How to Get Your Maastricht University Scholarship: From Application to Acceptance

The prestigious Maastricht University scholarship is highly selective - only 2% of applicants succeed in securing it each year.

The NL-High Potential Scholarship provides a complete financial support package worth €36,000 to international students from outside the European Union. Maastricht University awards 21 full scholarships to outstanding candidates in master's programmes every academic year. This scholarship is a great way to get support for Indian students because it covers everything - full tuition fees, monthly living stipends of €15,925 for 13-month programmes or €30,625 for 25-month programmes, health insurance, and visa application costs.

The substantial benefits come with limited spots, so you need a smart approach to stand out among thousands of applicants. This piece guides you through each step to secure the Maastricht University NL-High Potential Scholarship. You'll learn about eligibility requirements and how to create an application that grabs the selection committee's attention. Your path to studying at one of the Netherlands' most prestigious universities with full financial support starts here.

Get to Know the Scholarship First

You should understand what the Maastricht University NL-High Potential Scholarship fully covers before you start your application. The benefits this competitive scholarship brings make all the work worth it.

Overview of the Maastricht University NL-High Potential Scholarship

The university awards 21 full scholarships each year, with each worth about €34,000. This financial package has a tuition fee waiver and monthly stipends that cover your main expenses during studies.

The scholarship's value comes from its detailed coverage. Students in one-year master's programmes (13 months) get €15,925 for living expenses. Those in two-year programmes (25 months) receive €30,625. On top of that, it covers:

• Health and liability insurance (€700)
• Visa application costs
• Full tuition fees
• Pre-academic training costs
• First block of the International Student Ambassador Programme

The €1,225 monthly stipend helps you manage all basic expenses. This breaks down to €600 for accommodation, €160 for groceries, €60 for telephone, €100 for travel, €90 for books, €125 for clothing and social activities, and €90 for other expenses. But you'll need to pay for your air tickets to the Netherlands yourself.

Who funds the scholarship and why?

Two major sources work together to fund this international education initiative. The Maastricht University Scholarship Fund supports the High Potential Scholarship part. The Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science partners with Dutch universities to finance the NL Scholarship portion.

This funding setup helps bring exceptional international talent to the Netherlands. Dutch officials know how valuable cultural diversity and global views are in academics. Maastricht University wants to shape "active, globally oriented thinkers who are ready to make a positive contribution to their communities".

Scholarship recipients become important ambassadors during and after their studies. That's why you'll need to share your experiences at least once during an information session for students or other stakeholders.

Why Indian students should consider applying

Indian students get a chance to access world-class European education without financial worries. The scholarship welcomes international students from outside the EU/EEA who want to pursue full degree programmes in the Netherlands.

The scholarship covers all major expenses for Indian applicants. You can study at one of Europe's most innovative universities without financial stress. Maastricht University stands out as "the most foreign university in the Netherlands," with more than 16,000 students and 4,000 employees in a truly international setting.

The university's ground-breaking research, unique education model, international character, and integrated approach make it perfect for Indian students seeking global exposure. Successful applicants join a select group of high-achieving international students. They build valuable networks and professional connections that last well beyond graduation.

Meet the Eligibility and Prepare Early

Getting a Maastricht University NL-High Potential Scholarship needs careful preparation and a clear understanding of all eligibility criteria. The selection process is highly competitive - only 2% of applicants end up receiving this prestigious award. You must ensure you meet all requirements.

Check if you meet the age and nationality rules

Age and nationality requirements for the Maastricht University scholarship leave no room for negotiation. You must be under 35 years of age on 1 September 2026. You must also hold nationality from a country outside the EU/EEA, Switzerland, and Surinam.

Dual nationality can affect your eligibility significantly. Having dual citizenship that has an EU/EEA country or Switzerland makes you ineligible for this scholarship automatically. You must also meet all requirements to get an entry visa and residence permit for the Netherlands.

