Maastricht University UM Global Studies Scholarship 2026 in Netherlands (Fully Funded)
Are you an ambitious international student looking for a chance to study in Europe? The UM Global Studies Scholarship 2026 at Maastricht University in the Netherlands is one of the most exciting fully funded undergraduate opportunities available. This scholarship covers tuition, living expenses, health insurance, visa costs, and even accommodation — giving you the freedom to focus on your studies and global career goals.
Why Choose the UM Global Studies Programme?
The Global Studies bachelor’s programme at Maastricht University is unique in the Netherlands. It brings together six faculties, each contributing expertise from different disciplines. This means students explore global challenges such as climate change, inequality, and international cooperation from multiple perspectives.
Through the programme, you will also:
- Take part in a field study abroad or locally with NGOs, firms, or government agencies.
- Develop real-world solutions for societal problems.
- Write an interdisciplinary bachelor thesis that prepares you for postgraduate research or global careers.
UM Global Studies Scholarship 2026 Summary
- Host Country: Netherlands
- University: Maastricht University
- Programme: Global Studies Bachelor’s
- Level: Undergraduate (Bachelor’s degree)
- Eligible Countries: OECD-DAC listed countries (Global South)
- Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
- Deadline: 1 February 2026
Benefits of the UM Global Studies Scholarship
The scholarship offers complete financial coverage for the full 3-year programme (36 months):
- Full tuition fee waiver
- Living expenses: €15,925 per year (€1,225/month)
- Health & liability insurance
- Visa application costs
- Pre-Academic Training costs
- Accommodation arranged by Maastricht University (mandatory)
Note: The living expenses budget covers housing (€600/month), groceries, travel, books, and personal costs. Flight tickets are not included.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the UM Global Studies Scholarship 2026, you must:
- Hold a nationality from an OECD-DAC eligible country (Global South).
- Not hold dual nationality from the EEA or other ineligible countries.
- Apply and gain (conditional) admission to the Global Studies Bachelor’s programme at UM for 2026–27.
- Be under 35 years old on 1 September 2026.
- Not already hold a bachelor’s degree or higher.
- Agree to serve as a student ambassador for UM during and after your studies.
Required Documents
Applicants need to submit the following documents in .doc, .docx, or PDF format:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (max 2 pages)
- Letter of Motivation (using UM’s template)
- Proof of Academic Excellence (latest transcripts showing at least 75% of max grade)
- Personal Statement of Financial Need
- Reference Letter (academic or professional, not family)
- Contact details of one referee (work email & phone required)
Application Timeline
- Application portal opens: 1 October 2025
- Deadline: 1 February 2026, 23:59 CET
- Shortlisted applicants notified: March–April 2026
- Final results: June 2026
- Pre-Academic Training: August 2026 (mandatory)
How to Apply (Step by Step)
- Step 1: Apply for the Global Studies programme via Studielink and receive your UM student ID.
- Step 2: Use your student ID to access the UM Global Studies Scholarship Application Form (available on the UM website).
- Step 3: Upload all required documents (CV, motivation letter, transcripts, financial statement, reference letter).
- Step 4: Submit before 1 February 2026. Late applications are not accepted.
Selection Process
The scholarship follows a competitive process:
- UM checks application completeness after 1 February 2026.
- Applications are ranked by the Global Studies admission office.
- Top 5 applicants are invited for an online interview.
- Final selection made by the UM Scholarship Committee.
- Results announced by June 2026.
Why This Scholarship Matters
The UM Global Studies Scholarship is not only about financial support. It is designed to empower students from developing regions, giving them the opportunity to study in one of Europe’s most innovative academic environments. Graduates gain the skills, networks, and credentials needed to make a global impact.
FAQs
1. Do I need IELTS or TOEFL to apply?
Yes, if English is not your first language, you must meet Maastricht University’s English language requirements.
2. Can I bring my family with me?
No, the accommodation included in the scholarship is for the student only and not suitable for families.
3. How competitive is the scholarship?
Very competitive — only one fully funded scholarship is awarded each year, so a strong application is essential.
Official Link
For full details and application access, visit the official page:
UM Global Studies Scholarship 2026 – Maastricht University
Tip: Interested in other top opportunities? Check out the Erasmus Mundus MAGMa Scholarship 2026 in Europe and
International Predoctoral Fellowship and Wenner-Gren Post-PhD Research Grant 2025–2026 as well.
