Amsterdam Merit Scholarship 2027: Full Funding at UvA for Indians

The Amsterdam Merit Scholarship (AMS) 2027 is one of the most prestigious funding opportunities available to Indian students pursuing master's degrees at the University of Amsterdam (UvA), one of Europe's top-ranked universities. With awards ranging from €2,000 to €25,900 per year (approximately ₹1.8 lakh to ₹23.3 lakh), this scholarship can cover your entire tuition fee and provide a significant living allowance, making your dream of studying in the Netherlands financially viable.

Indian students applying for the February 2027 intake in MSc Business Administration have a critical deadline of 1 November 2026, while most September 2027 programs open applications from October 2026 with deadlines typically in January 2027. Whether you're targeting Data Science, Economics, AI, Law, or Business programs, the Amsterdam Merit Scholarship offers exceptional support for academically outstanding students from India.

Overview: What is the Amsterdam Merit Scholarship?

The Amsterdam Merit Scholarship (AMS) is the University of Amsterdam's flagship funding program designed to attract the world's brightest non-EU/EEA students to its international master's programs. Since 2007, this highly competitive scholarship has supported hundreds of exceptional international students, including many from India, in pursuing graduate education at one of Europe's most prestigious research universities.

The University of Amsterdam consistently ranks in the top 60 universities worldwide (QS and THE rankings) and among the top 10 in Europe (US News). Located in Amsterdam—a vibrant, multicultural city known for its tolerance, innovation, and quality of life—UvA offers an unparalleled academic environment for Indian students seeking to advance their careers globally.

What sets the Amsterdam Merit Scholarship apart is its faculty-specific structure. Each UvA faculty (Economics & Business, Law, Science, Social Sciences, etc.) administers its own AMS awards with varying amounts and deadlines. For Indian students, this means multiple opportunities to secure substantial funding across different programs, from technical fields like Data Science and AI to professional programs like Business Administration and Law.

The scholarship is merit-based, rewarding students with outstanding academic records, clear career goals, and strong potential to contribute to their fields. Unlike many European scholarships that favor EU citizens, the AMS is exclusively for non-EU/EEA international students, making it particularly accessible to Indian applicants.

What's Covered: Financial Benefits Breakdown

The Amsterdam Merit Scholarship provides substantial financial support, though the exact amount varies by faculty and program. Here's what Indian students can expect:

Faculty of Economics and Business (MSc Business Administration, Economics, Finance, Econometrics)

• Award Amount: Full tuition fee + €5,000 additional allowance for one year
• INR Equivalent: Approximately ₹21,00,000 total (tuition ~₹16 lakh + living allowance ₹4.5 lakh)
• Coverage: Covers 100% of tuition fees for one-year master's programs, plus a living cost contribution
• Note: Paid in monthly installments after you pay tuition upfront (reimbursement model)

Amsterdam Law School (LLM Programs)

• Award Amount: €25,900 for academic year 2026-2027
• INR Equivalent: Approximately ₹23,30,000
• Coverage: Covers full tuition (€18,200) plus significant living expenses
• Duration: One academic year; extendable for two-year programs with excellent first-year performance

Graduate School of Social Sciences

• Award Amount: Equivalent to full tuition fee
• INR Equivalent: Approximately ₹16,00,000 - ₹18,00,000
• Coverage: Tuition fee only; students must cover living expenses separately

Faculty of Science (Data Science, AI, Computer Science)

• Award Amount: €15,000 per year
• INR Equivalent: Approximately ₹13,50,000
• Coverage: Substantial tuition fee support; may not cover 100% depending on program

Additional Benefits for All Recipients:

• Potential top-up from the Holland Scholarship (€5,000-€10,000) for select students
• Access to UvA's international student support services (visa assistance, housing help, career services)
• Prestige and recognition on your academic CV
• Networking opportunities with fellow scholarship recipients from 100+ countries
• Possible extension to second year of two-year programs (requires achieving 100% of first-year credits)

Amsterdam Economics and Business Talent Fund

For students demonstrating both academic excellence AND financial need, the Faculty of Economics and Business offers the Amsterdam Economics and Business Talent Fund—a full tuition waiver plus study costs for one year. This is available for one-year master's programs in Economics and Business and has the same deadline (15 January for September intake, 1 November for February intake).

Important Note: The AMS is NOT a tuition waiver—you must pay tuition upfront in full or in installments, and the scholarship amount is reimbursed to you in monthly payments throughout the academic year. Plan your finances accordingly.

