Imagine walking through the historic streets of Leiden, a charming Dutch city filled with canals, centuries-old buildings, and a vibrant student atmosphere. You are about to begin a world-class Master’s programme at Leiden University — one of the Netherlands’ most respected institutions, founded in 1575 and consistently ranked among the top universities globally (around #61 in the latest US News Best Global Universities ranking).
Now imagine reducing your tuition costs by up to €19,000 thanks to the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS). For ambitious international students, this scholarship represents far more than financial support — it is a powerful recognition of academic excellence and a gateway to transformative education in Europe.
With only around 25 LExS awards given each year from over 1,000 applicants, competition is fierce. Yet every year, determined students succeed. This comprehensive 2027 guide covers everything you need to know about the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship, including eligibility, benefits, the exact application process, insider tips to strengthen your candidacy, and practical advice for living in the Netherlands.
Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: Netherlands
- Host University: Leiden University
- Scholarship Type: MSC Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: All Countries
- Scholarship Benefits: Partial tuition fee, up to €19,000, etc.
Overview of Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS)
The LExS is a merit-based tuition reduction scholarship offered by Leiden University to outstanding international students enrolling in eligible full-time Master’s programmes. It is designed to attract the brightest minds from around the world and support them in pursuing advanced studies at this historic institution.
Unlike fully funded scholarships, the LExS provides a significant tuition fee reduction for the entire duration of your programme. The five award levels are fixed and non-negotiable:
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- €10,000
- €15,000
- €17,500
- €18,500
- €19,000
The exact level awarded depends on the strength of your application and available funding per faculty. While it does not cover living expenses or the full cost of study, for many non-EEA students it can dramatically lower the financial barrier to studying in the Netherlands.
Important note: The scholarship is not available for LLM (non-advanced) programmes or MSc programmes at Leiden Law School, and it only applies to September intakes (no February starts).
Why Choose Leiden University and the Netherlands?
Leiden University stands out for its rich history, cutting-edge research, and international outlook. It has produced numerous Nobel laureates and continues to excel in fields such as law, humanities, archaeology, sciences, governance, and medicine.
The city of Leiden itself offers an ideal student environment — compact, safe, bike-friendly, and just a short train ride from Amsterdam and The Hague. You will join a diverse international community while experiencing authentic Dutch culture, excellent English-taught programmes, and strong connections to European institutions and industries.
Graduates of Dutch universities also benefit from the Orientation Year visa (zoekjaar), giving non-EU students up to one year after graduation to search for work in the Netherlands. Combined with the country’s innovative reputation and high quality of life, it is no surprise that the Netherlands remains one of the top destinations for international Master’s students.
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Who Is Eligible for the LExS Scholarship?
To qualify for the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship, you must meet strict criteria:
- You are applying for a full-time Master’s programme at Leiden University starting in September (with the exceptions noted above).
- You hold a non-EEA/non-EFTA passport and are not eligible for Dutch government student finance (Studiefinanciering). Exceptions: All nationalities may apply for Advanced LLM Studies programmes and the MSc in International Relations and Diplomacy.
- You have achieved excellent academic results — typically placing you in the top 10% of your previous graduating class in a relevant field. No official ranking certificate is required, but your transcripts and academic profile must demonstrate outstanding performance.
- You have not already obtained a Master’s degree from Leiden University (with limited exceptions for certain advanced programmes).
The scholarship is highly competitive. Faculty selection committees evaluate applications based on academic excellence, the quality of your motivation letter, and overall fit with the programme.
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Step-by-Step: How to Apply for the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship 2027
The application process is straightforward but requires careful timing and preparation.
- Apply for admission to an eligible Master’s programme: Submit your application for a Master’s programme through Leiden University’s online portal. Be sure to check the specific deadlines for your chosen programme, as some may have earlier cut-offs.
- Indicate interest in the LExS: After submitting your admission application, return to the portal. Navigate to the Scholarships section and select the LExS option (it will only appear if your programme is eligible).
