The Utrecht University Excellence Scholarship 2026 is a prestigious, fully-funded scholarship aimed at highly talented international students pursuing master’s degrees at Utrecht University in the Netherlands. Below is a comprehensive blog covering all important aspects of the scholarship, including eligibility, application, benefits, and more.

Utrecht University Excellence Scholarship 2026 in Netherlands

For international students aspiring to study at one of the Netherlands’ top research universities, the Utrecht University Excellence Scholarship (UES) offers an exceptional opportunity. This scholarship aims to reward outstanding academic performance by providing financial assistance for a wide range of master’s programs. It is tailored for non-EU/EEA students who demonstrate outstanding academic promise and wish to pursue their master’s degree at Utrecht University.

Basic Information and Application Deadline

The Utrecht University Excellence Scholarship 2026 is designed for non-European Economic Area (EEA) students applying for master’s degree programs commencing in September 2026. The final application deadline for this scholarship is 1st February 2026, 23:59 CET. It is crucial to apply early due to the competitive nature and limited availability of the scholarships.

University/Institution Details

Utrecht University, located in the vibrant city of Utrecht, is renowned for its interdisciplinary research and world-class education. It is consistently ranked among the top universities globally, offering a supportive and innovative academic environment with access to exceptional faculty and research resources.

Study Areas and Available Programs

The scholarship is available for a variety of international master’s programs at Utrecht University. Eligible areas typically include:

• Economics and Business Economics
• Global Sustainability Science
• Philosophy, Politics, and Economics
• Liberal Arts and Sciences at University College Utrecht
• And other selected master’s programs (check the university’s official list for participating programs)

Not all master’s programs participate, so it is critical to verify eligibility by consulting Utrecht University’s program webpage.

Utrecht University Excellence Scholarship Benefits

The Utrecht Excellence Scholarship may cover:

• Covers tuition fee or tuition fee + living costs (as required by residence permit).
• Renewable for 2nd year of 2-year master’s.

The scholarship amount ranges roughly from €5,000 to €17,000 per year depending on the program and funding scope.

Benefits Not Included

• The scholarship may not cover full living expenses for the entire duration of the study.
• Students are responsible for proving additional financial means to obtain their Dutch visa/residence permit.
• Costs such as travel, health insurance beyond basic coverage, and personal expenses generally are not included.

Eligibility Criteria for Utrecht University Excellence Scholarship

Eligible candidates must:

• Belong to the top 10% of their graduating class academically
• Hold a non-EU/EEA passport and not be eligible for Dutch study grants or loans
• Have completed secondary school and/or a bachelor’s degree outside the Netherlands
• Apply for a master’s program at Utrecht University that participates in the scholarship
• Be able to meet visa and residence permit requirements for studying in the Netherlands

Selection Criteria

• Academic excellence (top 10% proof, GPA/ranking certificate).
• Academic quality & potential in chosen field.
• Motivation letter (content, skills, personal drive).
• Quality of master’s programme application.

Required Documents for Application

• Admission application proof confirmation for an eligible master’s program
• Academic transcripts and diplomas demonstrating top 10% class rank
• Curriculum vitae (CV) or resume
• Personal statement/motivation letter specific to the scholarship
• Language proficiency certificates (typically English language tests like IELTS or TOEFL)
• Passport copy
• Any additional program-specific documents

Utrecht University Excellence Scholarship Application Process (Step-by-Step)

1. Choose and apply to a master’s program at Utrecht University that offers the Excellence Scholarship.
2. Receive admission confirmation or apply simultaneously if allowed.
3. Log in to OSIRIS Online Application portal, where the scholarship option will appear.
4. Complete the scholarship application form, attach all required documents including your personal statement.
5. Submit your scholarship application before the official deadline (1st February 2026).
6. Wait for selection results, expected by mid-April 2026.
7. Receive scholarship offer and accept to confirm your participation.

Tips for a Successful Application

• Submit your application as early as possible to allow time for corrections.
• Carefully complete all fields on the application and upload all required documents.
• Highlight your academic excellence and motivation in your personal statement.
• Ensure all documents are clear, translated (if necessary), and complete.
• Demonstrate clear financial planning beyond the scholarship for visa purposes.

Monthly Living Expenses for International Students (in USD)

The monthly living costs in the Netherlands typically range from $850 to $1,200 USD, depending on lifestyle and accommodation choice. Breakdown includes:

• Accommodation: $460 – $1,000
• Food and groceries: $250 – $350
• Health insurance: $40 – $110
• Transportation (bicycle/public transport): $50 – $80
• Miscellaneous (books, clothes, leisure): $100 – $150

These figures help students budget realistically beyond scholarship allowances.

Why Choose This Scholarship? (Top 5 Reasons)

1. Prestigious Scholarship Award: Recognition from a top-ranked European university enhances career prospects worldwide.
2. Substantial Financial Support: Covers full tuition and living allowance for at least one year.
3. Access to World-class Education: Study with leading academics in a vibrant, multicultural environment.
4. Renewable for Multi-year Programs: Conditional renewal supports students throughout a two-year master’s program.
5. Opportunities for Networking and Career Development: Connect with global peers, research projects, and Utrecht’s alumni network.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can EU/EEA students apply?
No. The scholarship is for non-EU/EEA students only.

Q2: Is the scholarship fully renewable?
Yes, for two-year master’s programs, it is renewable upon satisfactory academic progress.

Q3: What if I don’t meet the top 10% academic criteria?
Unfortunately, this scholarship is highly competitive and requires top academic performance.

Q4: How and when will I be notified about the results?
Results are typically announced by mid-April following the application deadline.

Q5: Can I apply for the scholarship without applying for a master’s program?
No. You must apply and be admitted to an eligible master’s program at Utrecht University first.

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In conclusion, the Utrecht University Excellence Scholarship 2026 is a highly competitive, fully funded scholarship aimed at top international students seeking to study in the Netherlands. It offers exceptional financial support and access to world-class education, making it one of the most sought-after scholarships in Europe. Interested candidates should prepare their applications early, meet all eligibility criteria, and carefully present their academic and personal credentials to maximize their chance of success.

For detailed program participation verification and official application, always refer to the official Utrecht University website.