Are you dreaming of a world-class engineering education without financial strain? The TU Delft Excellence Scholarship 2026 offers a golden opportunity for international students. This fully funded scholarship (formally the Justus & Louise van Effen Excellence Scholarship) covers a two-year Master’s (MSc) degree at Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands. Recipients receive full tuition waivers plus generous living stipends for the entire 24-month program. With this scholarship, you can focus on learning and innovation at a top-ranked tech university.
In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know: what the scholarship covers, who is eligible, how to apply step-by-step, important deadlines, and tips to make your application stand out. Dream big and get ready to prepare a standout application for this prestigious opportunity!
Overview
The TU Delft Excellence Scholarship is designed for outstanding international students pursuing a master’s degree at Delft University of Technology (TU Delft). Key facts:
- University: Delft University of Technology (TU Delft), Netherlands. Established in 1842, TU Delft is the country’s largest and oldest technical university with a strong global reputation in engineering and technology.
- Country: Netherlands. Known for its high-quality, English-friendly higher education system, the Netherlands consistently ranks among the best countries for education. Studying in Delft means access to a diverse international community and cutting-edge research.
- Degree Level & Duration: Master’s (MSc) degree – 2 years (24 months). The scholarship supports the full program length.
- Funding Type: Fully funded scholarship. It covers 100% of tuition and provides a yearly stipend for living expenses.
- Deadline: For the 2026 intake, applications (including the scholarship form) are due by December 1, 2025. Mark your calendar – late submissions are not accepted!
This scholarship is funded by the Justus & Louise van Effen Foundation, honoring two TU Delft alumni who believed in using technology for social good. It aims to attract top talent worldwide into TU Delft’s cutting-edge master’s programs (e.g. Aerospace, AI, Architecture, Life Sciences, etc.).
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the TUD Excellence Scholarship 2026, applicants must meet all of the following:
- Bachelor’s Degree: Hold (or be about to complete) a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from a recognized institution. You should submit your degree certificate and transcripts with your application.
- Academic Excellence: Have an outstanding academic record – roughly an 80% GPA (or equivalent) or higher in your bachelor’s studies. This scholarship is merit-based, so strong grades or class rank will help your case.
- Program Admission: Be admitted (or applying) to a regular 2-year MSc program at TU Delft (taught in English) for the 2026-2028 academic years. Conditional admission is allowed (i.e. you can apply even if you are still completing your bachelor’s).
- Age Limit: Be under 35 years old at the start of the program (by Sept 1, 2026). This age cap ensures the award goes to early-career students.
- Nationality: Open to all nationalities. Note: non-EU/EFTA students receive the higher stipend amount (≈€30,000/year) while EU/EFTA students receive about €11,500/year.
- English Proficiency: Demonstrate English ability. Non-EU/EFTA applicants must include a valid IELTS/TOEFL score with their application. EU/EFTA students may submit proof later if required.
- Additional Requirements: Complete all application documents, including a CV, motivation letter, and two strong reference letters. Make sure to check the official TU Delft list of required documents for the MSc program.
Meeting these basic criteria (degree, grades, age, language) makes you eligible. Stronger candidates typically have a record of achievement and clear future goals.
Coverage / Benefits
The TU Delft Excellence Scholarship provides comprehensive financial support for two years of study. Benefits include:
- Full Tuition Waiver: All tuition and statutory fees for your chosen TU Delft MSc are covered. You will not pay any tuition during the scholarship period.
- Living Stipend: A generous monthly allowance to cover living expenses. Non-EU/EFTA recipients receive about €30,000 per year, while EU/EFTA students get about €11,500 per year. These stipends help pay for housing, food, and other costs.
- Fixed Duration: Funding is guaranteed for the entire 24-month duration of your master’s program. This matches the normal length of a TU Delft MSc.
- Additional Perks: Membership in the TU Delft Scholarship Club. This gives access to workshops, seminars, networking, and personal development events organized for scholarship awardees. It’s a great way to grow your skills and connect with other scholars.
The infographic above summarizes the scholarship’s coverage and application steps. It highlights that TU Delft will waive all tuition and pay a full living stipend (shown as ~€30k/year for non-EU students, ~€11.5k for EU students) for 24 months. It also mentions the scholarship club membership and other supports. In short, this scholarship removes most financial barriers, allowing you to focus completely on your studies at a top technical university.
Host Country & University Information
- Country (Netherlands): The Netherlands offers an excellent setting for graduate study. Dutch higher education is renowned worldwide. Universities here emphasize innovation, research excellence, and practical learning. Most programs are in English, and the Dutch society is very welcoming to international students. Student life is vibrant, multicultural, and bicycle-friendly! Being centrally located in Europe, the Netherlands also makes travel easy.
- University (TU Delft): Delft University of Technology is the Netherlands’ premier engineering school. Founded in 1842, it now enrolls about 19,000 students. TU Delft consistently ranks among the top tech universities globally. It excels in fields like Aerospace, Civil Engineering, Architecture, Computer Science, and more. The campus in Delft (a historic city known for its canals and culture) provides state-of-the-art labs and a strong entrepreneurial spirit. As a scholarship recipient, you’ll join a cutting-edge research environment and connect with a global alumni network.
Studying at TU Delft also means access to industry connections in the Netherlands, internships in high-tech companies, and a supportive international student community. In short, you’ll gain more than a degree – you’ll join a world of innovation.
