If you are from Nepal and want to study in the Netherlands, a few scholarship paths are realistic to check first. The main ones are Dutch government or university scholarships, Erasmus Mundus programmes, and some partial fee waivers from universities. Most are competitive, so a strong profile and complete documents matter a lot.
What scholarships are realistic?
For most students from Nepal, the best targets are master's scholarships. They are often easier to find than full funding for bachelor's study.
- Government-linked scholarships - some Dutch programmes support students from many countries outside the EU/EEA.
- University scholarships - many universities offer fee waivers or tuition discounts for strong applicants.
- Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters - these are international master's programmes with a scholarship that can cover tuition and living costs.
- Faculty or school awards - some departments have smaller scholarships for excellent students.
Do not assume every scholarship is open to every Nepalese student. Some are open to all nationalities except EU/EEA, while others are limited to specific fields, countries, or partner universities. Always check the scholarship's own site and the university's admissions page.
Government scholarships and national programmes
In the Netherlands, many scholarships that look like government scholarships are actually managed by universities or by a national agency linked to Dutch higher education. The main thing to check is who runs the award and whether students from Nepal can apply.
- Orange Tulip Scholarship - this is often relevant for students from selected countries, including Nepal in some years or by participating institutions. It can offer partial or full tuition support depending on the university and programme.
- Holland Scholarship - this is a well-known Dutch scholarship for non-EEA students, but it is usually a one-time contribution, not full funding.
- Other national or bilateral schemes - these change by year and by university. Check the scholarship page of your target institution and the official Dutch higher education websites.
Typical requirements include a strong academic record, proof of English, a motivation letter, and sometimes a first admission offer or at least an application in progress. Some awards ask for leadership, work experience, or community impact.
Opening time is usually once a year, often between autumn and early spring for studies starting in September. Exact dates vary a lot, so check the scholarship page early and not only after you are admitted.
University waivers and internal funding
Many Dutch universities give their own scholarships. These are often the most realistic option if your grades are strong and your programme fits their priorities.
- Tuition waivers - the university may reduce part of the tuition fee.
- Excellence scholarships - these are for top students and may include a fixed amount or a full fee waiver.
- Faculty awards - some departments support students in engineering, social sciences, business, or science.
Common requirements are a high GPA or strong class rank, proof of English, a good CV, a motivation letter, and sometimes references. Some universities also want proof that you can cover the rest of your costs, even if you win a scholarship.
These scholarships often open around the same time as admissions, usually from late autumn to spring for the next academic year. Some close early, especially for selective master's programmes, so check the programme page as soon as you choose a course.
Erasmus Mundus scholarships
Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters are among the strongest options if you want a fully international experience. They are run by groups of universities in Europe and sometimes outside Europe, and they often include a scholarship.
- Good for - students with excellent grades, clear academic goals, and a strong profile.
- Usually covers - tuition, travel support, installation costs, and a monthly living allowance, but the exact package depends on the programme.
- Study structure - you may study in more than one country during the degree.
The main requirements are strong academic results, a relevant bachelor's degree, English proficiency, and a convincing motivation letter. Many programmes also want two references and a full set of transcripts and degree documents.
Deadlines are usually once a year, often in winter for programmes starting the following academic year. Some programmes close in December or January, but others are later. Check the programme page carefully.
What a strong profile usually needs
A scholarship committee wants proof that you are ready for the programme. A complete and clear profile makes a big difference.
- Academic records - transcripts, degree certificates, and grading explanation if needed.
- English proof - IELTS, TOEFL, or another accepted test if the programme asks for it.
- CV - keep it short, clear, and focused on study and work that fits your field.
- Motivation letter - explain your goals, why the Netherlands, and why this programme.
- References - academic letters are often important for competitive awards.
- Portfolio or research proposal - needed for some arts, design, or research programmes.
If documents are missing or unclear, your chances usually drop fast. For Nepalese students, it helps to prepare certified copies early, check if documents need translation, and ask your referees in advance.
How to plan your applications
Start with the study programme, not the scholarship alone. Many scholarships require you to apply for admission first or at the same time.
- Shortlist programmes that match your grades and field.
- Check whether the scholarship is automatic, separate, or linked to admission.
- Look for the exact deadline on the university's admissions page.
- Prepare documents early so you can apply before the scholarship closes.
- Apply to more than one option if you qualify.
Be careful with fees and living costs. Even with a scholarship, many students still need money for visa costs, travel, housing, insurance, and daily life. Always check the university's official cost page and the Dutch immigration authority for visa rules.
Common questions
Can a student from Nepal get a full scholarship in the Netherlands?
Yes, but it is competitive. Erasmus Mundus programmes are one of the clearest full-funding options, while many university scholarships are partial.
Do I need admission before I apply for a scholarship?
Sometimes yes, sometimes no. Some scholarships need a separate form, while others are linked to your admission application. Check the university's admissions page and the scholarship page.
When should I start?
Start as early as possible, ideally many months before the intake. Scholarship deadlines are often earlier than admission deadlines, especially for master's programmes.
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 helps you show a clear profile early, which can improve your chances of being noticed for study places and scholarship-linked programmes.
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.