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NL Scholarship

NETHERLANDS: The NL Scholarships

About the Scholarship

The Government of the Netherlands is offering the NL Scholarship for international students from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) to pursue a bachelor’s or master’s degree in the Netherlands for the 2026–2027 academic year.

This scholarship is funded by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science, together with several Dutch research universities and universities of applied sciences.

Deadlines

Deadlines vary by institution. Applicants must verify the specific closing date on the website of their chosen institution.


Who can apply for the scholarship?

Applicants must:

  • Be South African citizens in good health;
  • Have been born before 31 August 2008;
  • Have a strong academic record:
    • Bachelor’s applicants: Minimum average of 60% in the NSC (excluding Life Orientation);
    • Postgraduate applicants: Minimum average of 60% in their previous degree;
  • Demonstrate a genuine interest in studying in Hungary and a commitment to South Africa’s development;
  • Be available and eligible to commence studies in September 2026;
  • Meet the entry requirements for their chosen programme in Hungary;
  • Not already be enrolled as a self-funded student in Hungary at a level below their current studies (e.g. a self-funded Master’s student cannot apply for Bachelor’s studies).

Please note: Successful applicants must present a medical certificate during the compulsory medical examination in Hungary.


Fields of Study

Bachelor’s and master’s programmes in eligible fields as offered by participating institutions.

Participating Dutch Research Universities (2026–2027)

Participating Universities of Applied Sciences (2026–2027)


What the scholarship offers

A €5,000 grant.

*Please note: This is not a full-tuition scholarship. The grant is awarded for 1 year and can only be received once.


Application process

  • Applications must be submitted directly to the participating institution.
  • Applicants must check the website of their chosen institution for:
    • the correct application procedure, and
    • the specific closing date.

For detailed guidance, refer to the participating institutions’ official websites.


Contact

For general enquiries, please visit: https://www.studyinnl.org/contact-details/.


Documents and links

NL Scholarship Website  

NL Scholarship application guide (video)

NL scholarship flyer

Code of Conduct


Note

Please note that this opportunity is not offered by the Department of Higher Education and Training. Applicants are required to undertake their own research into programmes and institutions and are responsible for ensuring that the qualifications will be recognised in South Africa by contacting the South African Qualifications Authority and the relevant professional bodies. If there are any discrepancies in the details provided, the information given by the sponsor supersedes the details provided above. No additional financial support will be provided by the Department of Higher Education and Training.