🎓 What Is the Eric Bleumink Fellowship?


It’s a master’s scholarship (MA, MSc, LL.M) offered by the University of Groningen via the Ubbo Emmius Foundation.

  • The fund was created to support “exceptionally gifted students from developing countries.
  • Only a few scholarships are awarded each year (very competitive).

💰 What the Scholarship Covers

According to the official rules:

  • Full tuition fee for 1- or 2-year master’s program.
  • Living allowance / monthly stipend for subsistence.
  • International travel support (to / from the Netherlands).
  • Books / study materials allowance.
  • Health insurance for the study period.

✅ Eligibility (Including for Nigerians)

Key eligibility criteria:

  • You must apply for and be admitted (provisionally or unconditionally) to a Master’s program at the University of Groningen.
  • The admission offer must come before February following your application.
  • You need excellent academic records (strong undergraduate GPA, recommendation letters) to be nominated.
  • English language proficiency is required (depending on the program).
  • Must be from an eligible developing country: Nigeria is explicitly listed.
  • You should not already have full funding from another source for the same program.
  • Must be available for the full duration of the master’s program and be in reasonably good health.

📅 Important Deadlines

  • Master’s Program Application Deadline: 1 December 2025.
  • Nomination by University: After admission, the University selects which students will be considered for the fellowship.
  • Scholarship Decision: Nominees are usually informed by February.
  • Program Start: Likely in September (typical for UG master’s).

🌍 How to Apply (Especially for Nigerian Students)

  1. Choose a Master’s Program at the University of Groningen that fits your academic and career goals.
  2. Submit your application for that Master’s by the December 1 deadline.
  3. Wait for admission (provisional or unconditional) — this is needed for nomination.
  4. The University’s Admission Office + Faculties will review and nominate top candidates for the fellowship (you don’t apply separately for the scholarship).
  5. If nominated and selected, the scholarship gets awarded; you’ll then receive support covering tuition, travel, living, books, and insurance.

⚠️ Risks / Challenges to Highlight

  • Extremely competitive: very few scholarships are awarded.
  • You can’t apply directly for the fellowship — must first get admitted, and then rely on nomination.
  • Financial need is considered; you must show you don’t have other funding.
  • Health requirement: must be in good health (to be insured).

🎯 Why This Is a Great Opportunity (For Nigerians)

  • Provides full financial coverage, which removes a major barrier to studying abroad.
  • It’s at a top Dutch university, which is globally respected.
  • Enables network-building + academic exposure in Europe.
  • Perfect for high-achieving students who may not be able to self-finance.

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