If you dream of studying in Europe while contributing to global problem-solving, the UM Global Studies Scholarship 2026 at Maastricht University (UM) in the Netherlands is your chance to shine. This prestigious, fully funded scholarship invites brilliant bachelor’s applicants from developing countries to study one of Europe’s most forward-looking programs—Global Studies, a multidisciplinary degree designed to prepare future leaders to tackle worldwide challenges through innovative and collaborative solutions.
About the Global Studies Program
Maastricht University’s Global Studies program is one of a kind in the Netherlands, bringing together expertise from six different faculties. It trains students to understand complex international issues through a cross-disciplinary approach. From fieldwork and NGO collaboration to designing real-world interventions and writing an interdisciplinary thesis, students gain hands-on experience addressing societal problems on both local and global levels.
Scholarship Coverage and Duration
The UM Global Studies Scholarship offers full financial support for 36 months—the complete duration of the bachelor’s degree. It includes:
- Tuition Fee Waiver (paid directly by UM)
- Monthly Stipend of €1,225 (€15,925 per year) to cover living expenses
- Health and Liability Insurance
- Visa Costs and Pre-Academic Training Fees
- Accommodation Support (a room will be allocated to each scholar)
Please note that travel costs and air tickets are not included.
Who Can Apply?
This scholarship is open to students from countries eligible for Official Development Assistance (ODA), as listed by the OECD. Applicants must:
- Be under 35 years old as of 1 September 2026.
- Hold no prior higher education diploma equivalent to a bachelor’s degree.
- Have proven academic excellence (at least 75% of maximum grades).
- Show strong motivation and financial need through personal statements.
- Be conditionally admitted to the Global Studies bachelor’s program at UM for 2026–2027.
- Agree to act as an ambassador for Maastricht University during and after studies.
Dual nationals of EEA countries or countries outside the OECD list are not eligible.
Selection Procedure
After the deadline, the UM International Services Desk verifies applications and forwards them to the Global Studies admission office. Shortlisted applicants will be ranked, and the top five candidates will be invited for an online interview in March 2026. Final results will be announced by June 2026, and selected scholars will attend a mandatory Pre-Academic Training in August 2026 before the program begins in September 2026.
Application Deadline
The application portal opens on 1 October 2025, and the deadline to apply is 1 February 2026 (23:59 CET).