The Maastricht University Holland Scholarships 2026 in the Netherlands offer one of the most prestigious and fully funded opportunities for international students pursuing Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in the heart of Europe. Below is a comprehensive guide covering everything applicants need to know about this life-changing scholarship

Basic Information about the Scholarships

The Maastricht University (UM) Holland Scholarships 2026 are designed for outstanding non-EU/EEA students seeking to pursue a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree. The application deadline for the 2026 intake is February 1, 2026.

Scholarship Name: Maastricht University NL-High Potential Scholarship & Holland-High Potential Scholarships
Degree Levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s Programs
Host Country: Netherlands
Application Deadline: February 1, 2026
Intake: September 2026
Scholarship Duration:
- 1-year master: 13 months
- 2-year master: 25 months

University/Institution Details

Maastricht University is a highly international public research university located in Maastricht, the Netherlands. Known for its innovative teaching methods, international orientation, and interdisciplinary programs, the university boasts more than 56% international students, making it one of the most diverse universities in Europe.

Study Areas (Available Program Names)

Scholarships are available across a wide spectrum of faculties and programs for both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, including:

Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences
Faculty of Science and Engineering
School of Business and Economics
Faculty of Psychology & Neuroscience
Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences
Faculty of Law

Specific program names are available on the Maastricht University website and applicants are encouraged to check eligibility for each program.

Maastricht University Holland Scholarships Benefits

The Maastricht University Holland Scholarships provide an extensive range of benefits to international students:

Living expenses: €15,925 (13 months) / €30,625 (25 months)
Health & liability insurance: €700
Visa & tuition fees: at cost (fully covered)
Pre-Academic Training & ISAP costs: covered
Mandatory university-arranged housing included (no family accommodation)

Monthly Living Allowance Breakdown (approx. €1,225/month)

Housing: €600
Groceries & hygiene: €160
Travel: €100
Books & materials: €90
Other expenses: €275

Benefits Not Included

While the scholarships are comprehensive, some expenses may not be covered:

International airfare to the Netherlands (unless specified in special programs)
Personal expenses unrelated to study or living (leisure, travel outside NL)
Any costs above the provided monthly and annual allowances

Eligibility Criteria for the Maastricht University Holland Scholarships

To be eligible for the 2026 Holland-High Potential Scholarship, applicants must:

Must be a non-EU/EEA, non-Swiss, non-Surinam national.
Must meet visa/residence permit requirements for the Netherlands.
Must have applied for a full-time participating master’s programme at Maastricht University by 8 December 2025.
Must meet programme-specific admission requirements.
Must not have studied for a degree in the Netherlands (exchange students are allowed).
Preference for those without a previous Master’s degree.
Age limit: under 35 years as of 1 September 2026.
Must have an excellent academic record (GPA ≥ 7.5/10 or equivalent).
Must agree to act as a UM ambassador during and after studies.
Can apply once and for one scholarship only.

Required Documents for the Application

Applicants should prepare the following documents to submit their scholarship application:

Completed application form (online via UM portal)
CV (max 2 pages)
Motivation letter (UM template)
Proof of academic excellence (GPA ≥ 7.5) + grading scale
Personal financial statement
Reference letter (from professor/employer, dated after Feb 2025)
Referee contact details (official email only)
Documentation of extracurricular achievements (if applicable)
Language proficiency certificates (usually IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent, if required)

Maastricht University Holland Scholarships Application Process (Step-by-Step Guide)

Select and Apply for a UM Bachelor’s or Master’s Program:
Choose your preferred field and submit your degree program application via the Studielink portal.
Receive Proof of Application:
Secure either a conditional or unconditional admission letter from Maastricht University.
Prepare Scholarship Documents:
Compile all required documentation, following the scholarship checklist provided above.
Complete Scholarship Application:
Fill out the Holland-High Potential Scholarship application online. Upload all requested documents.
Submit Application by Deadline:
Ensure your scholarship application is complete by February 1, 2026 (23:59 CET).
Interview (If Shortlisted):
Some candidates may be invited for an interview around March 2026.
Receive Final Decision:
Scholarship awardees are typically notified in May.

Tips for a Successful Application

Begin your application process early to allow ample time for gathering documents and preparing a winning motivation letter.
Focus on academic excellence and include proof of awards, internships, and leadership roles.
Personalize your motivation letter with concrete reasons for choosing Maastricht University and studying in the Netherlands.
Ensure all documents are clear, complete, and submitted in the correct format.
Highlight any extracurricular activities, community service, and unique interests that set you apart.
Carefully review all eligibility requirements and double-check your submission before the deadline.

Monthly Living Expenses for International Students (in USD)

While the scholarship covers most essential expenses, here’s a general breakdown of average monthly expenses for international students in Maastricht:

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost (USD)
Accommodation	$500 – $900
Food	$250 – $350
Health Insurance	$80 – $140 (covered by scholarship)
Books & Supplies	$50 – $100
Transportation	$50 – $100
Miscellaneous	$100 – $200
Total	$980 – $1,790

The provided stipend is sufficient for basic living expenses in Maastricht.

Why Choose This Scholarship? (Minimum 5 reasons)

Fully Funded with Comprehensive Coverage:
Waives tuition, provides monthly stipends, and covers insurance and visa costs, ensuring minimal out-of-pocket expenditure.
High International Reputation:
Maastricht University is globally ranked, progressive, and hosts over half its students from outside the Netherlands.
Access to Top Programs in Diverse Fields:
Choose from business, law, health, science, social sciences, and more.
Networking and Professional Development:
Join Europe’s leading academic community; benefit from internships, career events, and alumni networks.
Gateway to Europe:
Experience life in a safe, accessible city at the heart of Europe, with opportunities for travel and cultural exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Scholarships

What is the application deadline for Maastricht University Holland Scholarships 2026?
February 1, 2026.

Can students from all countries apply?
No, these awards are only for citizens of countries outside the EU/EEA, Suriname, or Switzerland.

Do I have to apply for admission before applying for the scholarship?
Yes. Students must first be accepted to an eligible program at Maastricht University.

Are English language tests required?
Yes, unless you have previous education in English or your chosen program waives the requirement. Usually, IELTS or TOEFL is accepted.

Does the scholarship cover airfare?
No, airfare is not covered unless specified in exceptional scholarship tracks.

Is the stipend enough for living in Maastricht?
Yes. The monthly stipend is set according to the cost of living in the Netherlands for students.

How competitive is the selection?
Very competitive—selection is based on academic excellence, motivation, and fit with the chosen program.

Official Link:

The Maastricht University Holland Scholarships 2026 offer an unparalleled, fully funded educational opportunity for talented, ambitious international students seeking to study in one of Europe’s top universities in the Netherlands.

Maastricht University Holland Scholarships 2026 in Netherlands