Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS) 2026 | Study in the Netherlands

Posted by: Smart || Categories: Scholarship

Are you dreaming of studying in the Netherlands? Great news! The Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS) 2026–2027 is now open for international applications. This prestigious scholarship program is designed for outstanding students from outside the EU/EEA who wish to pursue a Master’s degree at Leiden University, one of Europe’s oldest and most respected research institutions.

Founded in 1575, Leiden University is renowned for its world-class academics, innovative research, and international outlook. With over 28,000 students and 7,000 staff members, it offers a vibrant and diverse academic community across its campuses in Leiden and The Hague. The university’s motto, “Praesidium Libertatis” (Bastion of Freedom), reflects its commitment to academic excellence and social progress.

---

Scholarship Overview

• Level of Study: Master’s Degree

• Institution: Leiden University

• Location: Netherlands

• Program Duration:

  • 1-year Master’s program → 12 months

  • 2-year Master’s program → 24 months

• Application Deadlines:

  • 1 February 2026 (for programs starting September 2026)

  • 1 October 2026 (for programs starting February 2027)

---

Eligible Programs

The LExS applies to all Master’s programs offered by:

• Faculty of Humanities

• Faculty of Archaeology

• Faculty of Medicine/LUMC

• Faculty of Law

• Faculty of Social & Behavioral Sciences

• Faculty of Governance & Global Affairs

• Faculty of Science

• ICLON (Teacher Training & Education)

• African Studies Centre

• International Institute for Asian Studies

---

Scholarship Coverage

Recipients of the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship may receive one of the following tuition fee reductions:

• €10,000

• €15,000

• €17,500

• €18,500

• €19,000

(The exact amount awarded depends on faculty funding availability and program choice.)

---

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS), you must:

• Language Requirement: Proficiency in English.

• Eligible Countries: Open to non-EU/EEA international students.

• Academic Excellence: Applicants must rank among the top 10% of their previous academic program.

• Hold a non-EU/EEA passport and not be eligible for Dutch financial aid (“Studiefinanciering”).

• Be applying for a full-time Master’s program at Leiden University.

• Maintain academic progress: Students in a 2-year program must earn at least 60 ECTS in the first year to renew the scholarship.

• Must comply with Dutch visa regulations.

Note: LExS cannot be combined with other scholarships offered or sponsored by Leiden University (e.g., Orange Tulip Scholarship, CEU Praesidium Libertatis). Partial scholarships from other organizations may be combined upon written confirmation.

---

Important Conditions

• The scholarship is awarded for one specific program and intake year. It cannot be deferred.

• If you withdraw or change programs, the scholarship may be revoked.

• LExS holders must actively participate in scholarship promotional activities during their studies.

• Acceptance of the award must be confirmed by submitting the official ‘Acceptance Form LExS’.

---

How to Apply

Follow these steps to apply for the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship 2026:

1. Apply for Admission

   • Submit an online application for your chosen Master’s program at Leiden University.

   • Pay the application fee (if applicable).

2. Indicate LExS Interest

   • In the scholarship section of your online application, select that you wish to apply for the LExS.

3. Submit Motivation Letter

   • Upload a motivation letter (max. 500 words) explaining why you deserve the LExS award.

4. Complete Your Application

   • Submit your application (including the LExS request) before the deadline.

📌 If applying for multiple programs, you must indicate LExS for each program separately and provide a motivation letter for each.

---

✅ With the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS), ambitious students gain not only financial support but also the chance to study at one of the world’s most prestigious universities, building a strong foundation for their academic and professional future.

APPLY HERE

CLICK HERE TO COMMENT ON THIS POST