Netherlands Fellowship Program Scholarship.

The Netherlands Fellowship Program (NFP) is a prestigious scholarship opportunity offered by the government of the Netherlands. It provides funding for master’s and PhD candidates from all over the world to pursue their postgraduate studies at universities and research institutions in the Netherlands. Here is an overview of the Netherlands Fellowship Program Scholarship.

Program Overview

The NFP is funded by the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It aims to foster global cooperation and build international networks by supporting talented individuals from eligible countries to study in the Netherlands. The scholarship covers 18 months for master’s students and 36-48 months for PhD candidates. It provides funding for tuition fees, a monthly allowance, travel costs, and basic health insurance. NFP scholars receive academic and pastoral support from the administering organization Nuffic throughout their studies in the Netherlands.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the NFP, applicants must be citizens and residents of eligible countries. The current list includes countries in Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Caribbean, and the Balkan and Mediterranean regions. Candidates should hold a first degree with excellent academic results and have a conditional admission letter to a master’s or PhD program at a Dutch university. They must have a sufficient command of English to successfully undertake graduate-level studies. Work experience of 1-3 years is recommended for master’s applicants.

Application Process

The application process starts with identifying a university program and obtaining a letter of admission from the intended university in the Netherlands. Candidates then create an online NFP application profile on the Nuffic website, providing personal and academic details along with motivating essays, reference letters, and scanned academic certificates. The application should be accompanied by a detailed study plan and budget. Applicants may apply to multiple programs but can only receive one NFP award. Selection is based on academic merit, motivation, quality of the study plan, and relevance of research for development cooperation. Shortlisted candidates may be interviewed.

Scholarship Benefits

Successful NFP scholars receive a monthly allowance of about €1,000-€1,200 for living expenses. In addition, tuition fees are paid directly to the university and a settling-in allowance of €850 is provided. A return airfare and comprehensive health, accident, and liability insurance are also included. Scholars need to submit progress and completion reports along with receipts. On completion, scholars are expected to contribute their knowledge and skills to developing their home country. NFP alumni have an exclusive global network for continued cooperation and engagement with the Netherlands.

Application Deadlines

There are two application rounds each year – in September for programs starting in September of the next year and in February for programs starting in February/March of the same year. Applicants must submit all required documents through the online application portal by the published deadlines, which are usually in mid-September and mid-February respectively. Decisions are announced 2-3 months later in November/December and April/May. Candidates are advised to start the application at least 6 months before the program start date to allow time for university admission processing.

Benefits for Scholars and Home Countries

The NFP scholarship is highly competitive and prestigious. For scholars, it opens up opportunities for internationally recognized higher education and research at top Dutch universities. They gain world-class skills and qualifications along with exposure to Dutch culture and the diverse student community. Scholars benefit from professional networking with global experts. After returning home, scholars contribute new knowledge and perspectives to develop their communities and countries. Their international experience and Dutch connections also boost career prospects. For developing partner countries, the program builds human resource capacities and institutional collaborations for long-term sustainable development goals.

In conclusion, the Netherlands Fellowship Program is an excellent fully-funded opportunity for high-achieving candidates from partner countries to further their postgraduate education at some of Europe’s top universities. With its global reach, prestigious benefits, and structured mentorship, the NFP scholarship transforms lives and fosters international cooperation.

All the best!