Scholarships in Netherlands for Pakistani Students 2025

Every year, thousands of Pakistani students search for the best opportunities to study abroad. The Netherlands, with its reputation for world-class education, innovation, and international outlook, has become one of the top choices.

But one of the biggest questions Pakistani students ask is:

“Can I afford to study in the Netherlands?”

The answer is yes—thanks to a variety of fully funded and partial scholarships in 2025, Pakistani students can make their dream a reality.

Why Choose the Netherlands for Higher Education?

Before we get into the scholarships, here’s why the Netherlands is worth your consideration:

• English-Taught Degrees – Over 2,000 courses available in English.
• High Employability – Dutch universities rank among the top 200 globally.
• Scholarship Availability – Both government and universities actively support Pakistani students.
• Post-Study Options – The “Orientation Year” visa allows graduates to stay and find jobs.

The Big Question: Which Scholarships Are Open for Pakistanis in 2025?

Here are the top opportunities Pakistani students can apply for this year:

Holland Scholarship

• Funded by the Dutch Ministry of Education and universities.
• €5,000 grant for the first year of study.
• Available for Bachelor’s and Master’s

Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP)

• Aimed at professionals from Pakistan.
• Coverstuition, visa, insurance, and a monthly stipend.
• Focus onshort courses and Master’s.

TU Delft Excellence Scholarship

• One of the most competitive scholarships.
• Covers full tuition + €970/month living allowance.
• For Master’s students in science, technology, and engineering.

Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS)

• Partial to full tuition coverage.
• Open to Master’s programs.

Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters

• Funded by the European Union.
• Includestuition, living costs, travel, and insurance.
• Students study in multiple EU countries including the Netherlands.

Scholarships in the Netherlands for Pakistani Students 2025

Cost to Study in the Netherlands

One of the main worries Pakistani students have is affordability. Let’s break it down.

Average Costs (With & Without Scholarships)

Scholarships can reduce expenses by up to 90%, making the Netherlands affordable for Pakistani families.

Eligibility for Pakistanis

Pakistani students can apply if they meet these requirements:

• Hold a valid Pakistani passport.
• Strong academic background (minimum 60–70%).
• IELTS 0–6.5 or TOEFL equivalent.
• Motivation letter + recommendation letters.
• For some scholarships (like OKP), work experience is required.

Step-by-Step Application Process

• Choose a program at a Dutch university.
• Apply for admission directly on the university’s portal.
• Check the scholarship options linked to that program.
• Prepare documents:
  • Academic transcripts
  • Passport copy
  • IELTS/TOEFL results
  • CV
  • Recommendation letters
  • Motivation statement
• Submit your application before deadlines (usually February–May 2025).
• Receive scholarship confirmation → Apply for Dutch student visa.

FAQs – Scholarships in the Netherlands 2025

Q1. Can Pakistani students apply for fully funded scholarships?
Yes, programs like Erasmus Mundus, TU Delft Excellence, and OKP are fully funded.

Q2. Is IELTS compulsory?
Yes, usually an IELTS 6.0–6.5 is required unless your previous degree was taught in English.

Q3. Can Pakistani students work in the Netherlands?
Yes, up to 16–20 hours/week during study, and full-time in holidays.

Q4. What’s the main difference between Holland Scholarship and OKP?

• Holland Scholarship: For bachelor’s & master’s, €5,000 grant.
• OKP: For professionals, covers full tuition and living costs.

Final Words

The Netherlands is opening doors for Pakistani students in 2025 with scholarships that can make studying abroad not just a dream, but a practical reality. From government-backed awards like the Holland Scholarship and OKP, to prestigious university scholarships at TU Delft and Leiden, Pakistani students have plenty of opportunities.

If you start early, prepare well, and apply strategically, you can secure funding and begin your journey at one of Europe’s most student-friendly destinations.