The Amsterdam Merit Scholarship (AMS) 2026 offers exceptional international students from outside the EU/EEA the opportunity to pursue a Master of Laws (LLM) at one of Europe’s most prestigious institutions — the University of Amsterdam (UvA). Recognized for its academic excellence and global inclusivity, this scholarship allows top-tier students to join the intellectually rich classrooms of UvA’s Amsterdam Law School. While the 2026–2027 award amount will be announced soon, this scholarship remains one of the most competitive merit-based opportunities in Europe for students seeking advanced education in law.

About the University of Amsterdam

The University of Amsterdam (UvA), founded in 1632, ranks among the top 60 universities globally (QS World University Rankings 2025) and is widely recognized for its research-intensive curriculum, diverse international community, and innovative academic environment. The Amsterdam Law School, a part of UvA’s Faculty of Law, has established a strong reputation for combining theory with real-world practice — offering programs that prepare graduates for impactful careers in international law, finance, and policy-making.

Amsterdam Merit Scholarship 2026 Overview 

Particulars	Details
Scholarship Name	Amsterdam Merit Scholarship (AMS) 2026
Host University	University of Amsterdam (UvA)
Faculty	Amsterdam Law School
Eligible Degrees	Master of Laws (LLM)
Eligible Students	Non-EU/EEA international students
Scholarship Type	Merit-based
Application Deadline	15 January 2026 (23:59 CET)
Academic Year	2026–2027
Study Mode	Full-time, on-campus
Eligible Programs	International and European Law, European Private Law, Law & Finance, International Criminal Law

Scholarship Benefits

While the exact financial value for 2026–2027 is yet to be disclosed, the Amsterdam Merit Scholarship provides significant support for outstanding students, helping them focus on academic and professional excellence.

Key benefits include:
• Substantial financial coverage (amount to be announced) toward tuition and living costs
• Opportunity to study at one of Europe’s most prestigious law schools
• Exposure to a global legal environment through diverse international cohorts
• Access to world-class research and academic facilities at UvA
• Strong networking and career development opportunities in Amsterdam’s dynamic legal sector

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the Amsterdam Merit Scholarship (AMS) 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Hold a non-EU/EEA passport and not be eligible for Dutch study grants or loans (Studiefinanciering).
• Apply for a Master’s programme at the University of Amsterdam (UvA) for the first time — candidates with a previous UvA Master’s degree are ineligible.
• Be able to comply with Dutch visa regulations as per the Dutch Immigration Service (IND).
• Enrol as a full-time student for the academic year 2026–2027.
• Submit a complete LLM application and scholarship application by 15 January 2026.
• Demonstrate outstanding academic performance, typically with a GPA comparable to:

1. 4.0 (USA)
2. First-class honours (UK)
3. 8.0 (Netherlands 10-point scale)

• Present a strong motivation letter (max 500 words) explaining the academic relevance, career goals, and importance of this scholarship.
• Submit an updated CV highlighting academic excellence and relevant achievements.

Eligible programs include:
• International and European Law
• European Private Law
• Law & Finance
• International Criminal Law

Application Process 

To successfully apply for the AMS 2026, follow these steps carefully:

• Step 1: Complete your LLM application
  • Submit your full LLM application before 15 January 2026, 23:59 CET.
• Step 2: Prepare scholarship documents
  • Academic transcripts and GPA records
  • Updated CV
  • Motivation letter (maximum 500 words)
• Step 3: Submit your scholarship application
  • Access the official scholarship submission link (available by 1 December 2025).
  • Upload all required documents before 15 January 2026.
• Step 4: Await selection results
  • The Amsterdam Law School’s Selection Committee will review applications based on merit, motivation, and academic quality.
  • Selected candidates will be notified by email (date to be announced).

Comparison of AMS vs. Similar Scholarships

Feature	Amsterdam Merit Scholarship (UvA)	Leiden Excellence Scholarship (Leiden University)	VU Fellowship Programme (Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam)
Eligibility	Non-EU/EEA students applying for Law master’s	Non-EU/EEA students applying for any master’s	Non-EU/EEA students applying for master’s programs
Selection Criteria	Academic merit & motivation	Academic performance & potential	Academic excellence
Coverage	Partial tuition (to be announced)	Up to full tuition	Partial tuition
Deadline	15 January 2026	1 February 2026	1 February 2026
Programs Covered	Law (LLM)	All fields	All fields
Host Country	Netherlands	Netherlands	Netherlands

FAQs About Amsterdam Merit Scholarship 2026

1. Who is eligible for the Amsterdam Merit Scholarship 2026?
   Students from non-EU/EEA countries applying for a Master of Laws at UvA who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement are eligible.
2. What is the deadline for the AMS 2026 application?
   The deadline for both LLM and AMS applications is 15 January 2026 (23:59 CET).
3. Do I need to have an admission offer before applying for AMS?
   No, you can apply for the scholarship even before receiving the admission decision.
4. Which programs are eligible under AMS 2026?
   International and European Law, European Private Law, Law & Finance, and International Criminal Law.
5. Can EU/EEA students apply for the AMS?
   No, AMS is exclusively for non-EU/EEA students.
6. What GPA do I need for AMS 2026?
   You might need a minimum GPA equivalent to 4.0 (USA) or 8.0 (Dutch scale).
7. Are the University of Amsterdam scholarships offering full funding?
   You have to wait for the announcement about the exact amount for 2026–2027, but typically, it offers partial tuition coverage.
8. Can I apply for AMS if I already have a master’s from UvA?
   No, AMS is for students applying to UvA master’s programs for the first time.
9. How will I know about the result?
   You will receive an email notification from the Amsterdam Law School finalization of selection.

10. Where can I find the application link?

    You will get the link on the official UvA AMS page by December 1, 2025.

The Amsterdam Merit Scholarship 2026 represents an incredible opportunity for ambitious international students aiming to build a strong foundation in law at one of Europe’s leading universities. Begin preparing your application today — excellence and early preparation could be your gateway to the University of Amsterdam! APPLY NOW.

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