Maastricht University High Potential Scholarship

Maastricht University offers the High Potential Scholarship to talented non-EU/EEA students who want to pursue a master’s degree in the Netherlands. This competitive scholarship covers tuition fees and living expenses, making a world-class education more accessible for high-achieving international students.

What Is the Maastricht University High Potential Scholarship?

This scholarship is designed for motivated students from outside the EU/EEA who have excellent academic records. It is funded by Maastricht University and the Dutch Ministry of Education. The award supports full-time master’s programs taught in English.

The scholarship aims to bring diverse perspectives to the university. It rewards students who show strong potential to become future leaders in their fields.

Key Features of the Scholarship

• Covers full tuition fees for one or two years, depending on your program length.
• Provides a monthly living allowance of approximately €1,200.
• Includes health and liability insurance coverage.
• Offers a contribution toward visa application costs.
• Covers pre-academic training costs if required.

Eligibility Requirements

You must hold a non-EU/EEA passport and have never studied or worked in the Netherlands before. You also need to apply for a full-time master’s program at Maastricht University.

Your academic record must be excellent, typically with a GPA in the top 10% of your graduating class. You must also meet the English language requirements for your chosen program.

“The scholarship committee looks for students who combine strong grades with a clear vision of how their studies will contribute to society.”

Programs That Qualify

• All regular master’s programs at Maastricht University (one or two years).
• Programs taught in English across all faculties.
• Research master’s programs are also eligible.
• Professional master’s programs may qualify, check specific program pages.

Scholarship Coverage and Benefits

The High Potential Scholarship is comprehensive. It covers the full cost of tuition, which can range from €16,000 to €22,000 per year depending on the program.

You receive a monthly stipend for living expenses, currently set at €1,200. This helps with rent, food, and transport in Maastricht. The scholarship also pays for your health insurance and liability insurance during your study period.

Visa costs are covered up to €210. If you need a pre-master program, the scholarship covers that tuition too.

How to Apply for the High Potential Scholarship

You must first apply for admission to a master’s program at Maastricht University. The scholarship application is separate but linked to your program application.

Complete the online scholarship application form through the university portal. You will need to upload several documents and answer motivation questions.

Required Documents

• Valid passport copy.
• Curriculum vitae (CV) in English.
• Motivation letter explaining why you deserve the scholarship.
• Two academic recommendation letters.
• Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent).
• Grade transcripts and degree certificates.
• Scholarship application form with personal statement.

Tips for a Strong Application

• Start preparing at least three months before the deadline.
• Write a clear motivation letter that connects your past achievements to your future goals.
• Ask professors who know your work well for recommendation letters.
• Double-check that all documents are translated into English if needed.
• Proofread everything before submitting.

Selection Criteria

The selection committee evaluates applicants based on academic excellence, motivation, and international orientation. They look for students who can contribute to the university’s diverse community.

Your academic record should show consistent high performance. The motivation letter should explain how your studies in Maastricht will help you address real-world problems.

“We want students who not only excel in class but also have a clear plan for using their education to make a difference.” – Scholarship coordinator

What Makes an Application Stand Out

• Strong grades with evidence of ranking near the top of your class.
• A compelling personal story that shows resilience and ambition.
• Clear connection between your chosen program and your career goals.
• Extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership or community involvement.
• Letters from referees who can speak specifically about your abilities.

Deadline and Application Timeline

The scholarship has one application deadline per year, usually several months before the program start. You must apply for both the program and the scholarship before this date.

After the deadline, the university reviews applications over a period of six to eight weeks. Successful candidates are notified by email and must confirm acceptance within a set timeframe.

Living in Maastricht as a Scholarship Student

Maastricht is a student-friendly city in the south of the Netherlands. The cost of living is moderate compared to other European cities. Your monthly allowance of €1,200 covers rent, food, and basic expenses.

The university provides support services for international students, including help with housing and orientation. You will also join a community of other scholarship recipients, which makes settling in easier.

Conclusion

The Maastricht University High Potential Scholarship is a valuable opportunity for talented non-EU students. It removes financial barriers and lets you focus on your studies and personal growth. With careful preparation and a strong application, you can join a diverse group of scholars making an impact in the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work while holding the High Potential Scholarship?

Yes, you can work part-time during your studies, up to 16 hours per week. The scholarship does not restrict your right to work, but your main focus should remain on your academic program.

Do I need to apply for the scholarship and the master’s program separately?

Yes, you must apply for admission to a master’s program first. Then you submit a separate scholarship application through the university’s online system. Both applications are reviewed together.

Is the scholarship renewable for a second year?

For two-year master’s programs, the scholarship covers both years automatically. You must maintain satisfactory academic progress to continue receiving the benefits in the second year.

Can I apply if I already live in the Netherlands?

No, the scholarship is for students who live outside the Netherlands at the time of application. You must also have never studied or worked in the country before.

What GPA do I need to be competitive?

There is no fixed minimum GPA, but successful applicants typically rank in the top 10% of their graduating class. A GPA equivalent to 3.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale is generally expected.

Does the scholarship cover travel costs to the Netherlands?

No, the High Potential Scholarship does not cover flight or travel expenses. You must arrange and pay for your own travel to Maastricht.

Can I apply if my bachelor’s degree is from a non-English speaking country?

Yes, but you must provide proof of English proficiency through an accepted test like IELTS or TOEFL. Some exceptions apply if your previous degree was taught entirely in English.

How many scholarships are awarded each year?

The university awards approximately 30 to 35 High Potential Scholarships per academic year. The exact number depends on available funding and the quality of applications.

What happens if I fail a course?

You must pass at least half of your credits in each academic year to keep the scholarship. If you fail, the university may suspend or terminate the funding after a review.

Can I change my master’s program after receiving the scholarship?

No, the scholarship is tied to the specific program you applied for. If you change programs, you will lose the scholarship and must reapply for a new one.