete and realistic funding plan covering the full duration of the Master’s programme is essential for selection.

Application Procedure

To apply for the Utrecht University NL Scholarship 2027, follow these steps:

1. Apply for an NL Scholarship-eligible Master’s programme at Utrecht University

2. Log in to your OSIRIS Online Application account

3. Find “NL Scholarship” on your application dashboard

4. Select View/Edit for the scholarship linked to your programme

5. Complete the NL Scholarship application form

6. Submit all required information before the deadline

Early applications are strongly recommended to avoid technical or documentation issues.

Why Apply for the NL Scholarship?

• Supports international Master’s students in the Netherlands

• Funded and recognized by the Dutch government

• Available at top-ranked institutions such as Utrecht University

• Encourages academic excellence and global mobility

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the NL Scholarship fully funded?
No, the NL Scholarship is a partial scholarship and covers only part of the first-year study costs.

What is the maximum scholarship amount available?
The maximum award amount is €15,000 for the first year.

Can EU/EEA students apply for the NL Scholarship?
No, the scholarship is only available to non-EU/EEA international students.

Is the scholarship renewable for the second year?
No, the NL Scholarship is awarded for the first year only.

Do I need to secure admission before applying for the scholarship?
Yes, you must apply to an eligible Master’s programme before submitting the NL Scholarship application.