Holland Scholarship
A €5,000 one-time scholarship for non-EU/EEA students starting a bachelor or master programme at a Dutch university. Funded jointly by the Dutch government and participating universities. Highly competitive. Apply early.
How to apply
Check if your university participates
Not all Dutch universities participate. UvA and VU Amsterdam both do. Verify the full list at hollandscholarship.nl.
Holland Scholarship websiteApply through your university's scholarship portal
Apply directly through your university, not through DUO or Nuffic directly. Each institution has its own application portal.
Meet the February 1 deadline
The deadline is typically February 1 for programmes starting in September. Apply at least 6 months before your programme starts.
Selection based on academic merit
Awards are competitive and based on academic performance. A strong academic record significantly improves your chances.
Common mistakes to avoid
Missing the February 1 deadline: there are no extensions or exceptions
Applying through DUO or Nuffic directly instead of through your university's scholarship portal
EU/EEA nationals applying: this scholarship is exclusively for non-EU/EEA students
Tips for students
Apply in your first year of a bachelor or master: you cannot apply again in later years
A strong academic transcript is the most important factor: focus your application around results
Check your university's scholarship portal early: some add their own conditions or earlier internal deadlines
Official sources
Information is based on official 2026 eligibility rules and verified government sources. Amounts shown are maximums. This tool provides guidance only and is not legal or financial advice. View sources →