Through the U21 network, a global partnership of world-renowned universities, the UvA offers 12 Summer School scholarships worth €2,350 each. Applications for the 2025–2026 academic year are open from 5 February to 5 March 2026.

Who can apply

While we prioritise students facing barriers to studying or traveling abroad (those with specific learning needs, physical or mental health conditions, or financial constraints) this programme is open to everyone. Students from all disciplines and study stages are encouraged to apply.

Universitas 21

Universitas 21External link (U21) is partnership between the University of Amsterdam and a global network of world-leading universities that share a commitment to collaboration and internationalisation. From universities in China to Chile, the U21 network aims to build a more inclusive and study abroad community, offering a wide range of accessible virtual, blended, and in-person programmes for their students worldwide.

Benefits of a U21 summer school scholarship

With a U21 summer school scholarship, you decide where, what, and when to study abroad. Some U21 universities also offer virtual summer schools.

In addition, course credits earned abroad can often be transferred to your UvA degree. Be sure to consult your study advisor and get approval from the Examination Board before you apply.

Still undecided? U21 also offers free, accessible, short programmes that are separate from the scholarships and provide UvA students with an easy way to start building their international network and CV from home. Explore other U21 opportunitiesExternal link.

Destinations

Students choose only one destination from the following universities:

1. UC Chile (Chile)
2. Fudan University (China)
3. University of Hong Kong (SAR)
4. Waseda University (Japan)
5. Tecnológico de Monterrey (Mexico)
6. National University of Singapore (Singapore)
7. Korea University (South Korea)

You can find more information about the U21 universities and their summer school offer on the UvA World Map for summer schoolsExternal link, in the section ‘Summer schools or short programmes’.

Funding

There are 12 scholarships available worth €2,350 per student. The scholarship is paid in two instalments: 70% before departure and 30% after return.

The scholarship can be used to cover (part of) the programme fees for the summer school at your host institution and may, in some cases, also contribute to accommodation costs.

Please note that the scholarship is not intended to cover all expenses.

How to apply

You apply for the U21 summer school scholarship through the University of Amsterdam, and separately enrol for your chosen summer school at the host university by paying the tuition fees.

After application

The 12 students are selected through a lottery process, following these steps:

1. We determine your priority category (first, second, or third).
2. A lottery is conducted among applicants in priority category 1.
3. If spots remain, a lottery is held for priority category 2, followed by category 3, as needed.

After submitting your application, you will be notified about the results and any potential next steps through your student email.

Get informed

• Register for various workshops around gaining an international learning experience.
• Each year in November, the UvA organises the annual Study Abroad Month, in which you can find out more about the international opportunities during your study programme. In-person information sessions on the Short-term Learning Opportunities take place on 5 November and 19 November 2025. Learn more about the Study Abroad Month.

Questions

This programme is coordinated by the Office of International Student Mobility, the central international office of the UvA. Please email global@uva.nlExternal link if you have any questions. Please read this page beforehand and specify that your question is about the U21 summer school scholarships.