The University of Groningen in the Netherlands has confirmed the next cycle of the Eric Bleumink Fellowship 2026. Applications for Master’s programs are open now and the deadline for consideration is December 1 2025.
This fellowship is one of the most sought after awards for international students from developing countries. It provides full financial support to study a Master’s degree at a world ranked European university. In this guide we will cover everything about the scholarship including eligibility coverage deadlines and expert tips to improve your chances.
Details About Eric Bleumink Fellowship
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship | Eric Bleumink Fellowship (Master’s) |
| Country | Netherlands (University of Groningen) |
| Available Degrees | MA MSc LL.M (1–2 years) |
| Coverage | Fully funded tuition travel living allowance books health insurance |
| Deadline | December 1 2025 |
| Eligibility | Developing country national admitted to Master’s before February 2026 |
| Application | No separate fellowship form nomination by university based on admission |
Who Can Apply
Eligibility is strict because the fellowship is highly selective.
- Applicants must be from a developing country listed by the university
- Must receive admission to a full time Master’s program at the University of Groningen before February 2026
- Strong academic performance in previous studies
- Proof of English language proficiency usually through IELTS or TOEFL
- Must demonstrate financial need
- Good health to fully participate in the program
It is important to note that students cannot apply directly for the fellowship. Only those admitted into a Master’s program are nominated by the university.
Apply: https://www.rug.nl/education/scholarships/eric-bleumink-fellowship?lang=en
Eligible Countries for Eric Bleumink Fellowship 2026
- Afghanistan
- Angola
- Bangladesh
- Benin
- Bhutan
- Burkina Faso
- Burundi
- Cambodia
- Chad
- Comoros
- Djibouti
- Eritrea
- Ethiopia
- Gambia
- Guinea
- Guinea Bissau
- Haiti
- Kiribati
- Lesotho
- Liberia
- Madagascar
- Malawi
- Mali
- Mauritania
- Mozambique
- Myanmar
- Nepal
- Rwanda
- Sao Tome and Principe
- Senegal
- Sierra Leone
- Solomon Islands
- Somalia
- Tanzania
- Togo
- Tuvalu
- Uganda
- Vanuatu
- Yemen
- Timor Leste
- South Sudan
- Central African Republic
- Zambia
- Bolivia
- Cape Verde
- Congo
- Ghana
- Honduras
- India
- Korea Dem Rep
- Kyrgyzstan
- Mongolia
- Morocco
- Nigeria
- Vietnam
- Uzbekistan
- Ukraine
- Algeria
- Cameroon
- Congo Dem Rep
- Egypt
- Iran
- Ivory Coast
- Jordan
- Kenya
- Micronesia
- Nicaragua
- Niger
- Pakistan
- Papua New Guinea
- Philippines
- Samoa
- Sri Lanka
- Sudan
- Tajikistan
- Tokelau
- Tunisia
- Zimbabwe
- Lao People’s Democratic Republic
Fellowship Benefits and Coverage
The Eric Bleumink Fellowship 2026 is fully funded. It removes nearly every financial burden for selected students.
- Full tuition fees paid for one or two years depending on program length
- International travel costs covered both ways
- Monthly living allowance for housing food and daily expenses
- Health insurance during the entire study period
- Books and study materials included
This means that students can focus entirely on academics without worrying about financial stress.
Also Read: Royal Society University Research Fellowship – Fully Funded
Eligible Programs of Study
The fellowship covers all Master’s programs offered at the University of Groningen including
- Arts and Humanities
- Law and Social Sciences
- Economics and Business
- Science and Engineering
- Life Sciences and Health Sciences
- Environmental and Sustainability Studies
The only requirement is that the program must be a full time Master’s of one or two years duration.
Application Process Explained
The application process is indirect which confuses many students. Here is a simple breakdown.
- Choose a Master’s program from the University of Groningen
- Submit your admission application before December 1 2025
- If you meet admission requirements you will be considered for the fellowship
- The university nominates candidates who are then reviewed for the award
- Selected students receive confirmation by mid 2026
There is no separate fellowship application form. The university manages everything based on your admission.
Key Deadlines and Timeline
- December 1 2025 Admission application deadline
- February 2026 Admission confirmation for eligible applicants
- Spring 2026 Fellowship nominations and selection
- Summer 2026 Results announced
- September 2026 Academic year begins in Groningen
Missing the December deadline will automatically disqualify you from the fellowship.
Tips to Strengthen Your Application
Because competition is tough you must prepare carefully.
- Apply early to avoid last minute issues
- Write a clear and focused motivation letter that shows how this scholarship will benefit your community as well as your personal career
- Prepare strong recommendation letters from professors or employers who know your academic ability
- Highlight any research work projects or volunteer experience in your CV
- Show how you plan to return and contribute to your country after graduation
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply directly for the fellowship
No. You must first apply for a Master’s program. The university then nominates students.
How many students get selected
The number is small often less than a dozen per year.
Can I apply for a PhD
No. The fellowship is only for Master’s programs.
What is the stipend amount
It covers living costs in Groningen, which usually range between € 900 and € 1100 per month.
Is English test required
Yes IELTS or TOEFL is normally required unless you studied previously in English.
Why Choose the Netherlands for Study
The Netherlands is one of the most popular destinations for international students. It is known for high quality education modern facilities and strong English taught programs. Over ninety percent of Dutch people speak English which makes daily life easier for foreign students.
The country is also located in the heart of Europe giving students easy access to travel to other countries.
Student Life in Groningen
Groningen is often called a student city because nearly one third of its population are students. It is lively affordable and safe. Students can enjoy bike friendly streets museums cultural events and a vibrant nightlife.
Living costs are lower compared to Amsterdam or Rotterdam which makes it easier for international students to manage.
Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Like every scholarship journey this fellowship also comes with challenges.
- High competition means only the best applicants succeed
- Cultural adjustment can take time in a European country
- Language barrier although most people speak English you may need to learn Dutch for daily life
- Academic pressure in a top university can be intense
To overcome these challenges stay engaged with the university support services and build a network of fellow students.
Career Prospects After Graduation
Graduates of the University of Groningen are highly respected worldwide. Many fellowship holders return to their countries to work in leadership positions or international organizations.
The Netherlands also allows international students to apply for a one year job search visa after graduation. This gives you time to find work in Europe if you wish to stay longer.
