The Maastricht University (UM) Holland Scholarship 2026, a collaboration between UM and the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science, targets outstanding non-EU/EEA students pursuing full-time master’s programs. Valued at €5,000 for the first year, this merit-based award covers partial tuition and living costs, easing the financial leap to the Netherlands’ vibrant academic scene. UM, ranked among Europe’s top 200 (QS 2025), specializes in problem-based learning across 21 master’s in fields like sustainability, data science, and global health. With 50+ scholarships available annually, this initiative promotes diversity—over 50 nationalities represented in 2025 cohorts—aligning with the Netherlands’ goal of attracting 100,000 international students by 2030.
Eligibility Criteria: Who Qualifies?
UM prioritizes high-achievers from outside the EU/EEA, ensuring a competitive yet inclusive pool:
- Nationality Requirement: Non-EU/EEA citizens (excludes Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Switzerland); must hold a non-Dutch bachelor’s degree.
- Academic Merit: Equivalent to first-class honors (GPA 3.5+/4.0 or top 10% of class); strong motivation letter and CV showcasing extracurriculars or leadership.
- Program Fit: Enrolled in a full-time, English-taught UM master’s (1-2 years); excludes preparatory or exchange programs.
- Financial Need: Proof of funding for remaining costs (tuition €10K-20K/year + living €12K); no concurrent full scholarships.
- Additional Edges: Diversity factors like underrepresented regions (Africa, Asia) or STEM focus boost selections.
Applicants must secure UM admission first—scholarship apps follow within two weeks.
Benefits and Coverage: What You Gain
This scholarship is a launchpad, blending financial aid with holistic support:
- Core Funding: €5,000 one-time grant (disbursed post-arrival, September 2026), offsetting 25-50% of first-year expenses.
- Academic Perks: Access to UM’s international office for visa guidance, Dutch language courses, and career services (95% employability rate).
- Lifestyle Boost: Orientation events, housing assistance in Maastricht’s student-friendly city (bikeable, affordable at €400-600/month rent).
- Network Value: Join 20% international student body; alumni ties to EU institutions and firms like Philips or Unilever.
- Renewal Note: Non-renewable, but bridges to Orange Tulip or Eric Bleumink for Year 2.
Recipients report 30% lower stress, higher GPA retention in UM’s collaborative model.
Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
UM’s digital-first system streamlines submissions—prepare docs early for February intake:
- Step 1: Apply to UM: Submit master’s app via Studielink/Osiris by January 15, 2026 (program-specific); upload transcripts, IELTS/TOEFL (6.5+/90+), and refs.
- Step 2: Scholarship Form: Access via UM portal post-admission (mid-February); complete motivation (500 words: why UM, impact goals) and CV.
- Step 3: Supporting Docs: Passport copy, financial proof (bank statement €13,140), and optional diversity statement.
- Step 4: Submit & Track: Online only by February 1, 2026 (23:59 CET); no interviews—committee reviews holistically.
- Step 5: Results & Next: Notifications by April 1, 2026; accept within two weeks, then apply for MVV visa via UM.
Pro Tip: Tailor essays to UM’s “bright lands” ethos—highlight societal contributions.
Key Dates: Timeline for 2026 Intake
Maastricht’s February deadline aligns with spring processing—mark these:
- Program Applications Open: October 1, 2025.
- Admission Deadline: January 15, 2026 (most faculties; check for extensions like Arts).
- Scholarship Window: Opens mid-January, closes February 1, 2026.
- Results Announcement: April 1, 2026.
- Program Start: September 1, 2026 (orientation late August).
- Visa Processing: May-July 2026 (UM-assisted).
No extensions—late apps auto-rejected.
Selection Process: How Winners Are Chosen
A faculty committee evaluates 500+ apps annually, focusing on:
- Merit Weighting (60%): Academic records and potential impact.
- Motivation Fit (30%): Alignment with UM’s interdisciplinary, sustainable focus.
- Diversity (10%): Geographic and gender balance to enrich cohorts.
2025 saw 60 awards from 800 applicants—odds improve with niche programs like Circular Economy.
