If you want a Dutch university that feels international, modern, and very student-focused, Maastricht University (UM) is a strong pick. It is also one of the youngest universities in the Netherlands, officially established on 9 January 1976, when Queen Juliana signed the founding papers.
What makes UM stand out is its teaching style. From the start, UM adopted Problem-Based Learning (PBL), meaning you learn by solving real problems in small groups, not only by listening to long lectures.
The scholarship you should target: UM NL-High Potential Scholarship (2026/27)
This is Maastricht University’s biggest and most popular scholarship for non-EU/EEA students applying for selected Master’s programmes.
Key deadlines (very important)
UM is very clear about deadlines for the 2026/27 cycle:
- Apply for the Master’s programme in Studielink before: 8 December 2025
- Scholarship application deadline: 1 February 2026, 23:59 CET
A lot of students miss this because they apply to the programme late. Here, the programme application date is part of the scholarship eligibility.
What does the scholarship cover? (Big benefits)
UM lists the scholarship package like this:
- Living expenses: €15,925 (13 months) or €30,625 (25 months)
- Health and liability insurance: €700
- Visa application costs: at cost
- Tuition fees: at cost
- Pre-Academic Training costs: at cost
Also, UM mentions a very important condition: housing is mandatory. A room will be allocated, and if you refuse the room, the scholarship can be cancelled.
Who is eligible? (Simple checklist)
Based on the official UM page, you typically need to match points like:
- Nationality outside EU/EEA (and no EU/EEA or Swiss dual nationality)
- Applied for a participating full-time Master’s programme before 8 Dec 2025
- No previous degree-seeking study in the Netherlands
- Under 35 years old on 1 Sept 2026
- Strong grades, UM mentions GPA 7.5/10 or higher
- You can submit only one scholarship application, and documents cannot be replaced after submission.
UM also states it is very competitive, only a small percentage of applicants are awarded
Step-by-step: How to apply (the exact flow)
Step 1: Apply for admission (first)
- Choose a participating Master’s programme.
- Apply through Studielink.
- After applying, you receive your UM student ID, you need it for the scholarship form.
Step 2: Submit the scholarship form
- Log in with your UM account and complete the official scholarship application form.
- Upload required documents (UM lists items like CV (max 2 pages) and a scholarship motivation letter using their template, plus proof of academic excellence and other supporting documents).
Important note from UM: you can only submit once, so make sure your documents are correct before you hit submit.
Why students like Maastricht (realistic view)
- Small-city comfort, international vibe: Maastricht feels calm and safe, but still very global because many students are international.
- PBL style helps if you learn better by doing, discussing, and presenting.
- Europe focus: UM’s history page highlights fast growth through Europe-focused programmes and innovation.
Quick tips to increase your chances
- Do not wait for the last week, submit your Studielink programme application before 8 Dec.
- Keep your CV tight, achievements only, no extra stories.
- Your motivation letter should connect: your past work -> your goal -> why UM -> what you will contribute.
- Make sure your transcripts clearly show grading, UM often asks for clarity on GPA and grading scale.