Netherlands Government Scholarships 2026-2027: Complete Guide After Orange Knowledge Programme Ended

The Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP) has officially ended. However, the Netherlands continues to offer various government-supported and university-specific scholarships for international students in 2026-2027. Key active programs include the NL Scholarship (formerly Holland Scholarship) and the Orange Tulip Scholarship (OTS), alongside numerous excellence scholarships offered directly by Dutch universities. This guide provides an overview of these opportunities for students from non-EEA countries like Ethiopia.

Scholarship benefits vary significantly by program. The NL Scholarship provides a one-time award of €5,000, which does not cover full tuition and living costs. Orange Tulip Scholarships typically offer partial tuition support, ranging from €5,000 to €15,000. University-specific excellence scholarships are often fully funded, covering tuition fees, a monthly living stipend, and sometimes travel grants and health/travel insurance. All scholarships provide access to high-quality English-taught education and opportunities for professional networking.

Most Netherlands scholarships for international students require applicants to be non-EEA/non-Dutch nationals. You must hold an offer of admission, or be in the process of applying, to a full-time Bachelor's or Master's degree program at a participating Dutch institution. Applicants must meet the academic requirements of their chosen program and demonstrate English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS or TOEFL scores), though some universities offer exemptions. Some scholarships, particularly those for mid-career professionals, may require relevant work experience.

General application documents typically include a valid passport copy, academic transcripts and degree certificates, a letter of motivation or statement of purpose, two academic or professional recommendation letters, an updated CV/resume, proof of English language proficiency (if required), and a university admission letter or proof of application.

1. Choose your program: Use the Studyfinder tool to explore Bachelor's or Master's programs at Dutch universities. 2. Check scholarship eligibility: Visit the scholarship section of your chosen university's website or the Study in NL's official scholarship finder to identify applicable scholarships (e.g., NL Scholarship, university-specific awards). 3. Apply to the university first: Most Dutch scholarships require you to have applied for, or been accepted into, an academic program before your scholarship application can be considered. 4. Submit the scholarship application: Follow the specific instructions and deadlines provided by the university or the Nuffic Neso office in your home country. 5. Prepare visa documents: Once you receive a scholarship offer, prepare the necessary documents for your Netherlands student visa.

The Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP) and StuNed Scholarship are no longer accepting new applications. While the NL Scholarship and Orange Tulip Scholarship are generally partial, many university-specific excellence awards can be fully funded. Most scholarships require prior admission to a degree program. English language proficiency is usually required, but exemptions exist.