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Study in the Netherlands | UM Global Studies Scholarship 2026

November 2, 2025 9:33 am

Study in the Netherlands | UM Global Studies Scholarship 2026

If you dream of earning a degree in Europe while making a real difference in the world, the UM Global Studies Scholarship 2026 at Maastricht University (UM) in the Netherlands offers an extraordinary path. This fully funded bachelor’s scholarship welcomes ambitious students from developing countries who want to explore global challenges and craft solutions that matter. The program empowers changemakers who are eager to connect knowledge with action through one of Europe’s most forward-thinking academic experiences.

About the Global Studies Program

The Global Studies Bachelor’s Program at Maastricht University stands as one of the most innovative in Europe. What makes it truly special is its multidisciplinary nature—it draws on expertise from six UM faculties, including social sciences, economics, law, and humanities. Students learn to analyze global problems through diverse perspectives while gaining real-world experience through fieldwork, NGO collaborations, and community-based projects.

The program encourages teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving. Every student completes an interdisciplinary thesis, giving them the opportunity to design practical solutions to complex global issues such as inequality, sustainability, climate change, and international governance.

Scholarship Coverage and Duration

The UM Global Studies Scholarship 2026 provides full financial support for three academic years (36 months)—covering every essential need during your study period.

What the scholarship includes:

Full Tuition Waiver: Maastricht University pays the tuition directly.
Monthly Living Allowance: €1,225 per month (€15,925 per year).
Accommodation Support: UM secures a student room for every scholar.
Health and Liability Insurance.
Visa Application Costs and Pre-Academic Training Fees.

Note: The scholarship does not cover international travel expenses or air tickets.

Who Can Apply?

The scholarship targets talented students from countries listed under the OECD’s Official Development Assistance (ODA). Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria to qualify.

Eligibility Requirements:

Must hold citizenship from an eligible developing country.
Be under 35 years old as of 1 September 2026.
Have no previous bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification.
Maintain a strong academic record (at least 75% of the maximum achievable grades).
Demonstrate financial need and clear motivation in the personal statement.
Gain conditional admission to Maastricht University’s Global Studies program for 2026–2027.
Commit to serving as an ambassador for UM during and after the program.

Applicants who hold dual nationality with an EEA country or a nation outside the OECD list are not eligible.

Selection Process

After applications close, the UM International Services Desk reviews all submissions and forwards them to the Global Studies admissions team. The evaluation process focuses on academic achievement, motivation, and alignment with the program’s goals.

Selection Stages:

Application screening and verification.
Shortlisting and ranking of candidates.
The top five candidates were invited for online interviews in March 2026.
Final results announced by June 2026.
Selected students attend a Pre-Academic Training in August 2026 before classes begin in September 2026.

How to Apply

Interested candidates must complete the full application online through Maastricht University’s scholarship portal:

Click Here to Apply

Application Timeline:

Opens: 1 October 2025
Deadline: 1 February 2026 (23:59 CET)

Why This Scholarship Matters

The UM Global Studies Scholarship 2026 offers more than just financial aid—it builds future global thinkers ready to challenge inequality and create sustainable change. By studying at Maastricht University, you’ll join a vibrant international community that believes in education’s power to transform societies.

If you’re passionate about addressing global challenges through innovation and collaboration, this scholarship is your chance to turn that vision into reality.