Eligibility Criteria for Indian Students

The Amsterdam Merit Scholarship is highly competitive. To be eligible as an Indian applicant, you must meet these requirements:

Citizenship & Residency

• Non-EU/EEA passport holder: Indian citizens are fully eligible
• Not eligible for Dutch government study grants ("Studiefinanciering")
• Not holding dual EU/EEA citizenship
• Able to comply with Dutch visa regulations (IND requirements)

Academic Excellence

• Minimum GPA: Typically equivalent to 8.0/10 on the Dutch grading scale
• For Indian students, this generally means:
  • First Class (60%+) from top-tier Indian universities (IITs, NITs, top state universities, Delhi University, Mumbai University, etc.)
  • 70%+ from other recognized universities
  • Top 10% of your graduating class (preferred)
• Academic transcript showing consistently high grades throughout your bachelor's degree
• Strong performance in relevant coursework (especially for Economics, Business, and Science programs)

Admission to UvA Master's Program

• You must have applied AND been accepted (or conditionally accepted) to a full-time master's program at UvA
• Complete application submitted by the program deadline (before scholarship deadline)
• All required documents uploaded (transcripts, diploma, English test scores, etc.)
• UvA student number received

English Language Proficiency

Indian students must demonstrate English proficiency through one of these tests (scores must be less than 2 years old):

• IELTS Academic: Minimum overall 6.5-7.0 (varies by program; Business/Economics typically require 7.0)
• TOEFL iBT: Minimum 92-100 (program-dependent)
• Cambridge English: C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency
• Duolingo English Test: Accepted by some programs (check specific requirements)

Program-Specific Requirements

• GMAT/GRE: Required for most Business/Economics programs (minimum GMAT 600-650; GRE equivalent). Some exemptions available for UvA alumni or partner university students.
• Relevant bachelor's degree: Your undergraduate degree must be in a related field (e.g., Economics/Business background for MSc Economics; Computer Science/Math for Data Science)
• Prerequisite courses: Some programs require specific coursework (calculus, statistics, microeconomics, etc.)

Other Criteria

• Strong letter of recommendation from academic supervisor or professor
• Compelling motivation letter (max 500 words for most programs)
• Demonstrated leadership, extracurricular involvement, or research experience (for competitive edge)
• Financial need (for some faculty-specific awards like the Talent Fund)

Important: The AMS is highly selective. For example, the Graduate School of Social Sciences awarded only 2 scholarships out of 133 applications in 2025 (1.5% acceptance rate). The Faculty of Law and Economics/Business typically award slightly more, but competition remains fierce. Ensure your application is exceptionally strong.

Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide

Applying for the Amsterdam Merit Scholarship requires careful planning and attention to deadlines. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Choose Your Program and Check Eligibility (August-September 2026)

• Browse UvA master's programs on the official website: https://www.uva.nl/en/programmes/masters
• Identify programs aligned with your academic background and career goals
• Check specific eligibility requirements for your chosen program
• Verify that your program is eligible for the AMS (most master's programs are; check faculty scholarship pages)
• Note the intake you're targeting: February 2027 (limited Business tracks) or September 2027 (most programs)

Step 2: Prepare Application Documents (September-October 2026)

• Academic transcripts: Official transcripts from all universities attended (in English or with certified translation)
• Bachelor's diploma: Copy of your degree certificate
• Grading scale explanation: Document explaining your university's grading system
• Curriculum Vitae: Comprehensive CV highlighting academic achievements, work experience, research, and extracurriculars
• Passport copy: Valid for at least 6 months
• English proficiency test scores: IELTS/TOEFL/Cambridge (not older than 2 years)
• GMAT/GRE scores: If required by your program
• Letter of recommendation: From academic supervisor/professor attesting to your excellence (preferably confirming top 10% status)
• Motivation letter: See detailed guidance below

Step 3: Apply to Your Master's Program (October-November 2026)

• Register in Studielink: The Dutch national application system (www.studielink.nl). Registration opens 1 October 2026.
• Complete online application in Embark: UvA's application portal where you upload all documents
• Pay application fee: €100 (non-refundable) for applicants with international bachelor's degrees
• Submit by program deadline:
  • February 2027 intake: 1 January 2027 (or 1 November 2026 if you need a visa)
  • September 2027 intake: 1 June 2027 (or 1 April 2027 if you need a visa); however, scholarship applicants should apply by 15 January 2027

