If you are a student from Vietnam and want to study in the Netherlands, you can look at a few realistic scholarship routes. The main ones are university scholarships, government-backed programmes, and Erasmus Mundus joint degrees. Most are competitive, so a strong profile and complete documents matter a lot.
What scholarships are most realistic
For many Vietnamese students, the most realistic options are not full funding from one place. A common path is a partial tuition waiver from a university, plus money from family, savings, or another award.
- University scholarships - these are often the best match if you have strong grades, a clear study plan, and good English.
- Government or public programmes - these can be highly competitive and may focus on specific degree levels or subjects.
- Erasmus Mundus - these are joint programmes across several European universities. They are well known and very competitive.
Do not assume every scholarship covers full costs. Many only reduce tuition, and some also give a living allowance or travel support. Always check the scholarship's own site and the university's admissions page.
University scholarships and fee waivers
Many Dutch universities offer scholarships for international students, including applicants from Vietnam. These awards are often tied to English-taught master's programmes, but some universities also have options for bachelor's students.
- Strong academic records are usually important.
- You often need proof of English, such as IELTS or TOEFL, if the programme asks for it.
- A motivation letter is very common.
- Some universities ask for a CV, recommendation letters, or a portfolio for creative subjects.
Deadlines are usually earlier than the programme deadline. In many cases, scholarship applications open when admissions open, or soon after. Some close in winter or early spring for studies that start in the next academic year. Check the programme page and scholarship page for the exact date.
Government-backed and public scholarships
Government-backed funding in the Netherlands can be limited for students from non-EU countries, so the rules change by programme. Some awards are aimed at excellent students from selected countries or regions, and some are linked to specific universities or subjects.
- These scholarships may require very strong grades.
- Some ask for proof that you can still cover part of your costs.
- You may need to show that your chosen programme fits your background and future plans.
- Selection can include academic merit, motivation, and sometimes work or volunteer experience.
For the exact rules, use the official scholarship site or the Dutch national education or immigration pages when relevant. Do not rely on older blog posts, because eligibility can change.
Erasmus Mundus joint degrees
Erasmus Mundus programmes are a strong option if you want a master's degree with study in more than one European country. They are known for generous funding, but they are also very selective.
- You usually apply directly to the joint programme, not to a separate scholarship form.
- Most programmes want a good bachelor's degree and a strong academic record.
- English proof is often required.
- You may need a clear study plan that shows why this specific joint degree fits your goals.
Applications often open in late autumn and run through winter or early spring, but the timing depends on the programme. Always check the official Erasmus Mundus programme page for the current round.
What strong applications usually include
If you want a real chance, your profile should look complete and easy to trust. Scholarship committees often compare many similar applicants, so small missing details can hurt you.
- Transcripts and diploma or expected graduation proof.
- English test results, if required.
- A focused motivation letter.
- One or two strong recommendation letters, if asked for.
- A CV with clear study, project, internship, or volunteer experience.
- For some programmes: portfolio, research proposal, or writing sample.
It helps if your documents tell one clear story. Show why you chose the field, what you have already done, and how the Dutch programme fits your next step. If you have awards, internships, research, leadership, or community work, include them.
When to start and how to plan
Start early. Many students miss chances because they begin after the deadline or after places are already filled.
- Check admission and scholarship pages 8 to 12 months before you want to start.
- Prepare your English test early if your target programme requires it.
- Ask referees for recommendation letters well in advance.
- Save scans of your passport, transcripts, degree papers, and translations.
For the Netherlands, admissions and scholarship deadlines often sit in the same period, but not always. Some programmes require you to apply for admission first, and then the scholarship is reviewed automatically or in a second step. Others need one combined application. Read the instructions carefully.
Common questions
Can a student from Vietnam get a full scholarship in the Netherlands?
Yes, but it is hard and highly competitive. Full funding is more common in some master's and joint degree programmes than in bachelor's study. Many students win partial support instead.
Do I need perfect grades?
No, but strong grades help a lot. Selection usually looks at your whole profile, including motivation, English level, relevant experience, and how well you fit the programme.
Should I apply even if I do not meet every extra preference?
Sometimes yes, if you meet the main rules. But always check the official eligibility page first. If a scholarship says certain criteria are required, missing them can make you ineligible.
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.
That can save you time and help you reach programmes and scholarships that fit your background better.
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.