Courses Announcement – UM Global Studies Scholarship in the Netherlands 2026 | Fully Funded

Courses Announcement – UM Global Studies Scholarship in the Netherlands 2026 | Fully Funded

About Maastricht University

Maastricht University (UM) is a leading international research university located in the Netherlands. Known for its innovative problem-based learning (PBL) system, UM emphasizes critical thinking, collaboration, and global engagement. The university brings together six faculties to offer a truly interdisciplinary learning experience. Through the Global Studies program, UM prepares students to become future leaders who can understand and solve complex global challenges.

1. UM Global Studies Scholarship (Bachelor’s Degree – Fully Funded)

Overview:
The UM Global Studies Scholarship is a prestigious opportunity for academically excellent students from developing countries who aspire to earn a bachelor’s degree in Global Studies at Maastricht University. This fully funded program equips students with the knowledge and practical skills to tackle international challenges such as climate change, inequality, and global governance. Students gain hands-on experience through field studies, real-world projects with institutions, and an interdisciplinary final thesis.

Scholarship Duration:
36 months – covering the entire duration of the Global Studies bachelor’s program.

Target Applicants:
The scholarship targets international students demonstrating academic excellence, motivation for global development, and leadership potential. Applicants must be conditionally or fully admitted to the Global Studies program.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must hold nationality from an OECD Official Development Assistance (ODA) listed country.

• Must not hold dual nationality with any EEA (European Economic Area) country.

• Must be under 35 years of age by 1 September 2026.

• Have applied for admission to Maastricht University’s Global Studies program for the 2026–2027 academic year.

• Must not already hold a degree equivalent to a bachelor’s.

• Should meet all academic and language requirements of the program.

• Must commit to acting as a UM Global Studies ambassador during and after studies.

Financial Coverage:

• Living Allowance: €15,925 annually (€1,225 monthly) paid directly to the student.

• Tuition Fees: Fully covered by the university.

• Health & Liability Insurance: Fully covered.

• Visa Costs: Fully covered.

• Pre-Academic Training: Fully covered.

• Housing: Fully provided (acceptance of university housing is mandatory).

Estimated Monthly Living Breakdown:

• Housing: €600

• Food & Personal Care: €160

• Phone: €60

• Transportation: €100

• Books & Study Materials: €90

• Clothing, Hobbies & Outings: €125

• Miscellaneous: €90

Note: Airfare is not included and must be covered by the student. Accommodation is not suitable for family members.

Application Timeline:

• Applications Open: 1 October 2025

• Deadline: 1 February 2026 (23:59 CET)

How to Apply:

1. Apply for the Global Studies Program via Studielink:

   • Register and obtain your UM student ID.

   • Ensure all admission requirements are met before the scholarship deadline.

   • Pay any applicable application handling fee.

2. Submit the Scholarship Application through Your UM Account:

   • Upload all required documents (PDF or Word format):

     • Curriculum Vitae (max. 2 pages including activities, awards, and achievements).

     • Motivation Letter (using official UM template).

     • Proof of Academic Excellence (such as transcripts showing grades above 75%).

     • Financial Need & Personal Circumstances Statement.

     • One Recommendation Letter (from a teacher or supervisor, not a relative).

     • Referee details: position, relationship, phone number, and email.

Applications can only be submitted once. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.

Selection Process:

• Applications reviewed after 1 February 2026.

• Forwarded to the Admissions Office for evaluation.

• Top 5 candidates shortlisted in March 2026.

• Online interviews and reserve list prepared in April 2026.

• Final results announced by June 2026.

• Selected students must sign the scholarship agreement and complete a mandatory pre-academic training in August 2026 (2 weeks) before the program begins.