The Netherlands attracts thousands of international students each year through its English-taught Master’s programmes, research opportunities and internationally recognised universities. However, tuition fees can be expensive, particularly for students from outside the European Union and European Economic Area.
The Radboud Scholarship Programme 2027/2028 offers an opportunity to reduce those costs. Radboud University, located in Nijmegen, provides this competitive scholarship to academically outstanding international students who want to pursue eligible English-taught master’s degrees.
For the 2027/2028 academic year, the university offers a maximum of 26 Radboud Scholarships. Successful applicants will pay a provisional tuition fee of €2,771 instead of the higher institutional fee, which can reach approximately €19,000 depending on the programme.
The scholarship also covers specified visa, residence permit and insurance expenses.
However, applicants should understand an important distinction: the Radboud Scholarship is partially funded, not fully funded. It does not provide a monthly living allowance or cover accommodation and everyday living expenses.
Students who need broader financial assistance may also consider the Maastricht University NL-High Potential Scholarship 2027, which provides substantial financial support to selected international master’s students.
Meanwhile, applicants interested in engineering and technology can explore the TU Delft Excellence Scholarship 2027.
This guide explains the Radboud Scholarship’s benefits, eligibility conditions, available awards, application documents, selection criteria and deadlines. It also offers practical advice on preparing a competitive application.
Radboud Scholarship Programme 2027: Overview
| Scholarship detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scholarship name | Radboud Scholarship Programme |
| Host institution | Radboud University |
| Country | Netherlands |
| Location | Nijmegen |
| Academic year | 2027/2028 |
| Degree level | Master’s |
| Eligible applicants | Qualified non-EU/non-EEA students |
| Number of scholarships | Maximum of 26 |
| Funding type | Partial scholarship |
| Reduced tuition fee | €2,771, subject to confirmation |
| Additional benefits | Visa, residence permit, health and liability insurance |
| Monthly living allowance | Not provided |
| Application platform | OSIRIS Application |
| Initial application deadline | 31 January 2027 |
| Application completion deadline | 14 February 2027 |
| Expected scholarship results | Before mid-April 2027 |
| Programme commencement | 1 September 2027 |
What Is the Radboud Scholarship Programme?
The Radboud Scholarship Programme is a selective financial assistance scheme for talented students from outside the European Economic Area.
It allows academically outstanding applicants to pursue eligible English-taught Master’s programmes at Radboud University while paying substantially reduced tuition fees.
Unlike scholarships that cover every aspect of studying abroad, this programme focuses primarily on reducing tuition costs. It also covers certain administrative and insurance expenses associated with relocating to the Netherlands.
Radboud University finances the scholarship through its Profiling Fund.
Students apply for the scholarship alongside their master’s admission application. Consequently, they must first identify a suitable programme and meet its academic entry requirements.
Admission and scholarship selection are separate processes. Receiving an admission offer does not automatically guarantee scholarship funding.
Why Study at Radboud University?
Radboud University is located in Nijmegen, a university city in the eastern Netherlands.
The institution offers programmes across several academic disciplines, including management, law, natural sciences, humanities and social sciences.
For international students, studying at Radboud provides an opportunity to develop specialised knowledge in an international academic environment.
Nevertheless, choosing a university requires more than considering its reputation or available scholarships.
Applicants should examine the curriculum, admission requirements, academic facilities, research opportunities and future career relevance of their preferred programmes.
Radboud Scholarship 2027 Benefits: What Does It Cover?
The scholarship offers several financial benefits, although the exact value depends partly on the tuition fee of the selected Master’s programme.
1. Substantial Tuition Fee Reduction
For the 2027/2028 academic year, scholarship recipients will pay a provisional tuition fee of €2,771.
Radboud University provides an example in which a student pays €2,771 instead of €19,000.
| Tuition component | Illustrative amount |
|---|---|
| Standard institutional tuition fee | €19,000 |
| Reduced scholarship tuition fee | €2,771 |
| Estimated tuition savings | €16,229 |
| Approximate reduction | 85.4% |
For an applicant who would otherwise pay €19,000, the scholarship could therefore reduce tuition costs by more than €16,000.
However, €19,000 is an illustrative figure rather than a fixed fee for every programme. Similarly, the reduced tuition amount remains subject to confirmation.
2. Visa and Residence Permit Expenses
The scholarship covers specified costs associated with obtaining the visa and residence permit needed to study in the Netherlands.
This support helps reduce some of the administrative expenses that international students face before relocating.
