Netherlands Scholarship 2026 for Non-EEA Students: How to Apply Studying abroad is a life changing dream for many students but for non-EEA students financial challenges often become the biggest obstacle. The Netherlands, one of Europe’s most student friendly and innovative countries offers a great opportunity through the NL Scholarship for Non-EEA Students. This scholarship helps international students take their first step toward quality education in the Netherlands without carrying the full financial burden alone.
If you are a student from outside the European Economic Area and you are thinking about studying in the Netherlands, this guide is here to break down everything you need to know about the Netherland Scholarship in a straightforward, friendly way.
What Is the NL Scholarship?
One excellent program that assists students with their educational expenses is the NL Scholarship.This program was initiated by the Dutch government in collaboration with a few Dutch universities. Their goal is to assist students from non-EU nations. Students looking to earn a bachelor’s or master’s degree at a Dutch university can apply for financial aid. If you are genuinely interested in studying in the Netherlands, you might qualify for the Scholarship.
The primary objective of this scholorship is to attract gifted and motivated students from around the world so they can experience the Dutch educational system which is well known for its rigorous academic standards and experiential learning methodology.
Who Are Non-EEA Students?
Non-EEA students are those who do not belong to:
- European Union (EU) countries
- European Economic Area (EEA) countries
- Switzerland
Students from countries such as Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, Kenya, Indonesia, and the Philippines are considered non-EEA and are eligible to apply for the NL Scholarship if other conditions are met.
Why Study in the Netherlands?
Understanding why the Netherlands is among the most favorite countries of international students is important before applying for the Netherlands Scholarship.
High-Quality Education
Dutch universities consistently rank among the top universities in the world. Degrees obtained from the Netherlands are valued and recognized internationally by employers from across the world.
English-Taught Programs
The Netherlands offers thousands of thousands of English-taught programs, making it one of the best choices for students who do not speak Dutch.
Practical Learning Approach
The Dutch educational system emphasizes critical thinking, teamwork, research and problem solving skills, which help students succeed internationally.
International & Safe Environment
The Netherlands is a very inclusive country and a home to students from more than 160 different nationalities. It is also regarded as a safe, organized, and student oriented country.
Benefits of the NL Scholarship for Non-EEA Students
NL Scholarship offers financial relief and further recognition to talented students among the powerful academics.
Scholarship Amount
- For the amount of €5,000 – one-time-grant
This is normally given during the first year of study first year of study and can be used for:
- Tuition fees
- Living expenses
- Books and study materials
⚠️ Note that NL Scholarship is not a full scholarship, as it does not completely cover the cost of your entire degree.
Eligible Degree Levels
Non-EEA students may apply to the NL Scholarship if they are commencing:
- An Undergraduate degree
- Full-time Bachelor’s degree programs
- Full-time Master’s degree programs
It should be part of an exchange program that takes place at a participating Dutch university or university of applied sciences.
Eligibility Criteria for NL Scholarship
To apply for the NL Scholarship the students must meet the following requirements:
Nationality
You must hold a passport from a non-EEA country.
Admission to a Dutch Institution
You should have applied for or received an offer from a participating Dutch institution for a full-time program.
First-Time Study in the Netherlands
The scholarship is only for students who have not previously studied in the Netherlands.
Strong Academic Background
Applicants must show good academic performance as the scholarship is competitive.
Language Requirements
You must meet the English language requirements set by the university such as IELTS or TOEFL scores.
Participating Universities
any well known Dutch institutions take part in the NL Scholarship program. Some of them include:
- University of Amsterdam
- Leiden University
- Utrecht University
- Erasmus University Rotterdam
- University of Groningen
- Tilburg University
- Fontys University of Applied Sciences
- HAN University of Applied Sciences
Each university has its own selection criteria and deadlines, so always check the official university website.
How to Apply for the NL Scholarship?
The application process may slightly differ from one university to another, but the general steps are simple.
Step 1: Choose Your Program
Select a bachelor’s or master’s program that matches your academic background and career goals.
Step 2: Apply for Admission
Submit your application to the university through its official portal.
Step 3: Apply for the Scholarship
Some universities automatically consider eligible students, while others require a separate scholarship application.
Step 4: Submit Required Documents
Common documents include:
- Academic transcripts
- Motivation letter
- CV or resume
- English language test results
- Passport copy
Application Deadlines
Deadlines vary depending on the university, but generally:
- 1 February for most programs
- 1 May for some institutions
Applying early is always recommended, as competition is high.
How Are Students Selected?
Universities select students based on:
- Academic performance
- Quality of motivation letter
- Relevance of previous education
- Future goals and potential
A well-written motivation letter can significantly improve your chances.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Getting the NL Scholarship
- Apply early and avoid last-minute submissions
- Write a strong and honest motivation letter
- Highlight your academic achievements
- Clearly explain why you choose the Netherlands
- Show how the scholarship will help you achieve your goals
Final Thoughts
The NL Scholarship for Non-EEA Students is an excellent opportunity for students who want to study in the Netherlands but need financial support. While it may not cover all expenses and it provides a strong foundation and recognition that can open doors to further opportunities.
If you are serious about studying abroad and want quality education in a multicultural environment then the NL Scholarship can be the perfect starting point for your academic journey.
