The Eric Bleumink Fellowship is a highly competitive, fully funded scholarship offered by the University of Groningen in the Netherlands. It aims to support exceptional students from developing countries who wish to pursue a one- or two-year Master’s degree programme (MSc, MA, or LL.M.) at the university.
What the Fellowship Covers
This prestigious fellowship provides comprehensive financial support for selected candidates. It includes:
- Full tuition fees
- International travel expenses
- Subsistence allowance for the duration of the programme
- Study materials (books and supplies)
- Health insurance
The fellowship ensures that students can focus entirely on their academic and personal development without financial distractions.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Eric Bleumink Fellowship, candidates must:
- Hold citizenship in one of the eligible countries listed by the University of Groningen (including Ghana, Nigeria, Nepal, India, Vietnam, among others).
- Receive provisional or unconditional admission to a University of Groningen master’s programme before February of the intended year of study.
- Have outstanding academic records, preferably supported by strong letters of recommendation.
- Demonstrate excellent performance during undergraduate studies.
- Meet the English language proficiency requirements of their chosen master’s programme.
- Be available for the full duration of the programme (1–2 years).
- Be in good health and able to obtain health insurance in the Netherlands.
- Lack other means of financing their studies.
How to Apply
Applicants cannot apply directly for the Eric Bleumink Fellowship. Instead, the University of Groningen Admission Office, in collaboration with faculty admission boards, will nominate suitable candidates based on their application for a master’s programme.
Key Steps:
- Apply for a master’s programme at the University of Groningen before 1 December.
- If admitted (provisionally or unconditionally) before February, your application will be reviewed for nomination.
- Departments may nominate candidates to the Eric Bleumink Fund.
- Final decisions are made by the Eric Bleumink Fellowship Board, typically by March.
Note: Only a limited number of fellowships are awarded each year due to funding constraints, despite the high number of applications.
Why the Fellowship Matters
The Eric Bleumink Fund was established to honor the legacy of Professor Eric Bleumink, who played a vital role in promoting international academic collaboration. Since its inception in 2000, the fellowship has supported over 70 talented students from across the globe to study at the University of Groningen, many of whom have gone on to become leaders and changemakers in their home countries.
Fields of Study
All master’s programmes offered by the University of Groningen are eligible under the fellowship. Popular fields include:
- Environmental and sustainability sciences
- Social sciences and international relations
- Law and human rights
- Health sciences and biomedical studies
- Engineering and computer science
Important Deadlines
| Stage | Deadline |
| Application to Master’s | 1 December |
| Admission Decision | Before February |
| Fellowship Nomination | March |
| Programme Start | September |
Final Thoughts
The Eric Bleumink Fellowship offers a rare opportunity for students from low- and middle-income countries to gain world-class education in the Netherlands with full financial backing. If you are a motivated, high-achieving student with a vision to make an impact in your country, this fellowship can be a powerful stepping stone.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to prepare early, gather academic documents and references, and ensure their master’s application is submitted well before the 1 December deadline.
