If you are from South Africa and want to study in the Netherlands, there are a few scholarship routes worth checking. The most realistic ones are university scholarships, Erasmus Mundus programmes, and some external funds. Most are competitive, so a strong profile and complete documents matter a lot.
Main scholarship routes
For most South African students, the best places to look are:
- University scholarships and tuition waivers
- Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters scholarships
- Government or exchange programmes, when open to your field or country
- Private foundations and subject-specific funds
Always check the university's admissions page, the scholarship's own site, or the official programme page. Rules change often, and the exact offer depends on the study programme.
University scholarships and fee waivers
Many Dutch universities offer scholarships for excellent international students. These are often partial, not full. They may reduce tuition fees, give a living-cost grant, or both.
Typical requirements include:
- A strong academic record
- Admission, or at least an application, to a full degree programme
- Proof of English, such as IELTS or TOEFL, if the programme asks for it
- A motivation letter
- CV and transcripts
Many of these scholarships open once a year, often around the same time as admission for the next academic year. Some close early, before the final admission deadline. Check the programme page carefully, because the scholarship deadline is often earlier than the study deadline.
Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters
Erasmus Mundus is one of the best-known international scholarship routes for master's study in Europe. Some programmes include study in the Netherlands for one semester or one year, and some include a Dutch university as part of the full degree.
This route is realistic if you have strong grades and a clear study plan. Many awards are very competitive and may cover tuition, travel, insurance, and a monthly allowance, but you should always confirm the current package on the programme's official page.
What they usually ask for:
- Good academic results
- Degree certificate or proof you will finish soon
- English test results, if required by the consortium
- CV
- Motivation letter
- References
These programmes usually open in the autumn for study starting the next academic year. Deadlines vary, but many close between winter and early spring. Start early, because references and test results can take time.
Government and external programmes
Some government or public programmes may support study, research, or exchange, but they are less common than university scholarships for full degree study. They can also be limited to certain fields, partner universities, or short stays.
If you see a government scheme, check:
- Who can apply, by nationality and study level
- Whether you need a nomination from your home university
- Whether it is for exchange, master's, or research only
- What costs are covered
- The official closing date
For South African students, some opportunities may come through bilateral agreements, development funds, or partnerships between universities. These are not always open every year, so it helps to follow your own university's international office and the Dutch university's scholarship pages.
What you usually need to be competitive
Scholarships in the Netherlands are selective. A good application is not only about grades. It is about showing that you are ready for the programme and can explain your goals clearly.
Common documents and strengths include:
- Clear transcripts with strong marks
- Relevant degree or diploma for the level you want
- English proof, if the programme requires it
- A short, focused motivation letter
- Two strong references, if asked for
- Proof of extra projects, internships, research, or leadership
Some scholarships also look at the fit between your background and the programme. If your field is a close match, say so. If you have gaps, explain them simply and honestly.
How to plan your timing
A good rule is to begin 8 to 12 months before your intended start date. That gives you time to choose programmes, prepare documents, and pass any language test.
In general:
- Autumn: many scholarship calls for the next academic year open
- Winter to early spring: many deadlines fall
- Spring to summer: admission decisions and scholarship results are often sent
Do not wait for one answer before applying elsewhere. You can apply to several scholarships and programmes, as long as each one allows it.
Common questions
Can South African students get full funding in the Netherlands?
Sometimes, yes, but full funding is rare and very competitive. Erasmus Mundus and a few university schemes may cover most costs, but many awards are partial.
Do I need to be admitted before I apply for a scholarship?
It depends on the scholarship. Some require admission first, while others let you apply at the same time. Check the university's scholarship page closely.
What if I do not have a perfect average?
You can still apply, especially if the scholarship also values motivation, relevant experience, or a strong match with the programme. A clear application and complete documents can help a lot.
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.
It saves time and helps you stay visible to programmes that match your background.
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.