If you are a student from Peru, you can compete for several kinds of funding to study in the Netherlands. The best options are usually university scholarships, Erasmus Mundus joint programmes, and a few government or external schemes that depend on your level and subject. None of them is automatic, so the key is to check the official source early and prepare a strong file.
What scholarships are usually realistic
For many Peruvian students, the most realistic options are master's scholarships and tuition waivers at Dutch universities. Some bachelor scholarships exist too, but they are usually fewer and more competitive.
- University scholarships - often for international students with strong grades.
- Erasmus Mundus - for joint master's programmes across several European universities.
- Government or public programmes - these come and go, and rules can change by year.
- Faculty or subject awards - smaller grants for a specific school, programme, or research area.
As a student from Peru, you can usually apply if the scholarship is open to non-EU students and your degree fits the programme. Always read the eligibility rules on the scholarship's own site and the university's admissions page.
University scholarships and tuition waivers
Many Dutch universities offer their own scholarships for talented international students. These are often the most common option and can reduce tuition, living costs, or both.
- Typical requirements: very good grades, a relevant degree, English test results, a strong motivation letter, and sometimes references.
- Sometimes needed: proof of leadership, work experience, portfolio, or research interest.
- Selection style: academic merit is often the main factor, but fit with the programme also matters.
Deadlines are usually earlier than the general admission deadline. Many scholarships open when applications for the next academic year open, often from late autumn to early winter, but each university sets its own dates. Check the programme page and scholarship page for the exact window.
Erasmus Mundus joint master's
Erasmus Mundus is one of the strongest options if you want a fully international master's degree. These programmes are run by a group of universities, often in different countries, and many include scholarships.
- Who can apply: students from Peru can usually apply if they meet the academic and language rules.
- Typical requirements: a completed bachelor's degree, transcripts, English proof, CV, motivation letter, and sometimes recommendation letters.
- What makes a file strong: high grades, clear academic goals, and a profile that matches the subject.
Applications often open around autumn for study starting the following year. The exact deadline depends on the consortium, so check the official Erasmus Mundus programme page. If you are applying, do not wait until the last week. You may need time for certified documents, translations, and references.
Government and external funding
Government funding for study in the Netherlands is more limited for students from outside the EU. Some national or bilateral schemes may appear in some years, but they are not as common as university scholarships.
- Check first: the Dutch university's admissions page and the national scholarship database or official scholarship portal named in the call.
- Typical rules: they may ask for excellent grades, a specific field, a return-to-country plan, or proof that you need funding.
- Be careful: some external awards fund only a part of tuition or only a short exchange period.
If a scholarship is linked to a public body, always read the official source. Do not rely on social media posts or old blog pages, because funding rules can change from year to year.
How to build a strong application
A good scholarship file is not only about grades. It is also about showing that you are ready, organised, and a good match for the programme.
- Prepare academic documents: transcripts, degree certificate, and grading scale if available.
- Write a clear motivation letter: explain what you want to study, why the Netherlands, and how the scholarship helps your plan.
- Use strong English proof: IELTS, TOEFL, or another accepted test, if the programme asks for it.
- Ask for references early: teachers or employers need time to write a good letter.
- Add extra proof when relevant: research, internships, volunteering, portfolio, or awards.
For a scholarship, a complete file matters a lot. Missing documents can make you lose a chance even if your grades are good. Many universities also want scanned copies that are clear and easy to verify.
When scholarships usually open
There is no single date for all Dutch scholarships, but many follow the academic year. A simple rule is to start looking well before the programme deadline.
- Autumn to winter: many calls open for the next academic year.
- Winter to early spring: many scholarship deadlines fall in this period.
- Spring to summer: some programmes still accept applications, but funding choices may already be limited.
Check three official places: the university admissions page, the scholarship's own site, and the programme page. If you are not sure which deadline applies, use the earliest one as your target.
Common questions
Can a student from Peru apply for scholarships in the Netherlands?
Yes, in many cases. Many Dutch scholarships are open to non-EU students, including students from Peru, if you meet the academic and language rules.
Do scholarships cover all costs?
Sometimes, but not always. Some cover full tuition and living costs, while others only give a tuition reduction or a partial grant. Read the official scholarship terms carefully.
What is the best place to start?
Start with the programme page of the degree you want. Then check the university scholarship page and the official Erasmus Mundus or scholarship site if the programme is joint or external.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level and documents, so you can be found by admissions offices searching for exactly that. When they find a match, they can write first.
Rules, fees and deadlines change. Check the university's own admissions page and the official immigration site of the country before you act on anything here.