The Maastricht University NL High Potential Scholarship is now open for the academic year 2026/27. This outstanding prize is for highly brilliant students from non-EU/EEA countries who want to pursue a full-time Master’s degree program in the Netherlands.
The scholarship provides a fully funded opportunity worth €34,000 per year, which covers tuition, a monthly stipend, and other necessary expenses.
Maastricht University (UM), established in 1976, is one of the most distinguished and internationally focused institutions in the Netherlands. UM, known for its revolutionary Problem-Based Learning approach, encourages critical thinking, teamwork, and self-directed learning.
Located in the historic city of Maastricht, at the crossroads of Belgium and Germany; it draws thousands of students from all over the world, making it the most international university in the Netherlands.
About the Maastricht University NL High Potential Scholarship
The Maastricht University Scholarship programme includes two funding schemes: the High Potential Scholarship, which is funded by the UM Scholarship Fund, and the NL Scholarship, which is supported by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture, and Science and Dutch universities.
This initiative is specifically developed for international students from non-EU/EEA countries, Switzerland, or Suriname, and it provides them with the opportunity to study a full-time Master’s programme at Maastricht University.
The course offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to receive a world-class education in the Netherlands while obtaining complete financial support.
Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: Netherlands
- Category: Postgraduate Scholarships | Masters Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: All Countries (outside EU/EEA)
- Reward: Full Scholarship | €34,000 per year
- IELTS Requirement: No IELTS Required
- Deadline: February 1, 2026
Scholarship Duration:
Annually, 24 full scholarships are available, with one-year programs lasting 13 months and two-year programs lasting 25 months.
Maastricht University NL High Potential Scholarship Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the Maastricht University NL High Potential Scholarship 2026/2027, applicants must:
- Hold nationality from a country other than the EU/EEA, Switzerland, or Suriname, and meet the visa/residence criteria for the Netherlands.
- Not possess dual nationality in any EU/EEA country.
- Apply for admission to one of Maastricht University’s participating full-time Master’s programmes for the academic year 2026/27.
- Meet the admission requirements for the UM Master’s program you’ve chosen.
- Have never previously participated in a degree-seeking higher education program in the Netherlands (exchange students may apply).
- Be under 35 years old on September 1, 2027.
- Transcripts or letters of academic distinction can be used to demonstrate great academic performance.
- If applicants are equally qualified, those placed in the top 5% will be given preference.
Scholarship Benefits
Successful applicants for the Maastricht University Scholarship will recieve
- Full tuition fee waiver
- Monthly living allowance (included in the €34,000 annual package).
- Health & liability insurance: ~€700
- Visa charges are reimbursed.
- Increased allowances for study-related expenses
- Covered visa costs, pre-academic training, accommodation (mandatory), and participation in the International Student Ambassador Programme (ISAP).
How to Apply for Maastricht University NL High Potential Scholarship
Step 1: To apply for the Maastricht University Scholarship 2026, applicants should:
Studielink allows you to register for one of Maastricht University’s participating Master’s programmes.
Step 2: Obtain a student ID number while applying for the programme.
Step 3: Use this student ID number to fill out the Scholarship Application Form.
Step 4: Submit all required documentation by the deadline.
Documents Needed
Applicants need to prepare and submit the following documents:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)—maximum of two A4 pages
- Letter of Motivation (with the needed UM template)
- Proof of Academic Excellence: transcript with GPA/rank or official letter showing the candidate is among the top students.
- Personal Statement of Financial Need – describes financial status and the rationale for seeking support.
- Reference letter – from a professor, lecturer, or employer (not family members), written no earlier than February 2023.
- Referee Contact Information, including work phone number and institutional email address.
Review Process
- Completeness check by UM International Services Desk (February)
- Faculty shortlists top 5% of applicants (March)
- Invited candidates attend online interviews (April–May)
- Decisions notified by early May; selected applicants arranged for pre-academic training in August.
Contact
If you have any questions, please email study@maastrichtuniversity.nl or visit the official Maastricht University website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Maastricht University’s NL-High Potential Scholarship fully funded?
Yes. It includes tuition, stipend, insurance, visa, and housing assistance.
Can Nigerians Apply?
Yes, Nigerian, Ghanaian, Kenyan, and other non-EU/EEA students are qualified.
Do I require admission to apply?
You must apply for admission first, however you may apply for the scholarship before getting your final admission offer.
Is there an age limit?
Yes, applicants must be 35 or younger by September 2026.
How many pupils are selected?
Only 21 students worldwide are chosen.
Does it cover travel expenses?
Travel assistance is not guaranteed, however a living allowance often covers the majority of expenses.
May I apply for more than one UM scholarship?
No, you can only apply for one scholarship per year.
Conclusion
The Maastricht University NL-High Potential Scholarship 2026 is a highly coveted opportunity for international students seeking a fully funded master’s degree in Europe.
This fellowship provides outstanding finance, worldwide exposure, and world-class education, opening doors to elite research, innovation, and international employment opportunities.
