Stepping Up to Success: Your Guide to Maastricht University NL-High Potential Scholarships
As an international student, finding funding for your education can often be a challenging and stressful task. However, at Maastricht University in the Netherlands, there is the NL-High Potential Scholarship programme specifically designed for high achieving students from outside the European Union (EU).
This prestigious scholarship offers not only a full tuition fee waiver but also a monthly stipend to cover living expenses, health insurance, and more. In this guide, we will provide you with all the necessary information on the Maastricht University NL-High Potential Scholarships to help you step up to success and achieve your academic goals.
Overview of the Scholarship
The Maastricht University (UM) NL-High Potential Scholarship programme was established to support highly talented students from non-EU countries in pursuing a Master’s degree at the university. Annually, 24 full scholarships of €30,000 each are awarded to selected students who have been admitted to one of the participating Master’s programmes at UM.
The scholarship covers not only the tuition fee but also provides financial support for living expenses (€12,350 – 13 months; €23,750 – 25 months), health and liability insurance (€700), visa application costs (€210), and pre-academic training costs. The duration of the scholarship is either 13 months for a one-year Master’s programme or 25 months for a two-year Master’s programme.
And while this scholarship may seem highly competitive, with the right qualifications and eligibility criteria, it is possible to secure this funding and make your dream of studying at Maastricht University a reality. In the following sections, we will discuss in detail the eligibility requirements, application process, and tips for standing out as an applicant.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the NL-High Potential Scholarship at Maastricht University, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements. Firstly, they must hold nationality from a non-EU/EEA country and meet all necessary requirements for obtaining an entry visa and residence permit for the Netherlands. Additionally, applicants must not hold dual nationality from an EU/EEA country.
Furthermore, applicants must have applied for admission to a full-time Master’s programme at Maastricht University for the 2024-2025 academic year and meet the specific admission requirements of their chosen programme. They should also have never participated in any degree-seeking higher education programme, primary education programme, or secondary education programme in the Netherlands (with the exception of exchange programmes).
Moreover, applicants must be under 35 years old on 1 September 2024 and demonstrate excellent academic performance in their previous education through their latest grade transcript or certified letter of academic excellence.
Application Process Of the Scholarship
To successfully apply for the NL-High Potential Scholarship at Maastricht University, follow these steps:
- Register for a Master’s Programme:
- Apply for admission to a full-time Master’s programme at Maastricht University via Studielink. Ensure you choose one of the participating Master’s programmes.
- Receive a Student ID Number:
- After submitting your application through Studielink, you will receive a student ID number. This number is essential for completing your scholarship application.
- Complete the Scholarship Application Form:
- Access the Scholarship Application Form online using the student ID number provided. Fill in all required details accurately.
- Prepare Required Documents:
- Gather all necessary documents, which may include:
- Your most recent grade transcript
- A certified letter of academic excellence
- Proof of nationality
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation letter
- Upload Documents:
- Upload all required documents to the scholarship application portal as per the instructions provided.
- Submit the Application:
- Ensure that your scholarship application is complete and submit it online by the deadline, which is 1 February 2024.
- Confirmation of Submission:
- After submitting your application, you will receive a confirmation email. Ensure you have this confirmation for your records.
- Application Review:
- The scholarship committee will review your application and documents after the deadline. This process may take several weeks.
- Notification of Results:
- Successful applicants will be notified of their selection via email. Make sure to check your email regularly for updates from the university.
Following this detailed process ensures that your application is complete and has the best chance of success in securing the NL-High Potential Scholarship.
Does your chosen programme qualify for the scholarship?
Before applying for the NL-High Potential Scholarship, it is crucial to ensure that your chosen Master’s programme at Maastricht University is eligible for the funding. Currently, a total of 31 master’s programmes are participating in this scholarship programme, covering a wide range of fields such as law, economics and business, psychology, sustainable development, and more.
To check if your desired programme qualifies for the scholarship, visit the official Maastricht University website or contact their admissions office. It is essential to note that not all Master’s programmes at UM are eligible for this scholarship, and the list of participating programmes may change annually.
