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Are you a Bangladeshi student dreaming of pursuing a fully funded master’s degree in Europe? The Maastricht University Holland-High Potential Scholarship 2027–2028 could be an opportunity worth exploring.
The scholarship, offered by Maastricht University in the Netherlands, is designed for talented international students from countries outside the European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA). Selected students can receive financial support covering their full tuition fees, living expenses, health and liability insurance, visa-related costs, and pre-academic training.
For students from Bangladesh, where the cost of studying abroad can be a major obstacle, this scholarship may offer a practical route to a European postgraduate education without having to fund the entire degree independently.
However, securing a fully funded scholarship is competitive. Applicants need to understand the eligibility requirements, choose an eligible master’s programme, prepare a convincing application, and complete the admission process correctly.
In this guide, you will learn about the Maastricht University Scholarship 2027–2028, its financial benefits, eligible fields of study, application requirements, the Netherlands student visa process, and practical steps Bangladeshi students can take to prepare.
Maastricht University Scholarship 2027–2028: Key Information
Before preparing your application, review the essential details of this Netherlands scholarship.
- Scholarship name: Maastricht University Holland-High Potential Scholarship
- Academic year: 2027–2028
- Study level: Master’s degree
- Host university: Maastricht University
- Study destination: Maastricht, the Netherlands
- Scholarship type: Fully funded master’s scholarship
- Eligible applicants: Talented students from countries outside the EU/EEA, subject to the official eligibility rules
- Tuition fees: Full tuition fee coverage
- Living expenses: Financial allowance based on programme duration
- Additional benefits: Health and liability insurance, visa-related costs, and pre-academic training
- Application deadline: Reported as 1 February 2027; applicants should verify the exact deadline on the official university website
- Official website: https://www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/
Important: Scholarship conditions, eligible programmes, funding amounts, and deadlines can change between academic years. Always check the official 2027–2028 scholarship announcement before applying.
What Is the Maastricht University Holland-High Potential Scholarship?
The Maastricht University Holland-High Potential Scholarship is a funding opportunity for academically talented international students who want to pursue a master’s degree at Maastricht University.
Maastricht University was established in 1976 and has a diverse international student community. It is known for its international learning environment and problem-based learning approach, in which students actively participate in discussions, research, and collaborative learning.
The Holland-High Potential Scholarship combines university funding with support intended to make postgraduate education more accessible to eligible international students.
For Bangladeshi applicants, the key attraction is that the scholarship is designed to cover major study-related expenses rather than tuition fees alone.
Nevertheless, this is a competitive award, not an automatic benefit for every international applicant. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee selection.
What Does the Fully Funded Scholarship Cover?
One of the most important questions for students is how much financial support the scholarship provides.
According to the published scholarship information for the 2027–2028 opportunity, the benefits include the following.
1. Full Tuition Fee Coverage
The scholarship covers the full tuition fee for an eligible master’s programme.
International tuition fees can be a substantial expense in the Netherlands. Having this cost covered can significantly reduce the financial burden on a student and their family.
Applicants should confirm that their chosen master’s programme is included in the scholarship’s eligible programme list.
2. Living Expenses
The reported living allowance depends on the duration of the master’s programme.
- 13-month master’s programme: €15,925
- 25-month master’s programme: €30,625
These amounts are intended to help cover living costs during the relevant study period.
Students should remember that the actual cost of accommodation, food, local transport, study materials, and personal expenses depends on their lifestyle and housing arrangements.
The allowance should therefore be evaluated against the expected cost of living in Maastricht, rather than treated as disposable income.
3. Health and Liability Insurance
The scholarship information includes approximately €700 for health and liability insurance.
International students must understand the insurance requirements that apply to their particular residence status and study arrangements. The exact coverage and administrative arrangements should be confirmed with the university.
4. Netherlands Student Visa-Related Costs
Visa-related expenses are also included in the reported scholarship benefits.
This can help reduce the initial financial burden associated with moving to the Netherlands for postgraduate study.
However, scholarship coverage does not mean that students can skip immigration procedures. Applicants must still satisfy the applicable Dutch residence permit and entry requirements.