3. Health and Liability Insurance
Scholarship recipients also receive health and liability insurance coverage through Aon Student Insurance during their stay in the Netherlands, as specified by the university.
Although this is a valuable benefit, students should review the insurance conditions to understand the extent of their coverage.
4. What the Scholarship Does Not Cover
The Radboud Scholarship does not pay for general living expenses.
| Expense | Scholarship coverage |
|---|---|
| Substantial tuition reduction | Yes. |
| Remaining reduced tuition fee | Student pays |
| Visa expenses | Yes. |
| Residence permit expenses | Yes. |
| Specified health insurance | Yes. |
| Specified liability insurance | Yes. |
| Monthly living allowance | No |
| Accommodation | No |
| Food and personal expenses | No |
| International airfare | Not listed as covered |
| General relocation expenses | Not listed as covered |
This distinction matters especially for students who depend entirely on scholarships to finance their education.
Even after receiving the award, applicants must prepare a realistic budget for accommodation, food, transportation and other essential expenses.
They should also consider any financial requirements associated with obtaining permission to study in the Netherlands.
How Many Radboud Scholarships Are Available in 2027?
Radboud University offers a maximum of 26 scholarships for the 2027/2028 academic year.
The awards are distributed across six faculties.
| Faculty | Available scholarships |
|---|---|
| Faculty of Arts | 2 |
| Faculty of Law | 2 |
| Nijmegen School of Management | 5 |
| Faculty of Philosophy, Theology and Religious Studies | 1 |
| Faculty of Science | 9 |
| Faculty of Social Sciences | 7 |
| Total | 26 |
The Faculty of Science has the largest allocation, followed by the Faculty of Social Sciences and Nijmegen School of Management.
However, a faculty offering more scholarships does not necessarily provide better chances of selection.
Competition depends on several factors, including the number of applicants and the strength of their academic profiles.
Therefore, students should select programmes based primarily on their qualifications and academic interests rather than scholarship allocation alone.
Which Master’s Programmes Are Eligible?
The Radboud Scholarship is available for eligible English-taught Master’s programmes at Radboud University.
However, two categories are excluded:
- Erasmus Mundus Master’s programmes.
- Joint-degree Master’s programmes.
Applicants should review the university’s programme catalogue before beginning their applications.
Choosing a Suitable Master’s Programme
A strong application begins with selecting a programme that matches your previous education and future ambitions.
For example, an economics graduate interested in sustainability or financial management may explore relevant programmes within Nijmegen School of Management.
Likewise, a student with a background in mathematics, computer science or another quantitative discipline may find suitable opportunities within the Faculty of Science.
Graduates interested in psychology, behaviour or other social science fields can examine the programmes offered by the Faculty of Social Sciences.
These examples illustrate possible academic directions. They do not guarantee admission to any particular programme.
Always verify the specific entry requirements before applying.
Radboud Scholarship 2027 Eligibility Requirements
The university has established several eligibility conditions concerning nationality, previous education, English proficiency and admission status.
Applicants must satisfy all relevant requirements.
1. Hold a Non-EU/Non-EEA Passport
Applicants must hold a passport from a country outside the European Union or European Economic Area.
This includes potentially eligible students from Cameroon, Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Uganda, Pakistan, Bangladesh and many other countries.
However, nationality alone does not guarantee eligibility or selection.
2. Not Qualify for the Lower EU/EEA Tuition Fee
Applicants must not qualify for the lower EU/EEA tuition fee through another arrangement or legal status.
Students whose residence circumstances may affect their tuition classification should confirm their eligibility with the university.
3. Have a Bachelor’s Degree Obtained Outside the Netherlands
Applicants must hold, or expect to obtain, a bachelor’s degree awarded outside the Netherlands.
Furthermore, they must not have obtained a degree in the Netherlands or previously received education there.
An exception applies to qualifying exchange programmes undertaken as part of a Bachelor’s degree completed outside the Netherlands.
4. Meet the English-Language Requirements
Applicants must satisfy the English proficiency requirements of their selected Master’s programme.
These requirements may differ between programmes.
Therefore, students should check accepted English-language tests, minimum scores and any available exemptions.
5. Obtain Admission to an Eligible Master’s Programme
Applicants must receive full admission to an eligible English-taught Master’s programme beginning on 1 September 2027.
However, the university assesses admission and scholarship selection separately.
An admission offer does not automatically result in a scholarship award.
6. Meet the Netherlands’ Visa Requirements
Applicants must be able to satisfy the conditions for obtaining the appropriate visa and residence permission.