Step 4: Apply for the Amsterdam Merit Scholarship (Same Deadlines)

• After receiving your UvA student number, access the scholarship application form in Embark
• Complete the AMS-specific sections, including:
  • Motivation letter (crucial!): Max 500 words explaining why you deserve the scholarship, how the program aligns with your goals, and your academic/professional achievements
  • Financial statement: For some faculties (Talent Fund), proof of financial need
  • Recommendation letter: Upload in scholarship section
• Submit before the deadline:
  • 1 November 2026 for MSc Business Administration February 2027 intake (International Business, Digital Marketing, Consumer Marketing tracks)
  • 15 January 2027 for Faculty of Economics & Business September 2027 intake
  • 15 January 2027 for Amsterdam Law School LLM programs
  • 2 February 2027 for Graduate School of Social Sciences
  • Check faculty-specific pages for other programs as deadlines vary

Step 5: Wait for Results (March-May 2027)

• Admission decision: You'll receive your program admission decision typically 6-8 weeks after application
• Scholarship decision: AMS results are announced:
  • End of March for Amsterdam Law School
  • End of April for Faculty of Economics & Business
  • Mid-May for Graduate School of Social Sciences
• If selected, you'll receive an official scholarship offer letter

Step 6: Accept Offer and Prepare for Enrollment

• Accept your scholarship offer in writing by the specified deadline
• Pay tuition fee by 31 August 2027 (or in installments if permitted)
• Apply for Dutch student visa (MVV) and residence permit—UvA will provide sponsorship
• Arrange housing (UvA provides assistance; start early as Amsterdam housing is competitive)
• Book flights and prepare for departure

Key Deadline Summary for Indian Students:

Note: Since most Indian students will require a visa, it's safest to apply by the earlier (visa-applicant) deadline.

Required Documents Checklist

Ensure you have ALL of the following documents ready before starting your application:

For Master's Program Application:

• ✅ Official academic transcripts (all years of bachelor's degree)
• ✅ Bachelor's degree certificate
• ✅ Grading scale explanation from your university
• ✅ Passport copy (photo page, valid minimum 6 months)
• ✅ Passport-size photo
• ✅ Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• ✅ English proficiency test scores (IELTS/TOEFL)
• ✅ GMAT/GRE scores (if required by program)
• ✅ Proof of relevant coursework or prerequisite completion
• ✅ Diploma supplement or course descriptions (if requested)

For Amsterdam Merit Scholarship Application:

• ✅ Motivation Letter (max 500 words) explaining:
  • Why you chose this specific master's program
  • How the program aligns with your academic and career goals
  • Why you deserve the scholarship (academic excellence, achievements, potential)
  • What you will contribute to the UvA community
  • Your future aspirations and how UvA will help you achieve them
• ✅ Letter of Recommendation from academic professor/supervisor:
  • Should confirm your standing in top 10% of class (if applicable)
  • Attest to your academic abilities, work ethic, and potential
  • Highlight specific achievements or research contributions
• ✅ Financial Statement (for Talent Fund or need-based awards):
  • Document from your university or financial institution explaining your financial need
  • May include family income details, bank statements, or scholarship requirement justification
• ✅ Copy of all documents submitted with master's program application

Pro Tip: Get all documents certified/notarized early. Indian transcripts and degree certificates often require attestation by your university registrar. Start this process 2-3 months before the deadline.

Selection Criteria: How Winners are Chosen

The Amsterdam Merit Scholarship selection committee evaluates candidates holistically. Here's what they prioritize:

1. Academic Excellence (Primary Factor - 50-60% weight)

• Undergraduate GPA and class rank (top 10% strongly preferred)
• Quality of academic institution (IITs, NITs, and top Indian universities have advantage)
• Consistency of academic performance across all years
• Performance in relevant coursework for your chosen master's program
• GMAT/GRE scores (if applicable)—higher scores strengthen your case

2. Motivation and Fit (30-40% weight)

• Quality of motivation letter: Clear articulation of your goals, genuine passion for the field, and specific reasons for choosing UvA
• Alignment between your background, the program, and your career aspirations
• Demonstrated knowledge of the program structure and faculty research areas
• Realistic and compelling future plans

3. Overall Application Quality (10-20% weight)

• Strength of recommendation letter
• Professional CV with evidence of:
  • Research experience (publications, thesis, projects)
  • Relevant internships or work experience
  • Leadership roles (student council, clubs, volunteer work)
  • Awards, competitions, or scholarships won
  • Extracurricular achievements
• English proficiency scores (high IELTS/TOEFL scores are plus points)
• Completeness and professionalism of application

