Leiden University, which is one of the oldest and most respected schools in the Netherlands, offers the Leiden University Excellence grant (LExS). This is a competitive award program based on merit. Leiden University has been around since 1575 and is often listed among the top 150 universities in the world (QS World University Rankings 2025). It is noted for its work in the social sciences, the natural sciences, international studies, and law.
The LExS wants a lot of really good foreign students to apply to its Master’s programs, especially students from countries that are not part of the EEA or EFTA. This will improve the university’s reputation around the world and make it more culturally diverse.

Objectives of the LExS Program
Promote Academic Excellence: Give to the students who do very well in school the recognition and support they need.
Encourage Internationalization: Make Leiden University a stronger global center for higher education.
Improve Global Mobility: Give students all over the world the chance to get a higher education.
Help with research development by bringing in international talent that improves Leiden’s excellent research culture.
Eligibility & Requirements
Academic Achievement: Applicants must show that they did very well in school, usually by being in the top 10% of their previous program.
Nationality: This is mostly for students who don’t have passports from the EEA or EFTA. Some advanced programs, such Advanced LLMs and MSc International Relations & Diplomacy, are open to people from all across the world, though.
Program of Study: All applicants must apply for a full-time Master’s program that starts in September 2026.
Language Proficiency: You need to show that you know English well (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE), unless you have already gone to school in English.
Funding Coverage
The LExS partially funds students, offering fixed amounts toward tuition fees:
- €10,000
- €15,000
- €17,500
- €18,500
- €19,000
The scholarship is applied directly to tuition and does not cover living expenses, visa costs, or insurance, requiring students to demonstrate additional financial resources to support their living expenses.
Application Process
Apply for Admission: Submit an online application for a Leiden University Master’s program.
Scholarship Section: Indicate interest in the LExS in the “Scholarships” section of the application portal.
Motivation Letter: Provide a 500-word essay explaining academic excellence, career ambitions, and suitability for the award.
Deadline: 1 February 2026 for the September intake.
Selection & Evaluation
- Faculties nominate candidates based on academic transcripts, motivation, and program fit.
- Results are announced by April 2026.
- The program maintains the award for the entire duration, provided the student makes satisfactory academic progress.
Challenges & Limitations
Partial Funding: Students must secure additional resources to cover living expenses (approx. €1,000–€1,200/month in Leiden).
Competitiveness: Only a small percentage of applicants receive awards, leaving many highly qualified students without support.
Exclusivity: Primarily targets non-EEA students, limiting opportunities for EU nationals (except in special programs).
Conclusion
The Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS) 2026 is a sensible approach to invite the best scholars from all around the world to the Netherlands. Even while it doesn’t cover all costs, the status plus the fact that it helps cut tuition rates make it a great possibility for those who genuinely deserve it. By linking academic performance and internationalization, LExS helps Leiden University stay at the top of the world in higher education and research.
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