The UM Social Justice Scholarship is a competitive award that Maastricht University (UM) offers to support international students who demonstrate a strong commitment to human rights and the rule of law. The scholarship targets students admitted to the full-time Master’s program in Globalization and Law. By providing financial support, it allows recipients to focus fully on academic excellence and justice-oriented initiatives.

Background and Purpose

UM created this scholarship to advance its core values of diversity, inclusivity, and global engagement. The university encourages students who actively contribute to human rights and justice initiatives through academic, professional, or extracurricular work. By supporting these candidates, UM develops future leaders who will promote justice and uphold the rule of law globally.

UM Social Justice Scholarship Benefits

The scholarship covers full tuition for the Globalization and Law Master’s program. UM also provides recipients with a monthly living stipend, health and liability insurance, visa application coverage, and pre-academic training costs. Scholars must accept UM-assigned student accommodation during the scholarship period. These benefits enable students to focus on learning and contributing to justice-related initiatives without financial concerns.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must hold nationality outside the EU, EEA, Switzerland, or Surinam. They must meet Dutch entry visa requirements and maintain a GPA equivalent to 7.5/10 or higher. Candidates should demonstrate substantial prior contributions to human rights or rule-of-law initiatives. UM prefers applicants under 35 years old who have not yet earned a Master’s degree.

UM Social Justice Scholarship Application Process

Students first apply to the Globalization and Law program through Studielink. After UM admits them, they submit a scholarship application via their UM account portal. The university checks applications for completeness, conducts a faculty review, and holds online interviews. UM typically closes the application window on 1 February 2026, 23:59 CET, and communicates final decisions between April and May 2026.

Opportunities for Scholars

Scholarship recipients gain financial and academic freedom to pursue global justice work. They actively strengthen UM’s commitment to human rights and the rule of law. Scholars participate fully in academic and community initiatives, enhancing their leadership, legal expertise, and global impact in justice-focused fields.