5. Pre-Academic Training
The scholarship also covers the cost of pre-academic training as specified in the programme’s funding conditions.
Such training can help selected students prepare for their academic studies and adapt to the university’s learning environment.
Summary of Scholarship Benefits
| Benefit | Reported coverage |
|---|---|
| Tuition fees | Full tuition fee |
| Living expenses for 13 months | €15,925 |
| Living expenses for 25 months | €30,625 |
| Health and liability insurance | Approximately €700 |
| Visa-related costs | Included under the scholarship conditions |
| Pre-academic training | Covered under the scholarship conditions |
A practical tip for Bangladeshi students: Do not make financial commitments based solely on a scholarship summary. Confirm the payment schedule, covered expenses, any exclusions, and whether you will need money for initial travel, deposits, or other upfront costs.
Which Master’s Subjects Can Students Study?
The reported scholarship opportunity covers master’s programmes across several academic faculties at Maastricht University.
The fields mentioned in the published information include:
Health, Medicine and Life Sciences
Students interested in health-related research, medical sciences, public health, and life sciences may find relevant postgraduate options within the university’s programme portfolio.
Science and Engineering
Applicants with backgrounds in science, technology, engineering, and related disciplines can explore master’s programmes aligned with their previous education and career plans.
Business and Economics
This field may be particularly relevant for graduates interested in international business, economics, management, finance-related research, or other business disciplines.
Psychology and Neuroscience
Students interested in human behaviour, psychological research, brain science, and related subjects can explore relevant programmes where available.
Arts and Social Sciences
Applicants interested in social research, international issues, culture, governance, and related disciplines may find suitable master’s programmes in this area.
Law
Students with an appropriate academic background may explore eligible postgraduate programmes in law and related fields.
Important: These are broad subject areas, not a guarantee that every programme within each faculty qualifies for the scholarship. Check the official 2027–2028 eligible programme list before submitting an application.
Maastricht University Scholarship Eligibility Criteria for 2027–2028
Before spending time preparing documents, check whether you meet the scholarship’s eligibility requirements.
Based on the published information for this opportunity, applicants should consider the following criteria.
1. Nationality Requirements
Applicants must generally be citizens of a country outside the EU and EEA and must satisfy the scholarship’s specific nationality conditions.
The published information also identifies restrictions concerning Swiss and Surinamese nationality and dual citizenship involving EU/EEA countries.
Can Bangladeshi students apply?
Bangladeshi citizens may be eligible under the non-EU/EEA nationality requirement, provided they meet all other scholarship conditions.
Nationality alone does not guarantee eligibility. Applicants should review the official rules for the 2027–2028 intake.
2. Admission to an Eligible Master’s Programme
Applicants must apply for a full-time master’s programme at Maastricht University for the 2027–2028 academic year.
Choosing the right programme is essential. Your previous degree, academic background, language proficiency, and other admission requirements must match the programme you intend to study.
3. Academic Performance
The scholarship is intended for academically talented students.
A strong academic record can strengthen an application, although the exact academic criteria and selection methodology should be checked in the official announcement.
If you are applying from Bangladesh, prepare your academic transcripts and certificates carefully. Ensure that your name, degree information, grades, and other details are consistent across your documents.
4. Age Limit
According to the published scholarship information, applicants must not be older than 35 on 1 September 2027.
Students who are close to this age limit should verify the exact wording of the official eligibility conditions before applying.
5. Programme-Specific Admission Requirements
Meeting the scholarship’s general eligibility criteria does not automatically mean you qualify for your chosen master’s programme.
Some programmes may have additional requirements concerning previous degrees, subject backgrounds, English-language proficiency, or other supporting documents.
Review both the scholarship criteria and the admission requirements for your selected programme.
Documents Required for the Scholarship Application
Preparing your documents early can help you avoid last-minute mistakes.
The published application information identifies the following documents and details.
1. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Prepare a professional CV of no more than two pages.
Your CV should clearly present:
- Educational qualifications
- Relevant academic projects or research
- Professional experience, where applicable
- Internships, volunteering, or extracurricular activities
- Relevant skills, achievements, and certifications
Focus on information that demonstrates your academic ability and suitability for the master’s programme.