Understand academic and admission requirements

Academic excellence is the life-blood requirement for this scholarship. Your prior education must show outstanding results, typically through your latest grade transcript with a GPA of 7.5 out of 10 or higher.

You must first apply and receive conditional admission to a full-time master's programme at Maastricht University for the 2026-2027 academic year before applying for the scholarship. Note that your programme application must happen before you submit your scholarship application.

The university prefers candidates who don't have a Master's degree yet, though this isn't set in stone.

Avoid disqualification due to past education in the Netherlands

Your educational history in the Netherlands can disqualify many strong candidates. You must not have participated in any degree-seeking higher education programme in the Netherlands before.

All the same, completing exchange programmes in the Netherlands keeps you eligible to apply. This difference matters - a previous full degree programme disqualifies you, but a temporary exchange doesn't.

One more crucial detail to stay eligible: you can apply for only one UM scholarship. Multiple applications will disqualify you from all scholarship considerations automatically. Put all your energy into creating one exceptional application instead of submitting several.

Apply Step-by-Step with Confidence

Let's guide you through the application process for the Maastricht University NL-High Potential Scholarship. The application has several well-laid-out steps you need to complete in order.

Apply to a UM master's programme first

You must apply for one of the participating master's programmes through Studielink before your scholarship application. Your master's programme application will give you a student ID number that you'll need for the scholarship process. The deadline to apply for eligible master's programmes via Studielink is December 8. You should meet all admission requirements by the scholarship deadline (February 1, 2026), except legal residence, tuition payment, and hard copies of diplomas.

Use your student ID to access the scholarship portal

Your student ID lets you access the scholarship application portal. The portal requires your UM account credentials to reach the application form. You'll complete all remaining application steps here. Make sure you select the right scholarship programme because multiple applications will automatically disqualify you.

Upload your CV, motivation letter, and other documents

The portal requires these documents in .doc, .docx, or PDF format:

• Curriculum Vitae (maximum two A4 pages)
• Motivation letter (using the provided template)
• Proof of academic excellence (transcript showing GPA of 7.5/10 or higher)
• Personal statement of financial needs
• Reference letter from a professor, lecturer, or employer

You can submit your application only once, so make sure all documents are final and current.

Tips for writing a strong motivation letter

Your motivation letter affects the selection committee's decision by a lot. The university's template asks you to address:

• Why you're applying for this scholarship (100 words)
• Why you're a suitable candidate (100 words)
• Your proudest achievements (academic, personal, and community-based) (200 words)
• How the scholarship will influence your future (100 words)
• How you'll serve as a university ambassador (100 words)

Be authentic and show your academic potential clearly. Demonstrate your ability to grow personally and your steadfast dedication to representing Maastricht University during and after your studies.

After Submission: What to Expect

Getting the Maastricht University NL-High Potential Scholarship needs careful planning and attention to detail. This piece outlines the substantial benefits of this scholarship package - full tuition coverage, monthly living stipends, health insurance, and visa application costs that add up to €36,000. Without doubt, this is one of the most complete financial support packages Indian students can get for master's education in Europe.

Competition is tough with just 21 scholarships given each year from thousands of applications. Your application should showcase academic excellence, include a compelling motivation letter, and demonstrate your potential as a university ambassador. Meeting all eligibility requirements for age, nationality, and previous education history is also vital.

The application needs good timing and organisation. Submit your master's programme application before the December deadline. Then use your student ID to access the scholarship portal and submit all documents before February 1st. Your motivation letter needs special focus because it helps the selection committee learn about your character and goals.

A 2% acceptance rate might look intimidating. However, a well-prepared application can substantially boost your chances. The scholarship committee looks beyond grades to find candidates who will add value to the Maastricht University community.

This application is your first step toward studying at one of the Netherlands' prominent universities with full financial support. The benefits of this scholarship are way beyond the reach and influence of just money - you'll get world-class education, build international connections, and have life-changing experiences. Early preparation, careful attention to each step, and a strong case for why you deserve this exceptional chance will set you up for success.

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