The Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS) is one of the most prestigious merit-based scholarships available to outstanding international students who wish to pursue a master’s degree in the Netherlands. Offered by Leiden University, this scholarship aims to recognize academically exceptional students and help reduce the financial burden of studying abroad.
Although the scholarship is highly competitive, it presents an excellent opportunity for talented students from around the world to study at one of Europe’s oldest and most respected universities.
This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship, including its benefits, eligibility requirements, application process, required documents, selection criteria, and useful tips to improve your chances of success.
About Leiden University
Founded in 1575, Leiden University is the oldest university in the Netherlands and enjoys a strong international reputation for academic excellence, innovation, and research. The university welcomes thousands of international students each year and offers a diverse range of English-taught master’s programmes across several disciplines.
Students benefit from world-class teaching, modern research facilities, an inclusive learning environment, and strong career opportunities after graduation.
Leiden University Excellence Scholarship Overview
Scholarship Details
Information
Host Country
Netherlands
Host Institution
Leiden University
Scholarship Name
Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS)
Study Level
Master’s Degree
Scholarship Type
Merit-Based
Eligible Applicants
Primarily non-EEA/non-EFTA students, with some programme-specific exceptions
Funding
Partial Tuition Fee Scholarship
Application Mode
Online
The scholarship is awarded to academically outstanding students who demonstrate excellent performance in their previous studies. Competition is intense, with only a small number of awards available each year compared with the number of applicants.
Scholarship Benefits
Unlike many fully funded scholarships, the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship primarily reduces tuition costs rather than covering all study expenses.
Successful applicants may receive one of several tuition fee awards, including:
€10,000 tuition fee reduction
€15,000 tuition fee reduction
€17,500 tuition fee reduction
€18,500 tuition fee reduction
€19,000 tuition fee reduction
The exact award amount depends on the faculty and the scholarship committee’s decision.
Applicants should note that:
The scholarship does not cover accommodation.
It does not include monthly living expenses.
It does not provide airfare.
Health insurance and visa-related expenses are generally not included.
Students must still demonstrate sufficient financial resources for visa and residence permit purposes.
Available Study Areas
The scholarship supports eligible master’s programmes offered by participating faculties, including:
Archaeology
Science
Medicine
Law (selected programmes)
Governance and Global Affairs
Social and Behavioural Sciences
Some master’s programmes are excluded from the scholarship, including:
Humanities programmes
Certain Law School master’s programmes
Most programmes with February entry
Programme availability may vary each year.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship, applicants generally must:
Apply for admission to an eligible full-time master’s programme.
Demonstrate excellent academic achievement.
Typically rank among the top 10% of graduates in their previous programme.
Meet the nationality requirements for the scholarship.
Satisfy all admission requirements for the selected programme.
Submit both the admission application and scholarship application before the deadline.
Applicants who already hold a master’s degree from Leiden University are generally not eligible, except in limited cases where a previous master’s degree is required for admission to a new programme.
Academic Excellence Requirement
Academic excellence is one of the most important selection criteria.
Successful candidates usually possess:
Outstanding undergraduate grades
Strong academic transcripts
Excellent class ranking (where available)
High academic potential
A consistent record of achievement
Although official proof of class ranking is not always required, the university indicates that successful applicants are generally among the top performers in their previous degree programme.
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare the following documents before beginning the application:
Completed online admission application
Bachelor’s degree certificate (or equivalent)
Academic transcripts
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Valid passport
English language proficiency results (if required)
Motivation letter for the scholarship (maximum 500 words)
Programme-specific supporting documents, if requested
Different faculties may request additional documents depending on the chosen programme.
How to Apply
The application process consists of two main stages.
Step 1: Apply for Admission
Submit an online application for an eligible master’s programme through Leiden University’s admissions system. Ensure all required admission documents are uploaded and any applicable application fee is paid.
Step 2: Apply for the Scholarship
After submitting the admission application, eligible applicants can access the scholarship section of the application portal.
Complete the scholarship application by:
Selecting the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship.
Uploading the required motivation letter (up to 500 words).
Reviewing all information for accuracy.
Submitting the scholarship application before the deadline.
Late or incomplete applications are generally not considered.
Writing a Strong Motivation Letter
The motivation letter is a critical component of the application. It should clearly explain:
Why you selected Leiden University.
Why you are interested in your chosen master’s programme.
Your academic accomplishments.
Your career goals.
How the scholarship will help you achieve those goals.
How you intend to contribute to the university community.
Keep the letter concise, well-organized, and tailored to your chosen programme.
Selection Process
Applications are reviewed by faculty selection committees. The evaluation typically considers:
Academic excellence
Quality of the motivation letter
Relevance of previous education
Suitability for the chosen programme
Overall competitiveness of the application
Applicants are usually informed of the outcome several weeks after the application deadline.
Tips to Increase Your Chances
To submit a competitive application:
Apply as early as possible.
Maintain excellent academic grades.
Write a compelling and personalized motivation letter.
Ensure all documents are complete and accurate.
Carefully review programme-specific requirements.
Proofread your application before submission.
Follow all scholarship instructions closely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship fully funded?
No. It is a tuition fee scholarship and does not generally cover all costs associated with studying in the Netherlands.
Can international students apply?
Yes. The scholarship is primarily intended for international students who meet the eligibility requirements, particularly those from outside the EEA/EFTA, with certain programme-specific exceptions.
Is IELTS mandatory?
English language requirements depend on the master’s programme. Applicants should meet the language requirements specified for their chosen programme.
Can I apply before receiving admission?
No. You must first submit an application for admission to an eligible master’s programme before applying for the scholarship.
Is work experience required?
Most programmes do not require work experience, although some specialized master’s programmes may have additional admission requirements.
Final Thoughts
(Apply Now) The Leiden University Excellence Scholarship offers high-achieving international students a valuable opportunity to reduce the cost of earning a master’s degree at one of the Netherlands’ most respected universities. While it is not a fully funded scholarship, the tuition fee support can make studying abroad significantly more affordable.
Because the scholarship is highly competitive, applicants should focus on presenting a strong academic record, a thoughtful motivation letter, and a complete application submitted well before the deadline. Careful preparation can improve your chances of standing out in a large pool of talented candidates.