The Maastricht University NL‑High Potential Scholarship 2026 supports talented international students from outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland who plan to pursue a master’s degree in the Netherlands. It provides strong financial aid to help cover tuition fees and living expenses. The scholarship helps high‑achieving students join a top European research university and focus fully on their studies.

About the NL‑High Potential Scholarship 2026

Maastricht University offers the NL‑High Potential Scholarship as part of its international funding programme. The scholarship combines university support and the Dutch NL Scholarship, funded by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science. The programme awards around 21 full scholarships each year to highly talented applicants who have secured admission to a participating full‑time master’s programme.

Recipients can study in a wide range of master’s fields at Maastricht University. The scholarship also encourages students to serve as ambassadors for the university during and after their study period.

Why Choose The NL‑High Potential Scholarship 2026?

This scholarship covers both your tuition fees and living costs so you can study in the Netherlands with financial security. It provides financial stability that lets you focus on your academic and professional goals. You join a globally oriented university with an international campus environment. The award supports personal and academic development through pre‑academic training and ambassador activities.

NL‑High Potential Scholarship 2026 Summary

  • Host Country: Netherlands
  • Host Institution: Maastricht University
  • Scholarship Name: NL‑High Potential Scholarship
  • Study Level: Master’s (Postgraduate)
  • Coverage: Full tuition waiver and living stipend of approx. €34,000 over the duration of the programme
  • Application Deadline: 1 February 2026 (23:59 CET)
  • Programme Start: Autumn 2026
  • Eligible Applicants: Non‑EU/EEA/Swiss citizens admitted to a participating full‑time master’s programme

Scholarship Benefits

  • Provide full tuition fee coverage for the duration of your master’s programme.
  • Offer a living allowance that helps with daily costs during your study period.
  • Include support for health insurance and other study‑related expenses.
  • Cover visa application costs as part of your scholarship package.
  • Require participation in a pre‑academic training before the study year begins.

Eligibility Criteria

You must meet these conditions:

  • Hold a nationality from a country outside the EU/EEA, Switzerland, and Surinam.
  • Apply for admission to a participating full‑time master’s programme at Maastricht University before the deadline.
  • Meet the specific admission requirements of your chosen programme.
  • Have excellent academic results, typically a GPA of 7.5/10 or higher.
  • Be 35 years old or younger by 1 September 2026.
  • Not have previously completed a degree programme in the Netherlands (exchange studies are allowed).
  • Agree to serve as an ambassador by sharing your experiences during and after your studies.
  • The selection is highly competitive, and only a small percentage of applicants receive the award.

Required Documents

Prepare and submit:

  • Official academic transcripts and degree certificates.
  • Proof of admission or application to a participating master’s programme.
  • Statement of intent or motivation letter.
  • A curriculum vitae (CV).
  • Any additional materials specified in the scholarship application instructions.

Application Process & Timeline

  • Choose a participating full‑time master’s programme at Maastricht University.
  • Apply for admission through the university before 8 December 2025 (programme deadline).
  • Prepare your scholarship documents, including transcripts and a motivation statement.
  • Submit your NL‑High Potential Scholarship application by 1 February 2026 (23:59 CET).
  • The university and faculties review complete applications and rank top candidates.
  • Selected candidates participate in an interview as part of the selection process.
  • Maastricht University announces final scholarship results by May 2026.
  • Accept your scholarship and prepare for study in the Netherlands, including visa and housing arrangements.