If you are from Georgia and want to study in the Netherlands, you can usually look at three main scholarship paths: government or national programmes, university scholarships and fee waivers, and Erasmus Mundus joint degrees. Most awards are competitive and only cover part of the cost, so a strong profile and complete documents matter a lot.
Main scholarship options
The scholarships you can realistically compete for depend on your level of study, your grades, your English level, and the programme you choose. Many Dutch scholarships are for master's study, not every bachelor's programme.
- Government or national scholarships - these are usually linked to the Dutch state, international exchange bodies, or bilateral programmes. They often have strict eligibility rules.
- University scholarships - many universities offer their own waivers or awards for talented international students. These are often tied to specific master's programmes.
- Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters - these are international master's programmes funded by the EU. They can be very competitive, but they are one of the best-known full funding routes.
- Private or foundation grants - these exist, but they are less common and may be limited to certain fields or backgrounds.
For every scholarship, check the official source first: the scholarship's own website, the university's admissions page, or the programme page. Rules can change from year to year.
Government and national programmes
In the Netherlands, government-linked funding is often limited and may not be open to all students from Georgia. Some programmes are aimed at students from certain partner countries, while others focus on short exchanges, research, or specific subjects.
- Read the eligibility list carefully. Nationality, residence, and study level all matter.
- Some schemes ask for proof that you live in Georgia, not only that you are a Georgian citizen.
- Many require admission to a Dutch university before you apply for the scholarship.
- Typical documents include a passport, diploma or transcript, motivation letter, CV, and proof of English.
Timing varies, but these programmes often open months before the academic year starts. If you plan to start in September, check from late autumn to early spring on the official scholarship page and the Dutch university page that interests you.
University scholarships and tuition waivers
University scholarships are often the most realistic option for a student from Georgia who has strong grades and a clear study plan. Dutch universities commonly offer scholarships for non-EU students, but not every programme has one.
- They are usually for master's programmes, especially in science, engineering, business, and social sciences.
- They may cover part of tuition, or sometimes a larger package that includes living costs, but full funding is less common.
- Some require you to apply for admission and scholarship at the same time.
- Others only consider students after they receive an admission offer.
What they usually ask for:
- Strong bachelor grades
- A good motivation letter
- English test results, if the programme requires them
- A CV with relevant study, work, or volunteer experience
- Recommendation letters for some programmes
Deadlines are often earlier than the main admission deadline. Many scholarship rounds open in autumn or winter for the next academic year, but you should always check the programme page because some close in December, some in January, and some later.
Erasmus Mundus joint degrees
Erasmus Mundus programmes are worth checking if you want a master's degree with study in more than one country. Many students from Georgia compete for them, and strong academic results can help a lot.
- They are usually full-time master's programmes.
- You may study at two or more universities during the degree.
- Funding, when awarded, can include tuition and a monthly grant, but the exact package depends on the programme.
- Selection is based on grades, fit with the subject, motivation, and proof that you can study in English.
These programmes usually open about a year before the course starts. For example, a September start often means applications open in autumn or winter of the previous year. Check the official Erasmus Mundus programme page for the exact window.
What a strong profile looks like
A strong profile does not guarantee funding, but it helps you get noticed. Scholarship committees usually want clear evidence that you can finish the programme and use it well.
- Good grades - especially in subjects related to your chosen degree.
- Clear field match - your past study should connect to the master’s subject.
- English proof - IELTS, TOEFL, or another accepted test if required.
- Motivation letter - explain why this programme, why the Netherlands, and why now.
- CV - include internships, jobs, projects, research, and volunteering.
- Documents ready early - transcript, diploma, passport, references, and translations if needed.
If your documents are incomplete, you may miss the deadline even if your profile is strong. Keep certified copies, translated versions, and scans ready before applications open.
How to improve your chances
You can make your application stronger by applying to a focused list of programmes instead of many random ones. Choose scholarships that match your subject, your level, and your background.
- Start with the university admissions page, then open the scholarship page for that same programme.
- Check whether you need first admission, or whether scholarship and admission happen together.
- Ask for references early, because teachers and employers may need time.
- Write one base motivation letter, then adapt it for each scholarship.
- Track deadlines in a simple calendar and work backwards from them.
Also check whether the scholarship wants only academic excellence or also leadership, social impact, or financial need. Different awards use different criteria, and this changes from one university to another.
Common questions
Can I get a full scholarship in the Netherlands?
Yes, but full scholarships are limited and competitive. Many awards only cover part of the cost, so check the official scholarship page for what it really includes.
Do I need admission before I apply for a scholarship?
Sometimes yes, sometimes no. Many university scholarships need you to apply for admission at the same time or first get an offer, so always check the programme page.
When should I start preparing?
Start as early as possible, ideally many months before the deadline. You will need time for transcripts, language tests, references, and a good motivation letter.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level and documents, and admissions offices that search for exactly that can find you and write first.
This does not mean you will get a scholarship, but it can help the right universities notice your profile sooner.
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.