Study in the Netherlands | Leiden University Minerva Scholarship 2026
Leiden University students planning exceptional academic projects abroad now have a valuable funding opportunity to support their international ambitions. The Minerva Scholarship Fund (MSF) for the 2026–2027 academic year is officially accepting applications, offering financial assistance to Bachelor’s and Master’s students of all nationalities enrolled at Leiden University who aim to undertake prestigious study, internship, or research projects overseas.
Established in 2009 through the Leiden Minerva Student Association, the Minerva Scholarship Fund Foundation has consistently supported innovative and academically meaningful projects across all disciplines. This initiative helps students gain transformative global experience while advancing their research and professional growth within an international context.
Scholarship Benefits and Value
This scholarship provides crucial financial support for academically relevant international experiences. Selected students receive:
- Funding ranging from €900 to €2,000 per approved project
- Financial support for research-related expenses, such as lab supplies, software, or archival access
- Coverage of international travel costs, including flights to research sites or internship locations
- Contribution toward living expenses during the project period abroad, including accommodation and daily costs
- Recognition for undertaking an exceptional or prestigious academic initiative
- Opportunity to enhance academic and professional profiles through international exposure
While this grant does not constitute full tuition funding, it serves as essential bridge support for project-specific expenses, enabling students to focus on innovation rather than logistical concerns.
Eligible Project Categories
The scholarship supports projects falling into three distinct categories :
- Study abroad modules – Discrete academic components undertaken at foreign institutions
- Research projects – Original investigations requiring international fieldwork or collaboration
- Internships abroad – Professional placements with clear academic relevance
Eligibility Criteria for Applicants
To qualify for this competitive funding, applicants must satisfy the following requirements :
- Be currently registered as a Bachelor’s or Master’s student at Leiden University
- Hold any nationality (open to all countries)
- Propose an exceptional or prestigious project located outside the Netherlands
- Ensure the project falls within internship, study, or research categories
- Note that PhD tracks and complete Master’s programs abroad are not eligible
- Membership in L.S.V. Minerva is not required to apply
- Commit to submitting a final project report with images within three months after completion
- Projects must not have already commenced at the time of application; only new proposals qualify for consideration.
Eligible Academic Disciplines
The scholarship welcomes proposals from students across all Leiden University faculties, including :
- Archaeology
- Humanities
- Medicine / LUMC
- Governance and Global Affairs
- Law
- Social and Behavioural Sciences
- Science
- ICLON (Interfaculty Centre for Teacher Training)
This interdisciplinary reach ensures flexibility for innovative ideas spanning multiple fields.
Application Process
Applying for the Minerva Scholarship Fund involves a straightforward but meticulous process :
- Download the application form from the official Minerva Scholarship Fund website or the Leiden University scholarships page
Prepare a complete application dossier including:
- Completed and signed the application form
- Detailed project proposal (objectives, methodology, timeline, expected outcomes)
- Comprehensive budget with justified expenses
- Curriculum vitae / résumé
- Academic transcripts
- At least one letter of recommendation from someone familiar with your academic work
- Proof of enrollment at Leiden University
Submit before the deadline via email to the designated address: minervascholarshipfund@lsvminerva.nl
All documents should be in PDF format with clear filenames including your name.
Selection Process
An allocation committee composed of Leiden University lecturers from various disciplines evaluates all applications based on predetermined criteria. During assessment, the committee considers:
- The academic relevance and quality of the proposed project
- How the project contributes to the advancement of knowledge
- The originality and feasibility of the initiative
- Alignment with the scholarship’s mission of supporting exceptional international work
Applicants receive notification of the outcome within approximately one month after the application deadline.
How to Apply
Access the official Leiden University Minerva Scholarship Fund information and application portal here:
Click Here to Visit Their Official Website
Critical Application Deadlines
The Minerva Scholarship Fund offers two application rounds annually :
- Spring Round Deadline: 15 November 2025
- Second Round Deadline: 15 April 2026
For the 2026–2027 academic cycle, the final date to apply under the spring round is 15 April 2026. All materials must reach the scholarship committee before this closing date to receive consideration.
Strategic Tips for a Competitive Application
To strengthen your proposal, consider these recommendations:
- Focus on one clear, high-value project rather than broad, vague ideas
- Demonstrate academic rigor by connecting your project to Leiden faculty expertise
- Create a realistic timeline with preparation, execution, and wrap-up phases
- Build a defensible budget with justified line items reflecting local costs
- Secure credible partnerships through host institution commitments or supervisor support
- Choose referees who know your academic strengths and can tailor recommendations
- Tell your story by explaining your passion while maintaining academic substance
- Submit early to avoid last-minute technical issues
Conclusion
In summary, the Minerva Scholarship Fund offers Leiden University students a unique opportunity to transform ambitious international projects into reality. By providing targeted financial support for research, study, or internships abroad, this scholarship empowers students to expand their academic horizons, build global networks, and contribute meaningfully to knowledge advancement. Begin preparing your proposal today to seize this valuable funding opportunity for the 2026–2027 academic year.
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