Quick Answer: University of Gloucestershire offers several scholarships for Dutch students in 2026, including the International Excellence Scholarship (up to £5,000), EU Academic Merit Award (£2,500), and subject-specific scholarships ranging from £1,000-£3,500. Netherlands students can combine multiple awards, and applications typically open in January 2026 with deadlines in June 2026.

Studying at the University of Gloucestershire as a Dutch student presents excellent opportunities for quality education combined with substantial financial support. Located in the picturesque county of Gloucestershire, this modern university has established itself as a welcoming institution for international students, particularly those from the Netherlands seeking innovative programs and comprehensive scholarship opportunities.

This guide provides everything Dutch students need to know about securing scholarships at the University of Gloucestershire, from application strategies to specific funding amounts, ensuring you can make an informed decision about your educational investment.

University of Gloucestershire Overview for Dutch Students

The University of Gloucestershire, ranked 89th in the Complete University Guide 2026, offers over 100 undergraduate and postgraduate programs across three campuses in Cheltenham and Gloucester. The university is particularly renowned for its programs in Business, Creative Arts, Sport Sciences, and Education, making it an attractive destination for Dutch students seeking specialized knowledge in these fields.

For Netherlands students, the university's strong industry connections provide excellent internship and career opportunities. The institution maintains partnerships with over 200 companies, including major employers in London and Bristol, both easily accessible from Gloucestershire campuses.

Available Scholarships for Dutch Students 2026

International Excellence Scholarship

The flagship scholarship program offers awards of up to £5,000 per year for outstanding Dutch students. This merit-based scholarship recognizes academic achievement, leadership potential, and contribution to university community life.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Dutch citizenship or permanent residency in Netherlands
• Minimum academic equivalent of UK upper second-class honours (VWO diploma with average 7.5 or higher)
• Conditional or unconditional offer for full-time study
• Demonstrated leadership experience or community involvement

Award Details:

• £5,000 for exceptional candidates (top 5% of applicants)
• £3,500 for highly qualified candidates (next 15% of applicants)
• £2,000 for qualified candidates (remaining eligible applicants)
• Renewable annually subject to maintaining 65% average grades

EU Academic Merit Award

Specifically designed for European Union students, including those from the Netherlands, this £2,500 annual scholarship supports students who demonstrate consistent academic excellence throughout their secondary education.

Key Features:

• Automatic consideration for Dutch students meeting academic thresholds
• Can be combined with other university scholarships
• Available for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs
• No separate application required

Subject-Specific Scholarships

The University of Gloucestershire offers targeted funding for specific academic disciplines popular among Dutch students:

Business and Economics Scholarship

• Award value: £3,000 annually
• Available for Business Administration, Economics, and related programs
• Requires submission of business case study or economic analysis

Creative Arts Excellence Award

• Award value: £2,500 annually
• Covers programs in Graphic Design, Film Production, Fine Arts
• Portfolio submission required alongside application

Sports Science Innovation Grant

• Award value: £1,500 annually
• For Sports Science, Exercise Physiology, and Sports Management programs
• Coaching or sports leadership experience preferred

Application Process and Timeline

Application Timeline for 2026 Entry

January 2026: Scholarship applications open March 15, 2026: Early application deadline (priority consideration) June 30, 2026: Final application deadline July 15, 2026: Scholarship decisions communicated September 2026: Awards confirmed upon enrollment

Required Documentation

Dutch students must prepare the following documents:

1. Academic Transcripts: Official VWO diploma and grades, translated into English
2. Personal Statement: 500-word essay explaining academic goals and how the scholarship will impact your studies
3. Reference Letters: Two academic references from teachers or professors
4. Portfolio/Additional Materials: Required for creative arts and some business programs
5. Proof of Identity: Dutch passport or national identity card
6. English Language Certification: IELTS 6.5 overall (6.0 in each component) or equivalent

Application Strategy for Dutch Students

To maximize your chances of securing funding, consider these proven strategies:

Early Application Advantage: Submit applications by the March deadline to access reserved funding pools and receive priority consideration.

Multiple Scholarship Applications: Dutch students can apply for up to three different scholarship categories simultaneously, significantly increasing funding potential.

Demonstrate Netherlands Connection: Highlight how your Dutch background brings unique perspectives to the university community, particularly in international business or cultural exchange programs.

Academic Excellence Documentation: Ensure your VWO grades are clearly converted to UK equivalents, as this directly impacts scholarship eligibility.

