2026 Eric Bleumink Scholarship

About the scholarship

The Eric Bleumink Scholarship 2026, offered by the University of Groningen in the Netherlands, is a fully funded award for talented students from developing countries to pursue one-year or two-year master’s programs. Covering fields like science, engineering, social sciences, law, and health, it includes full tuition, a living stipend (€13,000/year), travel costs, health insurance, and visa expenses. Scholars study at Groningen, a top-ranked European university with world-class facilities, including advanced research labs and a vibrant international community in the dynamic, student-friendly city of Groningen.

The scholarship aims to support students from low-resource settings, fostering academic excellence and leadership to address global challenges like poverty, sustainability, and education. Recipients benefit from mentorship, research opportunities, and networking with international scholars and professionals. The program emphasizes cultural integration, offering Dutch language courses and community engagement activities. With only 4-6 awards annually, the Eric Bleumink Scholarship is highly competitive, empowering recipients to drive transformative change in their home countries while enhancing Groningen’s global academic reputation.

Eligibility

Applicants for the Eric Bleumink Scholarship 2026 must meet the following detailed criteria:

• Nationality: Citizens of developing countries listed on the OECD DAC list (e.g., Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Ethiopia; full list on rug.nl).
• Academic Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree with a minimum CGPA of 3.5/4.0 or equivalent (e.g., Dutch grade 8/10 or first-class honors).
• Program Eligibility: Accepted for a one- or two-year master’s program at the University of Groningen (full list on rug.nl).
• Language Proficiency: IELTS 6.5 (minimum 6.0 in each component), TOEFL iBT 90, or equivalent, unless the prior degree was taught in English.
• Application Materials:
  • Nomination by the University of Groningen after applying for an eligible master’s program.
  • Official transcripts and bachelor’s degree certificate, translated into English or Dutch.
  • Personal statement (500-800 words) detailing academic goals, commitment to development, and reasons for choosing Groningen.
  • Two recommendation letters (academic or professional) attesting to academic excellence and leadership.
  • CV highlighting academic achievements, leadership, and community service.
  • Proof of financial need, such as income statements or affidavits.
  • Valid passport copy.
• Financial Need: Demonstrated economic hardship, prioritizing applicants from low-resource settings.
• Selection Criteria:
  • Academic Excellence: Outstanding academic record and potential for master’s-level study.
  • Development Impact: Clear commitment to contributing to the development of the home country.
  • Leadership: Evidence of leadership through academic, professional, or community roles.
  • Program Fit: Alignment with Groningen’s academic offerings and research priorities.
• Application Process:
  • Apply for a master’s program at Groningen via rug.nl by December 2025.
  • Automatic consideration for the scholarship upon admission; no separate application.
  • Nomination by the university’s admissions office, followed by review and interviews (if required).
• Deadlines: Typically December 1, 2025, for program applications; check rug.nl for confirmation.
• Additional Requirements:
  • Maintain satisfactory academic progress (minimum Dutch grade 7/10) to retain funding.
  • Engage in university activities, such as development-focused seminars.
  • Obtain a Dutch residence permit or EU visa post-award.

Applicants should ensure early program application and contact Groningen’s admissions office for nomination details.