The UM Social Justice Scholarship supports a talented student from outside the EU/European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland, and Surinam who has been admitted to the Master’s program in Globalisation and Law at Maastricht University (UM). It recognises proven commitment to human rights and the rule of law and fully funds study and living costs for the duration of the program.

About the UM Social Justice Scholarship

This award reflects UM’s values of diversity, inclusivity, social justice, and global engagement. The scholarship is highly competitive and intended for applicants who show strong academic results and demonstrable efforts to promote the rule of law or human rights. Applicants must apply for the Globalisation and Law master’s program and must submit a separate scholarship application.

Why Choose The UM Social Justice Scholarship?

This scholarship waives your tuition and provides a monthly living allowance while you pursue advanced legal studies focused on globalisation, law, and justice. It supports your academic growth and prepares you for a career in human rights, public policy, advocacy, international law, or related fields. It also includes insurance and other essential costs covered by UM.

UM Social Justice Scholarship Summary

  • Host Country: Netherlands
  • Host Institution: Maastricht University (UM)
  • Scholarship Name: UM Social Justice Scholarship
  • Study Level: Master’s (Postgraduate)
  • Program: Globalisation and Law
  • Coverage: Full tuition fee waiver; monthly stipend for living expenses; insurance and visa costs; pre‑academic training; accommodation arranged by UM
  • Application Deadline: 1 February 2026, 23:59 CET
  • Program Start: September 2026
  • Eligible Applicants: Non‑EU/EEA nationals admitted (conditionally or unconditionally) to the Master’s in Globalisation and Law with evidence of contributions to human rights or rule of law initiatives

Scholarship Benefits

  • Full tuition fee waiver for the duration of the 13‑month program.
  • Living stipend: approximately €15,925 for 13 months (paid monthly).
  • Health and liability insurance arranged and paid by UM.
  • Visa application costs are arranged and paid by UM (at cost).
  • Pre‑academic training costs are arranged and paid by UM.
  • Accommodation provided (mandatory part of the scholarship; refusing accommodation cancels the award).
  • Participation in the International Student Ambassador Program (covered for the first block).

Eligibility Criteria

You must meet all of the following to be considered:

  • Hold non‑EU/EEA, non‑Swiss, and non‑Surinam nationality and meet Dutch visa/permit requirements.
  • Have applied for (and ideally have an offer for) the full‑time Master’s in Globalisation and Law at UM for 2026–27.
  • Demonstrate significant contributions toward advancing the rule of law and/or human rights (through intra‑ or extracurricular initiatives).
  • Have excellent academic results, typically a GPA of 7.5/10 or higher (or equivalent).
  • Be no older than 35 years on 1 September 2026.
  • Have not already obtained a Master’s degree (preference given to first‑time master’s candidates).

Required Documents

Prepare and submit:

  • Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) with academic and extracurricular achievements.
  • Letter of motivation (using the UM template) focused on your human rights or rule of law contributions.
  • Proof of academic excellence, including a transcript showing GPA and a grade‑scale explanation.
  • Personal statement of financial need.
  • Reference letter (dated no earlier than February 2025) from a professor or employer supporting your human rights engagement.
  • Referee contact details for verification.

Application Process & Timeline

  • Apply for the Master’s in Globalisation and Law via UM’s Studielink; receive your UM student ID.
  • Log in with your UM account and complete the scholarship application form.
  • Upload all required documents before 1 February 2026.
  • UM checks for completeness and forwards applications to the Law faculty for ranking.
  • Shortlisted candidates are invited to an online interview with an action plan presentation about strengthening human rights or the rule of law.
  • UM notifies successful, waitlisted, or rejected applicants by early May 2026.
  • Accept your award and prepare for pre‑academic training and study in Maastricht.