Furthermore, it is also crucial to review the specific admission requirements of your chosen programme before applying. This will ensure that you meet all necessary criteria and increase your chances of being selected for both admission and the NL-High Potential Scholarship.
Is it worth applying for the scholarship?
In short, yes, it is definitely worth applying for the NL-High Potential Scholarship at Maastricht University. This scholarship provides extensive financial support that covers tuition fees, living expenses, health and liability insurance, visa application costs, and pre-academic training. Not only does this ease the financial burden of studying abroad, but it also allows students to fully focus on their studies and make the most out of their experience at Maastricht University.
Moreover, being a recipient of this prestigious scholarship can greatly enhance your resume and future career prospects. The scholarship is highly competitive, and being selected as a recipient demonstrates your academic excellence and potential as a future leader in your field.
Additionally, the NL-High Potential Scholarship also provides opportunities for networking with other international students and participating in exclusive events or activities organized by the university. This can greatly enrich your overall experience at Maastricht University and help you build valuable connections for your future career.
How Much Funding Does the Scholarship Provide?
The NL-High Potential Scholarship at Maastricht University provides generous funding to cover a variety of expenses for international students. The scholarship covers the following:
- Full tuition fees for one academic year (up to €13,800)
- Living allowance of €12,350 (paid out in monthly installments)
- Health and liability insurance coverage
- Visa application costs (up to €385)
- Pre-academic training costs (up to €475)
Additionally, successful applicants may also be considered for additional funding opportunities such as the Holland Scholarship or the UM Scholarship Fund.
It is important to note that the scholarship does not cover all expenses, such as travel costs and other personal expenses. Therefore, it is recommended to have additional funds available to cover these costs.
Tips for a Successful Scholarship Application
Applying for the NL-High Potential Scholarship at Maastricht University is a rigorous process, and it is essential to ensure that your application stands out among other applicants. Here are some tips to increase your chances of success:
- Start early: Begin gathering all necessary documents and preparing for the scholarship application as soon as possible. Plus, submitting your application early can also increase your chances of being selected.
- Be thorough: Make sure to complete all sections of the scholarship application accurately and include all required documents. Incomplete applications may not be considered.
- Highlight your achievements: The NL-High Potential Scholarship is highly competitive, and academic excellence is a crucial factor in the selection process. Be sure to highlight any relevant academic achievements or extracurricular activities in your application.
- Customize your motivation letter: Your motivation letter should showcase why you are an ideal candidate for the scholarship and how it aligns with your personal and professional goals. Avoid using generic templates and tailor your letter specifically for the NL-High Potential Scholarship.
- Proofread your application: Make sure to proofread your entire application multiple times for any errors or typos before submission. A well-written and error-free application can make a strong impression on the scholarship committee.
By following these tips, you can greatly increase your chances of success in securing the NL-High Potential Scholarship at Maastricht University and embark on an enriching academic journey.
FAQs
How many scholarships are available each year?
The number of NL-High Potential Scholarships available each year may vary. It is recommended to check the official Maastricht University website for updated information on the current number of scholarships available.
Can I apply for more than one Master’s programme with this scholarship?
Yes, you can apply for multiple eligible Master’s programmes at Maastricht University with the NL-High Potential Scholarship. However, only one application per candidate will be considered for the scholarship selection process.
Is there an age limit for applicants?
No, there is no specific age limit for applicants. All international students who meet the eligibility criteria can apply for the NL-High Potential Scholarship at Maastricht University.
How will I receive the scholarship funds?
If you are selected as a recipient of the NL-High Potential Scholarship, the university will transfer the funds directly to your bank account in monthly installments. Make sure to provide accurate and updated banking information in your application.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the NL-High Potential Scholarship at Maastricht University provides a valuable opportunity for international students to pursue their Master’s degree in the Netherlands. It offers extensive financial support, networking opportunities, and recognition of academic excellence.
By carefully preparing your application and following the tips mentioned above, you can greatly increase your chances of success in securing this prestigious scholarship. Don’t miss out on this chance to study at one of Europe’s top universities and apply for the NL-High Potential Scholarship today! So, do not overthink and start applying as soon as possible! Good luck with your application!