Amsterdam Merit Scholarship (AMS)

University of Amsterdam (UvA)

♡ Save

Details checked on 30 October 2026. Dates and amounts change every year. Always confirm on the official page.

Who can apply

Non-EU/EEA and non-Swiss students admitted for the first time to a UvA master's programme whose previous degree ended no more than three years ago and who are in the top 10% of their class (about GPA 3.5/4). You need a motivation letter of up to 500 words and enough funds for other living costs.

Watch: how to apply

About this opportunity

The University of Amsterdam (UvA) offers the Amsterdam Merit Scholarship (AMS) through its individual faculties (Economics & Business, Science, Social & Behavioural Sciences, Humanities, Law, Medicine and Child Development) to attract the brightest non-EEA students.

How to apply, step by step

1. Check that you are eligible. Non-EU/EEA and non-Swiss students admitted for the first time to a UvA master's programme whose previous degree ended no more than three years ago and who are in the top 10% of their class (about GPA 3.5/4). You need a motivation letter of up to 500 words and enough funds for other living costs.
2. Note the deadline. Jan 15 (annual; the 2027 application closes on 15 Jan 2027 - tick the scholarship box on your UvA master's application, with decisions in April) Confirm the exact date on the official page.
3. Prepare your documents. Studielink & MyInfo UvA admission application; Official transcripts (GPA in top 10%); AMS motivation letter (300-500 words); Recommendation letter from dean, teacher or academic supervisor; Description of extracurricular activities; English proficiency score.
4. Apply on the official page. Open the official application page and submit your application before the deadline.

How applicants are selected

Decided by each UvA Faculty or Graduate School selection committee based on GPA, class rank, academic motivation and extracurricular profile

Free materials

Templates, checklists and guides to help you apply.

Browse all free materials →

Tips from our advisors

1. Check your exact UvA faculty page (e.g., Faculty of Science vs. Amsterdam Business School) because each faculty sets its own AMS deadline in January and its own application upload link
2. Read the eligibility line by line before you write anything. Most rejections are eligibility mismatches, not weak essays.
3. Show a clear link between your past studies, this programme and your career goal. Committees look for a story, not a list.
4. Spend most of your time on the criteria with the highest weight in the selection breakdown above.
5. Start at least 8 to 12 weeks early. Certified transcripts, translations and referee letters usually take longer than expected.
6. Ask your referees at least 4 weeks ahead and give them your CV, your draft SOP and the deadline.
7. Submit at least 48 hours before the deadline. Portals slow down on the last day.

Quick answers

Who can apply for Amsterdam Merit Scholarship (AMS)?

Non-EU/EEA and non-Swiss students admitted for the first time to a UvA master's programme whose previous degree ended no more than three years ago and who are in the top 10% of their class (about GPA 3.5/4). You need a motivation letter of up to 500 words and enough funds for other living costs.

What does Amsterdam Merit Scholarship (AMS) cover?

One scholarship of EUR 26,125 paid in monthly instalments for the September 2027 start; it does not reduce your tuition fee

When is the deadline for Amsterdam Merit Scholarship (AMS)?

Jan 15 (annual; the 2027 application closes on 15 Jan 2027 - tick the scholarship box on your UvA master's application, with decisions in April) Dates change every year, so confirm on the official page.

Where can I study or work with Amsterdam Merit Scholarship (AMS)?

Host countries: Netherlands.

What documents do I need for Amsterdam Merit Scholarship (AMS)?

Studielink & MyInfo UvA admission application; Official transcripts (GPA in top 10%); AMS motivation letter (300-500 words); Recommendation letter from dean, teacher or academic supervisor; Description of extracurricular activities; English proficiency score.

How are applicants selected for Amsterdam Merit Scholarship (AMS)?

Decided by each UvA Faculty or Graduate School selection committee based on GPA, class rank, academic motivation and extracurricular profile

How much work is the Amsterdam Merit Scholarship (AMS) application?

High: UvA programme admission application + faculty-specific AMS motivation letter + recommendation letters + extracurricular CV