International students seeking a fully funded master’s degree in Europe can apply for the Maastricht University NL-High Potential Scholarship 2027–2028.
The scholarship is offered by Maastricht University in the Netherlands to academically outstanding students from countries outside the European Union and European Economic Area.
Applications for the 2027–2028 academic session are expected to open on 1 October 2026.
About the Maastricht University NL-High Potential Scholarship
The Maastricht University NL-High Potential Scholarship is a highly competitive programme designed to support talented international students who have been admitted to selected full-time master’s programmes at Maastricht University.
Approximately 21 scholarships are awarded each academic year. Due to the limited number of awards, applicants are expected to demonstrate excellent academic performance, leadership potential, extracurricular involvement and a strong motivation for studying at Maastricht University.
Scholarship Benefits
Successful applicants may receive the following benefits:
- Full tuition fee coverage
- Monthly living allowance
- Health and liability insurance
- Visa application expenses
- Pre-academic training expenses
- Support before arrival in the Netherlands
- Assistance with accommodation arrangements
Applicants should note that international flight expenses are generally not included in the scholarship.
Eligible Degree Level
The scholarship is available for selected:
- Full-time master’s degree programmes
It is not available for bachelor’s programmes, short courses or part-time programmes.
Eligible Fields and Programmes
The scholarship does not cover every programme offered by Maastricht University. Applicants must apply to a master’s programme included on the university’s official list of participating programmes.
Eligible programmes may be available within areas such as:
- Business and Economics
- Law, including selected Law and Artificial Intelligence programmes
- Health, Medicine and Life Sciences
- Psychology and Neuroscience
- Arts and Social Sciences
Applicants should not assume that all programmes in Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, Engineering or Sustainability are automatically eligible. The official list of participating programmes should be checked before submitting an application.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants generally must meet the following requirements:
- Be a national of a country outside the EU, EEA, Switzerland or Surinam
- Meet the immigration requirements for obtaining a Dutch residence permit and entry visa
- Not hold dual nationality from an EU or EEA country
- Apply for admission to an eligible full-time master’s programme at Maastricht University
- Meet the academic and admission requirements of the selected programme
- Be 35 years old or younger at the relevant eligibility date
- Have an excellent academic record
- Not have previously completed a full degree programme in the Netherlands
- Demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, extracurricular involvement and financial need
Applicants who have previously participated in a short exchange programme in the Netherlands may still be eligible.
Academic Requirements
The scholarship is intended for high-performing students. Applicants are normally expected to have an academic score of at least 75 per cent or its equivalent.
A strong application may also include:
- Excellent undergraduate results
- Relevant professional or research experience
- Leadership activities
- Community service or volunteer experience
- A clear and convincing motivation letter
- Strong academic references
Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee selection because the scholarship is extremely competitive.
Application Timeline
Applications for the 2027–2028 academic year are expected to follow this schedule:
- Scholarship applications open: 1 October 2026
- Recommended deadline for applying to the master’s programme through Studielink: 8 December 2026
- Scholarship closing date: To be confirmed on the official application page
Applicants should begin preparing their documents early because they must first apply for admission to an eligible master’s programme before completing the scholarship application.
How to Apply
Step 1: Select an Eligible Master’s Programme
Visit Maastricht University’s website and confirm that your chosen programme is included on the official scholarship eligibility list.
Step 2: Apply Through Studielink
Submit an application for admission to the selected master’s programme through Studielink.
After registration, the applicant will receive a Maastricht University student identification number. This number will be required for the scholarship application.
Step 3: Complete the Scholarship Application Form
Applicants must complete the official NL-High Potential Scholarship application form and upload all required supporting documents.
Step 4: Submit the Required Documents
Documents may include:
- Curriculum vitae
- Motivation letter
- Proof of academic excellence
- Academic transcripts
- Personal financial statement
- Reference letter
- Contact details of an academic referee
- Proof of admission application
Applicants should follow the university’s specified templates and document requirements.
Important Application Tips
Applicants should carefully explain why they selected Maastricht University and how the programme relates to their academic and professional goals.
The motivation letter should demonstrate:
- Strong academic ability
- Clear career objectives
- Leadership potential
- Commitment to making a positive impact
- Evidence of extracurricular or community involvement
- A genuine need for financial support
Applicants should also contact their referees early and ensure that reference letters are submitted according to the university’s instructions.
Is the Scholarship Fully Funded?
Yes. The Maastricht University NL-High Potential Scholarship provides extensive financial support, including full tuition fees, living expenses, insurance and visa-related costs.
However, recipients should read the official funding conditions carefully, as some personal expenses and international travel costs may not be covered.
Final Thoughts
The Maastricht University NL-High Potential Scholarship is an excellent opportunity for academically outstanding international students who want to pursue a master’s degree in the Netherlands.
Because only a small number of scholarships are awarded each year, applicants should prepare a strong academic profile, compelling motivation letter and complete supporting documents well before the application deadline.
Applications for the 2027–2028 academic year are expected to open on 1 October 2026.
Applicants are encouraged to verify the final deadlines, eligible programmes, scholarship amounts and application requirements on the official Maastricht University website before applying.
