Are you dreaming of studying at one of Europe’s top universities without worrying about high tuition fees? If so, the University of Amsterdam Merit Scholarship (AMS) 2026 could be your gateway to achieving that dream.
This fully funded scholarship is designed for exceptionally talented international students from outside the EU/EEA who wish to pursue a Master’s degree in the Law field at the University of Amsterdam (UvA), a prestigious research university known for its academic excellence, diverse student body, and vibrant city life.
Studying abroad can be challenging, both academically and financially. Still, scholarships like the AMS make it possible for high-achieving students to focus entirely on their studies, personal growth, and building a global network. This scholarship not only covers tuition fees (full or partial) but also opens doors to an international learning environment where you can collaborate with top students and professors from around the world.
Whether you’re passionate about law, finance, or international relations, the AMS Scholarship provides a platform to enhance your knowledge, gain hands-on experience, and prepare for a successful global career.
So If you’ve always dreamed of studying in Amsterdam and enjoying the Dutch culture, and taking your academic journey to the next level, this scholarship is a perfect opportunity to make it happen. You can apply for the University of Amsterdam Merit Scholarship in Netherlands before the deadline of 15th January 2026.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the University of Amsterdam Merit Scholarship 2026.
Why Choose the University of Amsterdam Merit Scholarship?
The Amsterdam Merit Scholarship (AMS) is designed to attract the best students worldwide. Here’s why this scholarship is worth applying for:
- Fully Funded: Covers full or partial tuition fees for eligible students.
- Prestigious University: Study at UvA, one of the top research universities in Europe, founded in 1632.
- Global Diversity: Join a multicultural environment with students from around the world.
- Leadership & Impact: Ideal for students with exceptional academic ability and leadership potential who wish to use education to make a global impact.
Scholarship Details
| University | University of Amsterdam |
| Degree Level | Master’s |
| Scholarship Coverage | Fully Funded (Tuition fees) |
| Eligible Nationality | All international students outside EU/EEA |
| Country | Netherlands |
| Application Deadline | 15th January 2026 |
| Program Start Date | Enrollment by 1st September 2026 |
Available Programs for AMS Scholarship
The scholarship is available for students applying to the LL.M. Master’s programs at UvA:
- International and European Law
- European Private Law
- Law & Finance
- International Criminal Law
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Financial Benefits
The scholarship covers full or partial tuition fees for international students. While living expenses are not explicitly included, the support significantly reduces the financial burden of studying abroad.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Amsterdam Merit Scholarship 2026, students must:
- Applicants must hold a valid passport from a country outside the EU/EEA, as students from these regions are not eligible for Dutch financial aid.
- Applicants must be applying for the first time to a University of Amsterdam Master’s program, meaning students who already hold a UvA Master’s degree are not eligible.
- Applicants must meet all the requirements set by the Dutch Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND) in order to obtain a student visa for the Netherlands.
- Applicants must be enrolled full-time in their chosen Master’s program for the 2026–2027 academic year to maintain eligibility for the scholarship.
Required Documents
Make sure to prepare the following documents before applying:
- Letter of Motivation
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)/Resume
- Academic Transcripts
- Completed Online Application Form
- Passport Scan Copy
- Degree Certificates
- Proof of English Language Proficiency
How to Apply
- Application Opens: 1st December 2025
- Application Deadline: 15th January 2026
- Submit both AMS scholarship application and LL.M application by the deadline.
- Selection Announcement: By the Amsterdam Law School Selection Committee (date unspecified).
- Successful applicants must complete enrollment by 1st September 2026.
Pro Tip: Prepare your documents early and craft a strong motivation letter highlighting your academic achievements, leadership skills, and vision for global impact.
FAQs
Q1: Who can apply for the University of Amsterdam Merit Scholarship?
A1: International students from outside the EU/EEA who are applying for a UvA Master’s program for the first time.
Q2: What does the scholarship cover?
A2: The scholarship covers full or partial tuition fees for eligible students.
Q3: Which programs are eligible?
A3: The scholarship is available for LL.M Master’s programs: International and European Law, European Private Law, Law & Finance, and International Criminal Law.
Q4: What is the application deadline?
A4: The last date to apply is 15th January 2026. Applications open on 1st December 2025.
Q5: What documents are required?
A5: You need an online application form, transcripts, degree certificates, English proficiency proof, passport copy, motivation letter, and CV.
Q6: Do I need a visa to study in the Netherlands?
A6: Yes, students must fulfill all Dutch visa requirements set by the Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND).