The Maastricht University (UM) NL-High Potential Scholarship is one of the most prestigious fully funded opportunities in Europe. It is designed for highly talented international students from outside the EU/EEA who want to pursue a full master’s degree in the Netherlands.
This scholarship covers tuition fees, living costs, and provides a monthly stipend, making it one of the most attractive programs for postgraduate study abroad.
2026 Maastricht University Scholarship in the Netherlands Summary
| Details | Information |
| Host Country | Netherlands |
| University | Maastricht University (UM) |
| Level of Study | Master’s (Postgraduate) |
| Eligible Countries | All non-EU/EEA countries |
| Scholarship Value | €34,000 (Full tuition + monthly stipend) |
| Duration | 13 months (1-year program) / 25 months (2-year program) |
| Language Requirement | No IELTS required (alternative options available) |
| Deadline | February 1, 2026 |
About the Maastricht University Scholarship 2026
The Maastricht University Scholarship combines two programs:
- High Potential Scholarship – funded by the Maastricht University Scholarship Fund.
- NL Scholarship – co-financed by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science, along with Dutch universities.
Together, they provide 24 fully funded awards each year for international students who demonstrate academic excellence and strong potential for success.
Scholarship Benefits
- Full tuition fee waiver.
- Monthly living stipend.
- Coverage of visa application costs.
- Health and liability insurance.
- Opportunities to study in a top European institution.
The total value of the award is approximately €34,000 per year.
Duration of the Scholarship
- 13 months for one-year master’s programs.
- 25 months for two-year master’s programs.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the 2026 Maastricht University Scholarship, applicants must meet the following:
- Hold nationality in a country outside the EU/EEA, Switzerland, or Suriname.
- Meet the visa and residence permit requirements for the Netherlands.
- Have applied for admission to a participating full-time master’s program at UM for 2026–2027.
- Meet the specific admission criteria of the chosen UM program.
- Have never enrolled in a degree program in the Netherlands (exchange students are eligible).
- Be under 35 years old on 1 September 2027.
- Show proof of academic excellence (top 5% of applicants preferred).
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare the following documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Maximum two pages.
- Motivation Letter: Using the official UM template.
- Proof of Academic Excellence:
- Transcript showing GPA or class ranking, OR
- Letter from Head of Department/Registrar confirming top 20 placement.
- Personal Statement of Financial Need: Explaining circumstances and why the scholarship is needed.
- Reference Letter: Written by a professor, lecturer, or employer (not family).
- Contact Details of Referee: Work phone number and institutional email (personal emails not accepted).
How to Apply (Step by Step)
- Apply for a Master’s Program at UM
- Register through Studielink for one of the participating programs.
- You will receive a UM student ID number.
- Submit the Scholarship Application
- Use your student ID to access the online application form.
- Upload all required documents (CV, motivation letter, transcripts, financial statement, and referee details).
- Complete Application Before Deadline
- All applications must be submitted by February 1, 2026.
For more details about the scholarship and application full details, click on the link here.
Why Choose Maastricht University?
- One of the top research universities in Europe.
- Known for problem-based learning and international outlook.
- Diverse student body with more than 50% international students.
- Strategic location in the heart of Europe.
FAQs
Do I need perfect grades to apply?
Not necessarily. However, applicants must show strong academic performance and preferably be among the top 20% of their class.
Can I apply if I previously studied in the Netherlands?
You are eligible only if you studied as an exchange student. Applicants who previously pursued a full degree in the Netherlands are not eligible.
Do I need IELTS/TOEFL?
No, IELTS is not strictly required. Alternative English proficiency proofs may be accepted depending on your background and program.
How competitive is the scholarship?
It is highly competitive, with only 24 awards each year, but strong applications with excellent motivation and references have high chances.
When will results be announced?
Results are usually communicated in April 2026 after the selection process.
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