- Upload your motivation letter: Write a compelling PDF motivation letter (maximum 500 words) explaining why you deserve the scholarship. Highlight your academic achievements, why you chose Leiden University and your specific programme, your future career goals, and how the LExS will help you contribute to your field or community.
- Submit before the deadline: The firm deadline for the LExS is 1 December 2026. Late applications are not accepted. You must complete both the admission application and the scholarship application on time.
- Await results: Faculty committees review applications and nominations are made within approximately 10 weeks. Successful candidates are usually notified by the end of March 2027.
Pro tip: If you are applying to multiple programmes or specialisations, submit a separate LExS application and tailored motivation letter for each.
Official application link: Start here on the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship page.
Key Dates and Timeline for 2027 Intake
- LExS Application Deadline: 1 December 2026
- Admission decisions & scholarship notifications: By end of March 2027 (approximately)
- Programme start: September 2027
Always verify the latest deadlines on the official website, as they can be updated.
How to Maximise Your Chances of Winning the LExS
With such a low acceptance rate, standing out is essential. Here are proven strategies:
- Demonstrate genuine excellence — Strong grades, relevant research, publications, awards, or leadership experience all help.
- Craft a powerful motivation letter — Be specific. Explain why Leiden University is the perfect place for your goals and how you will contribute to the university community. Avoid generic statements.
- Align with faculty strengths — Research your programme’s professors, ongoing projects, and unique features. Show you have done your homework.
- Apply early — Submitting well before the deadline gives you time to fix any issues and shows organisation.
- Prepare strong supporting documents — Ensure transcripts, diplomas, and references are clear and impressive.
Many successful recipients emphasise authenticity and a clear vision for the future in their applications.
Understanding Costs: Tuition, Living Expenses, and Budgeting
Even with the LExS, planning your finances is crucial. Non-EEA tuition fees at Leiden typically range from €15,000–€25,000+ per year depending on the programme. The scholarship can cover a substantial portion — or in higher award levels, most — of these costs.
Living expenses in Leiden are moderate compared to Amsterdam. According to university estimates and student reports, expect €1,200–€1,600 per month for rent, food, transport, insurance, and leisure. For your student residence permit, you will need to prove sufficient funds (currently around €13,800 for the first 12 months of living expenses).
Many students combine the LExS with part-time work (allowed under student visa rules), family support, or additional smaller grants.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship
Is the LExS a full scholarship? No. It is a tuition reduction only. You must still cover living costs and any remaining tuition.
Can I combine the LExS with other scholarships? In most cases, combining with full external scholarships is not allowed. Partial external funding may be possible — contact the Scholarships Team for guidance.
Do I need to submit proof of English proficiency separately for the scholarship? No. English requirements are part of the admission application.
What happens if my situation changes after receiving the award? You must notify the university of any other scholarships received and agree to the official Terms and Conditions.
Are there scholarships for specific nationalities or fields? The LExS is open to eligible non-EEA students across most faculties. Some faculties may have additional funding opportunities.
Final Thoughts: Is the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship Right for You?
The Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS) is more than financial aid — it is an investment in exceptional students who will thrive in one of Europe’s most dynamic academic environments. If you have a strong academic record, a clear vision for your future, and the determination to compete at the highest level, this scholarship could be the key that unlocks your Master’s journey in the Netherlands.
Applications for the 2027 intake open soon. Start preparing your documents, researching programmes, and drafting your motivation letter today.
Ready to take the next step? Visit the official page and begin your application: Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS)
Explore all Master’s programmes at Leiden University and find the perfect fit for your ambitions.
The deadline is 1 December 2026. Your future at one of the world’s great universities could be closer than you think.
Good luck — and we hope to see you in Leiden soon!
This guide is based on official information from Leiden University as of 2026. Always verify the latest details, deadlines, and requirements directly on the university website before applying, as policies can change.