Are you an ambitious student dreaming of studying in Europe’s academic hub? The Leiden University Excellence Scholarships 2026 offer a life-changing opportunity for international students to pursue a fully recognized master’s degree at one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the Netherlands.
This competitive scholarship is designed to support outstanding non-EEA/EFTA students who demonstrate exceptional academic excellence, leadership qualities, and motivation to make a global impact.
The Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS) is one of the most respected scholarship programs in Europe, granting students partial financial support to help them achieve their educational goals. By joining Leiden University, recipients not only gain access to world-class education but also become part of a globally connected academic community committed to innovation, research, and intellectual growth.
Leiden University Excellence Scholarships 2026 Summary
| Category | Details |
| Host Country | Netherlands |
| University | Leiden University |
| Study Level | Master’s Degree |
| Scholarship Type | Partial Funding |
| Funded By | Leiden University |
| Duration | Full duration of the Master’s program |
| Eligible Applicants | International students from outside the EEA/EFTA |
| Scholarship Value | €10,000 or €15,000 tuition fee reduction |
| Application Deadline | February 1, 2026 |
| Study Mode | Full-time, On-campus |
| Academic Session | 2026 – 2028 |
About Leiden University Excellence Scholarships (LExS)
The Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS) is an academic award aimed at attracting the world’s brightest minds to pursue a master’s degree at Leiden University. Established to recognize academic merit and leadership potential, the scholarship supports international students who have consistently demonstrated outstanding academic records in their previous studies.
Leiden University, founded in 1575, is one of Europe’s most reputable universities and is renowned for its excellence in teaching, groundbreaking research, and cultural diversity. By offering this scholarship, the university continues to promote global talent and strengthen international collaboration in higher education.
Why Study at Leiden University?
- Global Reputation: Leiden University is ranked among the top 100 universities worldwide, with an impressive academic standing and a legacy of excellence.
- Research-Oriented Learning: The institution emphasizes innovative research, interdisciplinary studies, and evidence-based education, providing students with the tools to address global challenges.
- International Exposure: Located in the Netherlands, a hub of culture, commerce, and innovation, students enjoy an environment that nurtures intellectual and personal growth.
- Career Advancement: Graduates of Leiden University are highly sought after by employers, international organizations, and research institutions due to the university’s prestige and strong alumni network.
- Supportive Environment: The university provides various student support services, mentorship opportunities, and career guidance to help scholars thrive academically and professionally.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
To qualify for the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship 2026, applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Must be a citizen of a non-EEA/EFTA country.
- Must apply for a full-time master’s degree program at Leiden University.
- Should possess an excellent academic record in their previous studies (usually top 10% of their graduating class).
- Must submit a strong motivation letter explaining academic achievements, leadership qualities, and future goals.
- The application and supporting documents must be submitted before the deadline (February 1, 2026).
It is important to note that applicants must first be admitted into a master’s program at Leiden University before being considered for the scholarship.
Available Study Fields
The Leiden University Excellence Scholarship covers a wide variety of master’s programs across different faculties, including:
- Humanities
- Law
- Social and Behavioural Sciences
- Natural Sciences
- Archaeology
- Governance and Global Affairs
- Medicine and Health Sciences
This extensive list ensures that students from diverse academic backgrounds can apply and benefit from the program.
Scholarship Benefits
The Leiden University Excellence Scholarship 2026 provides several benefits to help students pursue their academic dreams in the Netherlands. While it is not a fully funded award, it significantly reduces financial stress by offering substantial tuition fee support.
- Tuition Fee Reduction: €10,000 or €15,000 tuition fee waiver, depending on the program and student performance.
- Academic Mentorship: Access to academic mentors and advisors for personalized academic and professional development.
- Global Networking: Opportunity to connect with scholars, professionals, and alumni from diverse backgrounds and disciplines.
- Academic Recognition: Being a LExS recipient enhances one’s academic reputation, opening doors for future opportunities in academia, research, and international careers.
- International Experience: Studied in the Netherlands, one of Europe’s safest, most innovative, and culturally diverse countries.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and submit a complete application package to be considered for the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS) 2026. The following documents are required:
- Completed the Leiden University admission form and LExS scholarship application.
- Passport or national ID copy.
- Bachelor’s degree certificate or equivalent qualification.
- Official academic transcripts.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Motivation Letter/Statement of Purpose.
- Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent).
- Letters of Recommendation (if required by the department).
All documents should be submitted in English or Dutch, and incomplete applications will not be considered.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship 2026
Applying for the LExS scholarship requires attention to detail and early preparation. Below is a step-by-step guide:
 Visit the Official Website
Go to Leiden University’s official scholarship webpage to access detailed information about eligible master’s programs and scholarship requirements.
Choose Your Master’s Program
Select your preferred master’s program that is eligible for the LExS scholarship.
 Apply for Admission
Submit your application for admission to the chosen master’s program via Leiden University’s online application portal.
Access the LExS Application
Once you have submitted your admission application, access the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS) section in the same portal.
Upload Supporting Documents
Attach all required documents, including your motivation letter, academic transcripts, and proof of English proficiency.
 Submit Before the Deadline
Ensure your complete application (for both admission and scholarship) is submitted before February 1, 2026. Late applications will not be accepted.
Selection Process
The selection for the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship is highly competitive. A panel of academic experts reviews applications based on:
- Academic merit
- Motivation and personal statement
- Leadership potential
- Contribution to diversity within the Leiden University community
Successful applicants will be notified via email after the evaluation process.
Deadline
The deadline for submitting the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship 2026 application is February 1, 2026. Applicants are advised to start early to ensure all documents are prepared in time.
Why Choose the Netherlands for Study?
The Netherlands is known for its high-quality education system, friendly international community, and progressive culture. English is widely spoken, and the country offers excellent post-study work opportunities for international graduates. Studying at Leiden University allows students to experience all these benefits while being part of an intellectually stimulating environment.
For more information, visit the official website:
https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/scholarships/sea/leiden-university-excellence-scholarship-lexs
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