For talented international students aspiring to pursue their master’s degrees at Utrecht University, the Utrecht Excellence Scholarship (UES) offers a remarkable opportunity. Designed for non-European Economic Area (EEA) students, this highly selective programme is tailored for those who demonstrate exceptional academic promise and wish to study in the Netherlands.
Key Information
Excel in IELTS with India’s Top Online Coaching
Leap has helped more than 1 Lakh students achieve 7+ IELTS band.
- Country: Netherlands
- Level of Study: Masters
- Program Period: 1-2 Years
- Deadline: 1st February 2025
Eligibility Criteria
- Non-EU/EEA Nationality: Applicants must not hold an EU/EEA passport or be eligible for support under the Dutch study grant and loan system.
- Top Academic Performance: You must be among the top 10% of your graduating class.
- Educational Background: Your secondary school and/or bachelor’s degree must have been completed outside the Netherlands.
- Master’s Programme Application: You must have applied for an international master’s programme at Utrecht University starting 1 September 2025.
Note: Not all programmes participate. Please check Master’s programme > Tuition fees and financial support to see if the Utrecht Excellence Scholarship is mentioned as a scholarship opportunity.
Excel in IELTS with India’s Top Online Coaching
Leap has helped more than 1 Lakh students achieve 7+ IELTS band.
Scholarship Amount
The Utrecht Excellence Scholarship provides funding in two forms:
- Coverage of the tuition fee.
- Coverage of the tuition fee plus the income required for one year, as determined by the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) for a residence permit.
For two-year master’s programmes, the scholarship can be renewed for the second year, contingent upon satisfactory academic progress.
Application Deadline
Prospective students must apply by 1st February 2025. Late applications will not be considered, and the selection process begins after the deadline. Results are typically announced by mid-April.
Explore all countries
Selection Criteria
Applicants are evaluated based on the following:
- Academic Excellence: Evidence of belonging to the top 10% of your graduating class is crucial. This can include a class ranking certificate, GPA with a grade distribution summary, or a reference letter signed and stamped by your university.
- Motivation Letter: The quality and relevance of your motivation letter, highlighting academic interests, intercultural skills, and personal aspirations, play a significant role.
- Master’s Application Quality: Completeness, accuracy, and consistency of your master’s programme application are vital.
How to Apply?
- Submit an application for an eligible master’s programme by the programme deadline.
- From 1 November 2024, eligible non-EU/EEA students can apply for the Utrecht Excellence Scholarship through their OSIRIS Online Application account.
- Upload the required documents, including proof of belonging to the top 10% of your class, and answer the related questions.
- Submit the application. Early submissions are strongly recommended to allow time for document review and potential corrections.
Conclusion
The Utrecht Excellence Scholarship is more than just financial support; it is an endorsement of your academic potential and a pathway to a world-class education. If you meet the eligibility criteria and aspire to excel in your chosen field, this scholarship is your chance to make that dream a reality. Start your application early, and prepare to join a community of exceptional scholars at this university.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Q. Can I apply if I hold an EU/EEA passport?
No, the scholarship is only for students without EU/EEA nationality.
-
Q. How are candidates selected?
Based on academic excellence, quality of the motivation letter, and the completeness of the master’s programme application.
-
Q. How do I prove I am in the top 10% of my class?
Submit a class ranking certificate, GPA summary, or a reference letter signed and stamped by your university.
-
Q. What happens if my academic performance drops after receiving the scholarship?
Continuation of the scholarship for two-year programmes depends on satisfactory academic progress as determined by Utrecht University.
-
Q. Who is eligible for the Utrecht Excellence Scholarship?
Non-EU/EEA students in the top 10% of their graduating class who have completed their education outside the Netherlands.
Have Questions? Get Guidance to reach your Dream University
Connect with India's finest counsellors and biggest study abroad community.
Get Guidance