Fully Funded Maastricht University NL-High Potential Scholarship for Master's Degree in the Netherlands Maastricht University in Netherlands

The Maastricht University NL-High Potential Scholarship is a prestigious, fully funded opportunity for highly talented international students from outside the EU/EEA, Switzerland, or Surinam who wish to pursue a full-time master's degree at Maastricht University in the Netherlands. The scholarship is designed to attract top students to a wide range of master's programs offered by the university for the 2026-2027 academic year.

This scholarship program combines the High Potential Scholarship (funded by the Maastricht University Scholarship Fund) and the NL Scholarship (financed by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science). Each year, 21 full scholarships are awarded, covering all tuition fees, living expenses (€15,925 for 13 months or €30,625 for 25 months), health and liability insurance, visa application costs, and pre-academic training costs. Accommodation is provided as a mandatory part of the scholarship, though it is not suitable for families. Airfare is not included.

Eligibility criteria are strict: applicants must be nationals of non-EU/EEA countries, have not previously studied for a degree in the Netherlands, and be under 35 years old on 1 September 2026. Candidates must apply for a participating master's program at Maastricht University before 8 December 2025 and meet all program-specific admission requirements. Academic excellence is essential, with a minimum GPA of 7.5 out of 10 (or equivalent). Applicants must also agree to serve as ambassadors for the university and scholarship program.

The application process involves two main steps: first, apply for a master's program at Maastricht University via Studielink to obtain a student ID. Second, use this ID to complete the scholarship application form, uploading all required documents, including a CV, motivation letter, proof of academic excellence, grade system explanation, personal statement of financial need, and a reference letter from a professor, lecturer, or employer. Only one application per person is allowed, and all documents must be submitted in the required format. The deadline for scholarship applications is 1 February 2026, and the process is highly competitive, with only about 2% of applicants receiving the award.

For more information, visit the official Maastricht University scholarship page or contact the International Services Desk at [email protected]. This opportunity is ideal for outstanding students seeking a fully funded master's degree in the Netherlands, with comprehensive support for living, tuition, and integration into the academic community.