If you are an international student looking for a fully funded scholarship in Europe, the Maastricht University NL-High Potential Scholarship is one of the most competitive and valuable opportunities in the Netherlands.
If you plan to apply:
- Start early (at least 3–4 months before deadlines)
- Focus on a clear, honest motivation letter
- Explain why Maastricht University fits your academic and career goals
- Show how the scholarship will impact your future contribution to society
Based on my experience researching European scholarships International and guiding students through Dutch university applications, this scholarship is especially attractive because it covers almost all major study and living costs, making it realistic for students from low- and middle-income countries to study in Europe.
Another Big opportunity in New Zealand, University of Waikato Scholarship – Vice Chancellor’s International Excellence Scholarship
Why This Scholarship Is Worth Applying For?
From my experience analyzing European funding opportunities, the NL-High Potential Scholarship stands out because:
- It is truly fully funded
- No IELTS-free promise gimmicks—focus is on overall profile
- Supports students from developing and underrepresented countries
- Leads to a globally respected Dutch master’s degree
About Maastricht University (UM)
Maastricht University (UM) is a highly ranked public research university located in Maastricht, the Netherlands. It is well known for its Problem-Based Learning (PBL) approach, strong international environment, and globally recognized master’s programs.
Each year, UM welcomes students from over 120 countries, making it one of the most international universities in Europe.
What Is the NL-High Potential Scholarship?
The NL-High Potential Scholarship is a fully funded master’s scholarship offered by Maastricht University for exceptional non-EU/EEA international students.
This scholarship combines:
- The High Potential Scholarship from Maastricht University
- Financial support from the Dutch Ministry of Education
From my observation, UM focuses not only on grades but also on motivation, leadership potential, and financial need, which gives committed students a real chance—even without elite backgrounds.
Scholarship Benefits (What Does It Cover?)
The NL-High Potential Scholarship provides comprehensive financial coverage, including:
- Full tuition fee: approx. €16,800
- Living allowance: approx. €30,625 per year
- Health and liability insurance: approx. €700
- Visa and residence permit costs: approx. €210
Total value: around €34,000 per student
In practical terms, this scholarship allows students to focus fully on their studies without worrying about tuition, rent, or basic living expenses in the Netherlands.
Eligibility Criteria (Who Can Apply?)
To be eligible for the Maastricht University NL-High Potential Scholarship, applicants must meet all of the following conditions:
Nationality Requirements
- Must be a non-EU/EEA national
- Nationals of Switzerland or Suriname may also be eligible if they require a Dutch residence permit
Academic & Study Requirements
- Applied for a participating master’s program at Maastricht University
- Demonstrate an excellent academic record (top performance in previous studies)
- Must not have previously completed a degree-seeking program in the Netherlands
- Exchange or study-abroad programs in the Netherlands are allowed
Age Limit
- Must be under 35 years old as of 1 September of the intake year
Selection Factors
From reviewing past successful applications, selection is based on:
- Academic excellence
- Motivation and future goals
- Extracurricular activities or leadership experience
- Citizenship and regional diversity
- Demonstrated financial need
Available Programs & Faculties
For the 2026–2027 academic year, the scholarship is available for:
- 55 eligible master’s programs
- Across 6 faculties at Maastricht University
- Only 21 scholarships are awarded each year
This makes the scholarship highly competitive, so a strong and well-prepared application is essential.
How to Apply? Step-by-Step Guide
Based on common mistakes I’ve seen students make, follow these steps carefully:
Step 1: Apply to Maastricht University
- Apply to an eligible master’s program through Studielink
- Receive your UM student ID number
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
You will need:
- Motivation / financial needs statement
- Reference letter from a professor or employer
- Must be dated no earlier than February 2023
- Proof of academic excellence (transcripts, achievements)
Step 3: Submit Scholarship Application
- Complete the online NL-High Potential Scholarship form
- Only one scholarship application per person is allowed
Also, apply for University of Bologna Scholarships – Study Abroad in Italy Fully Funded
Application Deadlines (Very Important)
For the 2026–2027 intake, follow this timeline carefully:
Step 1: Apply for a Master’s Program
- Apply via Studielink
- Deadline: Early December 2025
Step 2: Apply for the Scholarship
- Submit the online scholarship application form
- Deadline: 1 February 2026 (23:59 CET)
Results Announcement
- Scholarship results are announced in April 2026
📌 Missing either deadline automatically disqualifies you.
Maastricht University NL-High Potential Scholarship – Quick Overview
| Scholarship Name | NL-High Potential Scholarship |
|---|---|
| University | Maastricht University |
| Country | Netherlands |
| Degree Level | Master’s |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded |
| Eligible Students | Non-EU/EEA International Students |
| Tuition Coverage | Full tuition fee (€16,800 approx.) |
| Living Allowance | €30,625 per year |
| Other Benefits | Insurance (€700), Visa costs (€210) |
| Total Value | Approx. €34,000 |
| Age Limit | Under 35 years |
| Programs Available | 55 Master’s Programs |
| Scholarships Awarded | 21 |
| Application Platform | Studielink + UM Scholarship Portal |
| Master’s Deadline | December 2025 |
| Scholarship Deadline | 1 February 2026 |
| Result Announcement | April 2026 |