Discover the best Dutch scholarships without IELTS requirements for international students. Learn eligibility, benefits, application steps, and latest opportunities.
Find top Netherlands scholarships that allow applications without IELTS.
Studying in the Netherlands is a dream for thousands of students every year—thanks to world-class universities, innovative teaching methods, safe cities, multicultural environments, and strong employability outcomes. But for many international students, one major barrier is the IELTS requirement. The good news?
Several Dutch universities and scholarship programs allow students to apply without IELTS.
This guide provides an in-depth look at the Best Dutch Scholarships Without IELTS Requirements, eligibility rules, application procedures, alternative English proofs, required documents, and expert tips for approval. Designed with SEO optimization in mind, this article ensures you attract high intent traffic from students searching for study opportunities in the Netherlands.
Why Study in the Netherlands?
Before jumping to scholarship names, it’s important to understand why the Netherlands has become a top destination for international students:
1. World-Ranking Universities
Dutch universities consistently rank among the top in the world for innovation, technology, agriculture, business, and social sciences.
2. Affordable Compared to Other European Countries
Tuition and living expenses are more reasonable compared to the UK, USA, or Australia.
3. Huge Number of English-Taught Programs
Over 2,100+ English-taught programs make the Netherlands the largest English-program country in Europe after the UK.
4. High Employability
Graduates can stay back and work under the Orientation Year Visa (Zoekjaar).
5. Scholarships Available for All Levels
From bachelor’s to doctoral degrees, there are multiple funded and partially funded opportunities.
Can You Study in the Netherlands Without IELTS?
Yes, you can!
Many Dutch universities accept alternative English proficiency proofs, including:
- Previous education in English
- MOI (Medium of Instruction) Certificate
- TOEFL or PTE (if students choose non-IELTS options)
- Cambridge English Certificates
- Some universities offer internal English assessment tests
Many scholarships also do not specifically require IELTS if the university itself waives IELTS for the student.
Top Dutch Scholarships Without IELTS Requirements
Below is the complete, updated list of scholarships in the Netherlands that students can apply for without needing IELTS, as long as they meet alternative English criteria.
1. Holland Government Scholarship (Netherlands Scholarship)
This is one of the most prestigious scholarships for international students wanting to study bachelor’s or master’s programs in the Netherlands.
IELTS Requirement?
Not mandatory if:
- The chosen university accepts MOI or alternative certificates.
Benefits
- €5,000 grant in the first year
- Accepted at multiple universities
- Open to non-EU students
Eligibility
- Strong academic profile
- Admission into a participating Dutch university
- English proficiency proof (not necessarily IELTS)
2. Maastricht University NL-High Potential Scholarship
A fully funded scholarship for highly talented non-EU students.
IELTS Requirement?
No, if:
- Student provides MOI
- OR university-accepted English alternative tests
Benefits
- Full tuition fee waiver
- €12,350–€23,750 living allowance
- Health insurance
- Residence permit cost coverage
Eligibility
- Non-EU nationality
- Outstanding academic achievement
- Motivation letter
- Commitment to completing the full degree
3. University of Twente Scholarships (UTS)
Highly competitive and open to master’s program applicants.
IELTS Requirement?
Not mandatory if MOI or university assessment is provided.
Benefits
- Up to €22,000 per academic year
- Opportunity to apply for an additional scholarship extension
Eligibility
- Admission to eligible master’s programs
- Academic excellence
4. Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS)
One of the oldest universities in Europe offers scholarships to top international students.
IELTS Requirement?
Leiden University accepts:
- MOI certificate
- TOEFL/other alternatives
Benefits
- €10,000–€15,000 scholarships
- Partial to full tuition coverage
5. Radboud University Scholarship Programme
Provides generous financial support to non-EU international students.
IELTS Requirement?
Not required if:
- Applicant submits MOI
- English-taught degree proof
Benefits
- Reduction in tuition fees
- Living costs support
- Residence permit sponsorship
6. TU Delft Excellence Scholarships (Justus & Louise van Effen)
Extremely prestigious for STEM fields.
IELTS Requirement?
Optional if:
- Student provides MOI
- OR university accepts alternative certificates
Benefits
- Full tuition fee coverage
- €30,000 living expenses annually
7. Erasmus University Holland Scholarship
Open for all levels — bachelor’s and master’s.
IELTS Requirement?
Can be waived depending on program requirements.
Benefits
- €5,000–€10,000 grant
- Open to all international students
8. University of Groningen Talent Grants
A popular program for master’s students across diverse fields.
