Study in the Netherlands for Free: The UM Brightlands Talent Scholarship 2026

Are you a talented student from outside the EU/EEA dreaming of a master’s degree in the Netherlands?

Maastricht University (UM) is offering one of the most generous scholarship packages available in Europe. The UM Brightlands Talent Scholarship doesn’t just cover your tuition; it provides a full ride, including a monthly stipend, to future leaders who want to contribute to the innovative Brightlands campuses.

Here is everything you need to know to secure this prestigious award for the 2026-2027 academic year.

What Does the Scholarship Cover?

This is a fully funded scholarship designed to remove all financial barriers so you can focus on your studies and personal growth.

• Tuition Fees: 100% covered (at cost).
• Monthly Stipend:€1,225 per month for living expenses (rent, food, etc.).
  • Total Value: €15,925 (for 1-year masters) or €30,625 (for 2-year masters).
• Health & Liability Insurance: Arranged and paid for by UM.
• Visa Costs: Application fees are covered.
• Pre-Academic Training: Costs covered if applicable.

📅 Duration:

• 13 months for a one-year Master’s programme.
• 25 months for a two-year Master’s programme.

Am I Eligible?

Competition is fierce, and the criteria are strict. You can apply if you meet all the following requirements:

1. Nationality: You are a national of a country outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland.
2. Age: You are not older than 35 years on September 1, 2026.
3. Academic Excellence: You have a GPA of at least 7.5 out of 10 (or equivalent, e.g., 3.0/4.0 or 75%) in your previous education.
4. No Prior Dutch Education: You have never completed a degree-seeking programme in the Netherlands (exchange students are welcome to apply).
5. Admissions Status: You have applied for a participating Master’s programme at UM (see below).

🎓 Which Programs are Eligible?

The scholarship is specifically for master’s programs connected to the Brightlands Campuses, which are innovation hubs in the Limburg region. While the list can change, eligible programs typically fall into these innovative fields:

• Brightlands Smart Services Campus (Heerlen):
  • Focus: Data Science, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Business Intelligence, Digital Technology.
  • Likely Programs: MSc Artificial Intelligence, MSc Data Science for Decision Making.
• Brightlands Maastricht Health Campus:
  • Focus: Medicine, Health Sciences, Biomedical research.
  • Likely Programs: MSc Biomedical Sciences, MSc Epidemiology, MSc Healthcare Policy.
• Brightlands Chemelot Campus (Geleen):
  • Focus: Materials science, Circular chemistry.
  • Likely Programs: MSc Biobased Materials, MSc Systems Biology.
• Brightlands Campus Greenport Venlo:
  • Focus: Nutrition, Food safety, Logistics.
  • Likely Programs: MSc Health Food Innovation Management, MSc Global Supply Chain Management.

Tip: When browsing Master’s programs on the Maastricht University website, look for a connection to one of these campuses in the program description!

How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

The application process requires attention to detail. Follow these steps carefully:

Step 1: Apply for Your Master’s Program

You must first apply for the Master’s program itself via Studielink and the UM portal.

• Why? You need a UM Student ID number to apply for the scholarship.
• Timing: Do this immediately! You can apply for the scholarship after you have your ID, even if you aren’t conditionally admitted yet.

Step 2: Prepare Your Documents

Prepare these documents in .doc, .docx, or .PDF format:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV): Max 2 pages. Highlight extracurriculars and active citizenship.
• Motivation Letter: Use the official UM template. Focus on why you are a good ambassador for the Brightlands campus.
• Proof of Academic Excellence: A transcript explicitly stating your GPA or a ranking statement.
• Personal Statement of Financial Need: Explain your financial situation and why you need this support.
• Reference Letter: From a professor, lecturer, or employer (dated Feb 2025 or later). Family members are not accepted.
• Referee Contact Details: Email and phone number for verification.

Step 3: Submit the Scholarship Application

Log in with your new UM account and fill out the scholarship application form.

• Deadline: February 1, 2026 (23:59 CET).
• Note: You can only submit the application once, so double-check everything!

💡 Pro Tips for Success

1. Be a “Brightlands” Ambassador: This scholarship isn’t just about grades. They want students who will contribute to the campus ecosystem. Research the specific Brightlands campus related to your degree and mention in your motivation letter how you will contribute to it.
2. Check the GPA Requirement: They are strict about the 7.5/10 GPA. If your transcript doesn’t clearly show this, ask your current university for a statement translating your grades.
3. Apply Early: Don’t wait until January 31st. Technical glitches happen. Submit your master’s application now to ensure you get your Student ID in time.