UM Global Studies Scholarship 2025 | Fully Funded

The UM Global Studies Scholarship provides an exceptional opportunity for academically talented students from the Global South to pursue their bachelor’s degree in Global Studies at Maastricht University (UM), Netherlands. This prestigious scholarship covers tuition fees, living expenses, and other essential costs, making it a fully funded program. This guide outlines the scholarship’s key features, eligibility criteria, application process, and more, offering a detailed guide for prospective applicants.

About the Global Studies Program

The Global Studies bachelor-level program at Maastricht University is an interdisciplinary initiative designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to address complex global challenges. Unique in the Netherlands, the program is delivered by six faculties at UM, each contributing expertise to the curriculum.

Key Features of the Program:

• Interdisciplinary Approach: The program integrates insights from diverse disciplines to analyze and solve global issues.
• Field Study in the Global South: Students have the opportunity to conduct a field study in a region within the Global South.
• Practical Problem-Solving: Participants develop interventions for societal challenges presented by NGOs, government agencies, firms, or schools.
• Interdisciplinary Thesis: The program culminates in an interdisciplinary bachelor’s thesis that synthesizes theoretical and practical learning.

About the UM Global Studies Scholarship

The UM Global Studies Scholarship supports one outstanding bachelor’s student per academic year from the Global South. The scholarship is designed for candidates who demonstrate exceptional academic performance, personal development potential, and a commitment to making a positive impact in their communities.

Key Benefits:

• Tuition Fee Waiver: Covers the cost of tuition for the three-year program.
• Living Expenses: €15,925 per academic year, including accommodation.
• Health & Liability Insurance: Fully covered.
• Visa Application Costs: Arranged and paid for by UM.
• Pre-Academic Training: Costs covered for mandatory pre-arrival training.
• International Student Ambassador Programme (ISAP): Costs for the first block are included.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Nationality: Must hold citizenship in a Global South country as defined by the OECD (columns 1–3: least developed, low income, lower middle income, or Venezuela).
• Residency Status: Candidates must meet Dutch visa and residency requirements. Those holding Schengen residence permits must ensure validity through 2 September 2025.
• Dual Nationality: Applicants with dual nationality from a Global North country are ineligible.
• Educational Background: Candidates must not have previously participated in degree-seeking higher education in the Netherlands. Exchange program participants are eligible.
• Age Limit: Must be under 35 years of age by 1 September 2025.
• Program Admission: Conditional or full admission to the Global Studies program for the 2025-2026 academic year is required.
• Ambassadorial Role: Scholars must actively represent UM and Global Studies during and after their studies.

Scholarship Duration and Coverage

The scholarship spans the entire three-year Global Studies bachelor’s program. The funding breakdown is as follows:

Living Expenses Breakdown:

• Housing: €600/month
• Groceries & Personal Hygiene: €160/month
• Telephone: €60/month
• Travel: €100/month
• Books & Study Materials: €90/month
• Clothing, Hobbies, & Entertainment: €125/month
• Miscellaneous: €90/month

Note: Accommodation provided through the scholarship cannot accommodate partners, spouses, or children. Declining the allocated room will result in scholarship forfeiture.

Application Process

Step 1: Register for the Global Studies Program

• Apply via Studielink.nl for the Global Studies bachelor’s program.
• Upon submission, you will receive a UM student ID, which is required for the scholarship application.
• Ensure all program admission requirements are met, except for legal residence, by the scholarship deadline.

Step 2: Submit the Scholarship Application Form

• Log in using your UM account and complete the scholarship application form.
• Upload the following documents in PDF or Word format:
  1. Curriculum Vitae (CV): Include educational and professional achievements, extracurricular activities, and awards. Maximum two pages.
  2. Motivation Letter: Use the provided template to explain your interest in the scholarship.
  3. Proof of Academic Excellence: Latest transcripts demonstrating strong academic performance.
  4. Personal Statement of Financial Need: Outline your financial circumstances and reasons for seeking the scholarship.
  5. Reference Letter: Must be from a professor, teacher, employer, or similar professional; dated no earlier than 1 February 2024.
  6. Referee Contact Information: Include work telephone and institutional email address.

Application Deadline: 1 February 2025, 23:59 CET.

CLICK HERE TO START YOUR APPLICATION

Selection Procedure

The selection process involves multiple stages:

• Application Review: The UM International Services Desk verifies all applications for completeness after the submission deadline.
• Initial Ranking: Applications are ranked by the Global Studies admission office based on scholarship criteria.
• Top-5 Candidates: Shortlisted applicants are invited for an online interview with the selection committee.
• Final Decision: The committee announces selected, waitlisted, and rejected candidates by early June 2025.
• Award Acceptance: Successful applicants must sign and return their award letter to confirm acceptance.

Important Dates

• Application Deadline: 1 February 2025
• Interviews for Top-5 Candidates: April 2025
• Final Results Announcement: June 2025
• Pre-Academic Training: August 2025

Testimonials from Past Scholars

Past recipients of the UM Global Studies Scholarship have praised the program for its interdisciplinary curriculum, hands-on learning opportunities, and comprehensive financial support. They highlight the life-changing impact of studying at UM and the chance to contribute to solving global challenges.

Contact Information

For further inquiries, applicants can contact the UM International Services Desk:

Email: scholarships@maastrichtuniversity.nl

The UM Global Studies Scholarship is a transformative opportunity for ambitious students from the Global South to pursue a world-class education. With its comprehensive funding, interdisciplinary curriculum, and global focus, this scholarship opens doors to academic excellence and personal growth. Apply today and take the first step toward a brighter future!

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