Navigating University of Groningen Holland Scholarship for Non-EEA Students

For many ambitious students across Africa, Asia, Latin America, and other parts of the world, studying in Europe remains a coveted goal. Among the numerous countries that offer world-class education, the Netherlands stands out not only for its academic excellence but also for its diverse scholarship opportunities aimed at non-European students. One of the most well-known and competitive of these is the Holland Scholarship, offered by a group of Dutch research universities and universities of applied sciences. At the heart of this initiative is the University of Groningen, a top-ranking institution that welcomes international talent with open arms.

If you’re a non-EEA (European Economic Area) student considering studying at the University of Groningen and are interested in the Holland Scholarship, this article is your complete roadmap. From eligibility criteria and application timelines to tips for writing a compelling motivation letter and avoiding common mistakes, we’ll cover everything you need to know to put together a winning application.

Why the University of Groningen?

Let’s start with the basics. The University of Groningen is one of the oldest and most prestigious institutions in the Netherlands. Founded in 1614, it has consistently ranked among the top 100 universities worldwide. The university is located in the vibrant and youthful city of Groningen, often referred to as the “City of Talent” for its strong student culture, international atmosphere, and dynamic academic environment.

Groningen is not just about academics—it’s a lifestyle. The city is student-friendly, affordable, bike-centric, and buzzing with creativity. Over 120 nationalities are represented among the student population, making it an excellent place to thrive both academically and socially.

What is the Holland Scholarship?

The Holland Scholarship is a national initiative financed by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science in collaboration with Dutch universities. It is aimed at talented international students from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) who wish to pursue their Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in the Netherlands.

At the University of Groningen, this scholarship is awarded to a select number of highly qualified non-EEA students who are applying to English-taught degree programs. It’s important to note that the Holland Scholarship is a partial scholarship, meant to help with the cost of the first year of study. It provides a one-time grant of €5,000, which is not renewable.

While it won’t cover your full tuition or living expenses, it significantly eases the financial burden and strengthens your overall scholarship portfolio when combined with other funding options.

Who is Eligible?

Before applying, make sure you meet the basic eligibility criteria. These include:

1. Nationality

You must be a non-EEA national, meaning you do not hold a passport from any of the EU countries, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, or Switzerland.

2. Application to an English-Taught Degree Program

You must be applying for a full-time Bachelor’s or Master’s program taught in English at the University of Groningen. Dual-degree programs and exchange studies are not eligible.

3. No Prior Study in the Netherlands

You must not have studied in the Netherlands before, as the scholarship is intended for students new to Dutch higher education.

4. Strong Academic Record

Academic excellence is a must. You should be among the top 10–15% of your class, with a strong GPA or equivalent.

5. Motivation and Ambition

You must demonstrate a strong motivation to study at the University of Groningen and a clear plan for using your education to create impact in your home country or globally.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step

Navigating the application process can feel overwhelming, especially for international students, but breaking it down makes it more manageable. Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for the Holland Scholarship at the University of Groningen:

Step 1: Research Your Program

Before anything else, carefully research the program you wish to apply to. Groningen offers a wide range of Bachelor’s and Master’s programs in areas such as:

• Business and Economics

• Science and Engineering

• Social Sciences

• Law

• Arts and Humanities

• Medicine and Public Health

Each program has its own admission requirements and deadlines, so make sure you understand the expectations.

Step 2: Apply for Admission

The Holland Scholarship is only available to students who are formally admitted to a program at the University of Groningen. So, your first step should be to apply through the university’s online portal before the scholarship deadline.

Your admission application typically requires the following:

• Academic transcripts

• Diploma or degree certificate

• Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL/Cambridge)

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)

• Motivation letter (for the degree program)

• Reference letters

Make sure your application is complete and submitted well before the deadline, as incomplete or late applications will disqualify you from scholarship consideration.

Step 3: Submit a Separate Scholarship Application

After (or while) applying for your degree program, you need to submit a separate application for the Holland Scholarship. This is often done via a dedicated form or platform set up by the university.

Typically, you will be asked to submit:

• A motivation letter specifically for the Holland Scholarship

• Evidence of academic excellence

• Possibly a short essay or answers to specific questions

• References or recommendation letters tailored to scholarship applications

Make sure to differentiate this letter from your admission motivation letter. Focus on why you need the scholarship, what makes you a worthy candidate, and how you plan to contribute academically and socially to the university.

