Leiden University proudly unveils the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS) , offering a golden opportunity for international students to pursue their Master’s studies in the heart of the Netherlands. This prestigious scholarship is meticulously designed for exceptionally talented individuals who have demonstrated outstanding academic performance and are passionately committed to embarking on a transformative educational journey at Leiden University.
Leiden University was founded in 1575, making it the oldest university in the Netherlands. The university was established by William of Orange as a reward to the city of Leiden for its resistance against Spanish siege during the Eighty Years’ War. Initially, the university aimed to educate clergy and public officials. It quickly expanded to include a wide range of disciplines. The university has produced several Nobel laureates, including physicists Hendrik Lorentz and Heike Kamerlingh Onnes. The university continues to be at the forefront of innovative research in fields such as law, politics, science, and technology.
About the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship
The LExS program stands as a beacon for those driven by academic excellence, providing a gateway to immerse oneself in a full-time Master’s degree program at one of Europe’s most esteemed institutions of higher learning. “Leiden University is dedicated to fostering global talent and nurturing the aspirations of bright minds from around the world,” said Professor [Name], [Title] at Leiden University. “The LExS program serves as a testament to our commitment to excellence, providing a platform for exceptional students to flourish and contribute meaningfully to their chosen fields.”
Leiden University Excellence Scholarship’s summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Host Country | Netherlands |
| Institution | Leiden University |
| Study Level | Masters |
| Program Duration | 1-year program: 12 months 2-year program: 24 months |
| Deadline | Programs starting from 1st September: 1st February Programs starting from 1st February: 1st October |
| Required Language | English |
| Eligible Countries | All international Non-EU and EEA students |
| Courses Offered | All Masters programs in the following faculties: – Humanities – Archaeology – Medicine/LUMC – Law – Social and Behavioral Sciences – Governance and Global Affairs – Science – African Studies Centre – International Institute for Asian Studies |
Benefits of the LExS
The LExS scholarship covers the entirety of the study program and offers three award levels:
- €10,000 towards the tuition fee
- €15,000 towards the tuition fee
- Covers the total tuition fee, excluding the statutory tuition fee
However, it’s important to note that the LExS doesn’t cover the entire tuition fee. Recipients from Non-EEA countries must still provide evidence of adequate funds for their student visa/residence permit application.
Nationality requirements
Applicants must have a non-EEA/non-EFTA* passport, and may not be eligible for student finance via the Dutch government (Studiefinanciering) – with the exceptions of students applying for the programmes listed below for which no nationality restrictions apply:
- All LLM Advanced Studies programmes
- MSc in International Relations and Diplomacy
*EEA/EFTA: All EU countries plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland
Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility criteria for the LExS (Leiden Excellence Scholarship) at Leiden University are specific regarding nationality requirements:
- Non-EEA/EFTA Passport Holders: Applicants must hold a passport from a country outside the European Economic Area (EEA) and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA). EEA includes EU countries along with Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.
- Exemption Programs: There are exceptions to the non-EEA/EFTA rule for specific programs:
- All LLM Advanced Studies programs
- MSc in International Relations and Diplomacy
- UK Nationals Post-Brexit: After the UK’s exit from the EU, UK students are now considered non-EEA/EFTA passport holders for the LExS eligibility. However, there’s an exception for applicants who were already living in the Netherlands and registered in their Dutch municipality’s BRP (Basisregistratie Personen) before January 1, 2021. These applicants might not be eligible for the LExS due to their residency status.
- The candidates should have obtained high marks in the subjects for which they are applying under the scholarship program. The GPA should be at least 3.2 or more than that for applying to the Leiden Excellence scholarship program.
- If your graduation is not completed and you are still studying at the time of application, you should apply after completing two study years.
- Attach the transcripts of the current year and the previous year stating your total GPA and the subjects.
- The student is not permitted to receive any additional full scholarship for the same program, other than in the case of partial scholarships, where this has to be confirmed in writing in advance. The student should notify the Leiden University if another full scholarship such as the Netherlands Fellowship Program, Jean Monnet etc. has been awarded and which scholarship has been accepted.
SEE MORE
- Scholarships in Netherlands for International Students 2024-2025
- Top Scholarships in Luxembourg for International Students 2024-2025
- Top 15 UK Scholarships for International Students
- Top 10 Scholarships in Belgium for International Students
- Top Scholarships In Czech Republic For International Students 2024 -2025
- Top Scholarships In Switzerland for International Students 2024-2025
Application Procedure
Prospective students with a fervor for academic advancement and a passion for global engagement are encouraged to apply and unlock the doors to an enriching academic experience at Leiden University. Here’s a step-by-step guide for applying to the LExS:
1)Application for Admission:
- Apply online for admission to the Master’s program at Leiden University.
- Ensure the application is submitted well before the LExS deadline as it might take up to 2 days to create/submit an application.
- Pay the application fee if applicable.
2)Checking Eligibility for LExS:
- After submitting your admission application, go back to the Apply screen in your online application and navigate to the Scholarships section.
- If eligible for the LExS, it will be visible in the scholarships section.
- If you can’t see the LExS, it might be due to either an incomplete admission application or ineligibility for the scholarship.
3)LExS Application:
- Indicate your intention to apply for the LExS.
- Upload a PDF file (max. 500 words) containing your LExS motivation letter. This letter should explain why you should be considered for the award.
4)Submission and Changes:
- Submit your scholarship application before the LExS deadline.
- Note that once submitted, no changes can be made to the scholarship application, either online or via email.
5) Multiple Program Applications:
- If applying for multiple study programs/specializations and seeking a LExS for each, submit a separate LExS application and motivation letter for each program.
6) Late Applications:
- Late scholarship applications won’t be considered.
- It’s the responsibility of the student to ensure both the application for admission and the scholarship application are submitted before the LExS deadline.
7)Selection Process:
- Faculty selection committees will nominate LExS recipients within 6 weeks of the LExS deadline.
- All applicants will receive an email notifying them about the status of their LExS application:
- End of November (for programs starting in February)
- End of April (for programs starting in September)
8) Disclaimer:
- The student is responsible for submitting a complete application following the steps provided and before the specified deadline.
- Leiden University cannot be held accountable for late or incomplete applications.
This scholarship offers an unparalleled opportunity for recipients to access world-class education across a diverse array of disciplines including Humanities, Science, Law, Medicine/LUMC, Archaeology, Governance and Global Affairs, Social and Behavioral Sciences, African Studies Centre, and the International Institute for Asian Studies.
The Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS) represents a remarkable opportunity for international students aiming to advance their academic careers at one of Europe’s most prestigious institutions. By offering substantial financial support and access to world-class education across a diverse array of disciplines, the LExS program underscores Leiden University’s commitment to fostering global talent and academic excellence.
APPLY HERE
You can also stay updated on scholarship opportunities through our social media channels:
- WhatsApp: Career Journal +
- LinkedIn: Career Journal +
- Facebook: Career Journal +
- Twitter: Career Journal +
- Telegram: Career Journal +
Visit HERE to explore more scholarship opportunities.
Make sure to follow the instructions carefully and submit your application on time. Good luck!