Study in Europe with Fully Funded Scholarships, The University of Groningen
The University of Groningen is one of the top-ranked and oldest universities in Europe, known for its strong academic reputation, world-class research, and welcoming international environment. Located in the Netherlands, it attracts thousands of international students each year who dream of studying in Europe with little or no financial burden.
One of the biggest opportunities offered by the University of Groningen is its fully funded scholarship programs, especially for high-achieving international students from developing and non-EU countries.
This comprehensive guide explains how to study at the University of Groningen with a fully funded scholarship, covering:
- Available fully funded scholarships
- Step-by-step application procedures
- Required certificates and documents
- Age limits
- Eligible countries
- Academic and language requirements
- Application deadlines
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About the University of Groningen
University Name: University of Groningen
Country: Netherlands
Founded: 1614
Type: Public Research University
Language of Instruction: English (many Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs)
Global Reputation
- Among the top 100 universities worldwide
- One of the largest research universities in the Netherlands
- Strong focus on innovation, sustainability, and global impact
Popular study areas include:
- Computer Science & Artificial Intelligence
- Business & Economics
- Life Sciences
- Law & International Relations
- Engineering & Technology
Fully Funded Scholarships at the University of Groningen
- Eric Bleumink Fund (Fully Funded Scholarship)
The Eric Bleumink Fund Scholarship is the most prestigious and fully funded scholarship offered by the University of Groningen for international Master’s students.
What Does the Eric Bleumink Scholarship Cover?
Full tuition fees
Monthly living expenses
Health insurance
Visa and residence permit costs
Travel costs to and from the Netherlands
Study materials
This scholarship allows students to study at the University of Groningen almost completely free.
Level of Study Supported
- Master’s Degree (MSc / MA / LLM)
- Duration: 1–2 years
Fully funded scholarships at Groningen are mainly for Master’s programs. Bachelor’s programs usually receive partial funding.
Eligible Countries
The Eric Bleumink Fund is targeted at students from developing and low-income countries, including but not limited to:
- Nigeria
- Ghana
- Kenya
- Ethiopia
- Uganda
- Bangladesh
- Pakistan
- Nepal
- Indonesia
- Philippines
- Many countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America
✅Priority is given to non-EU/EEA students who lack access to funding.
Age Limit
There is NO official age limit for University of Groningen scholarships.
However:
- Applicants are usually recent graduates
- Early-career professionals are strongly preferred
➡Academic merit and motivation are far more important than age.
Academic Requirements (Credentials Required)
To qualify for a fully funded scholarship at the University of Groningen, you must meet strict academic standards.
- Bachelor’s Degree
- A recognized Bachelor’s degree relevant to your chosen Master’s program
- The degree must be equivalent to a Dutch bachelor’s qualification
- Strong Academic Performance
- High GPA (often First Class or strong Upper Second Class)
- Applicants should rank among the top 10–15% of their class
- English Language Proficiency
All international applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English.
| Test | Minimum Score |
| IELTS | 6.5 – 7.0 |
| TOEFL iBT | 90 – 100 |
Some programs may require higher scores.
Required Certificates and Documents
Below is a complete document checklist for admission and scholarship consideration at the University of Groningen:
Mandatory Documents
- Bachelor’s degree certificate
- Official academic transcripts
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation Letter / Statement of Purpose
- Two academic recommendation letters
- English language test results
- Passport copy
Program-Specific Documents
- Research proposal (research-based programs)
- Writing sample (Law, Humanities, Social Sciences)
- Portfolio (Arts & Design programs)
Step-by-Step Application Procedure
Step 1: Choose an Eligible Master’s Program
Select an English-taught Master’s program at the University of Groningen.
Popular options include:
- MSc Artificial Intelligence
- MSc Computer Science
- MSc International Business
- LLM International Law
- MSc Environmental Sciences
Step 2: Apply for Admission Online
You must apply for admission first.
✔ Create an online application
✔ Upload all required documents
✔ Submit before the deadline
Without admission, you cannot be considered for scholarships.
Step 3: Automatic Scholarship Nomination
You do not apply separately for the Eric Bleumink Fund.
Here’s how it works:
- The University of Groningen reviews all admitted students
- Outstanding candidates are automatically nominated
- Only top academic performers are selected
Step 4: Scholarship Selection Process
Selection is based on:
- Academic excellence
- Motivation and leadership potential
- Recommendation letters
- Relevance of academic background to the program
Step 5: Scholarship Offer & Enrollment
Successful candidates receive:
- Official scholarship award letter
- Visa and residence permit guidance
- Enrollment instructions
Important Application Deadlines
| Intake | Deadline |
| Master’s Admission | December 1 – January 15 |
| Eric Bleumink Scholarship | Same as the admission deadline |
Late applications are not considered for funding.
Other Scholarship Opportunities at the University of Groningen
If you are not selected for the Eric Bleumink Fund, you may still consider:
- NL (Holland) Scholarship
- €5,000 one-time grant
- For non-EU/EEA students
- Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s
- Fully funded EU Master’s programs
- University of Groningen participates in several tracks
- External Scholarships
- Home-country government scholarships
- International foundations and NGOs
Cost of Living in Groningen
| Expense | Monthly Cost (€) |
| Accommodation | 400 – 700 |
| Food | 200 – 300 |
| Transport | 50 – 80 |
| Insurance | 50 |
Fully funded scholarships cover most or all of these costs.
Why Study at the University of Groningen?
Top-ranked European university
Affordable cost of living compared to other Dutch cities
Fully English-taught programs
Strong research and innovation culture
High employability after graduation
Post-study work opportunities in the Netherlands
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Missing deadlines
Weak motivation letter
Low English test scores
Choosing an unrelated program
Incomplete documents
Tips to Increase Your Scholarship Chances
- Maintain a high GPA
- Write a clear and compelling motivation letter
- Choose academic referees who know you well
- Apply early
- Align your academic goals with Groningen’s research focus
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the University of Groningen scholarship fully funded?
Yes, the Eric Bleumink Fund is fully funded.
Can international students work while studying?
Yes, students can work part-time in the Netherlands.
Is IELTS mandatory?
Yes, unless you qualify for an official exemption.
Final Thoughts
Studying at the University of Groningen with a fully funded scholarship is a life-changing opportunity for international students. With strong academic preparation, early application, and a clear academic goal, you can secure admission and funding to one of Europe’s best universities.
If your dream is to study in the Netherlands for free, the University of Groningen should be high on your list.