Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS)

Leiden University

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

Who can apply

Non-EEA/non-EFTA passport holders (nationality does not matter for LLM Advanced Studies and the MSc International Relations and Diplomacy) starting a full-time Master's in September, roughly in the top 10% of their class. Apply for admission first, then open the Scholarships section of your application and upload a motivation letter (PDF, maximum 500 words).

Watch: how to apply

About this opportunity

The Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS) is awarded to academically exceptional non-EEA Master students across Archaeology, Humanities, Medicine (LUMC), Governance and Global Affairs, Law, Science, and Social & Behavioural Sciences.

How to apply, step by step

1. Check that you are eligible. Non-EEA/non-EFTA passport holders (nationality does not matter for LLM Advanced Studies and the MSc International Relations and Diplomacy) starting a full-time Master's in September, roughly in the top 10% of their class. Apply for admission first, then open the Scholarships section of your application and upload a motivation letter (PDF, maximum 500 words).
2. Note the deadline. Dec 1 (annual; the deadline for September 2027 start is 1 Dec 2026 - February starts are not eligible; notification before the end of March 2027) Confirm the exact date on the official page.
3. Prepare your documents. Leiden University online Master admission application; Separate 500-word LExS motivation letter (PDF); Official academic transcripts (top 10% standing); CV; Language proficiency certificate.
4. Apply on the official page. Open the official application page and submit your application before the deadline.

How applicants are selected

Faculty selection committees review applications within 10 weeks of the deadline; results communicated by late March

Free materials

Templates, checklists and guides to help you apply.

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Tips from our advisors

1. After submitting your Master admission application in the Leiden portal, return to the Scholarships section of your online application to upload your 500-word LExS motivation letter before 1 December
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. Ask your referees at least 4 weeks ahead and give them your CV, your draft SOP and the deadline.
6. Submit at least 48 hours before the deadline. Portals slow down on the last day.
7. Have your SOP and CV reviewed by someone who has seen successful applications before you submit.

Quick answers

Who can apply for Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS)?

Non-EEA/non-EFTA passport holders (nationality does not matter for LLM Advanced Studies and the MSc International Relations and Diplomacy) starting a full-time Master's in September, roughly in the top 10% of their class. Apply for admission first, then open the Scholarships section of your application and upload a motivation letter (PDF, maximum 500 words).

What does Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS) cover?

A contribution to tuition of EUR 10,000, 15,000, 17,500, 18,500 or 19,000 (fixed level set by the selection committee); it is not a full scholarship

When is the deadline for Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS)?

Dec 1 (annual; the deadline for September 2027 start is 1 Dec 2026 - February starts are not eligible; notification before the end of March 2027) Dates change every year, so confirm on the official page.

Where can I study or work with Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS)?

Host countries: Netherlands.

What documents do I need for Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS)?

Leiden University online Master admission application; Separate 500-word LExS motivation letter (PDF); Official academic transcripts (top 10% standing); CV; Language proficiency certificate.

How are applicants selected for Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS)?

Faculty selection committees review applications within 10 weeks of the deadline; results communicated by late March

How much work is the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS) application?

Medium: online Leiden Master admission application + 500-word LExS motivation letter uploaded in the portal