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Maastricht University Holland Scholarships 2026 in Netherlands (Fully Funded)

The Maastricht University Holland-High Potential Scholarship 2026 offers a golden opportunity for talented non-EU/non-EEA students to pursue master’s studies in the Netherlands. With generous living stipends, full tuition waivers, insurance coverage, and more, this scholarship allows recipients to focus completely on their academic growth and global ambitions.

In this article, we’ll dive into all you need to know: what the scholarship covers, who can apply, how to apply, important deadlines, and tips to strengthen your application.

Why Maastricht University & the Holland-High Potential Scholarship

Reputation: Maastricht University (UM) is a globally recognized institution known for its problem-based learning approach, strong research orientation, international outlook, and vibrant student community.
Generous Funding: The Holland-High Potential Scholarship is among the more substantial and competitive fully funded awards in Europe for international master’s students.
Support Beyond Tuition: Scholarship recipients receive support for living expenses, insurance, visa/residence permits, pre-academic training if required, and in some cases ambassador or student-leadership roles.

Key Details of the Scholarship

Feature	Details
Host University	Maastricht University, Netherlands
Eligible Students	Non-EU/EEA nationals (not holding citizenship in EU/EEA, Switzerland, or Suriname)
Study Level	Master’s programmes (full-time)
Duration	13 months for 1-year master’s, 25 months for 2-year master’s
Value / Benefits	Full tuition waiver, living stipend (~€12,350 for 13 months or ~€23,750 for 25 months), health & liability insurance, visa/residence permit costs, pre-academic training where needed, ambassador programme privileges.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply successfully, you generally need to meet the following requirements:

Be a citizen of a country outside EU/EEA, Switzerland, or Suriname.
Be admitted (or conditionally admitted) to a participating full-time Master’s programme at Maastricht University for the 2026-2027 academic year.
Meet the academic entry requirements of that master’s programme.
Be under 35 years old as of 1 September 2026.
Have excellent academic performance (strong GPA, transcripts) and motivation.
Not previously hold a master’s degree (or at least preference is given to those without a previous master’s).

Timeline & Application Deadlines

Master’s Programme Application Deadline: Usually around 8 December 2025 for many programs at UM.
Scholarship Application Deadline: 1 February 2026 at 23:59 CET.
Scholarship Decision Date: Interviews and final selections often occur in late February – April, with notifications thereafter.
Program Start: September 2026 (for full academic year).

How to Apply: Step-by-Step

Choose your master’s program at Maastricht University and ensure that it is one of the eligible programs under the High Potential Scholarship.
Submit your admission application via Studielink (or the standard UM admission channel) by the relevant deadline (often December). You will need your UM student ID for scholarship application.
Prepare required documents: CV, academic transcripts, motivation letter, study plan, proof of English proficiency if needed, references, explanation of grading scale, etc.
Apply for the scholarship through UM’s scholarship portal/account with all supporting documents. Make sure everything is complete and submitted before the deadline.
Participate in selection: Some shortlisted candidates may be interviewed. UM may also take into consideration ambassador roles or engagement.

Tips to Improve Your Application

Maintain a high GPA and prepare transcripts with equivalent grading explanations.
Write a strong motivation statement explaining why Maastricht University, why this programme, and how you plan to contribute academically and socially.
Show leadership, international outlook, and community service if possible.
Apply early and verify all documentation (English translations if needed).
Be clear on visa/residence permit requirements.

Final Thoughts

The Maastricht University Holland-High Potential Scholarship 2026 is one of the most comprehensive and generous fully funded opportunities for international master’s students outside the EU/EEA. Covering tuition, living costs, insurance, and other essentials, it provides an environment to thrive academically and personally.

If you meet the requirements, this is an opportunity you should seriously consider. Start preparing now, gather your documents, polish your motivation letter, and be ready to apply by 1 February 2026.