Studying abroad is a dream for many, and the Netherlands, with its rich cultural heritage and high-quality education, is a top destination for international students. But what if the costs are holding you back? The NL Scholarship (formerly known as the Holland Scholarship) can help you realize this dream by offering financial support to students from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) who want to pursue their bachelor’s or master’s degree in the Netherlands. Related: University of Miami Stamps Scholarship
What is the NL Scholarship (formerly known as the Holland Scholarship)?
The NL Scholarship is a prestigious program, funded by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science, along with Dutch research universities and universities of applied sciences. The goal of this scholarship is to attract talented students from non-EEA countries and provide them with the opportunity to experience the world-class education system of the Netherlands.
While the NL Scholarship provides a financial boost, it’s important to note that this is not a full-tuition scholarship. The awarded amount of €5,000 is granted in the first year of your studies, helping to alleviate some of the financial burdens that come with studying abroad.
Who Can Apply for the NL Scholarship (formerly known as the Holland Scholarship)?
The NL Scholarship is designed for international students from non-EEA countries who have never studied in the Netherlands. If you meet the following criteria, you’re eligible to apply:
- Non-EEA Nationality: You must hold citizenship from a country outside the European Economic Area.
- First-Time Student in the Netherlands: You cannot have earned a degree from a Dutch educational institution.
- Full-Time Program Enrollment: You need to be applying for a full-time bachelor’s or master’s program at one of the participating Dutch higher education institutions.
- University-Specific Requirements: Each institution may have its own additional requirements, which you can find on their official website.
Scholarship Amount and Coverage
The NL Scholarship offers a one-time payment of €5,000, which you will receive in the first year of your studies. While this amount can help cover part of your tuition or living expenses, it’s crucial to understand that this is not a full scholarship. You will need to budget for additional costs, including tuition fees (which vary depending on the program) and other expenses such as housing, food, and travel.
Participating Institutions for the NL Scholarship (2024-2025)
A wide range of Dutch universities participate in the NL Scholarship program, including both research universities and universities of applied sciences. For the academic year 2024-2025, some of the most prestigious institutions are offering this scholarship, including:
Participating Research Universities:
- Leiden University
- Utrecht University
- University of Groningen
- Erasmus University Rotterdam
- Delft University of Technology
- VU Amsterdam
- Wageningen University, and more.
Participating Universities of Applied Sciences:
- Aeres University of Applied Sciences
- Amsterdam University of the Arts
- Fontys University of Applied Sciences
- The Hague University of Applied Sciences
- Zuyd University of Applied Sciences, among others.
Each institution may offer different programs and have specific scholarship deadlines, so it’s important to check the website of your preferred university for details.
Fields of Study Supported by the NL Scholarship
The NL Scholarship supports a wide variety of academic fields, ranging from technology and engineering to business, arts, and social sciences. Whether you’re interested in cutting-edge technology at Delft University or pursuing design at the Design Academy Eindhoven, there is likely a program that aligns with your academic and career goals.
How to Apply for the NL Scholarship (formerly known as the Holland Scholarship)?
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you apply for the NL Scholarship:
- Research the Universities: Start by looking up the participating universities and their specific requirements for the NL Scholarship.
- Apply for a Program: You must first apply for a full-time bachelor’s or master’s program at one of the participating institutions.
- Submit Your Scholarship Application: After applying to the program, follow the instructions on the university’s website to apply for the scholarship. This typically includes submitting an application form, motivation letter, and any required documents (such as transcripts or proof of nationality).
Application Deadlines for 2024-2025
Deadlines for the NL Scholarship vary by institution, but the application period for the 2024-2025 academic year is now open. Be sure to check the specific deadline for the university you’re applying to—missing it could mean missing out on your chance to receive the scholarship!
FAQs
- Can I apply for the NL Scholarship if I’ve previously studied in the Netherlands? No, the NL Scholarship is only available to students who have not previously studied at a Dutch educational institution.
- Is the NL Scholarship renewable after the first year? No, the NL Scholarship is a one-time award and is not renewable for subsequent years.
- Are there specific GPA requirements for the NL Scholarship? The GPA requirements vary by university. Check the specific guidelines of the institution you are applying to.
- Can I work part-time while receiving the NL Scholarship? Yes, international students are allowed to work part-time while studying, but there may be restrictions based on your visa.
- How do I find out the specific requirements of my chosen university? Visit the official website of the university you’re applying to for detailed information on admission and scholarship requirements.