7. Enrol as Full-Time Students
Successful applicants must enrol full-time at Radboud University for the academic year and Master’s programme associated with their scholarship.
Eligibility Checklist
| Requirement | What applicants should confirm |
|---|---|
| Nationality | Non-EU/non-EEA passport |
| Tuition classification | Not eligible for lower EU/EEA tuition |
| Bachelor’s qualification | Obtained or expected outside the Netherlands |
| Previous Dutch education | Meets the restrictions and exceptions |
| English proficiency | Meets programme requirements |
| Master’s admission | Fully admitted to an eligible programme |
| Immigration conditions | Able to meet visa requirements |
| Enrolment | Full-time study |
Can Final-Year Undergraduate Students Apply?
Potentially, yes.
The university’s eligibility conditions include applicants who will obtain their Bachelor’s degrees outside the Netherlands.
However, final-year students must still satisfy the admission conditions of their chosen Master’s programmes.
They should confirm whether provisional transcripts, expected graduation statements or other temporary documents are acceptable during the application process.
Documents Required for the Radboud Scholarship 2027
The documents required for Master’s admission depend on the programme.
For scholarship consideration, Radboud University specifically requests three additional documents:
- Two reference letters.
- One curriculum vitae.
If applicants already uploaded these documents during the Master’s admission process, they may upload the same documents again for scholarship consideration.
Academic Reference Letters
The university prefers two academic references.
Applicants should select lecturers or supervisors who understand their academic abilities and can provide meaningful assessments of their performance.
A detailed recommendation from a lecturer who supervised a dissertation or taught a demanding course may be more persuasive than a generic letter from someone unfamiliar with the student’s work.
Strong references should include specific examples of academic achievement, analytical ability, intellectual curiosity and readiness for postgraduate study.
Curriculum Vitae
The CV should present relevant academic and professional information clearly.
Applicants can include their educational qualifications, research projects, internships, professional experience, volunteering and other meaningful achievements.
However, a longer CV is not necessarily a stronger one.
Instead, applicants should prioritise experiences that demonstrate preparation for the intended Master’s programme.
Motivation Letter
Although the scholarship requires additional reference letters and a CV, the motivation letter submitted for Master’s admission also plays an important role in scholarship selection.
A convincing motivation letter should explain why the applicant selected the programme, how previous education has prepared them and what they hope to achieve.
For example, a student applying for a programme related to sustainability could explain how previous coursework or research developed their interest in environmental policy.
Specific academic experiences provide stronger evidence of motivation than broad statements about wanting to study abroad.
How to Apply for the Radboud Scholarship Programme 2027
The university integrates scholarship applications into its Master’s admission process through the OSIRIS Application system.
Applicants should follow the steps below.
Step 1: Identify an Eligible Master’s Programme
Explore the English-taught Master’s programmes offered by Radboud University.
Choose a programme that matches your academic background, interests and professional objectives.
Before proceeding, confirm that the programme qualifies for the scholarship.
Step 2: Review the Admission Requirements
Read the entry requirements carefully.
Depending on the programme, these may include particular academic qualifications, previous coursework, English proficiency or additional documents.
Students applying from a different academic discipline should pay particular attention to subject prerequisites.
Step 3: Prepare Your Application Documents
Gather the documents required for Master’s admission.
In addition, prepare your CV and two reference letters for scholarship consideration.
Your motivation letter should also explain your academic preparation and reasons for selecting the programme.
Check that all documents are complete, readable and consistent with the information entered in your application.
Step 4: Apply Through the OSIRIS Application System
Submit your Master’s admission application through the university’s online application system.
During the process, indicate that you wish to apply for the Radboud Scholarship.
The system will then request the additional scholarship documents.
Step 5: Submit Your Initial Application by 31 January 2027
Applicants must submit their applications by 31 January 2027 at 23:59 CET.
This is the initial submission deadline.
Therefore, students should not wait until February to begin or submit their applications.
Step 6: Complete the Admissions Review Requirements
After submission, Radboud University’s Student Admissions office reviews the application.
The university may return an application for payment of the handling fee or correction of missing, incorrect or illegible documents.
Applicants should respond promptly and resubmit their applications when necessary.
Step 7: Complete Your Application by 14 February 2027
All application requirements must be complete by 14 February 2027 at 23:59 CET.
Incomplete applications will not be considered for scholarship selection.
The university also recommends submitting proof of English proficiency before this deadline.
Step 8: Await the Scholarship Decision
Radboud University expects to communicate scholarship decisions before mid-April 2027.
However, the announcement date may change.
Applicants should monitor their email accounts and application portals for updates.
