The UM Bright Talents Scholarship 2026 offers a fully funded opportunity for exceptional international students to pursue a master’s degree at Maastricht University (UM) in the Netherlands. This prestigious scholarship covers tuition fees, living expenses, accommodation, and travel costs, enabling talented individuals from non-EU/EEA countries to study in one of Europe’s most innovative academic environments.
Administered by Maastricht University in collaboration with the Brightlands Campuses, this scholarship aims to attract highly motivated students with the potential to make a global impact in their fields of study.
Summary of UM Bright Talents Scholarship 2026
- Host Country: Netherlands
- Study Level: Master’s Degree
- Eligible Regions: All non-EU/EEA countries
- Funding Type: Fully Funded
- Scholarship Value: €15,925 yearly stipend + tuition + travel + accommodation
- Study Location: Maastricht University, Netherlands
- Application Deadline: February 1, 2026
- IELTS Requirement: Not compulsory
- Scholarship Areas: Science, Data Science, Agrifood, Health, Chemistry, Digital Services
About the Maastricht University Bright Talents Scholarship 2026
The Maastricht University Bright Talents Scholarship is designed for academically outstanding international students who aspire to pursue a master’s degree in Europe. The scholarship is part of the Brightlands Talent Development initiative, connecting education with research, innovation, and entrepreneurship across diverse fields like health, materials, agrifood, and data science.
Through this initiative, students gain not only academic excellence but also access to innovation-driven ecosystems where they can collaborate with researchers and industry experts. This makes it one of the best master’s scholarships in the Netherlands for international students.
Benefits of UM Bright Talents Scholarship 2026
The UM Bright Talents Scholarship provides comprehensive financial support to ensure students can focus entirely on their academic and personal development during their stay in the Netherlands. Benefits include:
- Full tuition fee coverage for the entire duration of the master’s program.
- Annual living allowance of €15,925 (€1,225 per month) to cover accommodation, meals, and personal expenses.
- Free student accommodation in the Brightlands area.
- Health and liability insurance coverage.
- Travel costs reimbursement for students relocating to the Netherlands.
- Networking and career development opportunities through Brightlands innovation ecosystems.
Note: Accepting this scholarship includes acceptance of the accommodation provided by the university.
Eligibility Criteria for Maastricht University UM Bright Talents Scholarship 2026
To qualify for the UM Bright Talents Scholarship, applicants must fulfill the following eligibility requirements:
- Citizenship: Must hold nationality from a non-EU/EEA country and meet Dutch visa/residence requirements.
- Dual Citizenship: Candidates with dual nationality (including EU/EEA) are ineligible.
- Previous Education: Applicants should not have previously completed a degree program in the Netherlands. (Exchange programs are allowed.)
- Age Limit: Must not be older than 35 years as of September 1, 2026.
- Academic Admission: Must have applied and received (conditional) admission into a participating master’s program at Maastricht University.
- Commitment: Must agree to serve as a Brightlands and UM ambassador during and after studies, sharing experiences and representing the institution.
- One Application Policy: Only one scholarship application per student is accepted, so ensure all documents are ready before submission.
Documents Required for UM Bright Talents Scholarship Application
Applicants must prepare the following supporting documents before applying:
- Completed Scholarship Application Form
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation Letter explaining academic and personal goals
- Proof of Academic Excellence (transcripts or class ranking)
- Personal Statement of Financial Need
- Reference Letter from an academic or professional referee
- Contact Information of one referee
These documents must be submitted in PDF, DOC, or DOCX format through the official application portal.
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How to Apply for UM Bright Talents Scholarship 2026
Follow the steps below to successfully apply for the Maastricht University Bright Talents Scholarship 2026:
Apply for Admission to a Master’s Program
Start by applying for one of the participating master’s programs at Maastricht University via Studielink.
After submission, you will receive a student ID number from UM, which is necessary to complete your scholarship application.
Submit the Scholarship Application Form
Once you have a UM student account, fill in the online scholarship application form and upload all required documents.
Application Portal: Click here to apply
Ensure that all your files meet the submission criteria, as incomplete or late applications will not be considered.
Why Study at Maastricht University in the Netherlands?
Maastricht University is known for its international learning environment, problem-based teaching approach, and high-quality research. With over 50% of its students coming from abroad, UM provides a truly global educational experience.
Additionally, being part of the Brightlands Campuses gives students a rare opportunity to engage with companies and research institutions leading innovation in health, digital transformation, and sustainability.
This makes the UM Bright Talents Scholarship an ideal choice for students looking to study in the Netherlands under a fully funded master’s scholarship that combines academics with real-world experience.
Application Deadline
All applications for the UM Bright Talents Scholarship 2026 must be submitted by February 1, 2026.
FAQs About UM Bright Talents Scholarship 2026
1. What is the UM Bright Talents Scholarship?
It is a fully funded scholarship offered by Maastricht University in the Netherlands for outstanding non-EU/EEA students pursuing master’s programs linked to the Brightlands Campuses.
2. Who can apply for the scholarship?
Students from non-EU/EEA countries who have been (conditionally) admitted to an eligible master’s program at Maastricht University.
3. Does the scholarship cover all expenses?
Yes, it covers tuition fees, living expenses (€15,925 annually), accommodation, and travel costs.
4. Is IELTS required for the application?
IELTS is not mandatory for all programs. However, some departments may require proof of English proficiency depending on the course.
5. What is the age limit for applicants?
Applicants must be 35 years or younger as of September 1, 2026.
6. Can I apply for more than one program?
You can apply for multiple master’s programs at UM, but only one scholarship application will be accepted.
7. When is the deadline for the application?
The deadline to apply for the UM Bright Talents Scholarship 2026 is February 1, 2026.
Conclusion
The UM Bright Talents Scholarship in the Netherlands 2026 is an incredible opportunity for ambitious students to study in Europe under full financial support. With its strong academic reputation and industry-linked campuses, Maastricht University offers the perfect platform for global growth and innovation.