Step 4: Wait for Results

The selection process can take several weeks or months. Candidates are assessed not only on academic performance but also on motivation, leadership qualities, and potential for impact.

Successful applicants will receive an offer by email, often in May or June, for programs starting in September. If awarded the scholarship, you will also receive guidance on the next steps regarding payment, visa, and arrival in the Netherlands.

What Makes a Strong Application?

Winning the Holland Scholarship is no easy feat. With limited spots and fierce global competition, your application needs to stand out. Here’s what evaluators are looking for:

1. Academic Brilliance

High grades and a strong academic background are essential. But it’s not just about grades—demonstrating intellectual curiosity and a willingness to engage in your field goes a long way.

2. Clear Motivation

Your motivation letter is your voice. Use it to explain:

• Why the University of Groningen is your top choice

• What draws you to your specific program

• How you plan to use your education after graduation

• Why financial support is crucial to your plans

3. Global Mindset and Leadership Potential

Show that you’re not just academically qualified but also culturally aware, socially responsible, and ready to be a leader in your community or industry.

4. Strong Recommendations

Choose referees who know you well—ideally professors, mentors, or employers who can comment on your academic ability, leadership potential, and personal character.

Writing the Perfect Motivation Letter

This is often the most challenging part of the application—but also your best opportunity to shine. Here are some tips:

• Start strong with a personal anecdote or statement that captures attention.

• Be authentic—let your personality and values come through.

• Align your goals with the University of Groningen’s mission and values.

• Demonstrate financial need without sounding desperate; focus on how the scholarship will enable you to pursue your goals.

• Keep it concise, usually one page (around 500–700 words).

A well-crafted letter can often be the deciding factor between two academically similar candidates.

Managing Costs Beyond the Scholarship

It’s important to understand that the Holland Scholarship only covers €5,000 of your expenses. You’ll need to prepare financially for the remaining costs, which include:

• Tuition fees (ranging from €8,000–€20,000/year depending on the program)

• Living expenses (estimated at €10,000–€12,000/year)

• Health insurance

• Visa and residence permit fees

Fortunately, there are other funding options and ways to manage expenses:

1. Other Scholarships

Some faculties offer additional scholarships based on merit, nationality, or research interest. Always check your department’s website.

2. Part-Time Work

International students are allowed to work part-time (up to 16 hours per week) during the academic year and full-time during holidays. However, you’ll need a work permit in some cases.

3. Budgeting Smartly

Use student discounts, cook your meals, bike instead of taking buses, and share accommodation to save on costs.

Life in Groningen as an International Student

Living in Groningen is one of the highlights of studying at the University. With over 30% of the student population being international, you’ll find a multicultural environment where everyone’s welcome.

What to Expect:

• Affordable Living: Compared to Amsterdam or Rotterdam, Groningen is relatively affordable for students.

• Biking Culture: The city is designed for bicycles, making transport cheap and eco-friendly.

• Student Organizations: There are dozens of clubs and societies for networking, hobbies, or volunteering.

• Career Support: UiG offers career workshops, internships, and support for finding jobs after graduation.

Despite the Dutch climate (think rain and wind), the warmth of the student community more than makes up for it.

What Happens After the First Year?

Since the Holland Scholarship only covers the first year, students must fund subsequent years independently. That’s why it’s essential to have a long-term financial plan.

Some tips:

• Look for departmental funding opportunities for second-year students.

• Apply for research or teaching assistantships if offered.

• Use your first year to build a strong academic record, which might help in future applications for merit-based awards.

Also, remember that the experience, exposure, and opportunities you gain during your studies can pay off long after graduation.

Final Thoughts

The University of Groningen’s participation in the Holland Scholarship program is more than a financial gesture—it’s a commitment to fostering global talent, diversity, and innovation. If you are a highly motivated non-EEA student with academic excellence, a vision for the future, and the drive to make a global impact, this scholarship can be your stepping stone.

While the financial award is partial, the value of the experience—academic, cultural, and professional—is priceless. From top-notch education to a thriving international community, Groningen offers a launchpad for ambitious students ready to embrace the world.

So, start early, prepare thoroughly, and put your best foot forward. Your journey to one of the Netherlands’ best universities could be just a few steps away.