The MENA Scholarship Programme 2025 in the Netherlands presents a fully funded educational opportunity for professionals from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
Funded by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs and coordinated by Nuffic, this scholarship enables selected individuals to participate in short, high-impact courses hosted by reputable Dutch institutions.
With a strong focus on skill development, capacity building, and international cooperation, the MSP is a strategic initiative aimed at empowering professionals to bring meaningful change to their home countries.
MENA Scholarship Programme 2025 Summary
| Category | Details |
| Host Country | Netherlands |
| Study Destination | Various Dutch Universities |
| Scholarship Type | Short Courses (2 to 13 weeks) |
| Eligible Countries | Algeria, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, Oman, Sudan, Tunisia |
| Scholarship Value | Fully Funded (Tuition, Visa, Travel, Living Expenses) |
| IELTS Requirement | Not Mandatory |
| Application Deadline | May 20, 2025 |
| Study Mode | Full-Time, On-Campus |
| Age Limit | 20–45 years old |
What Is the MENA Scholarship Program?
The MENA Scholarship Programme (MSP) was created to strengthen institutional and personal capacity within the MENA region by offering professionals access to quality short courses in the Netherlands. These programs are carefully curated to match regional development goals, covering areas like governance, climate resilience, gender equality, and water management.
Managed by Nuffic and funded by the Dutch government, the MSP aims to promote knowledge transfer, skill development, and intercultural exchange between the Netherlands and the MENA region. Scholars not only gain knowledge but also build global networks and exposure that are essential for driving innovation and reform in their home institutions.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
To be eligible for the MENA Scholarship Programme 2025, applicants must:
- Be a national and resident of one of the 13 eligible MENA countries.
- Be living and employed in the country of citizenship at the time of application.
- Be aged between 20 and 45 years old at the time of grant submission.
- Submit an employer’s statement that aligns with the Nuffic template.
- Possess a passport valid for at least three months beyond the application date.
- Provide a government statement if applicable, based on the country’s requirements.
- Not have received more than one MSP grant simultaneously.
These conditions ensure that the scholarship is awarded to committed professionals who will effectively apply the skills and knowledge gained.
What Does the Scholarship Cover? (Scholarship Benefits)
The MENA Scholarship Programme 2025 is fully funded and includes:
- Full Tuition Fees: The Dutch government covers the cost of the course.
- Travel Expenses: Airfare to and from the Netherlands is paid for.
- Visa Costs: Assistance with obtaining the necessary visa.
- Living Expenses: Accommodation and daily expenses during the study period are included.
- Academic Support: Access to top-tier Dutch education and mentors.
- International Networking: Opportunities to collaborate and exchange ideas globally.
- Cultural Engagement: Exposure to Dutch society and interaction with peers from different regions.
Areas of Study
Short courses are tailored around subjects that align with regional development needs. These include:
- Good Governance and Rule of Law
- Gender Equality
- Climate and Environment
- Water Resource Management
- Agriculture and Food Security
Each topic is designed to equip scholars with practical tools and insights to make an impact locally and regionally.
How to Apply for the MENA Scholarship Programme 2025?
Applying for the MENA Scholarship Program involves the following steps:
Choose a Course
Start by selecting an eligible short course offered by one of the participating Dutch institutions.
Apply to the Dutch Institution
Submit your course application directly to the host institution.
Scholarship Application
After applying for the course, follow the scholarship application steps as outlined by the institution. This typically includes uploading your documents through a portal.
Prepare Documents
Make sure you have:
- A valid passport
- An employer’s statement (Nuffic format)
- A government statement (if applicable)
Submit Before Deadline
All applications must be completed and submitted by May 20, 2025.
Because each institution has its own application portal and process, it is critical to follow the instructions provided on their respective websites.
Why Choose the MENA Scholarship Programme?
The MENA Scholarship Programme is more than a training opportunity, it’s a long-term investment in leadership and capacity building. By studying in the Netherlands, participants benefit from the country’s high educational standards, innovative learning methods, and commitment to global development.
Upon completion of the program, scholars return with not only new knowledge but also fresh perspectives and professional confidence to drive change. Professionals often report increased career opportunities and stronger community impact after participating in MSP courses.
For institutions, the return of trained professionals translates into improved performance, innovation, and leadership.
For more information, visit the official website here: https://www.studyinnl.org/finances/mena-scholarship-programme-msp
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the MENA Scholarship Programme 2025 fully funded?
Yes, the program covers all major expenses, including tuition, travel, visa, and living costs.
Do I need to take the IELTS to apply?
No, IELTS is not mandatory for the MENA Scholarship Programme unless required by the chosen Dutch institution.
Can I apply if I have received a previous MSP scholarship?
You may apply again only if the previous scholarship did not overlap with the current application period. You cannot receive two MSP scholarships simultaneously.
Is there an age restriction for applicants?
Yes, applicants must be between 20 and 45 years old at the time of submitting their application.
Which countries are eligible for this scholarship?
Only nationals and residents of the following countries can apply: Algeria, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, Oman, Sudan, and Tunisia.
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