Leiden University Excellence Scholarship 2027 (Partial Funding)

The Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS) is a merit based tuition award for outstanding international students. It provides fixed reductions of €10,000 to €19,000 towards tuition fees for full-time Master’s programmes at Leiden University in the Netherlands. Only about 25 are awarded each year. Overall, it helps top applicants reduce their study costs in the Netherlands. Many also look at other Dutch scholarships.

Overview

• Host country, Netherlands
• Host school, Leiden University
• Level of study, Master
• Value, €10,000 to €19,000 towards tuition
• Nationality, mainly non-EEA/non-EFTA students (exceptions for some programmes)
• Funded by, Leiden University

Benefits of the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship

First, winners get a fixed amount towards tuition fees for the duration of the programme. Also, awards range from €10,000 to €19,000. Plus, it is merit based for the best applicants. In short, the award covers this.

• €10,000, €15,000, €17,500, €18,500 or €19,000 towards tuition fees
• For the full duration of the Master’s programme
• No living stipend
• Limited number of awards (around 25)

Eligibility Requirements

Overall, applicants must meet these points.

• Non-EEA/non-EFTA nationality (exceptions for Advanced LLM and MSc International Relations and Diplomacy)
• Excellent academic results, indicative top 10% of previous programme
• Applying for a full-time Master’s starting in September 2027 (certain exclusions)
• Not eligible for Dutch student finance
• Strong academic performance

Required Documents

• Complete Master’s admission application
• LExS motivation letter or scholarship section
• Academic transcripts and certificates
• English language proficiency proof if required

How to Apply

First, apply for admission to an eligible Master’s programme. Next, indicate interest in the LExS and upload required materials by the deadline. Then, wait for faculty nomination and results.

Application Deadline

Deadline is 1 December 2026 for September 2027 start. Results before end of March 2027. So, check the official Leiden University page for exact details.

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