Description

Are you an international student with a passion for science and a desire to pursue an MSc at the University of Amsterdam (UvA)? The Amsterdam Merit Scholarship (AMS), provided by UvA’s Faculty of Science, offers an excellent opportunity for talented students. Set to begin in September 2025, one or two AMS scholarships will be awarded to outstanding non-EEA students pursuing MSc degrees in science at UvA. Read on for detailed eligibility criteria, application requirements, and the benefits of this prestigious scholarship.

Why the Amsterdam Merit Scholarship?

The AMS provides substantial support for students pursuing advanced studies at UvA’s Faculty of Science. Scholarship amounts and further details will be announced in November. With the rising costs of international education, AMS is highly sought after by non-EEA students eager to advance their academic and professional careers in science..

Degree Level

University of Amsterdam Netherlands Merit Scholarship 2025 is available to undertake Masters level programs at University of Amsterdam.

Available Subjects

Following subject are available to study under this scholarship program.

• All Subjects

Benefits

The Amsterdam Merit Scholarship (AMS) offered by the University of Amsterdam's Faculty of Science provides financial support to outstanding non-EU/EEA students pursuing a Master's degree. While the exact scholarship amounts for the September 2025 intake will be announced in November 2024, previous AMS awards have ranged between €2,000 and €25,000, depending on the faculty and program.

This financial assistance helps cover tuition fees and contributes to living expenses, enabling recipients to focus on their studies without the burden of financial constraints. Additionally, being an AMS scholar offers the prestige of being recognized for academic excellence, which can enhance future academic and professional opportunities.

Please note that the AMS is not a full-coverage scholarship; recipients are expected to cover any remaining tuition fees and living expenses not covered by the scholarship.

Eligible Nationalities

This scholarship is open to international students from Non- EEA/EU Countries. 

Note: Swiss Nationals are not eligible to apply for this scholarship.

Eligibility Criteria

Amsterdam Merit Scholarship Requirements

AMS has strict eligibility requirements to ensure the scholarship benefits the most promising and dedicated students. Applicants must:

• Residency: Be non-EU/EEA or Swiss nationals.
• Eligibility for Support: Not qualify for Dutch study grants, loans, or reduced tuition for EEA students.
• No Full Coverage Scholarships: Applicants cannot have other full scholarships during the AMS period.
• MSc Program Admission: Submit a complete application and secure admission to a UvA MSc program.
• First-time Admission: Be a first-time student in the UvA MSc program.
• Visa Compliance: Meet the conditions for a Dutch visa, if applicable.
• Recent Graduation: Complete their prior academic program within the last three years.

Note: Students must inform the International Team immediately if there are changes in nationality, residence permit status, or financial support during the academic year.

Selection Criteria

The Faculty of Science assesses AMS candidates based on academic merit and the potential impact of the scholarship on their future in science. Selection criteria include:

• Academic Excellence: Applicants should be in the top 10% of their graduating class, with a GPA equivalent to 3.5 (4-point scale), upper division/1st class honors (British system), or 8+ (Dutch EC-system).
• Institute Quality: The academic reputation of the applicant’s previous educational institute is considered.
• Motivation Letter: Candidates should write a motivation letter (max 500 words) detailing why they chose the specific MSc program and the relevance of the AMS scholarship for their career goals.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV): Include extracurriculars like student commissions, international experience, high-level sports or music participation, and volunteer work.

Failure to meet any of these requirements disqualifies the candidate from consideration.

Scholarship Continuation for Two-Year Master’s Programs

AMS recipients in a two-year MSc program must complete 40 ECTS in the first year with good academic standing to qualify for the scholarship’s continuation in the second year. The Faculty of Science requires students to attend classes, maintain good progress, and meet additional requirements set by their program.

Application Procedure

Key Dates and Deadlines

• Application Deadline: 15 January 2025.
• Scholarship Announcement: November 2024, with more details on the number and amount of scholarships available.

Application Process

The AMS application is integrated into the MSc program application. Simply check the UvA scholarship box on the application form and ensure that you fulfill all scholarship requirements. In the motivation letter, include a paragraph explaining why you wish to be nominated for AMS and how it will impact your academic career.

Note: Ensure the motivation letter, including the additional paragraph, does not exceed 500 words.

Why Choose UvA’s Faculty of Science?

The University of Amsterdam’s Faculty of Science is globally renowned for its innovative research, world-class faculty, and commitment to fostering scientific discovery. Through AMS, UvA supports talented international students eager to contribute to scientific research and advance their careers in academia or industry.