Financial Planning for Dutch Students

Total Cost Analysis

Undergraduate Programs (2026-2027):

• Tuition fees: £16,500 per year
• Living expenses: £9,000-£12,000 per year
• Total annual cost: £25,500-£28,500

With Maximum Scholarships:

• Potential funding: £7,500 per year (combining multiple awards)
• Reduced annual cost: £18,000-£21,000

Additional Financial Support

Beyond scholarships, Dutch students can access:

Part-time Work Opportunities: Up to 20 hours per week during studies Campus Employment: Priority access to university jobs (library, student services, research assistance) Dutch Student Loans: DUO financing remains available for EU study programs

Student Life and Support Services

The University of Gloucestershire provides comprehensive support for Dutch students through its International Student Services team. The university hosts an active Netherlands Student Society, organizing cultural events and providing peer support networks.

Key Support Services:

• Dedicated international student advisor
• Pre-arrival briefings conducted in Dutch
• Airport pickup service from London Heathrow
• Assistance with UK bank account opening
• Connection with local Dutch community in Gloucestershire

When exploring your options, you can find your perfect university through comprehensive comparison tools that help match your academic goals with available funding opportunities.

Career Prospects and Graduate Outcomes

University of Gloucestershire graduates enjoy strong employment rates, with 89% of Dutch graduates securing employment or further study within six months of graduation. The university's Career Services team provides specialized support for international students, including:

• UK work visa guidance and application support
• Industry networking events with Dutch companies operating in the UK
• Graduate internship programs with international organizations
• Alumni mentorship connecting current students with successful Dutch graduates

Conclusion

The University of Gloucestershire offers exceptional scholarship opportunities for Dutch students, with potential funding of up to £7,500 annually when combining multiple awards. Start your application process early in 2026 to maximize your chances of securing these competitive scholarships and joining a vibrant international community committed to academic excellence.

Key Statistics

📊 89% of Dutch graduates secure employment or further study within 6 months of graduation

💰 Up to £7,500 in combined annual scholarships available for Dutch students in 2026

🎓 University of Gloucestershire ranks 89th in the Complete University Guide 2026

📈 Over 200 industry partnerships provide internship opportunities for international students

🌍 International Excellence Scholarship awards range from £2,000 to £5,000 based on academic merit

📚 100+ undergraduate and postgraduate programs available across three campuses

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I apply for University of Gloucestershire scholarships as a Dutch student?

Dutch students apply through the university's online scholarship portal starting January 2026. You'll need your VWO transcripts, personal statement, two academic references, and proof of English proficiency (IELTS 6.5). Early applications by March 15, 2026, receive priority consideration, while the final deadline is June 30, 2026. You can apply for multiple scholarships simultaneously to maximize funding opportunities.

What is the International Excellence Scholarship and am I eligible as a Netherlands student?

The International Excellence Scholarship is the university's flagship award offering £2,000-£5,000 annually based on academic merit and leadership potential. Dutch students are eligible if they have VWO grades averaging 7.5 or higher, demonstrate leadership experience, and hold a conditional or unconditional offer. The scholarship is renewable annually if you maintain a 65% grade average throughout your studies.

How much can I save with scholarships at University of Gloucestershire?

Dutch students can potentially save up to £7,500 per year by combining multiple scholarships. With annual tuition fees of £16,500, maximum scholarship funding reduces your costs to approximately £9,000 per year for tuition alone. When including living expenses of £9,000-£12,000, total annual costs can be reduced from £25,500-£28,500 to £18,000-£21,000 with full scholarship support.

Can I combine multiple scholarships as a Dutch student?

Yes, Dutch students can combine multiple scholarships at University of Gloucestershire. You can receive the International Excellence Scholarship alongside subject-specific awards and the EU Academic Merit Award. However, the total combined value cannot exceed your annual tuition fees. Most successful applicants combine 2-3 different scholarship types to maximize their funding package.

What are the academic requirements for Dutch students to qualify for scholarships?

Academic requirements vary by scholarship type, but generally Dutch students need VWO diploma grades averaging 7.5 or higher for premium scholarships. The EU Academic Merit Award requires consistent academic excellence throughout secondary education. Subject-specific scholarships may have additional requirements like portfolio submission for creative arts or case study submission for business programs. All applicants must also meet English language requirements of IELTS 6.5 overall.

When should I apply for University of Gloucestershire scholarships for 2026 entry?

Scholarship applications open in January 2026, with an early deadline of March 15, 2026, for priority consideration and access to reserved funding pools. The final application deadline is June 30, 2026, with decisions communicated by July 15, 2026. Dutch students are strongly advised to apply early as scholarship funding is limited and allocated on a competitive basis throughout the application period.

Key Takeaways

✅ Dutch students can access up to £7,500 in annual scholarship funding by combining multiple awards

✅ Applications open January 2026 with early deadline March 15 for priority consideration

✅ VWO grades averaging 7.5+ qualify for the top International Excellence Scholarship tier

✅ Subject-specific scholarships in Business, Creative Arts, and Sports provide additional funding opportunities

✅ 89% of Dutch graduates secure employment within 6 months of completing their studies

✅ Scholarships are renewable annually based on maintaining satisfactory academic progress