Netherlands Government NL Scholarship 2026 | Fully Detailed Step-by-Step Application Guide
The Netherlands Government NL Scholarship 2026, also known as the Dutch Government Holland Scholarship, provides international students with a fantastic opportunity to study in the Netherlands for their undergraduate or master’s degree programs. Funded by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture, and Science in partnership with top Dutch research universities and universities of applied sciences, this prestigious scholarship awards a €5,000 grant to support students during their first year of study.
Although this is not a fully funded scholarship, it significantly reduces the financial burden for international students who wish to pursue their education in Europe.
This comprehensive guide outlines every detail of the Netherlands Government NL Scholarship 2026 including eligibility, benefits, participating institutions, and the step-by-step application process.
Summary of Netherlands Government NL Scholarship 2026
| Host Country: | Netherlands |
| Study Destination: | Europe |
| Scholarship Level: | Undergraduate Scholarships, Postgraduate Scholarships, Masters Scholarships |
| Eligible Applicants: | International Students from Non-EEA Countries |
| Scholarship Value: | €5,000 Grant |
| Deadline: | Varies by Institution and Program |
| Language Requirement: | No IELTS specifically required for the scholarship, but university entry may require it. |
Details of the Netherlands Government Holland Scholarship 2026
The Dutch Government Holland Scholarship 2026 is a competitive and highly sought-after study abroad scholarship specifically designed to support talented non-EEA (European Economic Area) international students in pursuing their undergraduate or master’s degree at recognized Dutch institutions.
This scholarship is managed by Nuffic, the Netherlands organization for international cooperation in higher education. In maintaining its reputation for excellence, Nuffic upholds a strict Code of Conduct, ensuring all its programs and partners maintain integrity and high standards of operation.
Important Notice About Conduct:
Nuffic does not engage in activities involving financial misconduct, corruption, money laundering, or abuse of power. All applicants and participating institutions are expected to comply with this standard.
Eligibility Requirements for Netherlands Government NL Scholarship 2026
To qualify for the 2026 NL Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Nationality: You must be from a non-EEA country.
- Program Level: You must apply for a full-time bachelor’s or master’s program at one of the participating Dutch higher education institutions.
- Previous Education: You must not hold any previous degree from a Dutch educational institution.
- Institutional Requirements: Meet the specific admission requirements of the university of your choice. Details can be found on each institution’s official website.
Benefits of the Netherlands Government NL Scholarship 2026
- A one-time grant of €5,000 awarded during your first year of study.
- Available for both undergraduate and master’s degree programs.
- Provides a valuable financial boost to cover part of your initial living or academic expenses.
Duration of the Scholarship
The scholarship is awarded for one academic year only and cannot be renewed or extended.
Participating Universities in the Netherlands Government Holland Scholarship 2026
Below is a list of the top Dutch research universities and universities of applied sciences participating in this scholarship scheme:
- Aeres University of Applied Sciences
- Amsterdam University of the Arts
- ArtEZ Institute of the Arts
- Breda University of Applied Sciences
- Codarts Rotterdam
- Design Academy Eindhoven
- Driestar educatief
- Fontys University of Applied Sciences
- Gerrit Rietveld Academie
- The Hague University of Applied Sciences
- Hanze University of Applied Sciences
- Hotelschool The Hague
- Royal Academy of Art, The Hague
- Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences
- HU University of Applied Sciences Utrecht
- Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences
- HAN University of Applied Sciences
- HKU University of Applied Sciences
- HZ University of Applied Sciences
- NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences
- Saxion University of Applied Sciences
- Van Hall Larenstein University of Applied Sciences
- Zuyd University of Applied Sciences
Note: The specific fields of study and application deadlines vary by institution. Always refer to the official website of your chosen university for precise information.
Required Documents for Application
Applicants typically need to prepare the following documents when applying for admission and the scholarship:
- A valid passport
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Proof of English proficiency (such as IELTS or TOEFL, depending on university requirements)
- A well-written motivation letter
- CV/Resume
- Letters of recommendation (if required)
- Portfolio (if applying to art or design programs)
How to Apply for Netherlands Government NL Scholarship 2026 (Step-by-Step Process)
Step 1: Choose a Participating Institution
Select one of the Dutch higher education institutions listed above that offers your desired program.
Step 2: Apply for Admission to the Institution
Visit the official website of your selected university and apply for admission into your chosen full-time undergraduate or master’s program.
Step 3: Apply for the Scholarship
Once you have applied for admission, submit your application for the Holland Scholarship through the university’s scholarship portal. Some universities automatically consider you for the scholarship upon admission, while others may require a separate application.
Step 4: Await Results
If selected, you will receive communication from the university regarding your scholarship status. Successful applicants will receive the €5,000 grant during their first year.
Why Choose the Netherlands Government NL Scholarship?
- A renowned scholarship in Europe that provides financial support for international education.
- Opens doors to world-class Dutch research universities and applied sciences institutions.
- Strengthens your profile for future career opportunities in Europe and beyond.
- Helps offset initial study abroad expenses.
- Simplified application process with clearly defined eligibility.
Important Application Deadlines
Deadline: Application deadlines vary by institution and program. Always verify on the official website of your chosen university.
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If you are actively seeking fully funded scholarships, you may also want to explore Saudi Arabia Government Scholarships 2025? Check the Saudi Arabia Government Scholarships 2025
Final Thoughts on the Netherlands Government NL Scholarship 2026
The Netherlands Government Holland Scholarship remains a competitive and prestigious opportunity for talented undergraduate and postgraduate students worldwide. Though it is not a fully funded scholarship, the €5,000 grant offers meaningful financial relief for students taking their first step into studying in the Netherlands.
Through this program, the Dutch Government and its academic institutions continue to strengthen international collaboration, academic excellence, and global exchange.