The University of Amsterdam (UvA) aims to attract the world’s brightest students to its international classrooms. Outstanding students from outside the EU/EEA can apply for an Amsterdam Merit Scholarship (AMS).
When is the Application Deadline:
🗓️ 15 January 2026 (23:59 CET)
Tell Me About the Award:
The Amsterdam Merit Scholarship (AMS) is a prestigious award offered by the University of Amsterdam (UvA) to attract the world’s brightest international students from outside the EU/EEA. The scholarship supports highly talented individuals pursuing a Master’s degree, particularly at the Amsterdam Law School.
It recognizes academic excellence, leadership potential, and strong motivation to make a global impact through law and governance.
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Which Fields are Eligible?
Applicants must be admitted to one of the following LL.M. programmes at the University of Amsterdam:
- International and European Law
- European Private Law
- Law & Finance
- International Criminal Law
Type:
Master’s Degree Scholarship
Who can Apply?
To be eligible for the AMS 2026, applicants must:
- Hold a non-EU/EEA passport.
- Not be eligible for Dutch financial aid (Studiefinanciering).
- Apply for a UvA Master’s program for the first time.
- Meet all Dutch visa requirements (as defined by IND).
- Be enrolled full-time for the 2026–2027 academic year.
How are Applicants Selected?
The Amsterdam Law School Selection Committee evaluates applicants based on:
- Academic Excellence (GPA equivalent to 4.0 USA / First Class UK / 8.0 Netherlands).
- Motivation Letter (max 500 words) explaining your program choice, career relevance, and need for the scholarship.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) showing academic, professional, and extracurricular achievements.
- Overall quality of the LLM application package.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
🌍 Applicants from countries outside the EU/EEA.
Where will the Award be Taken?
📍 University of Amsterdam (UvA), Netherlands
How Many Awards?
Not specified — highly competitive and limited in number.
What is the Benefit of the Award?
💰 The exact scholarship amount for 2026–2027 will be announced soon, but it typically includes:
- Partial or full tuition fee coverage for selected students.
- The opportunity to study in an internationally recognized law school.
- Access to a global academic community in the heart of Amsterdam.
How Long Will the Award Last?
The scholarship covers the duration of the Master’s program (usually one academic year).
How to Apply:
- Submit your complete LLM application before 15 January 2026.
- Submit your AMS scholarship application (link available from 1 December 2025).
- Upload the following documents:
- Academic records (transcripts with GPA).
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Motivation letter (max 500 words).
- Applicants can also apply for the Mr. Julia Henriëtte Jaarsma-Adolfs Fund Scholarship using the same motivation letter.
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Visit the Award Webpage for Details:
👉 University of Amsterdam – Amsterdam Merit Scholarship (AMS)

