Amsterdams Universiteitsfonds travel grant

Amsterdams Universiteitsfonds travel grant

You get a one-time grant of 2,500 to 5,000 EUR, and in exceptional cases up to 10,000 EUR, towards a study-related trip abroad. It is a contribution, so it covers part of your costs, not all of them. The money comes from the Amsterdams Universiteitsfonds (AUF), the University of Amsterdam's support fund. If your trip is academic research in the Arab world (the Middle East and North Africa), a separate scheme run with the Lutfia Rabbani Foundation gives up to 2,000 EUR, with a limited number of grants for 2026.

Who can apply

• University: You are enrolled at the University of Amsterdam (UvA). All programmes and degree levels can apply.
• The trip: Your stay abroad is part of your UvA studies (an exchange, research, internship or fieldwork) and earns you study credits.
• Financial need: Without the grant the trip would not be possible, because neither you nor your parents or guardians can cover the costs.
• First time abroad: This must be your first study experience abroad. International students who already gained that experience by studying at the UvA cannot apply, except refugees.
• Own effort: You do what you can to fund the trip yourself, including taking the maximum DUO student loan (the Dutch government's student finance) if you can.
• Dean's recommendation: You need a letter from a student dean (studentendecaan) confirming your financial shortfall. Appointments can take 2 to 3 weeks, so arrange one early.

How to apply

You apply online through the AUF portal. There is no single yearly deadline. Applications are collected in rounds, with cut-off dates on the 1st of January, March, June, September and November, each tied to a later departure date. You hear back within 2 to 3 weeks after the deadline. For the Arab-world scheme you also submit an application through the Lutfia Rabbani Foundation.

How realistic are your chances?

This grant is aimed at a small group: you must study at the UvA, travel abroad for the first time in your studies, and prove real financial need confirmed by a student dean. If you clearly meet those conditions and can document the shortfall, your prospects are good. Because applications are reviewed in rounds and the budget shapes how much is awarded, apply for an early round and start arranging the dean's letter in good time.