The Leiden University Excellence Scholarship 2025 is a prestigious program designed to support high-achieving international students who wish to pursue a Master’s degree at Leiden University in the Netherlands. This scholarship provides significant financial support, covering tuition fees up to €15,000 per year.
Leiden University, one of Europe’s leading research institutions, is home to over 28,000 students and 6,700 staff members. The LexS scholarship attracts some of the brightest minds globally, allowing them to study at one of the world’s oldest and most respected universities.
| Scholarship Name | Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LexS) |
|---|---|
| Host Country | Netherlands |
| Host University | Leiden University |
| Level of Study | Master’s Degree |
| Eligible Countries | Non-EU/EEA International Students |
| Coverage | Tuition Fee Up to €15,000 |
| Application Deadline | Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS) |
Scholarship Coverage
The Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LexS) provides three types of financial aid:
- €15,000 towards tuition fees.
- €10,000 towards tuition fees.
- Total tuition fee minus statutory tuition fee (for EU/EEA students).
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Note: The type of scholarship awarded depends on the available budget for each faculty.
Eligible Courses at Leiden University
The Leiden University Excellence Scholarship applies to all Master’s programs in the following faculties:
- Humanities
- Archaeology
- Medicine / LUMC
- Law
- Social and Behavioral Sciences
- Governance and Global Affairs
- Science
- International Institute for Asian Studies
- African Studies Centre
- Interfaculty Centre for Teacher Training (ICLON)
Eligibility Criteria for Leiden University Excellence Scholarship
To qualify for the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LexS), candidates must meet the following criteria:
| Eligibility Criteria | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Nationality | Must be a non-EU/EEA international student |
| Academic Excellence | Must be in the top 10% of their previous study program |
| Previous Education | Must have excellent academic results relevant to the chosen Master’s program |
| Other Scholarships | Cannot receive another full scholarship from Leiden University |
| Visa Requirements | Must comply with Dutch visa regulations |
Note: Proof of being in the top 10% is not required but serves as an indicator of competitiveness.
Required Documents for Leiden University Excellence Scholarship
Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents:
- Application Form (Online)
- Motivation Letter (maximum 500 words explaining why you deserve the scholarship)
- Academic Transcripts
- Previous Degree Certificate
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Proof of English Proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent)
- Copy of Passport
- Letters of Recommendation
- Other Supporting Documents (if applicable)
Step-by-Step Application Process for Leiden University Excellence Scholarship
Step 1: Apply for Admission to Leiden University
- Visit the official Leiden University website.
- Select your preferred master’s program.
- Submit your online application and pay the application fee (if applicable).
Step 2: Indicate Your Interest in the LexS Scholarship
- In the scholarship section of your online application, select Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LexS).
- Upload a motivation letter (maximum of 500 words) explaining why you deserve the LexS scholarship.
Step 3: Submit Your Scholarship Application
- Ensure that all required documents are uploaded.
- Submit your application before the respective deadline.
Step 4: Await Selection Results
- Shortlisted candidates will be notified via email.
- If selected, candidates must accept the scholarship by signing the LexS Acceptance Form.
Important Notes on Scholarship Conditions
- The LexS is only valid for the program and academic year mentioned in the award letter.
- If a student changes their Master’s program, the scholarship may be revoked.
- If a student defers admission, they will lose the LexS scholarship and must reapply.
- The scholarship is not available for second Master’s programs unless explicitly stated.
Why Study at Leiden University?
Leiden University is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Europe, known for its world-class faculty, research excellence, and global influence. Some benefits of studying at Leiden include:
- High-Quality Education
- Internationally Recognized Degrees
- Diverse Student Community
- Access to Cutting-Edge Research Facilities
- Scholarships & Funding Opportunities
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I apply for multiple scholarships at Leiden University?
Yes, you can apply for multiple scholarships, but you cannot combine the LexS with another full scholarship.
2. What if I receive another full scholarship after being awarded the LexS?
You must inform Leiden University immediately. If the other scholarship fully covers your tuition, the LexS award will be revoked.
3. What happens if I do not achieve 60 ECTS in the first year?
For programs longer than one year, students must complete at least 60 ECTS in the first year to retain the LexS scholarship.
4. Can I transfer my LexS scholarship to another academic year?
No, the LexS is not transferable. If you defer admission, you must reapply for the scholarship.
Conclusion
The Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS) 2025 is a golden opportunity for outstanding students worldwide. If you are an international student with excellent academic records, apply for this tuition-funded scholarship and take the next step toward your academic dreams.
Application Deadlines:
- 1 February 2025 (For September intake)
- 1 October 2025 (For February intake)
Apply Now: Leiden University Official Website
