Universiteit Utrecht - Eerste Generatie Fonds

What you get

You get a one-off grant for one specific study goal if you are the first in your family to go to university. The amounts are small, so this is a targeted top-up, not a monthly payment. You can use it for a laptop, training in teaching skills, a study or research stay abroad, an internship, a course, a workshop or an exchange. You can also join University Pioneers, a support programme where you meet current and former first-generation students. For laptops there is a separate route: the fund gives out high-quality refurbished laptops donated by the Stichting Boschuysen, which you request by email. The fund was set up by Charisma Hehakaya and is run by the Utrecht University Fund. It does not cover tuition fees (collegegeld) or other ongoing costs.

Who can apply

• University: You are enrolled at the University of Utrecht in the current academic year.
• First in your family: Your parents did not go to university.
• A specific goal: You apply for one concrete study purpose, not for tuition or general living costs.
• Financial need: You explain why you cannot pay for this goal yourself and back it up with a simple budget of your income and costs.
• Field of study: All subjects are eligible.

How to apply

You apply through the Utrecht University Fund grant portal with a proof of enrolment, a motivation letter and a budget. There are three rounds in 2026: 12 January to 6 February, 13 April to 8 May, and 14 September to 9 October. You can submit one application per round and normally hear back within three weeks of the round closing. For a laptop, you email the fund instead.

How realistic are your chances?

This fund is narrow: you must study at Utrecht and be the first in your family at university, so the eligible group is limited and competition is smaller than for open scholarships. Because the amounts are small and tied to one goal, a clear motivation letter and a budget that shows real need matter more than polish. If you fit the profile and apply for a specific, justified purpose, your prospects are good.