Are you seeking fully funded scholarships in the Netherlands for your master’s degree? The Eric Bleumink Scholarships 2026 at the University of Groningen open doors to exceptional academic and personal growth in Europe—covering all expenses for talented, motivated students from developing countries. Read on for a comprehensive, SEO-optimized overview: application deadlines, program details, eligibility, benefits, monthly expenses, and expert tips for a winning application.
Basic Information About the Eric Bleumink Scholarships
- Scholarship Name: Eric Bleumink Fund Scholarships
- Host Institution: University of Groningen (Rijksuniversiteit Groningen)
- Country: Netherlands
- Level: Master’s (MSc/MA/LL.M.)
- Program Duration: 1 or 2 years
- Funding: Fully funded
- Application Deadline: December 1, 2025 (for 2026 intake).
The Eric Bleumink Fund aims to empower promising students with exceptional academic records who lack financial means, offering them a world-class education at one of Europe’s leading research universities.
University of Groningen: World-Class Learning
- Established: 1614—Netherlands’ second-oldest university
- Location: Groningen, a vibrant student city in the north of the country
- Type: Public research university
- Population: ~30,000 students
- International Recognition: Consistently ranked among the top 100–150 universities globally; member of the Coimbra Group, a network of prestigious universities.
- Atmosphere: Diverse student community, strong emphasis on research, global exchange, and personal development.
Groningen provides a stimulating academic environment and a welcoming, student-friendly lifestyle that blends tradition with innovation and opportunities for international networking.
Eligible Study Areas: Master’s Programs
The Eric Bleumink Scholarships cover all Master’s degree programs (MSc, MA, LL.M.) offered by the University of Groningen. Some popular faculties and study areas include:
- Science & Engineering
- Life Sciences & Health
- Economics & Business
- Law
- Social & Behavioural Sciences
- Spatial Sciences
- Philosophy
- Arts
- Theology & Religious Studies
Duration: Both 1-year and 2-year Master’s programs are eligible.
Scholarship Benefits
Successful scholars receive one of the world’s most comprehensive scholarship packages, covering:
- Full tuition fee waiver for the entire duration of your Master’s program
- International travel expenses, including round-trip airfare
- Living allowance/support for daily expenses
- Books and academic materials
- Health insurance for the duration of study in the Netherlands
- Visa and residence permit costs
Summary Table: Scholarship Benefits
| Benefit | Coverage Description |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | 100% covered (all enrolled years) |
| International Travel | Round-trip airfare included |
| Subsistence/Living Allowance | Monthly financial support |
| Academic Materials | Book and material allowances |
| Health Insurance | Full coverage for medical emergencies |
| Visa/Permit Costs | Covered for admitted scholars |
Benefits NOT Included
- Costs for accompanying dependents/family members
- Extra personal/travel costs outside standard durations
- Personal entertainment and luxury expenses
- Expenses incurred before arrival or after program completion (e.g., pre-arrival English courses, pre-admission visas)
- Reapplication fees in case of program deferral or repeat years
Budgeting carefully is essential, as covered benefits are strictly prescribed and do not extend to supplementary, optional, or unplanned costs.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Eric Bleumink Fund Scholarship, you must:
- Hold citizenship in an eligible developing country (full list available on the university website; includes Bangladesh, Ethiopia, India, Kenya, Nigeria, Pakistan, and many more)
- Have obtained (or be in the process of obtaining) an admission offer (provisional or unconditional) for a qualifying Master’s program at the University of Groningen before February 2026 (nomination is possible only with timely admission)
- Have excellent academic performance (top grades in your undergraduate studies)
- Demonstrate English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL or equivalent)
- Be available and committed to the full duration of the program
- Showcase leadership skills, motivation, and willingness to return to and contribute to your home country
- Show documented financial need (unable to pursue studies otherwise)
- Be in good health, as evidenced by medical certification
Required Documents for Application
Prepare and keep these documents ready:
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates (official and, where necessary, translated)
- Valid passport (photocopy)
- Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS score report)
- Well-structured CV/resume
- Letters of recommendation (usually 2, preferably academic)
- Motivation letter/statement of purpose
- Conditional/unconditional admission letter from University of Groningen (if already received)
- Medical certificate (may be requested later in the process)
Always double-check requirements for your specific programme and provide certified translations where applicable.
Scholarship Application Process – Step-by-Step Guide
- Research Your Desired Program:
Explore eligible Master’s programs at the University of Groningen. Visit the official website to find your match. - Apply for Admission
- Register and submit a complete Master’s application through Studielink (Dutch higher education portal) and/or Groningen’s application portal.
- Submit all required academic and English proficiency documents.
- Receive (Provisional) Admission Offer
- Admission must be secured before February 2026 to be considered for nomination.
- You cannot apply for the scholarship directly; only candidates with timely admission are considered for nomination.