Radboud Scholarship 2027 Application Deadlines
| Application stage | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Initial OSIRIS application | 31 January 2027 |
| Initial submission cut-off | 23:59 CET |
| Application completion | 14 February 2027 |
| Completion cut-off | 23:59 CET |
| Expected scholarship results | Before mid-April 2027 |
| Master’s programme commencement | 1 September 2027 |
Applicants should pay particular attention to the difference between the two deadlines.
The January deadline concerns initial submission. Meanwhile, the February deadline allows applicants to complete outstanding requirements or correct documents after the university’s review.
It is not an alternative deadline for submitting a new application.
Submitting early can therefore help applicants avoid preventable administrative problems.
How Does Radboud University Select Scholarship Recipients?
Radboud University evaluates applicants primarily through academic excellence, ambition and references.
Individual faculties may also consider additional criteria.
Academic Excellence
The university examines academic performance, including grades, test scores and publications where relevant.
It also considers the relationship between the applicant’s previous qualification and the intended Master’s programme.
Furthermore, the ranking of the institution where the applicant obtained previous degrees forms part of the university’s published selection considerations.
However, academic excellence involves more than obtaining high grades.
Applicants should demonstrate that their previous studies have prepared them for the demands of their chosen programme.
Ambition and Motivation
The selection committee evaluates the quality and relevance of the motivation letter.
It also considers achievements, relevant experience, internships, volunteering and extracurricular activities.
For example, an applicant who completed a research project in environmental economics could explain how that experience influenced their interest in sustainability policy.
Such an explanation connects previous experience with future academic objectives.
Quality of References
Reference letters help the selection committee understand an applicant’s abilities from an academic perspective.
Detailed recommendations supported by examples can provide valuable evidence of readiness for postgraduate study.
Faculty-Level Selection
Each applicant receives individual consideration from the selection committee of the relevant faculty.
Some programmes may introduce additional requirements or conduct interviews.
Consequently, there is no single academic profile or combination of achievements that guarantees selection.
How to Strengthen Your Radboud Scholarship Application
With only 26 awards available, applicants should approach the selection process carefully.
Demonstrate Academic Compatibility
Your previous studies should connect logically with the Master’s programme you want to pursue.
For instance, a student applying for a quantitative programme could highlight relevant coursework in mathematics, statistics, programming or research methods.
However, applicants should avoid exaggerating their skills or presenting experience they cannot substantiate.
Prepare a Programme-Specific Motivation Letter
A strong motivation letter should explain why the programme matters to your academic and professional development.
Rather than relying on general statements about studying in Europe, discuss the knowledge and skills you hope to develop.
Where appropriate, refer to specific academic areas within the programme that match your interests.
This demonstrates that you have researched the degree and understand its relevance.
Choose Referees Who Know Your Work
Select lecturers or academic supervisors who can discuss your abilities with confidence.
A lecturer who supervised your final-year research project may provide a more informative recommendation than a senior academic who barely knows you.
Give your referees sufficient time to prepare their letters.
Explain Your Achievements Clearly
Internships, volunteering, leadership responsibilities and professional experience may strengthen your application.
However, simply listing positions is not enough.
Explain what you contributed, the skills you developed and how those experiences relate to your intended studies.
Avoid Last-Minute Applications
Administrative mistakes can undermine otherwise strong applications.
Therefore, review document requirements early, contact referees in advance and allow enough time to correct potential problems.
Can the Radboud Scholarship Be Renewed for a Second Year?
Yes, the scholarship can support the nominal duration of an eligible two-year Master’s programme.
However, recipients must meet the university’s academic progression conditions to qualify for funding again in the second year.
Specifically, students must pass all courses during their first year.
Applicants considering two-year programmes should understand this requirement before accepting an award.
Can the Radboud Scholarship Be Combined With the NL Scholarship?
Yes.
Radboud University states that recipients may combine the Radboud Scholarship with the NL Scholarship.
The NL Scholarship provides a one-time grant of €5,000 to eligible students during their first year of study.
However, it is also a partial scholarship and does not independently cover all living and studying expenses.
| Feature | Radboud Scholarship | NL Scholarship |
|---|---|---|
| Funding type | Partial | Partial |
| Main benefit | Tuition reduction and specified expenses | €5,000 one-time grant |
| Monthly stipend | No | No |
| Living expenses fully covered | No | No |
| Can be combined | Yes | Yes, subject to conditions |
Students should review the requirements of both programmes before assuming they qualify for both awards.
Is the Radboud Scholarship Worth Applying For?
