The Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS) 2026 opens a door of opportunity for academically gifted international students who wish to pursue a world-class education in the Netherlands. Known for its centuries-old tradition of academic excellence, Leiden University stands as one of Europe’s most respected institutions, offering a research-driven environment where innovation, leadership, and global collaboration thrive. This prestigious scholarship aims to attract the brightest minds from around the world and help them achieve their educational goals in one of Europe’s most vibrant learning communities.
The LExS 2026 scholarship isn’t just about financial assistance — it’s a recognition of merit, leadership potential, and global impact. By covering a significant portion of tuition fees, Leiden University allows outstanding students to focus on what truly matters: developing ideas that can shape the future. Whether your passion lies in science, law, social sciences, or global governance, this scholarship empowers you to join a network of forward-thinking scholars who are redefining research and innovation in the 21st century. If you’re an ambitious student with an excellent academic record and a drive to make a difference, the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship could be your gateway to a transformative international experience.
About Leiden University
Leiden University, founded in 1575, is the oldest university in the Netherlands and enjoys a global reputation for research excellence, innovation and critical thinking. With its campuses in Leiden and The Hague, the university provides an international environment and strong academic programmes across faculties such as Science, Governance & Global Affairs, Law, Medicine, and Social & Behavioural Sciences.
Scholarship Overview – What’s On Offer for 2026
Scholarship Type & Coverage
The LExS is not a fully funded scholarship in the sense of covering all costs, but it offers a very substantial tuition fee reduction for international students. Specifically:
-
Awards range from €10,000, €15,000, €17,500, €18,500, up to €19,000 toward tuition fees.
-
The scholarship covers the duration of the registered Master’s programme.
-
Living costs, accommodation, visa/residence permit costs, or daily expenses are not included in the scholarship. Most recipients must still prove sufficient funds for their stay in the Netherlands.
Who Can Apply & Study Levels
-
The scholarship is aimed at students applying for a full-time Master’s degree programme at Leiden University starting in September.
-
Eligible faculties include: Archaeology, Medicine/LUMC, Governance & Global Affairs, Law (subject to some exclusions), Social & Behavioural Sciences, Science.
-
Applicants with non-EEA / non-EFTA nationality are normally eligible (i.e., students from outside EU/EEA countries) — with some exceptions for certain programmes where nationality restrictions don’t apply.
Why Choose LExS and Leiden University?
-
High-level academic credential: Leiden University is internationally recognised, which can help boost your career prospects globally.
-
Significant tuition reduction: Even though it’s not fully funded (i.e., doesn’t cover living costs), the tuition fee reduction is meaningful and helps reduce financial burden.
-
Global campus & network: Study in a multicultural environment in the Netherlands and build international connections.
-
Research & professional opportunities: Leiden’s strong research facilities and ties with industry and public institutions provide added value.
-
Competitive edge: Winning a LExS is a mark of excellence — being among just ~25 awarded each year (according to available sources) enhances your profile.
Eligibility Criteria
Here are the key eligibility conditions for the LExS:
-
You must have applied for admission (or be in the process) to a full-time Master’s programme at Leiden University and meet the programme’s entry requirements.
-
You must hold a non-EEA/non-EFTA passport (except for certain programmes, e.g., Advanced LLMs, MSc International Relations & Diplomacy where all nationalities apply).
-
You must have an excellent academic record — an indication is that you are in the top 10% of your programme/previous degree.
-
For programmes of more than one year, you must continue meeting academic progress requirements (e.g., 60 ECTS after first year) to retain the scholarship.
-
The scholarship cannot normally be combined with other full-scholarship awards for the same programme; you must notify Leiden if you receive such an award.
How to Apply – Step-by-Step Guide
-
Choose your Master’s programme at Leiden University that is eligible.
-
Apply for admission to the programme via Leiden’s online portal. Be sure to submit your application well ahead of the deadline (the scholarship link only appears after admission application in the portal).
-
Indicate your interest in LExS in the “Scholarships” section once your admission application is submitted.
-
Write and upload a motivation letter (maximum ~500 words) explaining why you deserve the scholarship and what you will contribute.
-
Meet the deadline – for September intake, the scholarship application deadline is 1 February 2026.
-
Await selection and notification — typically by end of April following the February deadline.
-
If awarded, accept the scholarship and complete enrolment, visa/residence permit, accommodation etc.
Key Dates & Deadlines
-
Deadline for scholarship application for programmes starting September 2026: 1 February 2026.
-
Some February intake programmes may have earlier deadlines (e.g., 1 October 2025) for the scholarship.
-
Notification of results: Typically within 6 weeks of deadline, often by end of April.
-
Start of programme: September 2026 (usual intake) for eligible Master’s programme.
Fields of Study & Eligible Faculties
The scholarship covers many fields, though restricted by faculty eligibility. Examples of eligible faculties:
-
Faculty of Science
-
Faculty of Governance & Global Affairs
-
Faculty of Social & Behavioural Sciences
-
Faculty of Medicine / LUMC
-
Faculty of Archaeology
-
Some Law advanced programmes (e.g., Advanced LLM)
Be sure to check whether your chosen faculty and programme are included under the LExS scheme.
Application Tips & Advice
-
Make sure you apply early and meet all admission and scholarship deadlines — late applications are not considered.
-
Demonstrate academic excellence: Use transcripts, class ranking or indicators, awards, publications or research experience where applicable.
-
Choose a topic and programme aligned with Leiden’s academic strengths and show clear motivation in your letter.
-
Keep supporting documents (academic transcripts, language test results, CV, motivation letter) ready.
-
Understand that even with the scholarship you must show proof of sufficient funds for living and visa/residence permit — plan accordingly.
-
Ensure your nationality and programme choice meets eligibility (non-EEA, full-time Master’s starting September, etc.).
-
If you apply to multiple Master’s programmes at Leiden, you must submit separate LExS applications (including motivation letters) for each.
Final Thoughts
The Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS) 2026 presents an exceptional opportunity for high-achieving international students to pursue a Master’s degree in the Netherlands with significant tuition fee support. While living costs remain your responsibility, the reduction in tuition is a major relief and marks you as part of a highly selective program. If you are ready to commit to full-time study, have excellent academic credentials, and want to grow in an international academic community, this scholarship is well worth your effort. Start your application process early, choose your programme carefully, and present your best case.
