The Utrecht Excellence Scholarships are important awards designed to support outstanding international students who aim to pursue a master’s degree at Utrecht University in the Netherlands. These highly selective scholarships aim to attract top talent from around the world, providing significant financial support to cover tuition fees and living expenses.
The scholarship is open to non-EU/EEA students who belong to the top 10% of their graduating class and have completed their secondary school and/or bachelor’s degree outside the Netherlands. Applicants must apply for an eligible Master’s program starting September 2025 and demonstrate academic excellence and potential in their chosen field of study.
The Utrecht Excellence Scholarship can cover the full tuition fee and provide additional financial support for living costs. It is linked to a residence permit for study as determined by the Dutch Immigration and Naturalization Service. The scholarship can be renewed for the second year of a two year master’s program, provided the student makes good progress.
Host Institution
Utrecht University
Country
Netherlands
Field Of Study
Master Degree Programs Offered By The University Check The List To Confirm
Target Group
Non-EEA International Students
Deadline
1 Feb 2025 (Annual)
Benefits/Inclusions Of Scholarship
International Networking
Studying at Utrecht University provides scholars with the opportunity to build a global network of peers, professors, and professionals. The university attracts students from all over the world, fostering a vibrant international community. This diverse environment allows scholars to develop cross-cultural understanding and forge connections that can be valuable throughout their academic and professional careers.
Professional Development
The Utrecht Excellence Scholarships promote not only academic excellence but also personal and professional growth. Scholars are encouraged to engage in extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and community service. This holistic approach to education helps students develop essential soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, which are highly valued in the job market.
Financial Support
One of the primary benefits of the Utrecht Excellence Scholarships is the substantial financial support they provide. The scholarship can cover the full tuition fees for the selected master’s program, significantly reducing the financial burden on students. Additionally, recipients may receive an allowance for living expenses, helping them manage the costs of studying and living in the Netherlands without undue financial stress.
Quality Education
Utrecht University is renowned for its high-quality education and research excellence. Being awarded the Utrecht Excellence Scholarship allows students to be part of an institution that is consistently ranked among the top universities globally. Scholars have access to cutting-edge facilities, innovative research opportunities, and a diverse range of academic programs that cater to various fields of study.
Academic Recognition
Receiving the Utrecht Excellence Scholarship is a mark of academic distinction. The scholarship is awarded to students who are in the top 10% of their graduating class, which highlights their outstanding academic achievements. This recognition not only enhances the scholar’s academic profile but also opens doors to further educational and career opportunities.
Contribution To Global Challenges
Utrecht University places a strong emphasis on addressing global challenges and societal impact. Scholarship recipients have the opportunity to participate in research and projects that aim to find solutions to pressing issues such as sustainability, health, and social justice. This focus on making a positive impact on society allows scholars to contribute meaningfully to the world and develop a sense of responsibility and purpose.
Scholarship Eligibility
Nationality
Applicants must be from non-EU/EEA countries, this ensures that the scholarship is accessible to international students who might face higher tuition fees and living costs.
Academic Excellence
To be eligible, applicants must belong to the top 10% of their graduating class. This criterion ensures that the scholarship supports students who have demonstrated outstanding academic performance.
Completed Education Outside Netherlands
Applicants must have completed their secondary school or bachelor’s degree outside the Netherlands. This criterion ensures that the scholarship supports students who are new to the Dutch education system.
Master’s Program Application
Applicants must apply for an eligible Master’s program at Utrecht University starting September 2025. Not all programs participate in the scholarship, so it’s important to check the specific program’s eligibility.
Financial Need
The scholarship is intended to compensate for study-related costs, and applicants must demonstrate their financial need. This ensures that the scholarship supports those who might struggle to finance their studies without additional aid.
Visa Eligibility
Applicants must comply with the conditions for obtaining an entry visa to the Netherlands and this includes having the necessary documentation and meeting the visa requirements set by the Dutch government.
Application Instructions
Applicants must apply for a master’s program at the Utrecht University website and receive an unconditional or conditional offer of admission. Once admitted, you can register for the scholarship by logging into your OSIRIS Online Application account.
Applicants need to submit these documents, a concise, two-page curriculum vitae detailing your educational background and relevant work experience, a motivation letter explaining why you deserve the scholarship, a personal statement indicating your financial needs, proof of excellent academic achievements, and official transcripts showing your GPA.
Make sure to follow the application deadlines, which are typically in early February for round 1 and early May for the second round. After submitting your application, you will receive a student ID number, which you will need to complete and submit the Scholarship Application Form.
Conclusion
Utrecht Excellence Scholarships provide comprehensive support to talented international students, enabling them to achieve academic excellence, grow personally and professionally, and contribute to addressing global challenges. These scholarships are a testament to Utrecht University’s commitment to fostering global talent and promoting educational equity.