4. Financial Need (For Select Programs)

• Amsterdam Economics and Business Talent Fund explicitly considers financial need alongside merit
• Other faculties primarily focus on merit, but financial situation may be a tiebreaker

5. Diversity and Potential

• UvA values diverse perspectives and international backgrounds
• Demonstrated potential to contribute to the academic community
• Unique experiences, perspectives, or achievements that set you apart

What the Committee Looks For in Indian Applicants:

• First Class or Distinction from recognized Indian universities
• Strong quantitative/analytical skills (especially for Business, Economics, Data Science)
• Clear career trajectory and post-graduation plans
• International exposure (MOOCs, internships abroad, conferences) is a plus
• Research publications or independent projects
• Evidence of overcoming challenges or demonstrating resilience

Tips for Indian Applicants

Here's insider advice to maximize your chances of winning the Amsterdam Merit Scholarship as an Indian student:

1. Start Early and Plan Strategically

• Timeline: Begin preparing 6-8 months before the deadline (by May-June 2026 for Feb 2027 intake)
• Take IELTS/TOEFL and GMAT/GRE by August-September 2026 to have scores ready
• Request recommendation letters at least 2 months before deadline
• Give yourself buffer time for document attestation and translation

2. Target Multiple Programs and Scholarships

• Apply to 2-3 UvA programs if you're qualified (increases scholarship chances)
• Consider both the regular AMS and the Talent Fund if you qualify
• Explore other Dutch scholarships: Holland Scholarship (€5,000), Orange Knowledge Programme, university-specific awards

3. Excel in the Motivation Letter

Your motivation letter is CRITICAL. Follow this structure:

• Paragraph 1 (Introduction): Hook the reader with a compelling opening about your passion for the field and brief introduction
• Paragraph 2 (Academic Journey): Highlight your academic achievements, relevant coursework, research, and what sparked your interest in this field
• Paragraph 3 (Why This Program): Demonstrate specific knowledge of the UvA program—mention professors, research centers, unique courses, or specializations that align with your interests
• Paragraph 4 (Why You Deserve the Scholarship): Clearly state your academic excellence (GPA, rank, awards), unique experiences, and potential to excel
• Paragraph 5 (Future Goals): Paint a clear picture of your career aspirations and how this master's degree is essential to achieving them
• Conclusion: Summarize your fit and express genuine enthusiasm

Avoid: Generic statements, grammatical errors, exceeding word limit, or copying from templates online

4. Strengthen Your Academic Profile

• If your GPA is borderline, emphasize upward trends or strong performance in relevant courses
• Highlight any academic awards, scholarships, or recognition you've received in India
• Include details of your bachelor's thesis or capstone project, especially if research-intensive
• Mention any paper presentations, conferences attended, or publications

5. Demonstrate Indian Context and Global Perspective

• UvA values international diversity—explain what unique perspective you bring as an Indian student
• Connect your studies to issues relevant to India (e.g., digital transformation in Indian markets, data-driven governance, AI in emerging economies)
• Show how you plan to contribute to India's development or Indian industry post-graduation

6. Ace the English Proficiency Test

• Aim for IELTS 7.5 or TOEFL 105+ to stand out (minimum is 6.5-7.0/92-100)
• High English scores signal strong communication skills and readiness for academic rigor
• Consider taking the test twice if your first score is borderline

7. Get a Strong Recommendation Letter

• Choose a recommender who knows you well academically (thesis supervisor, major course professor, department head)
• Provide them with:
  • Your CV and academic transcript
  • Draft points highlighting your strengths
  • Information about the scholarship and what qualities they value
• Request confirmation of your class rank or top 10% status if possible
• Follow up politely to ensure it's submitted on time

8. Prepare a Stellar GMAT/GRE Score (if required)

• For Economics/Business programs: GMAT 650-700+ or GRE 315-320+ is competitive
• UvA accepts both GMAT and GRE; choose based on your strengths
• Allocate 2-3 months for preparation

9. Highlight Extracurriculars and Leadership

• UvA seeks well-rounded students—include internships, volunteer work, student organizations, sports, or cultural activities
• Leadership positions demonstrate potential to contribute to the UvA community
• Even modest involvement can differentiate you if presented well