- University Nomination
- The University of Groningen screens admitted students from eligible countries.
- You may be contacted if shortlisted for the Eric Bleumink Fund and asked for further documents or clarifications.
- Selection and Notification
- University and fund committee review nominations, sometimes requesting interviews or supplementary information.
- Successful candidates are notified officially and provided full details for enrolment and scholarship arrangements.
- Visa Process and Final Preparations
- Upon accepting the scholarship offer, begin your Dutch visa/residence permit application.
- Arrange travel, housing, and insurance per university guidance.
Important:
- Direct application for the scholarship is not possible.
- Focus on submitting a complete, timely, and competitive Master’s application to receive consideration for nomination.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Begin Early: Application and admission processes are competitive and time-consuming—start at least 6–9 months before the December deadline.
- Tailor Your Motivation Letter: Clearly link your career aspirations, research interests, and academic strengths to the program and university.
- Demonstrate Leadership and Impact: Highlight achievements beyond academics—community involvement, leadership roles, or innovation.
- Showcase Financial Need: Be transparent in your application about obstacles to studying abroad without external support.
- Contact Prospective Supervisors (if applicable): Building academic relationships can support your application.
- Submit Flawless Documents: Proofread for clarity and errors, and ensure all translations and certifications are attached.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students (in USD)
Living in Groningen, or any Dutch city, requires careful budgeting—even if fully funded. Here’s an overview:
| Expense Category | Monthly Estimate (USD) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | $870 – $1,950 |
| Food & Groceries | $170 – $270 |
| Utilities & Internet | $100 – $160 |
| Public Transport | $85 – $95 |
| Books & Supplies | $30 – $50 |
| Health Insurance | $120 – $140 |
| Miscellaneous/Leisure | $100 – $200 |
| Total | $1,375 – $2,865 |
Exchange rates (as of July 2025): €1 ≈ $1.09 USD. Scholarship living stipend aims to cover most of these essentials, but planning ahead is key.
Why Choose the Eric Bleumink Scholarships? (5+ Reasons)
- 1. 100% Fully Funded: All tuition, travel, insurance, and living expenses are covered, removing financial barriers to a world-class degree.
- 2. Access to Top-Ranked Programs: Groningen’s Master’s degrees are globally recognized, with a reputation for excellence and innovation in 11 faculties.
- 3. Diverse Academic Choice: Eligibility spans all Master’s programs, from engineering and sciences to business, law, humanities, and more.
- 4. International Networks: Join a vibrant student body from over 120 countries, creating lifelong global connections and career prospects.
- 5. Professional and Personal Growth: Benefit from cutting-edge research, internships, skills workshops, and integrated mentorship opportunities.
- 6. Prestigious Accolade: Eric Bleumink Scholars join an elite alumni community, gaining immediate credibility and career advancement.
- 7. Commitment to Home Country Development: Preference for candidates who demonstrate plans to return home and drive social or economic impact.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I apply directly for the Eric Bleumink Scholarships?
A: No. Only applicants admitted (provisionally or unconditionally) to a Master’s program at the University of Groningen by February 2026 are considered automatically for nomination. Direct applications are not accepted.
Q2: Is every Master’s program at Groningen eligible?
A: Yes. All full-time MSc, MA, and LL.M. programs at the university qualify, subject to securing admission and meeting eligibility.
Q3: Which countries’ students are eligible?
A: Applicants from select developing countries (including Bangladesh, India, Nigeria, Pakistan, Kenya, Ghana, Ethiopia, and others as listed by the university).
Q4: What is the deadline for applying?
A: Apply for your desired Master’s program by December 1, 2025. Only those with timely admission can be nominated for the 2026 scholarship.
Q5: What are the key selection factors?
A: Academic excellence, motivation, leadership, proven financial need, English proficiency, and potential impact on return to the home country.
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Q6: How many scholarships are awarded each year?
A: The fund is highly competitive—typically, only a small number of awards are granted each cycle, reflecting the scholarship’s prestige and selectivity.
Q7: What if I do not receive the scholarship?
A: Unsuccessful candidates remain eligible for other funding and regular admission, so consider additional scholarship and support options at Groningen.
Q8: Can my family join me in the Netherlands?
A: The scholarship does not cover dependent costs. You are responsible for arranging finances and visas for accompanying family members.
Q9: Do I need to learn Dutch?
A: No. Most Master’s programs and communication can be conducted in English, but learning basic Dutch can enhance your experience and integration.
Q10: What happens after graduation?
A: Many graduates return to their home countries for impactful careers, while some pursue further studies or professional opportunities across Europe and globally.
Start Your Journey!
The Eric Bleumink Scholarships 2026 are your passport to world-class education, global networking, and transformative personal growth. Apply today by selecting a master’s degree at the University of Groningen, and let your academic ambitions take flight in the Netherlands’ historic student city.