Discover the best places to apply for research scholarships in Netherlands, including top universities, funding bodies, eligibility, application tips, and FAQs.

Discover top research-based scholarships in Netherlands for international students.

The Netherlands has become one of Europe’s most attractive destinations for international researchers. With world-class universities, globally recognized research institutes, government-funded scholarship programs, and a strong focus on innovation, the country offers an excellent environment for researchers across all fields. Whether you come from engineering, social sciences, medicine, humanities, natural sciences, or technology, there are plenty of opportunities to secure competitive research funding.

This in-depth guide explains where to apply for research scholarships in the Netherlands, the types of research funding available, eligibility criteria, tips to increase selection chances, and a comprehensive list of funding bodies, universities, and national scholarship programs.

By the end of this article, you will clearly understand how to navigate scholarship options and find the perfect research opportunity in the Netherlands.

1. Why Choose the Netherlands for Research Scholarships?

The Netherlands is consistently ranked among the top countries for international education and research excellence. Researchers choose the country for multiple reasons:

1.1 World-Class Universities

The country hosts globally recognized universities including:

• Delft University of Technology (TU Delft)
• Wageningen University & Research (WUR)
• University of Amsterdam (UvA)
• Leiden University
• Utrecht University
• Eindhoven University of Technology
• Maastricht University
• University of Groningen

These universities are known for their strong research culture, excellent labs, international collaborations, and modern facilities.

1.2 Strong Government Support

Many scholarships are funded by:

• The Dutch Ministry of Education
• The Dutch Research Council
• European Union organizations
• Public-private partnerships

This ensures long-term stability and access to high-quality funding.

1.3 Safe, Innovative, and English-Friendly Environment

The Netherlands is known for its safety, cultural diversity, and high English proficiency, making it easier for international researchers to adapt.

1.4 Career Opportunities

The country has numerous research-driven sectors like:

• Agriculture and Food Science
• Engineering and Technology
• Artificial Intelligence
• Health and Life Sciences
• Environmental Sciences
• Transport and Logistics
• Business and Economics

With strong industry connections, many researchers continue into high-level careers after their studies.

2. Types of Research Scholarships in Netherlands

Understanding the types of research funding available will help you choose the right scholarship.

2.1 University-Funded Research Scholarships in Netherlands

Most Dutch universities provide full or partial funding for:

• PhD programs
• Research master’s programs
• Postdoctoral positions
• Visiting researcher grants

These can include tuition waivers, research budgets, and monthly stipends.

2.2 Government-Funded Scholarships in Netherlands

The Dutch government offers several prestigious programs aimed at supporting highly talented students from around the world.

2.3 Research Council and Scientific Scholarships in Netherlands

These are awarded to researchers working on national or international scientific projects. The Dutch Research Council (NWO) is one of the largest funders.

2.4 Faculty, Department, or Project-Based Research Scholarships in Netherlands

Individual departments or professors often have their own funding for specific projects. These are ideal if your goal is to work on niche or specialized research topics.

2.5 EU-Funded Research Scholarships in Netherlands

Since the Netherlands is part of the European Union, many researchers benefit from large programs like Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions.

3. Where to Apply for Research Scholarships in Netherlands? (Complete List)

Below is an extensive list of the best places to apply. These options cover government programs, universities, research councils, and private scholarship providers.

4. Dutch Government Research Scholarships in Netherlands

4.1 Holland Scholarship (HS)

A popular program for international students who want to pursue research master’s or advanced studies.
It supports non-European students and is co-funded by the Dutch Ministry of Education and Dutch universities.

What It Covers

• Partial financial support
• Available for graduate-level research studies

Ideal For

Researchers seeking a master’s leading to a PhD.

4.2 Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP)

Focused on professionals from developing countries, this scholarship supports:

• Short courses
• Research-related training
• Master’s programs

Why It’s Good

It promotes capacity building and professional growth in fields like:

• Agriculture
• Water management
• Public health
• Education
• Gender studies

4.3 Erasmus+ Research Opportunities

Erasmus+ funds researchers who are part of collaborative projects within EU universities.

You Can Apply For:

• Joint master’s research programs
• Doctoral networks
• Mobility grants

5. University-Specific Research Scholarships in the Netherlands

Below is a detailed list of top Dutch universities where you can apply for dedicated research scholarships.

5.1 Delft University of Technology (TU Delft)

One of the best engineering universities in Europe.

Popular Research Scholarships

• TU Delft Excellence Scholarship
• Justus & Louise van Effen Scholarships
• Faculty-based PhD funding

Research Strengths

• Aerospace engineering
• Civil engineering
• Computer science
• Sustainable energy
• Robotics

5.2 Wageningen University & Research (WUR)

The global leader in agriculture, food science, and environmental research.

Scholarship Options

• Wageningen Excellence Scholarship
• Project-based PhD funding
• Food and environment research grants

Research Strengths

• Plant science
• Animal science
• Climate change
• Nutrition
• Biology

5.3 University of Amsterdam (UvA)

A major research university known for global collaborations.

Scholarship Options

• Amsterdam Merit Scholarship
• Amsterdam Excellence Scholarship
• Faculty research grants

Research Areas

• Social sciences
• Law
• Business
• AI and data science
• Humanities

5.4 Leiden University

The oldest university in the Netherlands.

