BASIC INFORMATION

The Netherlands is located in North Western Europe and is bordered by the North Sea to the north and west, Germany to the east and Belgium to the south. The inland area is below sea level in some places, protected by coastal dunes and dykes. The capital of the country is Amsterdam, but The Hague is the seat of the King, Government and Parliament. Leeuwarden, in the North, will be a European City of Culture in 2018. The country has a population of 16.8 million and the 16th largest economy in the world. Key economic sectors include agriculture, chemicals, energy, as well life sciences, new and sustainable energy, high tech (Micro and Nano technology, ICT), and research and development. The official language is Dutch, while English is also widely understood and spoken.

SCHOLARSHIPS

The Huygens Scholarships Programme (HSP) is aimed at talented students who want to come to the Netherlands in the final phase of their Bachelor’s studies or during their Master’s studies. Study in the Netherlands can include research and/or practical training. However, HSP scholarships cannot be awarded to finance PhD studies in the Netherlands. Part of the total budget is reserved for students following programmes in Dutch studies. The HSP programme is administered by Nuffic (see below). Indian students may be eligible to study in Holland and Netherlands Fellowship Programme (NFP). Individual universities in Holland also provide their own scholarships for international students. These include the Leiden University Excellence Scholarships, the Maastricht University High Potential Scholarships, Radboud Scholarship Programme, the University of Twente Scholarships, and the University of Groningen Talent Grant.