The Netherlands has become a popular destination for Nigerian students due to its high-quality education system, innovative teaching, and wide range of English-taught programs. For those concerned about cost, there are several fully funded scholarships available for 2025 that cover tuition and living expenses. Here are the top opportunities.

1. Holland Scholarship

The Holland Scholarship is funded by the Dutch Ministry of Education for international students outside the European Economic Area (EEA), including Nigerians.

Highlights:

• €5,000 awarded in the first year
• Open to Bachelor’s and Master’s students
• Based on academic merit

2. Erasmus University Holland Scholarship

Erasmus University Rotterdam offers scholarships for non-EEA students pursuing Bachelor’s or Master’s programs.

Highlights:

• Up to €15,000 towards tuition and living expenses
• Open to multiple fields of study
• Requires strong academic performance

3. Leiden University Excellence Scholarships (LExS)

Leiden University provides scholarships for outstanding Master’s students from outside the EEA.

Highlights:

• Partial to full tuition coverage
• Highly competitive and merit-based
• Applicable across many disciplines

4. University of Amsterdam Amsterdam Merit Scholarship

University of Amsterdam offers the AMS for exceptional international Master’s students.

Highlights:

• €2,000–€25,000 depending on the program
• Covers tuition and living expenses
• Open to all Master’s programs taught in English

5. Utrecht Excellence Scholarships

Utrecht University offers the UES for international Master’s students.

Highlights:

• Full tuition or tuition plus living costs (€11,000)
• Limited number of awards each year
• Based on academic excellence

6. Maastricht University Holland High Potential Scholarship

Maastricht University offers scholarships to high-achieving international Master’s students.

Highlights:

• €30,000 per year (tuition + living stipend)
• Covers one or two years of study
• Open to students across many disciplines

7. Radboud University Scholarship Programme

Radboud University provides partial and full scholarships to international Master’s students.

Highlights:

• Tuition reduction to as low as €2,530
• Covers part of living expenses
• Competitive and limited slots available

Final Thoughts

The Netherlands provides excellent opportunities for Nigerians in 2025 through scholarships that reduce or completely cover tuition and living costs. From government-funded awards like the Holland Scholarship to university-specific programs, applicants have multiple pathways to access world-class education.

Tip: Deadlines in the Netherlands are often early (January–March). Start preparing documents well in advance.