The Tinbergen Institute Research Master Scholarship 2026–2027 is now open for outstanding students who want to build a career in economics, econometrics, finance, and quantitative research. The scholarship allows talented students from around the world to study at one of Europe’s leading graduate schools while receiving financial support based on academic excellence.

The program is jointly offered by Erasmus University Rotterdam, the University of Amsterdam (UvA), and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam). It is specifically designed for students aiming to continue toward a PhD or pursue careers in research, government institutions, central banks, and international organizations.

The scholarship provides monthly stipends, tuition support, travel reimbursement, and opportunities to work as Teaching or Research Assistants during the second year.

Scholarship Overview

Host Country

Netherlands

Host Institutions

• Erasmus University Rotterdam
• University of Amsterdam (UvA)
• Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam)

Institution

Tinbergen Institute

Degree Level

Research Master’s Degree (2 Years)

Scholarship Type

Fully Funded and Partially Funded

Available Fields of Study

Students admitted to the Research Master can specialize in several advanced quantitative disciplines.

Economics

Advanced economic theory, macroeconomics, microeconomics, and applied economics.

Econometrics

Statistical modeling, data analysis, forecasting, and quantitative research techniques.

Finance

Financial markets, corporate finance, investment analysis, and risk management.

Data Science for Business and Economics

Machine learning, business analytics, programming, and large-scale data analysis.

Quantitative Methods and Policy Analysis

Evidence-based policy evaluation using advanced mathematical and statistical methods.

The curriculum combines rigorous coursework with research training, preparing graduates for competitive PhD programs worldwide.

Tinbergen Institute Research Master Scholarship Benefits

The scholarship is awarded based on academic performance and research potential. Both full and partial scholarships are available.

First-Year Scholarship (2026–2027)

Full Scholarship

• Monthly stipend of €1,500

Partial Scholarship

• Monthly stipend of €750

Second-Year Scholarship (2027–2028)

Scholarship renewal depends on academic performance during the first year.

Full Scholarship

Students with a minimum GPA of 8.0 in the core courses receive:

• Monthly stipend of €1,000

Partial Scholarship

Students with a minimum GPA of 7.5 receive:

• Monthly stipend of €750

Additional Financial Support

Successful students may also receive several additional benefits.

Tuition Fee Support

Selected students can receive partial tuition fee waivers.

Travel Reimbursement

Financial support is available for travel between the Amsterdam and Rotterdam campuses.

Teaching and Research Assistant Positions

Second-year students may work as:

• Teaching Assistants (TA)
• Research Assistants (RA)

These positions provide valuable academic experience alongside additional financial support.

Direct PhD Opportunities

Many graduates continue into fully funded PhD positions at the Tinbergen Institute and partner universities.

PhD candidates typically receive:

• Monthly salary between €3,059 and €3,881
• No PhD tuition fees
• Employee benefits under Dutch university employment contracts

Tuition Fees

Tuition depends on the student’s residency status.

Students admitted to a PhD program do not pay tuition fees.

Estimated Living Costs in the Netherlands

Students should budget approximately:

• €975–€1,500 per month

This estimate generally covers:

• Accommodation
• Food
• Health insurance
• Public transportation
• Personal expenses

Actual costs may vary depending on the city and lifestyle.

Eligible Nationalities

Applications are welcome from students worldwide, including:

• EEA citizens
• Non-EEA international students

Both groups are eligible for scholarship consideration, although tuition fees differ based on residency status.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants should satisfy the following admission requirements.

Academic Qualifications

Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree in one of the following or a closely related field:

• Economics
• Econometrics
• Mathematics
• Statistics
• Quantitative Business
• Other quantitative disciplines

Academic Excellence

Applicants should demonstrate strong academic achievements and clear research potential.

English Language Requirement

Applicants must provide proof of English proficiency through accepted examinations such as:

• IELTS
• TOEFL
• Equivalent English language qualifications

GRE Requirement

Applicants are expected to submit GRE scores, with particular emphasis on a strong Quantitative score.

Scholarship Consideration

Candidates must indicate their interest in the Tinbergen Institute Scholarship while completing the admission application.

Required Documents

Applicants should prepare the following documents before submitting their application.

• Bachelor’s degree certificate
• Academic transcripts
• GRE score report
• English language test results
• Statement of Purpose
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Letters of Recommendation
• Valid passport or identification documents (if required)

How to Apply for the Tinbergen Institute Research Master Scholarship 2026

Follow these steps to complete your application.

Step 1

Visit the official Tinbergen Institute admissions portal.

Step 2

Complete the online application for the Research Master in Economics.

Step 3

Select that you wish to be considered for the scholarship.

Step 4

Upload all required academic and supporting documents.

Step 5

Submit your application before 1 March 2026.

Step 6

Shortlisted applicants may be invited to participate in an interview as part of the selection process.

Since scholarship funding is competitive, applicants are also encouraged to apply for other funding opportunities available in the Netherlands.

About the Tinbergen Institute

Founded in 1987, the Tinbergen Institute is one of Europe’s leading graduate schools specializing in Economics, Econometrics, and Finance. It is jointly operated by Erasmus University Rotterdam, the University of Amsterdam, and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam.

The institute has earned an international reputation for producing high-quality economic research and preparing graduates for doctoral studies and research careers. Alumni have gone on to secure PhD placements and research positions at prestigious universities, central banks, international organizations, and government institutions worldwide.

Why Choose the Tinbergen Institute?

Internationally Recognized Research Training

Students receive advanced methodological and analytical training aligned with international research standards.

Excellent PhD Progression

A significant number of graduates continue into fully funded doctoral programs in the Netherlands and abroad.

Collaboration with Leading Dutch Universities

Students benefit from the academic expertise and resources of three top-ranked universities.

Strong Career Prospects

Graduates are highly sought after by universities, central banks, ministries, research institutes, consulting firms, and international organizations.