🇳🇱 MENA Scholarship Programme (MSP) 2025: Fully Funded to the Netherlands

The Netherlands is once again welcoming young professionals from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) through the MENA Scholarship Programme (MSP). Applications for the 2025 cycle are now open, offering fully-funded short course opportunities to professionals eager to make a difference in their home countries.

If you’re from the MENA region and interested in international training, this could be your chance to study in the Netherlands and gain career-boosting knowledge and skills.

What Is the MENA Scholarship Programme?

The MENA Scholarship Programme (MSP) is a Dutch government-funded initiative under the Shiraka Programme, managed by Nuffic—the Netherlands’ organization for internationalization in education. The scholarship provides short-term training courses in the Netherlands, designed to promote knowledge exchange, leadership development, and global cooperation.

Alongside individual scholarships, MSP also funds Tailor-Made Training (TMT) for organizations in the MENA region, enabling groups of professionals to access customized training by Dutch institutions.

Learn more about the programme on the official website:
https://studyinnl.org/finances/mena-scholarship-programme-msp

Who Can Apply for MSP 2025?

To qualify for the MSP short course scholarship in 2025, applicants must:

• Be a national and resident of one of the following countries: Algeria, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, Oman, Syria (only if residing and working in another eligible country), or Tunisia.
  Note: Sudan is excluded from the 2025 intake due to the current conflict.
• Be 45 years old or younger at the time of application.
• Be currently employed in a relevant sector and show motivation to contribute to their country’s development.
• Demonstrate proficiency in English or French, depending on the course language.

Recommended for you: Study in Netherlands for Free: University of Twente Scholarship (UTS) for 2025/2026

What Does the Scholarship Cover?

Selected candidates will receive a fully-funded package that includes:

• Tuition fees
• Visa application costs
• Round-trip travel expenses
• Health insurance
• Accommodation and daily living allowance

Courses run for 2 to 13 weeks and are hosted by accredited Dutch institutions. The programmes focus on pressing global issues such as:

• Governance and rule of law
• Water and agriculture
• Entrepreneurship and business development
• Education and youth leadership

What Is Tailor-Made Training (TMT)?

The MSP also provides Tailor-Made Training for organizations, allowing teams to address specific learning needs through expert-led sessions. These training programs are either delivered in the Netherlands or directly in the partner country.

TMT supports local development by aligning education with national priorities and building institutional capacity.

How to Apply for the MENA Scholarship Programme 2025

Here are the steps to apply for MSP short courses:

1. Choose a course from the list of approved short-term programmes offered by Dutch institutions.
2. Check the eligibility criteria and ensure your background aligns with the course and country-specific priorities.
3. Apply directly through the institution’s portal during the official application window.
4. Submit all required documents, including a motivation letter and proof of employment.

For example, The Hague Academy for Local Governance offers MSP-funded training. You can apply through their portal:
https://thehagueacademy.com/scholarship/
Deadline: May 6, 2025

Final Thoughts

The MENA Scholarship Programme offers an incredible opportunity for ambitious professionals to expand their expertise and drive positive change in their countries. If you meet the requirements, apply early and make sure your application reflects your goals and alignment with national priorities.

To explore more courses and updates, visit the official MSP page:
👉 https://studyinnl.org/finances/mena-scholarship-programme-msp

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