Do not fill your CV with unrelated details simply to make it look longer.
2. Motivation Letter
Applicants are asked to provide a motivation letter of no more than one page.
This is an important opportunity to explain why you want to study your chosen subject and why the scholarship aligns with your academic and professional goals.
A strong motivation letter should address questions such as:
- Why have you selected this particular master’s programme?
- How does your previous education prepare you for it?
- What academic or professional goals do you want to achieve?
- How will studying at Maastricht University contribute to those goals?
- Why are you a suitable candidate for this scholarship?
Avoid generic statements that could apply to any university. Explain the connection between your background, the specific programme, and your future plans.
3. Academic Transcript
You will need the transcript for your most recent educational qualification, according to the published application requirements.
Make sure the document is legible and complete.
If your final certificate or transcript has not yet been issued, check the university’s admission rules to determine which provisional documents, if any, are acceptable.
Do not assume that an unofficial result sheet will automatically satisfy the requirement.
4. Referee’s Contact Information
The application requires contact information for one referee.
Choose someone who knows your academic ability or relevant professional work and can provide a credible reference.
For example, an appropriate academic referee may be a university lecturer or professor familiar with your performance.
Contact your referee before submitting the application. Explain the scholarship requirements and make sure they are willing and able to provide the required reference.
The university’s instructions should be followed regarding the format and submission of reference letters.
Additional Documents You May Need
The scholarship summary does not necessarily list every document required for university admission.
Depending on your chosen programme, you may also need documents such as:
- Degree certificates
- English-language proficiency results, if required
- Passport information
- Programme-specific supporting documents
- Other materials requested by the admissions office
Check the official admission checklist for your selected master’s programme.
How to Apply for the Maastricht University Scholarship 2027–2028
The application process involves two important elements: applying for an eligible master’s programme and completing the scholarship application according to the university’s instructions.
Follow these steps carefully.
Step 1: Explore Eligible Master’s Programmes
Visit the official Maastricht University website and identify master’s programmes relevant to your academic background.
Website: https://www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/
Compare programme content, admission criteria, duration, language requirements, and career relevance.
Do not select a programme simply because its subject sounds attractive. Make sure your previous qualification meets its entry requirements.
Step 2: Register Through Studielink
The published application instructions direct applicants to register for their chosen master’s programme through Studielink.
Website: https://www.studielink.nl/
Follow the registration instructions and ensure that your personal and academic information is accurate.
Check the programme-specific admissions page for any additional steps.
Step 3: Complete the Master’s Admission Application
After registering, follow Maastricht University’s instructions to complete the programme admission process.
Make sure you understand how the scholarship application relates to the master’s admission application.
Important: Registering through Studielink alone should not be assumed to complete the scholarship application.
Step 4: Prepare Your Scholarship Documents
Prepare your CV, motivation letter, academic transcript, and referee information.
Check the official document requirements and follow any formatting or submission instructions carefully.
Before uploading anything, review your documents for spelling mistakes, missing information, inconsistent dates, and incorrect programme details.
Step 5: Complete the Online Scholarship Application
Use the university’s application system and follow the official instructions for the Holland-High Potential Scholarship.
Complete every required section and upload the documents in the specified format.
Do not wait until the final day to begin the application. Technical issues, missing documents, or delays in obtaining references can prevent you from submitting on time.
Step 6: Arrange the Reference
Follow the university’s instructions for providing referee details and arranging the required reference letter.
Give your referee sufficient time to respond. Check that the reference has been submitted in the required manner.
Step 7: Submit Before the Deadline
The published information lists 1 February 2027 as the application deadline.
Verify the exact deadline and any separate master’s admission deadlines on the official scholarship and programme pages.
Aim to complete the application well before the closing date. An incomplete application may not be considered.
Netherlands Student Visa for Bangladeshi Scholarship Recipients
Receiving a scholarship is an important step, but it is not the same as receiving permission to enter and reside in the Netherlands.
Bangladeshi students who are admitted to Maastricht University must follow the applicable Dutch immigration procedures.
For many international students, the process involves a residence permit for study and, depending on their circumstances and the applicable rules, an entry visa.