10. Apply for February 2027 Intake if Eligible

• The 1 November 2026 deadline for MSc Business Administration has less competition than the September intake
• If you're targeting Business Administration (International Business, Digital Marketing, or Consumer Marketing), this is your best shot
• Fewer applicants = higher acceptance rate for scholarships

11. Be Realistic About Your Chances

• The AMS acceptance rate is 1-5% depending on faculty—it's extremely competitive
• If you don't receive the AMS, explore:
  • Faculty-specific smaller scholarships
  • External scholarships (Holland Scholarship, OKP, Inlaks, Fulbright-Nehru for PhDs)
  • Education loans from Indian banks (many offer favorable terms for top universities)
• Even without a full scholarship, a UvA degree offers excellent ROI given Netherlands' post-study work opportunities (1-year search year visa)

12. Contact Current Indian Students

• Reach out to Indian students currently at UvA via LinkedIn or Facebook groups
• Ask about their application experience, scholarship tips, and life in Amsterdam
• Join groups like "Indians at University of Amsterdam" or "UvA Indian Students Network"

13. Proofread Everything

• Have a mentor, professor, or professional editor review your motivation letter and CV
• Grammatical errors or typos can hurt your chances significantly
• Ensure all documents are properly formatted and clearly labeled

14. Follow Up and Stay Organized

• Keep a checklist of all required documents and deadlines
• Save copies of everything you submit
• Monitor your email (including spam folder) for updates from UvA
• If you have questions, email the UvA admissions office or faculty scholarship coordinator—they're responsive

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Indian students apply for the Amsterdam Merit Scholarship?

Yes, absolutely! Indian students holding non-EU/EEA passports are fully eligible for the Amsterdam Merit Scholarship. The scholarship is specifically designed for outstanding international students from outside Europe, and Indian students have historically been strong candidates. As long as you meet the academic requirements and apply to a UvA master's program, you can compete for this prestigious award.

What is the deadline for Amsterdam Merit Scholarship 2027?

The deadline varies by faculty and intake. For the February 2027 intake (MSc Business Administration), the deadline is 1 November 2026. For the September 2027 intake, most faculties have deadlines between 15 January and 2 February 2027. Specifically: Faculty of Economics & Business (15 January 2027), Amsterdam Law School (15 January 2027), and Graduate School of Social Sciences (2 February 2027). Always check your specific program's faculty page for exact dates, as deadlines may vary slightly.

Is the Amsterdam Merit Scholarship a full scholarship?

It depends on the faculty. For the Faculty of Law, the AMS of €25,900 covers full tuition (€18,200) plus a significant living allowance, making it essentially a full scholarship. For the Faculty of Economics & Business, the scholarship covers full tuition + €5,000, which covers about 100% of tuition and 25-30% of living costs. Other faculties offer tuition-only coverage (€15,000-€18,000). While it may not cover 100% of all expenses for every faculty, it substantially reduces your financial burden and can be combined with part-time work, savings, or additional scholarships like the Holland Scholarship.

What GPA do I need for the Amsterdam Merit Scholarship?

The AMS typically requires a GPA equivalent to 8.0/10 on the Dutch grading scale. For Indian students, this generally translates to: (1) First Class (60%+) from IITs, NITs, or top-tier universities; (2) 70%+ from other recognized Indian universities; (3) Preferably top 10% of your graduating class. The selection committee also considers the reputation of your university—a 65% from IIT Delhi may be viewed more favorably than 75% from a less-known institution. However, the higher your GPA, the better your chances.

Do I need GMAT or GRE for the Amsterdam Merit Scholarship?

It depends on your chosen master's program. Most Economics and Business programs require GMAT or GRE, with competitive scores being GMAT 650+ or GRE 315+. Programs like Data Science, AI, and some Social Sciences programs may not require GMAT/GRE. The scholarship application follows your program's admission requirements—if your program doesn't require GMAT/GRE for admission, you don't need it for the scholarship either. Check your specific program's requirements on the UvA website.

Can I work part-time while on the Amsterdam Merit Scholarship in the Netherlands?

Yes! As an international student in the Netherlands on a student visa, you're allowed to work up to 16 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during official university holidays (summer, winter breaks). Many Indian students at UvA work part-time to supplement their scholarship income. Common jobs include teaching assistantships, research assistantships (€12-15/hour), retail, hospitality, or tutoring. UvA also offers paid student positions within the university. However, balance work carefully with your studies, as maintaining excellent grades is crucial if you want your scholarship extended for a second year (for two-year programs).