IELTS Requirement?
University accepts MOI or Cambridge English tests.
Benefits
- €3,000–€15,000 based on program
- Highly inclusive and flexible
9. VU Amsterdam Fellowship Programme (VUFP)
Offers opportunities for excellent international students.
IELTS Requirement?
Not required if:
- English degree-taught certificate is provided
Benefits
- Full tuition fee coverage
- Can be paired with Holland Scholarship
10. Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP)
Funded by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs for developing countries.
IELTS Requirement?
MOI or alternative tests are accepted.
Benefits
- Full funding
- Travel
- Insurance
- Tuition
How to Study in the Netherlands Dutch Scholarships Without IELTS
Here is the complete process for applying without IELTS:
1. Get an MOI Certificate (Mandatory for Waiver)
Issued by your previous school/college confirming:
- You studied in English
- Subjects were taught in English
- Your ability to use English academically
2. Apply to Universities That Accept MOI
Many Dutch universities accept MOI, including:
- University of Amsterdam (in selective cases)
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
- Radboud University
- University of Groningen
- TU Delft
- Utrecht University
- Maastricht University
3. Attend University Internal English Test (If Required)
Some universities may ask students to complete an online English proficiency test.
4. Submit All Required Documents
- Academic transcripts
- Passport
- Motivation letter
- CV
- Reference letters
- Scholarship essay (if required)
5. Apply for Dutch Scholarships After University Admission
Many Dutch scholarships require you to secure an admission first.
Why Do Dutch Scholarships Universities Waive IELTS?
Netherlands is known for its flexible international student policies.
Common reasons include:
✔ High English proficiency around the world
✔ Availability of alternative, equally reliable tests
✔ The MOI certificate gives verified proof of English usage
✔ Universities want to reduce financial barriers
Tips to Increase Your Dutch Scholarships Approval Chances
Here are expert-level tips to strengthen your application:
1. Strong Motivation Letter
Explain why you want to study in the Netherlands and how you will benefit from the scholarship.
2. High Academic Scores
Dutch universities are highly selective.
3. Showcase Extracurricular Activities
Leadership and volunteering work play an important role.
4. Apply Early
Most scholarship quotas fill up quickly.
5. Use Professional CV Format
Include:
- Education
- Projects
- Skills
- Achievements
6. Choose Courses Relevant to Your Background
Misaligned course selections reduce approval chances.
Documents Required for Dutch Scholarships Without IELTS
- Academic transcripts
- Passport copy
- Medium of Instruction Certificate
- Motivation Letter
- Curriculum Vitae
- Recommendation Letters
- Scholarship Personal Statement
- Portfolio (if applying for design/arts programs)
Best Cities in the Netherlands for International Students
- Amsterdam
- Rotterdam
- The Hague
- Groningen
- Eindhoven
- Utrecht
Affordable, safe, and student-friendly.
Career Prospects After Studying in the Netherlands
Students can stay for 1 year under the Orientation Year Visa to find jobs in:
- Engineering
- Data Science
- Business
- Finance
- Agriculture
- Artificial Intelligence
- Healthcare
- Logistics
Average salaries range between €30,000–€55,000 for fresh graduates.
Also Read: Which Canadian Scholarships Are Available for International Students in 2025?
Sources
FAQs
1. Can I apply for scholarships in the Netherlands without IELTS?
Yes,Dutch Scholarships if the university accepts MOI or alternative English proof.
2. Is MOI accepted across all Dutch universities?
Most universities accept it, but requirements may vary by department.
3. Which Dutch scholarship is easiest to get without IELTS?
The Holland Government Scholarship and university-specific scholarships like UTS and LExS.
4. Are Dutch scholarships fully funded?
Some are fully funded (e.g., Maastricht High Potential), while others offer partial funding.
5. Do I need Dutch language skills?
No, English is widely used in education and daily life.
6. Can I work part-time while studying?
Yes, Dutch Scholarshipsstudents can work up to 16 hours per week or full-time during holidays.
7. Is the Netherlands safe for international students?
Yes,Dutch Scholarships it’s considered one of the safest countries in Europe.
8. What is the average living cost?
€900–€1,300 per month depending on the city.
9. Which programs are popular in the Netherlands Dutch Scholarships?
Engineering, Business, Agriculture, AI, Social Sciences, and Environmental Studies.
10. How early should I apply Dutch Scholarships?
Ideally 6–12 months before the intake.