The exact procedure depends on nationality, residence status, and the requirements in force at the time of application.
How Does the Netherlands Student Visa Process Work?
The general process usually involves the following stages.
1. Receive admission and scholarship decisions
You should first follow the university’s instructions concerning admission, scholarship selection, and the next steps for international students.
2. Follow the university’s immigration instructions
Dutch universities commonly assist eligible international students with the relevant immigration process. Ask Maastricht University’s international student office which procedures apply to your case.
3. Prepare the required documents
The university or immigration authorities may request identification, admission information, proof of funding, insurance information, or other documents.
A scholarship award may help establish financial support, but you must still satisfy all applicable requirements.
4. Complete the required visa or residence permit formalities
Follow the instructions provided by the university and the relevant Dutch authorities. Do not rely on outdated visa checklists or unofficial agents.
5. Prepare for travel and enrolment
Once the necessary permissions are in place, follow the university’s instructions concerning travel, accommodation, registration, and arrival in the Netherlands.
Where Can You Check Official Visa Requirements?
For current immigration information, consult the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND):
Also review Maastricht University’s official information for international students:
Important: A scholarship does not automatically guarantee visa approval. Immigration decisions are subject to the applicable rules and individual circumstances.
How Much Money Should Bangladeshi Students Prepare Before Departure?
Even a fully funded scholarship can involve practical expenses before a student receives their first payment or settles into accommodation.
The amount you need will depend on the scholarship’s payment arrangements, the university’s instructions, and your personal circumstances.
Consider the following expenses when preparing your financial plan:
- Passport renewal or other document-related expenses, if applicable
- Academic document preparation and translation, where required
- English-language testing, if required by your programme
- Travel to any required appointment
- Initial travel costs
- Accommodation deposits or advance rent, if applicable
- Food and local transport during the initial period
- Personal expenses not covered by the scholarship
Do not assume that every expense will be reimbursed or paid in advance.
Before making a large payment, ask the university when scholarship funding becomes available, which costs are covered, and whether you need to provide any funds upfront.
This step is particularly important for students whose families must carefully plan the cost of overseas education.
How Competitive Is the Maastricht University Scholarship?
A fully funded master’s scholarship in Europe can attract applications from highly qualified students around the world.
Applicants should therefore approach the process as a serious academic application rather than a simple form-filling exercise.
Although the exact selection criteria and weighting must be confirmed through the official scholarship announcement, the following preparation strategies can help you build a stronger application.
Choose a Master’s Programme That Fits Your Background
Your academic history should make sense in relation to the programme you select.
Explain how your previous studies have prepared you for the course and why the programme is a logical next step.
Write a Specific Motivation Letter
Avoid generic claims such as wanting to study in Europe because it offers a better lifestyle.
Instead, identify the academic knowledge, research opportunities, or professional skills you want to develop.
Explain why the particular programme at Maastricht University fits those goals.
Present Your Achievements Clearly
Use your CV to highlight relevant academic results, projects, work experience, research, or leadership activities.
You do not need to have an impressive job title to present a credible application. What matters is that your experience is relevant, accurately described, and supported by evidence where appropriate.
Ask for a Strong Reference
A referee who can explain your abilities and potential is generally more useful than someone who provides only a brief, generic endorsement.
Give your referee enough time and information to prepare the reference.
Follow Every Instruction
Document limits, programme deadlines, eligibility conditions, and submission procedures matter.
A well-written motivation letter cannot compensate for failing to meet a mandatory requirement.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying
Before submitting your application, review these common mistakes.
Mistake 1: Assuming every master’s programme qualifies.
Always confirm that your chosen programme is eligible for the scholarship.
Mistake 2: Applying without checking the admission requirements.
A scholarship application does not replace the academic requirements for admission.
Mistake 3: Using a generic motivation letter.
Your letter should explain your specific academic goals and programme choice.
Mistake 4: Ignoring document limits.
Keep your CV and motivation letter within the stated page limits.
Mistake 5: Contacting a referee too late.
Give your referee adequate time to provide the required information.
Mistake 6: Waiting until the deadline.
Start early enough to address technical issues and missing documents.
