If you are from Colombia and want to study in the Netherlands, there are a few scholarship paths worth checking first. The most realistic options are university scholarships, Erasmus Mundus programmes, and some external awards. Most are competitive, so a strong profile and complete documents matter a lot.
Main scholarship paths to check
The Netherlands does not have one single scholarship for every student. You usually apply through the university, the programme, or the scholarship provider. Always check the official scholarship page and the programme page, because rules can change from year to year.
- University scholarships - Many Dutch universities offer merit-based awards for non-EU students, often as tuition waivers or partial grants.
- Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters - These are international master's programmes with their own scholarship competition. They are open to strong students from many countries, including Colombia.
- Orange Tulip Scholarship - In some years, Dutch institutions and partners offer this to students from selected countries. Check whether Colombia is included in the current round.
- External scholarships - Some students also combine Dutch study with support from Colombian or international foundations, employers, or development programmes.
Government and national programmes
There is no broad Dutch government scholarship that guarantees support for all international students. For most Colombian students, the practical route is usually through the university or a joint programme.
- Check the Nuffic website for current Dutch scholarship schemes and country-specific information.
- Check the university admissions page to see if the programme has its own funding for non-EU students.
- Check the scholarship's own site for country eligibility, deadlines, and whether you must first receive an admission offer.
If a scholarship is linked to a university, you often need to apply for admission before you can be considered for the award. Some scholarships need a separate form. Others use one application for both study and funding.
University waivers and merit scholarships
Many Dutch universities offer tuition discounts or full/partial scholarships for excellent students. These are often the most realistic option if your grades are strong and your documents are ready early.
Typical requirements include:
- Strong academic results from your high school or previous degree
- Proof of English, usually IELTS, TOEFL, or another accepted test
- A motivation letter that shows a clear study plan
- Sometimes a CV, recommendation letters, or a portfolio
- Sometimes proof that you are a non-EU student and will pay the non-EU tuition fee if not awarded funding
These scholarships often open around the same time as admissions, and many deadlines fall between late autumn and early spring for programmes starting the next academic year. Some universities set earlier scholarship deadlines than admission deadlines, so check both dates carefully on the programme page.
Erasmus Mundus scholarships
Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters can be a strong option if you want a fully international master's degree. These programmes often include study in more than one country, and the scholarship can cover tuition and living costs, but the competition is strong.
What they usually ask for:
- A completed bachelor's degree or proof you will graduate before the programme starts
- Very good academic records
- English proof, and sometimes another language requirement depending on the programme
- A strong CV and motivation letter
- Sometimes reference letters and proof of relevant experience
Applications usually open once a year, often in autumn, with deadlines commonly in winter or early spring. Each programme has its own schedule, so the official consortium page is the only safe place to check.
What makes your profile stronger
Scholarships are not only about grades. Selection teams also look for fit, clarity, and evidence that you can succeed in the programme.
- Clear study goal - Explain what you want to study and why that programme fits your plans.
- Good English level - Meet or exceed the required score if possible.
- Clean documents - Keep diplomas, transcripts, passport copy, and translations ready.
- Relevant experience - Projects, volunteering, work, or research can help, especially for master's applications.
- Well written motivation - Use simple, specific reasons. Avoid vague claims.
If your documents are not ready, you may miss the scholarship deadline even if your profile is strong. Start early and make sure every file is readable, correct, and in the format the university asks for.
How to choose realistic options
A realistic plan is better than applying everywhere. Start by separating options into three groups: high competition, medium competition, and backup choices.
- High competition - Erasmus Mundus and top university scholarships.
- Medium competition - University merit scholarships with several seats or partial funding.
- Backup choices - Partial waivers, smaller awards, or programmes with lower tuition.
Also check whether the scholarship covers only tuition or also living costs, insurance, and travel. In the Netherlands, living costs can be significant, so a tuition waiver alone may not be enough for every student.
Common questions
Do I need admission before I can apply for a scholarship?
Often yes, but not always. Some scholarships require a programme application first. Others have one combined form. Check the university or scholarship page.
Can a Colombian student compete for fully funded study in the Netherlands?
Yes, but it is competitive. Erasmus Mundus and some university scholarships can be fully funded or close to it, depending on the year and programme.
When should I start preparing?
Start several months before the deadline. You will need transcripts, degree documents, translations if required, an English test, and a strong motivation letter.
How Eduuro helps
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You stay in control, and you can be discovered by universities that are looking for students like you.
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.