Radboud University Scholarships 2026 open an exciting pathway for international students. This highly selective program is designed for talented non-EU/EEA Master’s candidates, offering a generous tuition waiver and support for study-related costs. In fact, scholarship holders in 2026/27 will pay only €2,695 in tuition (instead of about €18,000) and have visa, residence permit, health and liability insurance fees covered. These benefits make pursuing a Master’s degree in the Netherlands much more affordable.
Our guide explains who can apply, what the scholarship covers, and how to submit a strong application. Read on for step-by-step instructions, key deadlines, and helpful tips to boost your chances.
Overview
Radboud University (Nijmegen, Netherlands) is a leading public research university with around 24,000 students. Established in 1923, it consistently ranks among the world’s top 150 universities. The Radboud Scholarship Programme offers partial scholarships for the full duration of an English-taught Master’s degree. This award reduces the normal international tuition to €2,695 per year and covers visa, permit and insurance costs. For 2026/27, up to 33 scholarships are available across faculties like Arts, Law, Management, Science, Social Sciences and Philosophy/Theology, covering nearly all English Master’s programs (except joint degrees).
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a Radboud Scholarship, applicants must meet all of the following conditions:
- Non-EU/EEA citizenship: You must hold a valid non-EU/EEA passport (and not qualify for the lower EU/EEA tuition rate).
- Foreign Bachelor’s degree: Your bachelor’s degree must be obtained outside the Netherlands (no previous Dutch degree).
- English proficiency: Meet the language requirement for your chosen Master’s program.
- Admission letter: You must be fully admitted to a full-time English-taught Master’s program at Radboud starting Sept 1, 2026.
- Visa eligibility: You must be able to obtain a Dutch student visa and residence permit.
- Full-time enrollment: You must enroll full-time at Radboud for the program year of the scholarship.
- Academic progress (2-year programs): If you enroll in a two-year Master’s, you must pass all first-year courses to continue receiving funding for Year 2.
Meeting these criteria is essential. Note that Radboud looks for candidates with outstanding academic records and motivation.
Also check out: Leiden University Mandela Scholarship 2026
Coverage / Benefits
Recipients of the Radboud Scholarship receive significant financial support:
- Tuition reduction: Annual tuition is cut to €2,695 (instead of ~€18,000).
- Visa & permit costs: Fees for the Dutch visa and residence permit are covered.
- Health insurance: Basic Dutch health insurance (Aon) is provided.
- Liability insurance: Student liability insurance is included.
- Second-year funding: For two-year programs, Year 2 funding is granted once Year 1 courses are passed.
- Combine with NL Scholarship: You can apply the Dutch NL Scholarship on top of this award for extra financial aid.
- Living costs: Note: personal living expenses are not covered.
In effect, this partial grant acts as a major tuition waiver and covers key study-related costs.
Host Country & University Info
The Netherlands is known for high-quality higher education and widespread English proficiency, making it ideal for international students. Nijmegen is a vibrant student city with a rich history and a safe, welcoming environment. Radboud University offers modern facilities, strong research output, and a diverse international community. All in all, you will study in a top-ranked Dutch university (ranked in global top 150) and enjoy the Netherlands’ rich culture and excellent student support.
Application Process (Step-by-Step)
- Apply for admission: Use Studielink/OSIRIS to apply for your chosen English-taught Master’s program by 31 Jan 2026.
- Indicate scholarship: In your OSIRIS application, select the Radboud Scholarship option. Upload the required documents: two reference letters and a CV.
- Submit by deadline: Ensure your application is submitted by 31 Jan 2026 23:59 CEST. After initial submission, check your email: Radboud Admissions will prompt you to complete any missing parts and pay a handling fee. Resubmit the completed application (with payment) by 14 Feb 2026 23:59 CEST.
- Await decision: The Master’s admission and scholarship selection are separate. If admitted to your program, await the scholarship result. You will be informed of the final decision by mid-April 2026.
Follow each step carefully and start early to avoid last-minute issues.
Discover more: University of Science and Technology Scholarships 2026 (Korea)
Important Deadlines
- January 31, 2026: Initial OSIRIS application deadline (23:59 CEST).
- February 14, 2026: Final deadline to submit all documents and fees (23:59 CEST).
- Mid-April 2026: Announcement of scholarship decisions.
Missing these dates means your application cannot be considered. Mark them and apply ahead of time.
Tips for Applicants
- Emphasize excellence: Highlight top grades, research or relevant achievements in your field.
- Strong motivation letter: Write a clear, engaging letter that explains your goals and fit with the program.
- Quality references: Obtain two solid recommendation letters (preferably academic).
- Show ambition: Include internships, volunteering or leadership experiences that relate to your studies.
- Prepare for interviews: Some programs may interview candidates; practice discussing your motivation and background.
- Keep organized: Double-check all requirements (transcripts, English test scores, etc.) well before deadlines.
- Check other grants: Consider also applying for the Dutch NL Scholarship to supplement your funding.
- Stay positive: A confident, well-prepared application can make you stand out even in this competitive program.
Apply for Radboud University Scholarships 2026 now!
Conclusion
Radboud University Scholarships 2026 offer an excellent chance to earn a prestigious Dutch Master’s degree at a dramatically reduced cost. If you’re an ambitious non-EU student with strong grades and motivation, don’t miss this opportunity. Review the criteria carefully, prepare a standout application, and submit before the deadlines. Even though the program is selective, a well-prepared application can succeed. Share this guide with fellow students who might benefit. Your future at Radboud awaits!
Recommended for you: Helmut Veith Scholarship 2025-2026: Fully Funded Master’s
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Radboud Scholarship Programme?
A competitive scholarship for non-EU/EEA Master’s students at Radboud University, awarding a major tuition reduction and supporting study costs.
Who is eligible for Radboud University Scholarships?
Citizens from outside the EU/EEA who hold a Bachelor’s from abroad and are admitted to an English-taught Radboud Master’s (meeting visa/English requirements).
What does the scholarship cover?
It reduces tuition to €2,695/year and covers visa, residence permit, health and liability insurance fees. (Living costs are not covered.)
What are the application deadlines?
Apply in OSIRIS by Jan 31, 2026. Submit any missing documents/fees by Feb 14, 2026. Decisions are announced by mid-April 2026.
Is the Radboud Scholarship fully funded?
No. It is a partial scholarship: tuition is mostly waived (you pay €2,695) and visa/insurance are covered, but living expenses are not included.
Can I combine this scholarship with other funding?
Yes, Recipients can also apply for the Dutch NL Scholarship (government grant) to receive additional financial aid.