Is IELTS accepted for University of Amsterdam?

Yes, UvA accepts IELTS Academic as proof of English proficiency. The minimum score varies by program but typically ranges from IELTS 6.5 to 7.0 overall, with no section below 6.0. Business and Economics programs often require IELTS 7.0. UvA also accepts TOEFL iBT (minimum 92-100), Cambridge English (C1/C2), and Duolingo English Test (for some programs). Your English test must be taken within 2 years of your application date. Aim for higher scores (IELTS 7.5 or TOEFL 105+) to strengthen your scholarship application.

How many Amsterdam Merit Scholarships are awarded each year?

The number varies significantly by faculty. The Graduate School of Social Sciences awarded only 2 AMS scholarships out of 133 applications in 2025 (1.5% acceptance rate). The Faculty of Economics & Business and Amsterdam Law School typically award more—around 5-15 scholarships per faculty per year—but exact numbers aren't publicly disclosed. Overall, across all UvA faculties, approximately 30-50 AMS scholarships are awarded annually out of several hundred applications, making it highly competitive. Apply with a strong profile and backup funding plans.

Can the Amsterdam Merit Scholarship be extended to a second year?

Yes, but only for two-year master's programs and subject to excellent academic performance in your first year. The criteria for extension vary by faculty but generally require achieving 100% of your first-year credits (typically 60 ECTS) and maintaining a high GPA (often 7.5+/10). One-year master's programs (most Business and Economics programs) do not offer scholarship extensions. If you're enrolled in a two-year program and meet the performance criteria, your scholarship will automatically be renewed for the second year—you don't need to reapply.

What is the cost of living in Amsterdam for Indian students?

Amsterdam is relatively expensive compared to other Dutch cities, but manageable with budgeting. Monthly costs for Indian students typically include: Rent: €500-800 (student housing) to €800-1,200 (private accommodation); Groceries: €200-300 (cook at home to save); Transport: €35 (student public transport discount) or free if you bike; Health insurance: €50-120 (mandatory in Netherlands); Utilities & phone: €50-100; Miscellaneous: €100-200. Total: Approximately €1,000-1,500/month (₹90,000-1,35,000). UvA's scholarship of €5,000 covers about 3-4 months of living costs, so budget accordingly or plan to work part-time.

Do I need to pay tuition upfront even if I receive the scholarship?

Yes. The Amsterdam Merit Scholarship is NOT a tuition waiver—it's a reimbursement award. You must pay your full tuition fee upfront (or in installments) by the deadline (typically 31 August for September intake). The scholarship amount is then reimbursed to you in 12 monthly installments throughout the academic year. This means you need to have funds available to cover tuition initially. Some Indian students use education loans to pay tuition and then use scholarship installments to repay the loan gradually. Plan your finances carefully and explore education loans from Indian banks if needed.

What are my chances of getting the Amsterdam Merit Scholarship as an Indian student?

Your chances depend on your academic profile and the strength of your application. Generally, if you have: (1) First Class or 70%+ GPA from a recognized Indian university; (2) Top 10% class rank; (3) Strong GMAT/GRE and IELTS/TOEFL scores; (4) Relevant internships, research, or work experience; and (5) Compelling motivation letter and recommendation—your chances are competitive. However, with acceptance rates of 1-5%, even strong candidates may not receive the scholarship. Realistic estimate: If you meet all criteria strongly, you have approximately a 5-10% chance. Apply early, put your best effort into the application, and have backup funding plans (other scholarships, loans, or personal savings).

Can I apply for both the Amsterdam Merit Scholarship and the Talent Fund?

It depends on the faculty. For the Faculty of Economics & Business, you can apply for both the Amsterdam Merit Scholarship (merit-based) and the Amsterdam Economics and Business Talent Fund (merit + need-based) simultaneously using the same application. You only need to submit one set of documents. The selection committee will consider you for both awards based on your profile. However, you can only receive one scholarship—if you're selected for both, you'll typically be awarded the higher-value one. For other faculties like Law, there may be multiple scholarship options (e.g., AMS and Jaarsma-Adolfs Fund), and similar rules apply. Check your faculty's scholarship page for specific guidance.

Still have questions? Visit the official Amsterdam Merit Scholarship page at https://www.uva.nl/en/education/fees-and-funding/masters-scholarships-and-loans/amsterdam-merit-scholarship/amsterdam-merit-scholarship.html or contact the UvA admissions office for your specific program.