Mistake 7: Assuming the scholarship guarantees a student visa.
Admission, scholarship selection, and immigration approval are separate matters.
Mistake 8: Trusting unofficial scholarship agents.
Use official university and government websites to verify application procedures and immigration requirements.
A Practical Preparation Timeline for Bangladeshi Applicants
If you intend to apply for the 2027–2028 intake, use the remaining preparation time strategically.
October–November 2026: Research
- Identify suitable master’s programmes.
- Review eligibility and admission requirements.
- Check whether your academic background matches the programme.
- Prepare a preliminary list of required documents.
November–December 2026: Prepare Your Application
- Update your CV.
- Draft and revise your motivation letter.
- Obtain academic transcripts and certificates.
- Contact a suitable referee.
- Complete any required language testing or other programme-specific preparation.
December 2026–January 2027: Complete the Application
- Follow the Studielink registration instructions.
- Complete the university admission application.
- Prepare and submit the scholarship application as directed.
- Check that all supporting documents and references have been received where required.
Before 1 February 2027: Verify and Submit
- Recheck the official deadline.
- Review the final application.
- Resolve missing-document issues.
- Submit well before the applicable closing time.
This is a suggested preparation schedule, not an official university timetable. Programme admission deadlines and scholarship procedures may differ, so confirm the exact dates on the official website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the Maastricht University Scholarship 2027–2028 fully funded?
The Holland-High Potential Scholarship is described as a fully funded scholarship covering full tuition fees, a living allowance, health and liability insurance, visa-related costs, and pre-academic training, subject to the official terms and conditions.
2. Can Bangladeshi students apply for this Netherlands scholarship?
Bangladeshi students may be eligible under the non-EU/EEA nationality requirements, provided they satisfy all other eligibility conditions, including the applicable rules concerning nationality and dual citizenship.
3. What is the Maastricht University Scholarship deadline for 2027–2028?
The published information lists 1 February 2027. Applicants should verify the exact deadline on Maastricht University’s official scholarship page before submitting their applications.
4. How much is the living allowance?
The reported allowance is €15,925 for a 13-month master’s programme and €30,625 for a 25-month programme. Confirm the applicable amount and payment arrangements in the official scholarship terms.
5. Is IELTS required for the scholarship?
English-language requirements depend on the chosen master’s programme and the university’s admission rules. Check your programme’s official requirements to determine whether IELTS, another accepted test, or an exemption applies.
6. Do applicants need work experience?
Work experience is not identified as a universal requirement in the scholarship summary presented here. However, individual master’s programmes may have their own admission criteria. Review the relevant programme page before applying.
7. Does the scholarship guarantee a Netherlands student visa?
No. Scholarship selection does not automatically guarantee immigration approval. Students must follow the applicable Dutch visa and residence permit procedures.
8. Can I apply if my final degree certificate has not been issued?
This depends on the admission requirements and the documents the university accepts. Contact the relevant admissions office and confirm whether provisional transcripts or other temporary documents are permitted.
9. Where can I apply for the scholarship?
Begin with Maastricht University’s official website at https://www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/ and follow the instructions for the eligible master’s programme and the Holland-High Potential Scholarship. Studielink registration is also part of the published application process.
Final Thoughts: Start Preparing for the Netherlands Now
The Maastricht University Holland-High Potential Scholarship 2027–2028 could be a valuable opportunity for Bangladeshi students seeking a master’s degree in Europe with substantial financial support.
However, success requires more than finding a scholarship announcement on social media. You need to select the right programme, understand the eligibility criteria, prepare a focused motivation letter, arrange your references, and complete the application before the official deadline.
If you are serious about studying in the Netherlands, start by reviewing the official programme list and admission requirements. Then build a realistic preparation plan and verify every important detail directly with the university.
Official resources:
- Maastricht University: https://www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/
- Studielink: https://www.studielink.nl/
- Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND): https://ind.nl/en
Disclaimer: This article is an informational guide based on the published scholarship details provided for the 2027–2028 academic year. Scholarship amounts, eligibility conditions, programme availability, application procedures, and deadlines may change. Always confirm the latest information through official university and government sources before applying.
