Wageningen Africa & Excellence Scholarships by Wageningen University & Research
Posted August 28, 2026
About this opportunity
Wageningen University & Research (WUR) is a globally recognised institution that focuses on life sciences, agriculture and environmental research. Founded in 1918, the university has grown into a network of more than 13,000 students and 7,000 staff members, with research partnerships spanning over 100 countries. Its mission is to improve the quality of life by generating knowledge and innovations that address food security, sustainable agriculture and climate resilience. The Wageningen Africa & Excellence Scholarship Programme aligns with this mission by attracting top‑performing master’s candidates who will contribute to cutting‑edge research and practice. Applicants are encouraged to use Oppora’s CV Builder Studio to craft a Europass‑style curriculum vitae, the AI Cover Letter Generator for a compelling motivation letter, and the Recommendation Letter Studio to ensure reference letters meet academic standards. These tools can streamline the preparation of a competitive application.
Benefits
- Full tuition waiver covering the average €20,000 per year of tuition fees.
- Annual living allowance of €13,000 to cover accommodation, food and local transport in the Netherlands.
- One‑time grant for visa processing and round‑trip flight to the Netherlands.
- Access to WUR’s extensive research facilities, libraries and international student support services.
- Opportunity to join a vibrant community of scholars working on global challenges in agriculture, food systems and environmental sustainability.
Eligibility
- Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree with a GPA in the top 5 % of their graduating class.
- The master’s programme must be in Life Sciences, Agriculture, or Environmental Sciences offered by WUR.
- Candidates may be either international or Dutch nationals; the scholarship is open to all eligible students regardless of citizenship.
- Proof of English proficiency is required (IELTS, TOEFL or an equivalent local language certificate where applicable).
- For applicants from European countries that provide regional welfare support (e.g., Italy’s DSU, Germany’s DAAD), a standardized financial assessment such as the ISEE Parificato or parental income affidavit will be used.
Required Documents
- Certified academic transcripts and degree certificates (translated into English if necessary).
- A statement of purpose or motivation letter outlining research interests and career goals.
- Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL score report or equivalent).
- Two academic reference letters on official letterhead.
- A valid passport copy for identification and visa processing.
How to Apply
- Verify that your bachelor’s degree and GPA meet WUR’s direct admission criteria for the chosen master’s programme.
- Prepare all required documents: certified transcripts, translated diplomas, Europass CV, motivation letter, language test results, recommendation letters and passport copy.
- Register on the Wageningen Online Application portal, select the scholarship section, and upload the complete document package before the deadline of 2027‑02‑01.
- Submit the application and monitor your email for confirmation and further instructions regarding admission decisions and visa support.
Click the Apply button below to start your application.
Ready to start your application?
Submit your materials before the official deadline.
Verify all official guidelines and eligibility criteria directly with the host institution before submitting. Prepare your transcript evaluation, referee letters, and motivational statement early to avoid deadline bottleneck delays.
Official Application Strategy & Recommended Tools
Selection Committee Priorities
- •Academic/Professional Alignment: Ensure your statement explicitly ties your past work in Netherlands to Wageningen University & Research's strategic goals.
- •Leadership Evidence: Selection panels heavily weigh demonstrated initiative, community impact, or research output.
- •Financial & Language Prerequisites: Confirm if Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificates can substitute for formal standardized language test fees.





