Minor Program Scholarships in Netherlands for International Students 2025/2026. Want to study in the Netherlands without breaking the bank? Want to benefit from a top European education while doing a minor?
This guide is for you if yes. Many foreign students are looking for short term study abroad options in countries like the Netherlands. A minor is one of the best options. These short and focused programs can help you gain knowledge in a specific area.
Luckily international students who want to do a minor can apply for scholarships from several Dutch universities. These scholarships are for students who need financial assistance but have good academic records. There might be a scholarship waiting for you regardless of your field of study – business, engineering, arts or health sciences.
Everything you need to know about Netherlands Minor Program Scholarships for International Students 2025-2026 will be covered in this post. We will also give you tips on how to apply and increase your chances of getting selected. Let’s get started.
Disclaimer Notice: This is a general educational blog, giving out information concerning scholarship, school fees, Cut off marks, student results, admission form, and other school news guides. We are not affiliated with the Government or any educational institution.
What is a Minor Program in the Netherlands All About?
Students can study a subject outside of their major by doing a short course called a minor program. It usually takes a few months or a semester. Many international students do short courses to broaden their horizon, develop new skills or learn new subjects.
Both Dutch and foreign students can often do a minor in the Netherlands. International students find it easier to follow these programs because they are mostly taught in English.
Some examples of popular minor programs are:
- Sustainable Development
- Entrepreneurship
- Artificial Intelligence
- Business and Management
- Communication and Media
- International Law
- Public Health
Many universities in the Netherlands offer these programs and welcome students from all over the world.
Why do a Minor Program in the Netherlands?
The Netherlands is known for having one of the best education systems in Europe. The country offers a mix of top education, modern classrooms and safe housing. Students in the Netherlands choose to do a minor for the following reasons:
- English-Taught Courses: You can apply without knowing Dutch because most programs are taught in English.
- Short Duration: Students who want to study abroad quickly will find minor programs ideal because they are not too long.
- Affordable living costs: The Netherlands is more affordable than other European countries.
- Top Ranked Universities: Dutch universities are internationally recognized.
- Scholarship Opportunities: International students can apply for scholarships from several universities.### What are Minor Program Scholarships?
International students who want to do a minor can apply for financial aid packages called minor program scholarships. These scholarships cover living costs, travel costs, tuition and sometimes all three. Usually Dutch universities, government initiatives or private organizations offer them.
Most of these scholarships are awarded to students who have performed well in previous studies or who come from less developed countries.
List of Minor Program Scholarships in Netherlands for International Students 2025/2026
International students who want to do a minor program in the Netherlands in 2025–2026 can apply for the following scholarships:
1. Erasmus+ Exchange Program
This is one of the most popular programs in Europe. Students who want to study in another European country, like the Netherlands, can apply for scholarships through Erasmus+. It’s for short-term research, like minor programs.
- Covers travel and living costs.
- Must be studying in a partner university of the Dutch institution.
- Open to students from Europe and some non-Europe countries.
2. Holland Scholarship
This is for students from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) who want to study in the Netherlands.
- Worth €5,000 for the first year of study.
- Can be used for bachelor or minor-level studies.
- Offered by the Dutch Ministry of Education and many Dutch universities.
3. Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP)
Although this is mostly for master’s and short courses, some minor-related short-term study programs may also be covered.
- Focuses on professionals from developing countries.
- Covers tuition, travel, insurance and living costs.
4. University-Specific Scholarships
Many Dutch universities offer their own scholarships for international students doing minor programs. Some examples are:
- Utrecht University Minor Scholarships
- Leiden University Exchange & Study Abroad Grants
- HAN University of Applied Sciences Scholarships for Exchange Students
- Fontys University of Applied Sciences Partial Tuition Waivers
Each university has its own rules, so you need to check their website for details.
General Requirements to Apply
Although each scholarship has different rules, most of them ask for the following:
- For some scholarships, you must be an international student who is not from the EU or EEA.
- You have to be applying to a Dutch university for a minor program.
- You must perform well academically.
- You might be required to write an essay or motivational letter.
- A letter of recommendation from a professor or teacher might be required.
- After the program, you might have to go back to your home country.
How to Apply for Minor Program Scholarships in Netherlands
Follow these steps to apply successfully:
- Choose Your Minor Program
- Visit the website of Dutch universities and look for available minor programs.
- Check Scholarship Options
- Go to the scholarship section of the university or check the websites of the scholarships listed above.
- Read the Requirements
- Make sure you meet all the conditions before applying.
- Prepare Your Documents
- These usually include:
- Academic transcripts
- Passport copy
- English test results (like IELTS or TOEFL, if required)
- Motivation letter
- Recommendation letter
- These usually include:
- Apply Early
- Don’t wait until the deadline. Applying early gives you an advantage.
- Follow Up
- After applying, check your email regularly and respond to any updates.
Popular Universities in the Netherlands That Offer Minor Programs
Here are some top Dutch universities that offer minor programs and scholarships for international students:
- Utrecht University
- Leiden University
- Delft University of Technology
- Eindhoven University of Technology
- University of Groningen
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
- Radboud University
- HAN University of Applied Sciences
- Fontys University of Applied Sciences
FAQs About Minor Program Scholarships in Netherlands (2025/2026)
1. If I’m already studying abroad, can I still apply for a minor scholarship?
Yes, provided that the scholarship permits exchange students and your university has a partnership with a Dutch university.
2. Is there a minimum age to apply?
Although most scholarships don’t have a set age requirement, it’s still a good idea to check each one.
3. Is knowledge of Dutch required to enroll in a minor program?
No, English is used to teach the majority of minor programs for international students.
4. Can I work in the Netherlands while enrolled in a minor program?
You might be permitted to work part-time if your program lasts longer than three months and you are granted a student visa.
5. What is the maximum amount of money I can receive from a scholarship?
The scholarship will determine this. While some only cover tuition, others also cover living expenses and travel expenses.
Conclusion
Study abroad without the big bucks with minor program scholarships in Netherlands. These are short, sweet and global. Find your dream scholarship if you’re ready.
Look up universities, choose your minor program and get your documents ready. Apply early and follow the instructions.
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