Deadline: 31-Jan-2026
The Leiden University Fund – Lutfia Rabbani Foundation Scholarship offers a full Master’s scholarship to outstanding students from the MENA region to study at Leiden University. The programme supports academic excellence while promoting Euro-Arab dialogue through education, mentorship, and long-term academic and professional engagement.
Overview of the Scholarship
The Leiden University Fund – Lutfia Rabbani Foundation Scholarship is now accepting applications to support exceptional academic talent from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
The scholarship is designed to strengthen Euro-Arab dialogue by investing in high-achieving students whose academic ambitions align with the values of cross-cultural understanding, cooperation, and international engagement.
Purpose and Vision
This scholarship recognises the important role of international education in building mutual understanding between Europe and the Arab world.
By supporting talented Arab students at Leiden University, the programme aims to:
-
Promote academic excellence and leadership
-
Foster long-term Euro-Arab dialogue
-
Strengthen educational and cultural exchange
-
Develop future professionals committed to international cooperation
The initiative combines financial support with mentoring and networking opportunities to maximise long-term impact.
Scholarship Award and Financial Value
Each year, the Fund awards one full scholarship to an outstanding Master’s student from an Arab country.
Key financial details include:
-
Maximum scholarship value of €30,000
-
Funding supports Master’s-level study at Leiden University
-
Scholarship applies to one-year Master’s programmes or the second year of two-year Master’s programmes
The scholarship is intended to reduce financial barriers for high-potential students with demonstrated need.
Who Is Eligible to Apply?
Eligibility is limited to academically strong candidates from eligible Arab countries.
Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
-
Be a national of an eligible Arab country
-
Have received an official acceptance letter for a one-year Master’s programme at Leiden University, or
-
Be enrolled in the second year of a two-year Master’s programme at Leiden University
-
Demonstrate academic excellence and strong motivation
-
Show financial need
-
Align with the Foundation’s mission of promoting Euro-Arab dialogue
Only candidates who meet both academic and motivational requirements will be considered.
Selection Criteria
The scholarship is awarded on a competitive basis.
Applications are assessed based on:
-
Academic merit and past performance
-
Personal motivation and leadership potential
-
Commitment to strengthening Euro-Arab dialogue
-
Financial need
-
Fit with the values and objectives of the Lutfia Rabbani Foundation
Strong candidates clearly articulate how their studies and future goals contribute to intercultural understanding.
Mentoring and Professional Development
In addition to financial support, the scholarship includes a structured mentoring programme.
Selected scholars benefit from:
-
Personal and professional guidance
-
Access to the Foundation’s extensive and diverse network
-
Opportunities to engage with Foundation platforms and activities
-
Support for academic development and long-term career growth
This added component distinguishes the scholarship from purely financial awards.
Scholar Responsibilities and Reporting Requirements
Once awarded and accepted, the scholarship becomes a formal legal agreement.
Recipients are required to:
-
Sign the scholarship terms and conditions
-
Submit a mid-year academic progress report, including grades achieved to date
-
Submit a final report within two months of completing their studies
The Foundation’s Board reserves the right to edit the final report for communication and outreach purposes.
How the Scholarship Works
The scholarship supports a defined academic period at Leiden University.
The process typically involves:
-
Securing admission to an eligible Master’s programme at Leiden University
-
Submitting a scholarship application demonstrating merit, motivation, and need
-
Selection by the Leiden University Fund and the Lutfia Rabbani Foundation
-
Participation in academic study and mentoring activities
-
Submission of required academic progress and final reports
Scholars are expected to actively engage with both academic and Foundation activities.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applicants should avoid the following common issues:
-
Applying without a confirmed Leiden University acceptance
-
Submitting generic motivation statements
-
Failing to clearly link academic goals to Euro-Arab dialogue
-
Not demonstrating financial need
-
Missing required documentation or deadlines
Strong applications are specific, reflective, and purpose-driven.
Why This Scholarship Matters
The Leiden University Fund – Lutfia Rabbani Foundation Scholarship goes beyond financial assistance.
It plays a strategic role in:
-
Supporting talent from the Arab world
-
Strengthening educational diplomacy
-
Encouraging intercultural exchange
-
Developing future leaders with global perspectives
The scholarship contributes to long-term academic and societal impact across regions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many scholarships are awarded each year?
One full scholarship is awarded annually.
What is the maximum value of the scholarship?
The maximum value is €30,000.
Which study programmes are eligible?
Eligible programmes include one-year Master’s programmes and the second year of two-year Master’s programmes at Leiden University.
Who can apply for the scholarship?
Arab nationals who have been admitted to an eligible Master’s programme at Leiden University and demonstrate academic merit and financial need.
Does the scholarship include mentoring?
Yes. The scholarship includes a mentoring programme and access to the Foundation’s professional network.
Are progress reports required?
Yes. Scholars must submit a mid-year academic progress report and a final report after completing their studies.
Is the scholarship a legal agreement?
Yes. Once accepted, the signed terms and conditions form a legal agreement between the scholar and the Foundation.
Conclusion
The Leiden University Fund – Lutfia Rabbani Foundation Scholarship offers a unique opportunity for outstanding students from the MENA region to pursue advanced studies at Leiden University. By combining financial support, mentorship, and intercultural engagement, the programme strengthens Euro-Arab dialogue while investing in the next generation of globally minded academic and professional leaders.
For more information, visit Lutfia Rabbani Foundation.