Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS) 2026 – Study in the Netherlands

The Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS) 2026 is a merit-based financial aid program offered to outstanding international students who wish to pursue a full-time Master’s degree at Leiden University, Netherlands. The scholarship provides significant tuition fee reductions of up to €19,000 for the duration of the study program.

LExS is awarded to top-performing students from around the world, with the exception of those applying for LLM (non-advanced) and MSc programs at Leiden Law School. However, students of any nationality applying for LLM Advanced Studies or the MSc in International Relations & Diplomacy are eligible.

This scholarship is highly competitive and intended for students who rank within the top 10% of graduates in their previous academic program.

Short Details:

Scholarship Benefits

The Leiden University Excellence Scholarship provides a partial tuition fee reduction with the following award levels:

• €10,000 of the tuition fee

• €15,000 of the tuition fee

• €17,500 of the tuition fee

• €18,500 of the tuition fee

• €19,000 of the tuition fee

Important Notes:

• Award level is final and non-negotiable.

• The scholarship does not cover full tuition or all living expenses.

• Award applies for the entire duration of the Master’s program.

Eligibility Criteria

Eligible Applicants

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Must apply for a Master’s program at Leiden University, except:

   • LLM (non-advanced)

   • MSc programs at Leiden Law School

2. Eligible nationalities:

   • Non-EEA/non-EFTA applicants applying for any Master’s program.

   • All nationalities applying for:

     • LLM Advanced Studies programs

     • MSc in International Relations and Diplomacy

3. Must demonstrate excellent academic performance:

   • Typically ranking within the top 10% of previous academic program graduates.

4. Academic background must be relevant to the chosen Master’s program.

Required Documents

Although the university may require additional documents, all applicants must submit:

• Completed online Master’s program application

• LExS Motivation Letter (PDF, max 500 words)

  • Explaining why you should be considered for the scholarship

• Academic transcripts and degree certificates

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)

• Proof of English proficiency (if required)

• Passport copy

• Any additional documents required by the chosen program

Application Procedure

Follow these steps to apply for the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship:

1. Apply online for admission to a Master’s program at Leiden University.

2. Pay the application fee, if applicable.

3. In the scholarship section of the application portal, indicate that you want to apply for LExS.

4. Upload your LExS motivation letter (PDF, max 500 words).

5. Submit all required documents and complete your application before 1 February 2026.

6. If applying to multiple programs, you must:

   • Submit a separate LExS motivation letter for each program.

   • Indicate LExS application in each program.

Apply and read full details here:
Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS) Official Page