Leiden University Excellence Scholarships 2026 in Netherlands: Your Complete Guide

Are you searching for an exceptional opportunity to fund your studies in one of the world’s top-ranked universities? The Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS) for 2026 in the Netherlands could be your ticket to world-class education and global networking. Here’s a comprehensive guide packed with keywords and essential details to help international applicants secure this prestigious award.

Basic Information about the Leiden University Excellence Scholarships 2026

Scholarship Name: Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS) 2026
Host Institution: Leiden University, Netherlands
Level of Study: Master’s (Full-time)
Application Deadlines:
- For September Intake: February 1, 2026
- For February Intake: October 1, 2025
Target Group: Outstanding non-EEA/non-EFTA students (exceptions for some advanced programs)

Leiden University: Overview & Rankings

Founded in 1575, Leiden University is the oldest university in the Netherlands and stands as a global leader in research and education. It’s renowned for its interdisciplinary approach, diversity, and tradition of academic freedom and is located in both Leiden and The Hague.

Global ranking: #119 QS World University Rankings 2026
Top fields: Social Sciences, Law, Medicine, Sciences, Humanities
Student Population: Over 28,000 from 120+ countries

Master’s Study Areas: Available Programmes

Leiden University offers almost 80 master’s programmes and 200+ specializations, with all courses typically taught in English. Some examples of eligible programs:

Law (Advanced LLM)
Area Studies
Social Sciences
Politics and Policy
Archaeology
Behavioral Sciences
Life Sciences
Fundamental Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics)
Computer Science
Governance and Global Affairs
International Relations and Diplomacy
Bio-Pharmaceutical Sciences
Astronomy
Psychology
Excluded: Regular Humanities, Leiden Law School LLM (non-advanced) and MSc programmes

Scholarship Benefits

The LExS offers partial tuition fee coverage at various levels, depending on departmental allocations:

€10,000, €15,000, €17,500, €18,500, or €19,000 toward tuition fees
Duration: Full academic period of the chosen master’s programme (1 or 2 years)
- Certain programmes may offer the total tuition fee minus the statutory tuition fee
Outstanding students may receive the highest awards

Benefits NOT Included

LExS does not cover full tuition or any living expenses
Not a fully funded scholarship: Recipients are responsible for covering remaining tuition and living costs
No airfare, accommodation, or medical insurance included
You must provide proof of sufficient funds for visa/residence permit

Eligibility Criteria

Academic excellence: Applicants should be among the top 10% of their graduating class or demonstrate outstanding academic results relevant to their chosen master’s
Nationality: Most programmes require a non-EEA/non-EFTA passport (except Advanced LLMs and certain MScs open to all nationalities)
Programme eligibility: Applicants must apply for eligible master’s programmes at Leiden University, see above
No combination with full external scholarships (partial scholarships may be possible)
English Language Proficiency: Minimum IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL iBT 90 (higher for some programmes)

Required Documents for Application

Bachelor’s degree certificate(s) and full academic transcripts
Motivation letter (max 500 words, PDF): Explain why you should be considered for the LExS and your suitability for the programme
Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Letters of Recommendation (usually at least 1)
Passport copy or ID
Any additional programme-specific documents

Step-By-Step Leiden University Excellence Scholarship 2026 Application Process

Choose Your Programme: Select your eligible master’s programme at Leiden University.
Register in Studielink: Create an account at www.studielink.nl (Dutch national admissions portal).
Apply Online at Leiden: Complete the Leiden University online application. Upload all required documents and pay the non-refundable application fee (€100 covers up to three applications).
Indicate LExS Scholarship Interest: In the “Scholarship” section, specify that you would like to be considered for LExS.
Upload Motivation Letter: Submit your 500-word motivation letter (PDF) with your online application.
Submit Application Before Deadline: Ensure all materials are in before February 1 (for September start) or October 1 (for February start).
Multiple Applications: If applying for more than one qualifying programme, submit a separate LExS motivation letter for each.

Tips for a Successful LExS Application

Demonstrate Academic Excellence: Use results, awards, and class ranking to underline your suitability.
Write a Compelling Motivation Letter: Clearly connect your background, ambitions, and programme choice; express how LExS will impact your future.
Follow All Instructions Precisely: Submit every required document; incomplete applications are not considered.
Apply Early: Don’t wait until the last minute; collect recommendation letters, transcripts, and proficiency scores in advance.
Stay Organized: Keep track of all deadlines and requirements for each programme if applying to more than one.

Monthly Living Expenses for International Students (USD)

Average range: $900 – $1,600 per month (equivalent to €850–€1,500)
Breakdown:
- Accommodation: $400–$1,000
- Food: $180–$200
- Transportation: $45–$80
- Utilities & Internet: $120–$250
- Health Insurance: $45–$110
- Study materials, incidentals: $40–$70
Budget friendly tip: Shared apartments and student housing are the most economic options

Why Choose the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship? (Top 5 Reasons)

Study at a Top-Ranked University: Leiden is in the QS global top 150 and the most prestigious in the Netherlands.
Wide Range of Programmes: Nearly 80 master’s degrees and 200+ specializations in English.
International Focus: Welcomes students from over 120 countries, actively promotes campus diversity.
Partial Tuition Coverage: Significant scholarships reduce the financial burden for international students.
Excellent Career Prospects: Leiden alumni work globally in government, science, and industry.
Inspirational Academic Community: Renowned for Nobel laureates, innovative research, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Unparalleled Networking: Access to international researchers, seminars, and metropolitan city life in Leiden & The Hague.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Leiden University Excellence Scholarships

Q: Is the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship fully funded?
A: No, LExS is a partial scholarship that covers part of your tuition fee (up to €19,000); you are responsible for the rest and for living expenses.

Q: Who can apply?
A: Non-EEA/non-EFTA students, and all nationalities for Advanced LLMs & MSc International Relations and Diplomacy.

Q: What is the application deadline?
A: February 1 for programmes starting in September 2026 and October 1, 2025, for programmes starting in February 2026.

ACI Foundation Scholarship 2026:

Q: Can I combine this with other scholarships?
A: Not with other full scholarships from external providers. Partial scholarships may be allowed.

Q: Do I need to provide proof of funds?
A: Yes, all non-EEA recipients must show proof of funds for the Dutch visa/residence requirement.

Q: Can I apply to more than one master’s programme?
A: Yes, but you must submit a separate LExS motivation letter with each programme application.

Q: How will the scholarship be paid?
A: The LExS amount is deducted directly from your Leiden tuition fee.

For more details and the most current information, always refer to Leiden University’s official scholarships page.

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