If you are from South Korea and want to study in the Netherlands, you can compete for several kinds of scholarships. The most realistic options are university scholarships, merit waivers, Erasmus Mundus programmes, and a few external grants. Most are competitive, so a strong profile and clear documents matter.
What scholarships are most realistic
Not every scholarship is open to every student. Many Dutch scholarships are for non-EU students, and South Korean students often fit that group. The best fit depends on your study level, grades, English level, and field.
- University scholarships - many Dutch universities offer partial tuition waivers or small grants for excellent international students.
- Merit scholarships - these reward strong grades, test scores, motivation, or research potential.
- Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters - these are international master’s programmes with generous scholarships, but they are very competitive.
- External awards - some Korean or international organisations support study abroad, but they are less common and vary a lot.
For bachelor’s study, scholarships are usually fewer. For master’s study, your chances are often better because many scholarships are aimed at master’s applicants.
Government and public programmes
There is no single Dutch government scholarship that covers everyone. Some public programmes exist, but they usually have specific rules and limited places. Always check the official Dutch government or university page for the current year.
- Orange Tulip Scholarship - this programme is often linked to Dutch institutions and country-specific partners. Availability can change by year and university.
- Holland Scholarship - this is a well-known Dutch scholarship for some non-EEA students, but it is often a partial award, not full funding.
- STEM or research-linked grants - some public or semi-public funds support study in science, technology, engineering, and research fields.
Typical requirements include good grades, a place in an eligible programme, and often proof that you are a fee-paying student from outside the EU/EEA. Some programmes ask for a motivation letter and a CV. A few also ask for a recommendation letter or proof of language level.
Opening times vary. Many scholarships open several months before the study starts, often in the autumn or winter for programmes starting the next academic year. Some close early, before or soon after the university application deadline. Check the university admissions page and the scholarship page together.
University waivers and merit scholarships
These are often the most realistic target for South Korean students. Many Dutch universities use scholarships to attract strong international applicants, especially for master’s degrees.
- Tuition fee waivers - the university reduces part of your tuition rather than paying all costs.
- Merit awards - these may include a fixed amount or a full or partial tuition scholarship.
- Faculty scholarships - some departments offer their own funds for certain subjects.
What they usually require:
- Very strong grades from your previous school or university
- A completed application to the degree programme
- Proof of English, often IELTS or TOEFL, if the programme asks for it
- A motivation letter that matches the course
- Sometimes a CV, portfolio, or reference letters
Most of these scholarships are tied to a specific programme. That means you should read the programme page carefully. Some universities consider you automatically for a scholarship when you apply. Others need a separate scholarship application.
Deadlines are usually early. For many scholarships, the closing date is in the winter or early spring for September intake. This can be earlier than the final admission deadline. Do not wait until you get your offer if the scholarship page says you must apply first.
Erasmus Mundus and other international master’s options
Erasmus Mundus is one of the strongest scholarship routes for students from South Korea who want to study in Europe, including the Netherlands. These are joint master’s programmes run by several universities, often in more than one country.
Why students like them:
- They can cover tuition and living costs more fully than many other scholarships
- The programme is international and strong on mobility
- Your degree often has value in many countries
What they usually require:
- A very strong bachelor’s degree
- Good English test results, if required
- A clear academic fit with the programme
- Strong motivation and sometimes proof of relevant experience
- Passport details, transcripts, and references
These scholarships are highly competitive. Many applicants have excellent grades, a focused study plan, and solid documents. Applications usually open months before the academic year starts, often in autumn or early winter. Check the official Erasmus Mundus programme website for each course, because each one has its own deadline and rules.
How to build a stronger scholarship profile
A scholarship committee usually sees your documents before it sees you. That means your profile should be clear, complete, and easy to trust. A strong application does not guarantee success, but it can help you stand out.
- Grades and ranking - strong academic results matter a lot.
- English level - good test scores or other proof can make your file stronger.
- Study match - your past studies should connect clearly to the programme.
- Motivation letter - explain why this course, this university, and this scholarship.
- Documents - transcripts, degree certificate, passport, CV, references, and any portfolio should be ready.
It helps if your documents are tidy and consistent. Use the same name spelling on all files. Translate documents only if the university asks for translation. If the scholarship asks for certified copies, follow that exactly.
Apply early if you can. Some scholarships close before admission decisions are final. If you need an admission offer first, start the programme application as soon as the portal opens.
Where to check official information
Scholarship rules change. Do not rely on old blogs or social media posts. Check the official source for each option.
- University admissions page - for tuition waivers, merit scholarships, and programme-specific rules
- Scholarship's own site - for Erasmus Mundus and external awards
- Dutch government or study-in-NL pages - for public scholarship information and general study guidance
If a scholarship sounds good, read three things first: who can apply, what documents are needed, and when the deadline closes. That is the fastest way to know if it is realistic for you.
Common questions
Can a South Korean student get a full scholarship in the Netherlands?
Yes, but full scholarships are limited and very competitive. Erasmus Mundus and a few university awards are the main options to look at.
Do I need an admission offer before I apply for a scholarship?
Sometimes yes, sometimes no. Some scholarships need a study place first, while others let you apply at the same time. Check the scholarship page carefully.
When should I start preparing?
Start as early as possible, ideally several months before the deadline. You will need transcripts, test results, a CV, a motivation letter, and sometimes references.
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 can help you become visible for programmes and scholarships that match your background, without sending random applications.
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.