Application Process (Step-by-Step)
Applying is straightforward but must be done together with your MSc program application. Follow these steps:
- Submit your TU Delft MSc application. Begin by applying online to the specific Master’s program you want on the TU Delft admission portal. Make sure you meet that program’s admission requirements (see the program’s page on the TU Delft website). Complete your profile, upload transcripts, your bachelor’s degree certificate, CV, motivation letter, etc., and pay any required fees by the deadline.
- Download and fill the scholarship form. Along with your MSc application, download the Justus & Louise van Effen Excellence Scholarship application form (available on the TU Delft scholarships website). Complete this form in detail. You will upload it as part of your application.
- Submit two reference letters. You need two academic (or professional) references. Compile them into a single PDF file or submit them via the online system. The referees should be professors or employers who know you well. Each letter must be on official letterhead and signed. You can either upload both letters now or use TU Delft’s reference request system (referees get an email link). Make sure both letters are submitted before the deadline.
- Include English language proof (if required). Non-EU/EFTA applicants must attach official English test scores (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL) with their application. EU/EFTA applicants can submit them later if needed. Ensure your scores meet the program requirements.
- Check and submit by deadline. Double-check that all documents (application form, CV, transcripts, letters, English score, etc.) are uploaded. Submit everything by December 1, 2025. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered for the scholarship.
After submission, TU Delft’s admission office will review your master’s application. Scholarship selection happens after admission decisions – only students who have been accepted (conditionally or fully) will be considered. If you are admitted to the program and meet the criteria, faculty committees will evaluate your scholarship application. Successful candidates are usually informed by spring 2026.
Important Deadlines
- MSc Program & Scholarship Deadline (2026 Intake): December 1, 2025 (23:59 CET). This is the final deadline to submit both your TU Delft Master’s application and the Excellence Scholarship form with all required documents.
- Notification of Award: Notification of scholarship decisions typically occurs in early 2026 (often by April) after admissions and scholarship reviews. Check your TU Delft email regularly for updates.
- Program Start: The 2026–2028 Master’s program generally begins in September 2026. Plan your travel and visa accordingly once you receive an admission and scholarship offer.
Be sure to apply well before the deadline. Missing the December deadline means you cannot be considered for this scholarship (nor for fall 2026 admission).
Tips for Applicants
Follow these suggestions to make your application shine:
- Show your excellence: Highlight strong grades and relevant achievements (research projects, internships, competitions) in your CV and motivation letter. The scholarship targets top students with ~80%+ academic records.
- Be passionate and specific: In your motivation letter, explain why you chose TU Delft and your program. Mention how you align with the scholarship’s mission. The Justus & Louise van Effen Foundation values tech solutions for social challenges. Give examples of projects or goals that show you share this vision.
- Choose referees wisely: Ask professors or supervisors who truly know you and can speak to your strengths and character. Strong, personalized letters can distinguish you. Provide referees with your CV and motivation letter draft so they can write targeted recommendations.
- Prepare documents early: Don’t wait until the last minute. Scan and upload your transcripts, degree certificate, and other documents early. Arrange for your English test if needed. Having everything ready avoids last-minute technical issues.
- Proofread carefully: Check all parts of your application for errors or omissions. A clean, professional presentation (with no typos) reflects well on you.
- Connect with TU Delft: If possible, attend virtual info sessions or reach out to current students/alumni of TU Delft. Familiarity with the university and program can help tailor your application.
With these tips, your application will be thorough and compelling. Remember, this scholarship is competitive, so put your best foot forward!
Apply now for the TUDE Scholarship 2026 on the official TU Delft website!
Boldly pursue this opportunity – visit the TU Delft scholarship portal and submit your application before the deadline.
Conclusion
The TU Delft Excellence Scholarship 2026 is a life-changing opportunity for talented international students aiming for a top-tier engineering education. This fully funded program removes financial barriers so you can focus on innovation and growth. If you meet the eligibility criteria, don’t hesitate – apply by Dec 1, 2025 and start the next chapter of your academic journey in the Netherlands. Share this scholarship with friends who might also benefit, and encourage each other along the way. We wish you success – dream big and make it happen!
FAQ
Q: What is the TU Delft Excellence Scholarship?
A: It’s a fully-funded scholarship for outstanding international students to pursue a two-year Master’s (MSc) at Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands.
Q: Who is eligible to apply?
A: Applicants must be under 35 and admitted (or applying) to a 2-year TU Delft Master’s program. All nationalities are welcome, with strong academics (~80% GPA) required.
Q: What does the scholarship cover?
A: It covers full tuition and provides a living stipend (€≈30,000/year for non-EU/EFTA; €11,500 for EU/EFTA) for 24 monthss. Additional perks include a scholarship club membership.
Q: How do I apply?
A: Apply online for your chosen MSc program by Dec 1, 2025, and upload the scholarship form and two reference letters with your application. Non-EU/EFTA students include their English test scores.
Q: Is there an age limit?
A: Yes, you must be under 35 years old at the start of the academic year in September 2026.
Q: When is the application deadline?
A: For the 2026 intake, the deadline is December 1, 2025. Be sure to submit all parts of your application by that date.
Good luck with your application – your future at TU Delft awaits. You can do it!
