Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS) 2027 in the Netherlands
Apply for the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS) 2027 and study for a master's degree at one of Europe's oldest and most prestigious universities in the Netherlands. This partially funded scholarship offers tuition fee awards of €10,000, €15,000, €17,500, €18,500, or €19,000 for outstanding international students.
The scholarship is open to non-EEA/non-EFTA students pursuing full-time master's programs in Archaeology, Humanities, Medicine, Science, Social and Behavioural Sciences, Governance and Global Affairs, and Law. Advanced LLM programs and the MSc in International Relations and Diplomacy accept applicants of all nationalities.
With only around 25 scholarships awarded each year, LExS is highly competitive and reserved for students ranking in the top 10% of their class. The award covers the full duration of the eligible master's program. Applicants submit a 500-word motivation letter alongside their admission application.
Overview
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Host University | Leiden University, Netherlands |
| Funding Type | Partially funded |
| Scholarship Levels | €10,000 / €15,000 / €17,500 / €18,500 / €19,000 |
| Awards Available | ~25 per year |
| Program Level | Full-time Master's degree |
| Eligibility | Non-EEA/non-EFTA students |
| Duration | Full duration of the master's program |
| Application Deadline | December 1, 2026 |
About Leiden University
Leiden University is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the Netherlands. Each year, students from around the world choose Leiden for its outstanding education, strong research opportunities, and vibrant international environment.
The Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS) is a partially funded scholarship designed for exceptional international students pursuing a full-time master's degree. While it does not cover all study costs, it provides substantial financial support that significantly reduces tuition fees at a world-renowned institution.
Because only around 25 scholarships are awarded each year, LExS is highly competitive. Students with outstanding academic achievements are strongly encouraged to apply early.
If you're exploring fully funded international options as well, take a look at these fully funded scholarships for African students that open doors to study opportunities across the globe.
Eligible faculties
The scholarship is available across a wide range of master's programs in the following faculties:
| Faculty | Field |
|---|---|
| Archaeology | Archaeological studies |
| Humanities | Languages, history, philosophy |
| Medicine (LUMC) | Medical sciences |
| Governance and Global Affairs | Public administration, international relations |
| Law | Advanced LLM programs only |
| Social and Behavioural Sciences | Psychology, sociology, anthropology |
| Science | Natural and applied sciences |
Scholarship benefits
The Leiden University Excellence Scholarship provides meaningful financial support to outstanding international students, awarded across five levels:
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fee Awards | €10,000 to €19,000 (five levels) |
| Selection of Level | Determined by the selection committee |
| Coverage Period | Throughout the eligible master's program |
| University Ranking | Study at one of Europe's top universities |
| Networking | Build academic and professional networks internationally |
Eligibility criteria
To qualify for the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship 2027, applicants must meet the following requirements:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Program | Full-time master's starting in September |
| Passport | Non-EEA/non-EFTA passport required |
| Nationality Exception | Advanced LLM & MSc International Relations and Diplomacy: any nationality |
| Academic Excellence | Top 10% of graduates in previous studies |
| Admission | Must meet all admission requirements for chosen program |
| February Intake | Programs starting in February are NOT eligible |
Explore more fully funded opportunities
If you're aiming for global academic exposure, consider these prestigious international programs alongside the Leiden scholarship:
- Schwarzman Scholars Program in China — A fully funded master's program at Tsinghua University for future global leaders
- Yenching Academy Scholarship at Peking University — 120 fully funded scholarships to study in China
- Fully Funded Scholarships for African Students — A curated list of top opportunities for students across Africa
How to apply
Applicants submit a 500-word motivation letter alongside their master's admission application. There is no separate scholarship application form.
| Resource | URL |
|---|---|
| Apply Now | Leiden University LExS Page |
| Official Site | www.universiteitleiden.nl |
Frequently asked questions
What is the deadline for the LExS 2027?
The application deadline is 1 December 2026. Given that only around 25 awards are granted each year, applying early is strongly advised.
Is the LExS fully funded?
No. The LExS is a partially funded scholarship offering tuition awards between €10,000 and €19,000. Students must still cover the remaining tuition fees and all living expenses in the Netherlands.
Who decides which scholarship level I receive?
The selection committee determines the level awarded, from €10,000 up to €19,000. Applicants cannot choose their own level.
Are African students eligible?
Yes. The scholarship targets non-EEA/non-EFTA passport holders, which includes African nationals. Advanced LLM programs and the MSc in International Relations and Diplomacy are open to applicants of any nationality.
What academic level is required?
Applicants must rank in the top 10% of graduates in their previous studies and meet all admission requirements for their chosen master's program.
Can I apply for a February intake?
No. Only full-time master's programs starting in September are eligible. Programs beginning in February are excluded.
Is there a separate scholarship application?
No. You submit a 500-word motivation letter together with your regular master's admission application.
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