Call for Applications: Mahmoud S. Rabbani Scholarship

The Lutfia Rabbani Foundation MSR Scholarship offers up to €15,000 to support Master’s and Ph.D. students from the Arab world and the Netherlands pursuing cross-regional academic exchange. The scholarship promotes academic excellence, cultural dialogue, and long-term Euro-Arab understanding through advanced study.

Overview of the MSR Scholarship

The MSR Scholarship is an academic funding programme offered by the Lutfia Rabbani Foundation to strengthen mutual understanding between Europe and the Arab world.

The scholarship supports students undertaking advanced academic studies while encouraging cross-cultural exchange, personal development, and dialogue. It reflects the Foundation’s long-standing mission to foster meaningful connections between societies through education.

Purpose and Vision of the Scholarship

The MSR Scholarship is designed to:

• Promote academic exchange between Europe and the Arab world

• Support highly motivated students pursuing Master’s or Ph.D. studies

• Encourage intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding

• Contribute to long-term academic, professional, and societal impact

The programme places strong emphasis on how education can serve as a bridge between regions, cultures, and perspectives.

Scholarship Funding and Financial Support

Selected scholars can receive financial support of up to:

• €15,000 per award

The exact amount may vary depending on the applicant’s financial needs and study circumstances.

Once the scholarship is awarded and accepted, the signed terms and conditions form a legally binding agreement between the Lutfia Rabbani Foundation and the scholar. This agreement defines responsibilities, reporting obligations, and expectations throughout the study period.

Who Is Eligible?

Eligibility depends on nationality and study destination.

Eligible Nationalities

Applicants must be either:

• Nationals of eligible Arab countries, or

• Dutch nationals

Study Location Requirements

Eligibility is determined by the direction of academic exchange.

• Arab nationals must have official acceptance into a Master’s or Ph.D. programme in the Netherlands

• Dutch nationals must have official acceptance into a Master’s or Ph.D. programme in an Arab country

The acceptance letter must be issued by a recognised higher education institution.

Academic Level

The scholarship supports:

• Master’s degree programmes

• Doctoral (Ph.D.) programmes

Both full-time academic pathways are considered.

Language Proficiency

Applicants must demonstrate:

• Good proficiency in English, or

• Proficiency in the language of instruction if the programme is not taught in English

Scholar Responsibilities and Reporting Requirements

Recipients of the MSR Scholarship are expected to actively engage with their academic journey and reflect on their experience.

Mid-Year Academic Report

During the study period, scholars must submit:

• A mid-year academic progress report

• A record of grades achieved to date

This report allows the Foundation to monitor academic progress.

Final Reflective Report

Within two months of completing their studies, scholars must submit:

• A reflective report describing their academic experience, learning outcomes, and personal development

The Foundation’s Board reserves the right to edit this report for communication, publication, and outreach purposes.

How Applications Are Evaluated

Applications are assessed holistically based on several key criteria.

Core Selection Criteria

• Academic excellence and intellectual potential

• Demonstrated financial need

• Motivation and clarity of academic goals

Strategic Considerations

Additional emphasis is placed on:

• How the chosen field of study supports the applicant’s personal, academic, and professional development

• The potential impact of the studies in the local or regional context

• Strong alignment with the Foundation’s mission to promote Euro-Arab dialogue and understanding

Applicants who clearly articulate the broader relevance of their studies are strongly favored.

Why This Scholarship Matters

The MSR Scholarship plays a critical role in fostering long-term academic and cultural connections.

It matters because it:

• Encourages meaningful academic mobility between Europe and the Arab world

• Supports future leaders, researchers, and professionals

• Strengthens intercultural understanding through lived academic experience

• Aligns education with dialogue, diplomacy, and societal impact

The scholarship goes beyond financial support by investing in cross-cultural learning and mutual respect.

Tips for a Strong Application

Applicants are encouraged to:

• Clearly explain their academic goals and motivation

• Demonstrate how their studies contribute to Euro-Arab dialogue

• Highlight both academic merit and financial need

• Show long-term vision and potential impact of their education

• Present a well-structured and thoughtful application

Strong applications connect personal ambition with broader societal value.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting an application without official university acceptance

• Failing to explain the relevance of the chosen field of study

• Weak articulation of cross-cultural or dialogue-related impact

• Ignoring reporting and post-study obligations

• Assuming funding is automatic without demonstrating need and merit

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the maximum scholarship amount?

The MSR Scholarship provides funding of up to €15,000.

Who can apply for the MSR Scholarship?

Eligible applicants include nationals of Arab countries studying in the Netherlands and Dutch nationals studying in Arab countries.

Which study levels are supported?

The scholarship supports Master’s and Ph.D. degree programmes.

Is proof of admission required?

Yes. Applicants must have official acceptance into a recognised academic programme before applying.

Are scholars required to submit reports?

Yes. A mid-year academic progress report and a final reflective report are mandatory.

Can the Foundation use my report publicly?

Yes. The Foundation’s Board may edit and use the final reflective report for communication and outreach purposes.

Is English proficiency mandatory?

Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English or in the language of instruction if it is different from English.

Conclusion

The Lutfia Rabbani Foundation MSR Scholarship offers a meaningful opportunity for students to pursue advanced academic study while contributing to stronger Euro-Arab understanding. With funding of up to €15,000 and a strong emphasis on dialogue, impact, and excellence, the scholarship supports scholars who view education as a bridge between cultures and regions.