Maastricht University Scholarships for International Students 2026

Studying abroad in the Netherlands is a dream for ambitious students seeking world-class education, robust academic research, and a multicultural learning environment. The country is known for innovation, interdisciplinary research, and progressive educational styles that foster critical thinking and creativity. Among the best universities providing opportunities to talented students globally is Maastricht University (UM). Every year, UM offers the Maastricht University NL-High Potential Scholarship, one of the most prestigious and competitive scholarships, to outstanding students from outside the European Union.

This scholarship is a fully funded opportunity designed for high-achieving students who wish to complete a full-time master’s program at Maastricht University but require financial support to study abroad. The program awards 21 scholarships each year, covering both tuition and living expenses. Costing up to €34,000 per academic year, this program allows students to focus entirely on academic excellence and leadership development while experiencing life in one of the most international student cities in the Netherlands.

Let’s say you are planning to apply for this competitive scholarship for the 2026-2027 academic year. In that case, this comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know, including scholarship benefits, application process, eligibility requirements, deadlines, tips for success, required documents, and what to expect during the selection process.

What is Maastricht University NL-High Potential Scholarship?

The Maastricht University NL-High Potential Scholarship is jointly funded by both institutions.
• Maastricht University Scholarship Fund, which supports talented students who demonstrate outstanding academic potential.
• The Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science provides support through the NL Scholarship Program in cooperation with Dutch research universities and universities of applied sciences.

This scholarship is for students from non-EU/EEA countries, including Switzerland and Suriname, who wish to study a full Masters program in the Netherlands. This is one of the most competitive scholarships available at Maastricht University, providing not only financial support but also academic preparation, cultural integration and leadership training.

Graduates of this scholarship become part of an international network of U-M Ambassadors who actively represent the University globally.

Scholarship Scope and Financial Benefits

The UM NL-High Potential Scholarship is fully funded and covers almost all costs of studying and living in the Netherlands. Awards include:

This financial package allows scholarship recipients to live comfortably and focus fully on their studies without having to work part-time or rely on financial support from family.

Monthly living expenses include an estimate of basic expenses such as housing, food, local transportation, study materials, clothing, and personal necessities. However, since airline tickets are not included in the grant, students must pay international airfare themselves.

Scholarship Period

The duration depends on the duration of the master’s program at Maastricht University.

• 13 months for a one-year master’s program.
• 25 months for a 2-year master’s program

To maintain a scholarship for the duration of the program, students must meet academic progress requirements.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for Maastricht University NL-High Potential Scholarship 2026, applicants must meet the following conditions:

• Citizenship of a country other than the EU/EEA, Switzerland or Suriname
• Meet the requirements for obtaining a Dutch student visa (MVV) and residence permit.
• Do not hold dual citizenship of an EU/EEA country
• Apply to an eligible full-time master’s program at Maastricht University for the academic year 2026-2027.
• Submit a complete application for admission to UM before December 8, 2025.
• No previous experience of obtaining a degree in the Netherlands.
• Must be under 35 years of age by September 1, 2026.
• Demonstrate excellent academic achievement (GPA of 7.5/10, 75/100, or 3.0/4.0 or higher).
• Preferably no previous master’s degree.
• Strive to be an active scholarship ambassador during and after your studies.
• Submit your scholarship application only once per year.

Only about 2% of applicants are selected, so strong motivation, leadership potential, and academic excellence are critical to success.

Application deadline and schedule

Scholarships begin a few months before the school year begins. The schedule for 2026-2027 admissions is as follows:

Applicants must apply for both college admission and a scholarship, making two separate applications.

How to Apply for Maastricht University NL-High Potential Scholarship

The application process consists of two main steps: applying to the Master’s program and submitting the scholarship form. Here’s a simple guide to help you prepare:

Step 1: Apply for a participating master’s program

• Apply through the official Dutch application platform Studielink.nl.
• After submission, you will receive a UM Student ID number.
• You will need this ID to access the scholarship form.
• Submit required academic documentation early.

Applicants must meet all admission requirements except copies of visa documents and diploma by the scholarship deadline.

Step 2: Submit scholarship application

After receiving your UM Student ID, log in to complete the scholarship application and upload required documents.

Required documents:
• Updated resume (up to 2 pages)
• Motivation letter based on UM template
• Transcript showing GPA requirements
• Description of grading system
• Personal Financial Needs Statement
• Dated letter of recommendation (written after February 2025)
• Referee contact information, including institutional email;
• Copy of ID and passport (on request)

Applications may only be submitted once and cannot be modified or replaced once submitted.

Selection process

The selection process is rigorous and includes multiple review steps.

1. Verification of document completeness by UM International Services Desk

2. Forward applications to individual faculty for evaluation

3. Each faculty member selects and ranks the best candidates.

4. Final verification and approval

5. Online interview for those who pass the document screening

6. Announcement of Results: Selected, Waitlisted or Rejected

Applicants on the waiting list may receive a later offer, depending on their circumstances.

Scholarship winners will be provided with guidance on pre-study training, arrival preparations and required accommodation.

Why choose Maastricht University?

Maastricht University is famous for:
• Problem-Based Learning (PBL): An interactive and practical classroom approach.
• International student body (55% international students)
• Top-notch research facilities and industry collaborations
• Multicultural, safe and vibrant university town
• Strong employment and internship opportunities across Europe

U-M degrees are highly regarded around the world and prepare graduates for careers in global organizations, research institutions, government, and the private sector.

conclusion

The Maastricht University NL-High Potential Scholarship is one of the most valuable fully funded opportunities available to talented students wishing to study in Europe. We offer financial stability, academic excellence, global networking, and professional development opportunities. For students who want to become influential leaders in their home countries, this scholarship can be a path to change their future.