Scholarship Options

• Leiden Excellence Scholarship
• Faculty research funding
• PhD positions

Research Strengths

• Law
• International relations
• Medicine
• Natural sciences

5.5 Utrecht University

A top-ranked university with a strong research focus.

Scholarships

• Utrecht Excellence Scholarship
• Graduate School funding
• Doctoral research positions

Key Research Areas

• Geosciences
• Environmental sciences
• Social sciences
• Biology

5.6 Erasmus University Rotterdam

Known for its research in social sciences and business.

Scholarships

• Erasmus University Holland Scholarship
• Research master’s scholarships
• ISS-based research funding

Research Areas

• Business
• Economics
• Psychology
• Social impact studies

5.7 University of Groningen

Offers a wide variety of research funding options.

Scholarships

• Eric Bleumink Fund
• Graduate research grants
• Departmental PhD funding

Research Fields

• Astronomy
• Pharmacy
• Law
• Life sciences

5.8 Maastricht University

Known for innovative research and European collaboration.

Scholarships

• High Potential Scholarship
• UM Graduate Scholarships
• Faculty-led PhD positions

Research Fields

• Medicine
• Psychology
• Governance
• Data science

6. Dutch Research Council (NWO) Funding Opportunities

The Dutch Research Council (NWO) is one of the most important research funding bodies in the Netherlands.

Popular Grants

• Veni Grants (for early-career researchers)
• Vidi Grants (for experienced researchers)
• Vici Grants (for senior researchers)
• Open Competition Research Grants

These programs support independent research at any Dutch university or research institute.

7. Private Foundations Offering Research Scholarships in Netherlands

7.1 Fulbright Scholarships (Netherlands Chapter)

Open for research students from the United States wishing to conduct research in Dutch universities.

7.2 Cultural & Research Foundations

Several Dutch organizations support research in:

• Art
• Culture
• Social issues
• Sustainability
• Innovation

These include heritage foundations, arts councils, and development organizations.

8. Faculty-Specific & Project-Based Funding Opportunities

Many Dutch professors hire researchers for funded positions under:

• Horizon Europe projects
• National scientific programs
• Industry collaboration
• EU innovation grants

This is ideal if you want hands-on research with guaranteed funding.

9. Eligibility Criteria for Research Scholarships in Netherlands

Though every scholarship has unique rules, the common requirements include:

9.1 Academic Requirements

• Strong academic record
• Research-based master’s degree (for PhD scholarships)
• Proof of research experience

9.2 Documents Required

• Research proposal
• Curriculum vitae
• Motivation letter
• Academic transcripts
• Recommendation letters

9.3 Language Proficiency

Most programs require strong English proficiency.

9.4 Additional Requirements

• Relevant professional experience (for OKP or EU scholarships)
• Nationality restrictions (for some government programs)

10. How to Increase Your Chances of Getting a Research Scholarship in Netherlands

10.1 Build a Strong Research Proposal

Your project should:

• Address a real problem
• Be innovative
• Fit the research interests of the university or faculty

10.2 Contact Professors Early

Most research scholarships depend on establishing a connection with a supervisor.

10.3 Highlight Research Experience

Show involvement in:

• Publications
• Conferences
• Laboratory work
• Projects
• Internships

10.4 Prepare Strong Recommendation Letters

Select professors or professionals who know your research potential.

10.5 Apply Early

Scholarship deadlines can be competitive, so early submission is crucial.

11. Why the Netherlands is an Ideal Destination for International Researchers

11.1 Research-Driven Culture

Academic freedom, innovation, and collaboration define the Dutch research system.

11.2 High Quality of Life

Safe cities, good transportation, and multicultural environments make it welcoming.

11.3 Funding Support

From national programs to EU grants, funding opportunities are extensive.

11.4 Post-Study Opportunities

Graduates can apply for:

• Orientation Year Visa
• Research jobs
• Academic positions

12. Final Thoughts

The Scholarships in Netherlands is one of the best countries in the world to pursue research studies due to its advanced academic infrastructure, generous funding opportunities, and strong government support. Whether you want to apply through a university, a government-funded program, or a research council, there are plenty of options to support your research journey.

By understanding where to apply and how to prepare a strong application, you can significantly increase your chances of securing a competitive research scholarship in the Netherlands.

Also Read: Which DAAD Scholarships Can International Students Apply for in 2025?

Sources

Wageningen University & Research+1

nuffic.nl+1

Study in NL+2Wageningen University & Research+2

FAQs

1. Can international students apply for research scholarships in the Netherlands?

Yes, Scholarships in Netherlands most are open to international students from both EU and non-EU countries.

2. Do Dutch universities offer fully funded PhD positions?

Yes. In the Netherlands, PhD positions are often treated as paid jobs with salaries.

3. Are research scholarships in the Netherlands competitive?

Yes,Scholarships in Netherlands but with a strong application and proper preparation, many students successfully secure funding.

4. Is English mandatory?

Almost all research programs are entirely in English. A strong language score improves selection chances.

5. Can working professionals apply for Dutch research scholarships?

Yes, Scholarships in Netherlandsespecially through programs such as the Orange Knowledge Programme.

6. Are EU-funded programs available in the Netherlands?

Yes,Scholarships in Netherlands researchers can apply to Erasmus+ and Marie Curie programs.

7. Are living expenses included in scholarships?

Some programs offer stipends, but it depends on the scholarship type.