Fulbright Commission the Netherlands - Fulbright U.S. Student Program in the Netherlands

Fulbright U.S. Student Program in the Netherlands

You receive about 1,750 EUR per month for a 9-month stay in the Netherlands, starting in September. On top of the monthly payment you get a one-off allowance of about 1,250 EUR for your residence permit and local transport. You also get either 1,000 EUR for international travel or a KLM return flight ticket. Health and accident insurance, 24/7 mental-health support, and a Museum Year Card for free entry to over 400 Dutch museums are included. The programme also runs group meetings and cultural trips during the year. The Fulbright Commission the Netherlands takes in 20 to 25 American students each year, with most grants co-funded by the Netherland-America Foundation. Tuition fees are usually not covered, though some universities may waive them.

Who can apply

• Nationality: You are a U.S. citizen. If you also hold Dutch nationality, you cannot apply.
• Degree: You have at least a Bachelor's degree by the time the grant starts, and you do not already hold a Ph.D.
• Field of study: Any field is open. You can do a Master's programme, a research project, or research combined with graduate courses. Ph.D. candidates can apply for an independent research project.
• Where you study: You study or research at a Dutch university, conservatory or art school that can sponsor your residence permit. For a research project, you need a letter from your host confirming your affiliation when you apply.
• Residence: You have not lived in the Netherlands during the year before the grant. Staying a month or more counts as living there; short holidays or summer programmes are fine.
• Experience: If you are not currently enrolled, you should have fewer than 7 years of professional work in your field.
• Language: You do not need Dutch for English-taught programmes, but learning some is encouraged.

How to apply

You apply through the Fulbright online application system. You can apply through a U.S. university, which sets its own internal deadline 4 to 6 weeks earlier and includes a campus interview, or directly as an "At-Large" candidate. The national deadline for the 2027-2028 round is 6 October 2026 at 5 p.m. Eastern Time.

How realistic are your chances?

This award is narrow: only U.S. citizens can apply, and just 20 to 25 places are open across all Dutch programmes each year, so competition is real. Your prospects improve if you propose a clear project, secure a host early, and show that you genuinely want to spend your year in the Netherlands rather than only strong grades.