Study in the Netherlands for Free: TU Delft Fully Funded Scholarship Explained (Step-by-Step)

Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) is one of the world’s leading engineering and technology universities, consistently ranked among the top 10 technical universities globally. Located in the Netherlands, TU Delft attracts thousands of international students each year due to its cutting-edge research, English-taught programs, and generous scholarship opportunities.

For many students, the biggest question is:
“How can I study at Delft University of Technology with a fully funded scholarship?”

This detailed guide answers that question completely. You will learn about:

• Fully funded scholarships at TU Delft
• Step-by-step application procedures
• Required certificates and documents
• Age limits (if any)
• Eligible countries
• Academic and language requirements
• Official deadlines

About Delft University of Technology (TU Delft)

University Name: Delft University of Technology
Country: Netherlands
Established: 1842
Type: Public Research University
Language of Instruction: English (for most Master’s & PhD programs)

Global Rankings

• Top 10 engineering & technology universities worldwide
• Highly ranked in Engineering, Computer Science, Architecture, Aerospace, and Sustainable Energy

TU Delft is especially popular among international Master’s and PhD students, thanks to its fully funded and merit-based scholarships.

Fully Funded Scholarships at TU Delft

1. Justus & Louise van Effen Excellence Scholarship (Main Fully Funded Scholarship)

This is the most prestigious and fully funded scholarship at TU Delft.

What Does the Scholarship Cover?

✔ Full tuition fee (EU or non-EU rate)
✔ Monthly living allowance
✔ Health insurance contribution
✔ Visa and residence permit costs
✔ Study materials and academic support

This scholarship allows students to study in the Netherlands almost free of cost.

Level of Study Supported

• Master’s Degree (MSc)
• Duration: 2 years

Note: TU Delft fully funded scholarships are mainly for Master’s programs. Bachelor’s programs rarely receive full funding.

Eligible Countries

The Justus & Louise van Effen Scholarship is open to international students from all countries, including:

• Nigeria
• Ghana
• Kenya
• South Africa
• India
• Pakistan
• Bangladesh
• Indonesia
• Philippines
• Countries in Europe, Asia, Africa, Middle East, and Latin America

No country restriction selection is based on academic excellence.

Age Limit

There is NO official age limit for TU Delft scholarships.

However:

• Applicants should be recent graduates or early-career professionals
• Strong academic performance matters more than age

Academic Requirements (Credentials Required)

To be eligible for a fully funded scholarship at TU Delft, you must meet the following academic requirements:

1. Bachelor’s Degree

• A recognized Bachelor’s degree relevant to the Master’s program
• Strong background in science, engineering, or technology

2. Academic Excellence

• High GPA (usually First Class or Upper Second Class)
• Top 10–15% of graduating class is preferred

3. English Language Proficiency

You must prove English proficiency through one of the following:

Some programs may require higher scores

Required Certificates and Documents

Below is a complete checklist of documents needed for TU Delft admission and scholarship:

Mandatory Documents

• Bachelor’s degree certificate
• Official academic transcripts
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Statement of Purpose / Motivation Letter
• Two academic recommendation letters
• English language test result
• Passport copy

Additional Documents (Program-Specific)

• GRE (for some technical programs)
• Portfolio (Architecture & Design programs)
• Research proposal (research-based MSc)

Step-by-Step Application Procedure (Very Important)

Step 1: Choose Your Master’s Program

Visit the official TU Delft website and select an English-taught Master’s program.

Popular programs include:

• MSc Computer Science
• MSc Electrical Engineering
• MSc Aerospace Engineering
• MSc Civil Engineering
• MSc Sustainable Energy Technology

Step 2: Apply for Admission First

You must first apply for admission to TU Delft.

Create an online application
Upload all required documents
Pay application fee (if applicable)

 Without admission, you cannot be considered for a scholarship.

Step 3: Scholarship Nomination by TU Delft

You do NOT apply directly for the Justus & Louise van Effen Scholarship.

Here’s how it works:

• TU Delft reviews admitted students
• Top candidates are automatically nominated
• No separate scholarship application required

Step 4: Selection Process

Selection is based on:

• Academic excellence
• Motivation and leadership potential
• Quality of recommendation letters
• Fit with TU Delft research goals

Step 5: Scholarship Offer

Selected students receive:

• Official scholarship offer letter
• Instructions for visa and enrollment

Important Deadlines

Apply early to increase your scholarship chances.

Admission Without Scholarship: Can You Still Get Funding?

Yes. If you are admitted without the van Effen Scholarship, you can still apply for:

• Holland Scholarship
• Erasmus Mundus Programs
• External government or private scholarships

Cost of Living in Delft (Covered by Scholarship)

 Fully funded scholarship covers most or all of these costs

Why Choose TU Delft?

World-class engineering education
Fully English-taught programs
Strong industry connections
High graduate employability
Safe and student-friendly country
Post-study work opportunities in the Netherlands

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Late application
Weak motivation letter
Low English test score
incomplete documents
choosing unrelated programs

Tips to Increase Your Scholarship Chances

• Maintain a high GPA
• Write a clear, goal-oriented motivation letter
• Choose referees who know you academically
• Apply early
• Align your goals with TU Delft research areas

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is TU Delft scholarship fully funded?

Yes, the Justus & Louise van Effen Scholarship is fully funded.

Can I work while studying?

Yes, international students can work part-time in the Netherlands.

Is IELTS mandatory?

Yes, unless you studied in an English-speaking institution and qualify for exemption.

Final Thoughts

Studying at Delft University of Technology with a fully funded scholarship is a life-changing opportunity for international students. With careful planning, strong academic records, and early application, you can secure admission and funding to one of the world’s best technical universities.

If your dream is to study engineering or technology in Europe for free, TU Delft should be at the top of your list.