MENA Scholarship 2025 in the Netherlands – Fully Funded and Open for Applications: Apply Now!

MENA Scholarship 2025 in the Netherlands – Are you a mid-career professional from the Middle East or North Africa looking to level up your skills through world-class training abroad? The MENA Scholarship 2025 in the Netherlands is now fully funded and open for applications. This unique opportunity, supported by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, offers participants a chance to study in one of the world’s most progressive countries—at no personal cost.

The MENA Scholarship Programme (MSP) is more than just a study abroad scheme. It’s a strategic initiative aimed at empowering professionals from the MENA region by building leadership, strengthening institutional capacities, and promoting mutual understanding with the Netherlands. If you’re from one of the eligible countries, this could be your chance to grow—both personally and professionally.

MENA Scholarship 2025 in the Netherlands

The MENA Scholarship 2025 is a golden opportunity for professionals who want to sharpen their skills, bring back international best practices, and help shape their countries’ futures. With fully covered expenses, professional recognition, and access to top-tier education in the Netherlands, this is one of the most empowering short-course scholarships available to the MENA region.

What is the MENA Scholarship Programme (MSP)?

The MENA Scholarship Programme is a Dutch government-funded initiative designed for professionals from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) to pursue short courses in the Netherlands. These courses, typically 2 to 12 weeks long, aim to upgrade participants’ knowledge in areas critical to their countries’ development—like water management, public health, agriculture, and governance.

The MSP is administered by Nuffic, the Dutch organisation for internationalisation in education.

Main Objectives of MSP

• Strengthen the skills of professionals and organizations.
• Foster sustainable partnerships between the Netherlands and MENA countries.
• Promote inclusive development through education and leadership.
• Facilitate knowledge exchange across borders.

Who Can Apply?

To qualify for the MENA Scholarship 2025, you must meet all of the following criteria:

Nationality and Residency

You must be a national of, and living and working in, one of the following countries:

Algeria, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, Oman, Tunisia

Note: Sudan is currently excluded from the 2025 round due to geopolitical concerns. Syrian nationals may apply if residing and working in an eligible country.

Work Experience

• Minimum of two years of relevant professional experience.
• You should be actively employed at the time of application.

Age and Employment Criteria

• You must be 45 years old or younger as of the application date.
• You should not be employed by large multinationals, international NGOs, or organizations with staff development budgets like UN agencies.

Language Proficiency

• You must have a good command of English or French, depending on the language of instruction for your selected course.

Employer Support

• You must provide a signed Employer’s Statement, confirming support for your participation and explaining how the training will benefit your workplace.

What Does the MENA Scholarship Cover?

The MENA Scholarship 2025 is fully funded, ensuring that selected participants do not have to worry about costs. The scholarship includes:

• Tuition Fees: Full course fee at the participating Dutch institution.
• Travel Costs: Round-trip economy airfare.
• Visa Fees: All visa-related costs.
• Health Insurance: Comprehensive coverage for the duration of stay.
• Daily Allowance: For food, local transport, and other daily expenses.
• Accommodation: Comfortable and safe housing during your course.
• Academic Materials: Some institutions also provide textbooks and course supplies.

How to Apply for the MENA Scholarship 2025?

Here’s a step-by-step guide to submitting a successful application:

Step 1: Choose a Short Course

Head to the Study in NL website or your preferred Dutch institution’s site to browse eligible short courses.

Step 2: Apply for Academic Admission

Apply directly to the Dutch institution offering the course. If you are admitted, they will guide you through the MSP application process.

Step 3: Gather Required Documents

You’ll need the following:

• Employer’s Statement
• Motivation Letter (clearly explaining why the course is important for your career and country)
• Government Statement (if required by your country)
• Copy of Valid Passport
• Updated CV (in Europass format preferred)

Step 4: Submit Scholarship Application

Your host institution will help you submit the scholarship application through the Delta system managed by Nuffic.

Step 5: Await Results

Shortlisted candidates will be informed by email. If selected, you’ll receive a scholarship confirmation and preparation guide.

Why the MENA Scholarship Matters?

This is not just a study opportunity—it’s a career accelerator. Past recipients have gone on to:

• Lead NGOs and government departments.
• Launch public health or environmental campaigns.
• Reshape local policy using international expertise.
• Create grassroots change in communities through innovation.

By fostering leadership and collaboration, MSP plays a direct role in advancing social and economic progress in the MENA region.

Tips to Maximize Your Chances

• Start early: Course and scholarship deadlines often differ. Some institutions close early (e.g., The Hague Academy closes by May 6).
• Tailor your motivation letter: Address how your training aligns with your country’s development priorities.
• Double-check documents: Ensure all files are clear, signed, and in the correct format.
• Follow institutional deadlines: Always verify specific application deadlines with the chosen course provider.
• Practice interview skills: Some institutions conduct virtual interviews. Be ready to explain your goals confidently.

FAQs About MENA Scholarship 2025 in the Netherlands

Who can apply for the MENA Scholarship?

Professionals aged 45 or younger from 10+ eligible MENA countries with at least two years of work experience can apply.

Can I apply for more than one course?

Yes, but you must submit a separate application for each course. However, only one scholarship may be awarded.

Is English proficiency mandatory?

Yes. Most courses are in English, so a solid understanding is required. Some courses may allow French instead.

Do I need to quit my job to attend the course?

No. These are short-term courses, typically 2–12 weeks. You are expected to return to your job afterward.

Can I bring my family with me?

The scholarship does not cover costs for dependents. It’s designed for individual professional development.

What are the thematic priorities?

These vary by country but typically focus on water, agriculture, gender, governance, education, and climate.

Where can I get help with the application?

You can contact the international office of the Dutch institution you are applying to. Nuffic’s official MSP portal also provides application support resources.