Scholarships to Study in Amsterdam, Netherlands
The Netherlands' Holland Scholarship and highly ranked English-taught programs make it a competitive but rewarding destination — provided your university shortlist and document authentication are handled correctly from the outset. Review our foundational guides before diving into Amsterdam's specific opportunities.
Introduction
The Netherlands has become one of Europe's most popular destinations for English-taught international education, combining high academic quality with a famously international, English-friendly culture. Amsterdam, the capital, offers world-class universities alongside a globally connected, bike-friendly urban environment that attracts students from every continent.
Why Study in the Netherlands
Dutch universities consistently rank among the world's best, and the country offers one of the highest concentrations of English-taught bachelor's and master's programs in continental Europe. Amsterdam specifically provides direct access to multinational corporations, a thriving startup scene, and a genuinely international social environment where English functions as an everyday language.
Scholarships Available
- Holland Scholarship: A national scholarship for non-EEA students, covering a one-time award toward tuition and living costs at participating universities.
- Amsterdam Excellence Scholarship: Merit-based, covering full tuition and living expenses for select master's students at the University of Amsterdam.
- Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees: Many hosted through Dutch universities, offering full funding.
- VU Amsterdam Fellowship Programme: For high-achieving international master's students.
Top Universities
- University of Amsterdam (UvA) – Comprehensive research university, strong across social sciences, humanities, and sciences
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU) – Notable for business, law, and interdisciplinary research
- Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences – Leading applied and vocational-oriented programs
- Delft University of Technology (nearby, frequently cross-applied) – Top-ranked for engineering and technology
Admission Requirements
- Recognized secondary/bachelor's qualification meeting Dutch equivalency standards
- IELTS/TOEFL for English-taught programs (majority of international offerings)
- Academic transcripts with certified translation
- Motivation letter and CV
- Letters of recommendation for graduate programs
Required Documents
- Valid passport
- Apostilled academic transcripts and diplomas with certified translation
- English proficiency test results
- Proof of financial means (approximately €13,000+/year required for visa purposes)
- Health/travel insurance confirmation
- Conditional or unconditional offer letter from the university
Student Visa
Non-EU/EEA students require a combined Entry Visa (MVV) and Residence Permit, typically arranged directly through the university under the Institution as Recognized Sponsor scheme, simplifying the process considerably. Students must register with the local municipality (BRP) shortly after arrival.
Cost of Living
Amsterdam is one of the pricier Dutch cities:
- Rent: €800–€1,300/month (student housing highly competitive; book early)
- Food: €250–€350/month
- Transport: €50–€75/month (student discounts available on OV-chipkaart)
- Utilities/Internet: €100–€130/month
- Total estimated monthly budget: €1,250–€1,750
Tuition Fees
- EU/EEA students: €2,500–€3,000/year (statutory fee)
- Non-EU students: €8,000–€20,000/year depending on program and institution
- Specialized master's programs (business, engineering) can reach €25,000+/year
Best Scholarships
The Holland Scholarship provides a valuable entry-level award (typically €5,000) for non-EEA students in their first year, often combined with university-specific merit scholarships like the Amsterdam Excellence Scholarship for higher-need or high-achieving applicants.
Application Timeline
| Stage | Timing |
|---|---|
| Program research | 10–12 months before |
| University application | October–January (via Studielink) |
| Holland Scholarship application | Typically by February 1 |
| Visa/MVV processing (via university) | 3–4 months before start |
| Arrival and BRP registration | August–September |
FAQ
Is Dutch language proficiency necessary?
No, the vast majority of international programs are taught entirely in English, and daily life in Amsterdam is very manageable in English alone.
Is student housing difficult to find in Amsterdam?
Yes, housing is highly competitive; students should apply for university-affiliated housing as early as possible, ideally immediately after receiving an offer.
Can international students work part-time?
Yes, non-EU students can work up to 16 hours/week during term time, or full-time during summer months, with appropriate work permits.
Are Dutch universities good for research-focused students?
Yes, Dutch universities consistently perform strongly in global research rankings, particularly in social sciences, environmental studies, and technology.
Conclusion
The Netherlands offers an exceptional combination of English-taught academic excellence, international culture, and relatively accessible scholarship funding through the Holland Scholarship and university-specific awards. Early planning around housing and visa arrangements is essential given Amsterdam's high demand among international students.