If you’re aiming to pursue a Master’s degree in the Netherlands, this is a golden opportunity. The Leiden University Excellence Scholarships (LExS) 2026 are now open for applications from international students worldwide. Funded by Leiden University, one of Europe’s top-ranked research universities, this scholarship offers partial to major financial support for talented non-EU/EEA students enrolling in eligible Master’s programs.
Leiden University Excellence Scholarships 2026 – Overview
| University: | Leiden University |
|---|---|
| Degree Level: | Master’s |
| Scholarship Type: | Funded |
| Eligible Nationalities: | All non-EU/EEA countries |
| Host Country: | Netherlands |
| Deadline: | 1 February 2026 |
Leiden University offers a multicultural and globally oriented learning environment — ideal for students seeking both academic excellence and international experience.
UNICEF Internship Program – Fully Funded Global Opportunities
Scholarship Coverage
The Leiden University Excellence Scholarships (LExS) provides financial assistance through one of the following options:
- 💸 €10,000 towards tuition fees
- 💸 €15,000 towards tuition fees
- 💸 Full tuition fee minus the statutory tuition fee
Study in Australia – Charles Darwin University Scholarships for International Students
Eligible Master’s Programs
The scholarship is available for all English-taught Master’s programs at Leiden University, except:
- LLM (non-advanced) and MSc programs at Leiden Law School
- Programs beginning in February (LExS applies only for the September intake)
- Dutch-taught programs in the Faculty of Humanities
Chevening Scholarship – Study in the UK on a Fully Funded Award
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the Leiden University Excellence Scholarships 2026, applicants must:
- 🌍 Be a non-EU/EEA citizen
- 🎓 Apply for a full-time Master’s program at Leiden University
- 🏅 Demonstrate outstanding academic performance (top 10% preferred)
- 📝 Fulfill all admission requirements for the chosen program
- 📅 Submit the application before 1 February 2026
How to Apply (Step-by-Step Guide)
Step 1: Apply for admission to your chosen Master’s program through Leiden University’s online portal (uSis).
✔ During the process, indicate that you wish to be considered for the LExS scholarship.
Step 2: Upload all required documents:
- Scholarship motivation letter
- Proof of academic excellence
- CV/Resume
- Recommendation letters
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- English language test results (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.)
Step 3: Submit your application before 1 February 2026.
Step 4: Wait for the outcome — scholarship results are announced along with admission decisions.
Required Documents Checklist
Before applying, make sure you have:
- ✅ Completed Master’s program application (uSis)
- ✅ Scholarship motivation letter (max 500 words)
- ✅ Official academic transcripts
- ✅ CV or résumé
- ✅ Two recommendation letters
- ✅ Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)
- ✅ Copy of passport
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | ✅ Now |
| Application Deadline | February 2026 |
| Results Announcement | March–April 2026 |
| Program Commencement | September 2026 |
FAQs – Leiden University Excellence Scholarships
Q: Is LExS a fully funded scholarship?
A: No. It provides partial tuition coverage, not living expenses.
Q: Can I apply for other Leiden scholarships?
A: Yes, you may apply for others such as the Holland Scholarship, but you can only receive one Leiden-administered scholarship at a time.
Q: Is a separate scholarship application required?
A: No. Simply select the scholarship option within your Master’s application on uSis.
Q: What GPA is needed to apply?
A: There’s no specific cutoff, but applicants should rank in the top 10% of their previous academic cohort.
Q: Are EU or Dutch students eligible?
A: No, the scholarship is for non-EU/EEA international students only.
Final Thoughts
The Leiden University Excellence Scholarships (LExS) is an exceptional opportunity for talented students to study in the Netherlands — a country known for its innovation, research quality, and inclusive education system.
If you’re passionate about academic growth and international exposure, don’t miss this chance.
Apply by 1 February 2026 and take your first step toward earning a Master’s degree at Leiden University!
👉 Official Website: Visit Leiden University Excellence Scholarships
Join the “China Scholarship Aspirants” Facebook group to unlock the doors to a brighter future through scholarship opportunities in China!
More Scholarships
Melbourne University Scholarships Fully Funded in Australia
Geneva University Excellence Master Fellowships in Switzerland
Dundee University Scholarships in the UK
Trent University Scholarships in Canada for International Students
University of Manitoba Scholarships for International & Domestic Students