For academically strong students who can finance their living expenses, the Radboud Scholarship can make postgraduate education in the Netherlands considerably more affordable.
The tuition reduction alone may represent savings exceeding €16,000 in the university’s illustrative example.
However, applicants should assess their remaining financial responsibilities.
Consider two hypothetical students.
The first has an excellent academic record and enough savings or family support to cover accommodation and daily expenses. For this student, the Radboud Scholarship could make an otherwise expensive Master’s programme financially achievable.
The second student has equally impressive qualifications but requires funding for tuition, housing, food and transportation.
Although the scholarship would reduce tuition costs, it might still leave a substantial financial gap for the second student.
In that situation, exploring additional scholarships alongside Radboud may be more practical.
Ultimately, applicants should consider both their competitiveness and their ability to finance the entire period of study.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying
Applicants can improve their preparation by recognising several common problems.
Assuming the scholarship is fully funded: The award reduces tuition fees but does not provide a monthly living allowance.
Applying to an excluded programme: Erasmus Mundus and joint-degree Master’s programmes are not eligible under this scholarship.
Confusing the application deadlines: The initial submission deadline is 31 January 2027, while the completion deadline is 14 February 2027.
Submitting a generic motivation letter: Applicants should explain their specific academic interests and reasons for choosing the programme.
Using weak reference letters: Recommendations should contain meaningful examples of academic ability and potential.
Assuming admission guarantees funding: Master’s admission and scholarship selection are separate decisions.
Ignoring administrative requirements: Missing documents, unreadable uploads or outstanding handling fee requirements may prevent an application from progressing.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Radboud Scholarship 2027
Is the Radboud Scholarship 2027 fully funded?
No. It is a partially funded scholarship that reduces tuition fees and covers specified immigration and insurance expenses. It does not provide a monthly living allowance.
How much does the Radboud Scholarship cover?
For 2027/2028, the scholarship reduces tuition to a provisional €2,771. Using the university’s example of €19,000 in institutional tuition, this represents savings of €16,229.
How many Radboud Scholarships are available in 2027?
Radboud University offers a maximum of 26 scholarships across six faculties for the 2027/2028 academic year.
Can African students apply?
Yes. Qualified students from non-EU/non-EEA countries, including Cameroon, Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya and other African countries, may apply if they meet all eligibility requirements.
Can final-year Bachelor’s students apply?
Potentially, yes. Applicants who will obtain their Bachelor’s degrees outside the Netherlands may qualify, provided they satisfy the Master’s admission requirements.
Is IELTS required?
Applicants must meet the English-language requirements of their chosen Master’s programme. Accepted tests and possible exemptions depend on the programme.
Is there an application fee?
The admissions process may involve a handling fee. Applicants should check the university’s current instructions for the applicable amount and any exemptions.
What is the Radboud Scholarship deadline for 2027?
The initial application deadline is 31 January 2027 at 23:59 CET. Applicants must complete all outstanding requirements by 14 February 2027 at 23:59 CET.
Can the scholarship cover a two-year Master’s programme?
Yes, subject to the programme’s nominal duration and the requirement that recipients pass all first-year courses to qualify for funding in the second year.
Can the Radboud Scholarship be combined with other scholarships?
The university explicitly allows recipients to combine it with the NL Scholarship. Applicants should verify the conditions of any additional funding arrangements.
When will scholarship results be announced?
Radboud University expects to announce scholarship decisions before mid-April 2027, although the date may change.
Official Scholarship Information and Application Links
Applicants should consult Radboud University’s official pages for the latest requirements and application procedures.
Official scholarship information: Radboud Scholarship Programme – Radboud University
Master’s admission and application procedure: Radboud University Master’s Application Procedure
For scholarship-related enquiries, applicants may contact the university at scholarships@ru.nl.
However, applications should not be submitted through this email address.
Final Thoughts
The Radboud Scholarship Programme 2027/2028 provides a valuable opportunity for academically outstanding international students who want to pursue English-taught Master’s degrees in the Netherlands.
Its principal benefit is a substantial reduction in tuition fees, accompanied by coverage for specified visa, residence permit and insurance expenses.
Nevertheless, competition is considerable, with a maximum of 26 scholarships available across six faculties.
Applicants should therefore prepare carefully, choose academically suitable programmes and submit convincing motivation letters supported by strong references.
They must also consider the financial responsibilities that remain after receiving the award.
For students who can cover their living expenses and meet the university’s academic requirements, the Radboud Scholarship is an opportunity worth exploring for September 2027 admission.
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