Restored basic scholarship for students

On June 6, 2023, the Dutch Senate passed a law on the restoration of basic scholarships (basisbeurs) for students of universities and educational institutions of secondary specialized education. Such a scholarship was already paid until 2015, then until the 2022-2023 academic year, the credit system of education was in effect. From the 2023-2024 academic year, students will again be able to receive money for education.

This decision was made in order to reduce the growth of student debt and people with low incomes could afford education.

Who will qualify on the basisbeurs?

All students enrolled in higher and secondary vocational education institutions for 2023-2024 are automatically eligible for a basic scholarship. Those who entered earlier, from 2015 to 2022, and continue to study or complete their education, are entitled to compensation, and those who have not completed their education yet, to receive basisbeurs.

How much scholarships and compensation will be paid?

For the 2023-2024 academic year, the basic scholarship for students studying in their hometown and living at home will be 110,3 euros per month. Nonresident students will be paid 274,9 euros per month. Nonresident students in the next academic year will be able to receive an additional 164,30 euros: this is due to rising prices for food, heat and electricity. In addition, students from poor families will be able to receive an additional scholarship of up to 416 euros per month if their parents have an annual income of no more than 70 euros. Previously, students from families with an income of no more than 000 euros were eligible for an additional scholarship.

Compensation:

Those who studied under the credit system of education and received a diploma within 10 years after entering the training, as well as those who still continue to study, are entitled to compensation. The amount of the allowance depends on the number of years of study under the credit system.

Those who have already completed their diploma, with a four-year standard study period, will receive 1436 euros of student debt write-off. Those who started studying in the 2021-2022 academic year - 359 euros. From 2015 to 2019, students were given an advance voucher. Those who have not yet used it will be able to receive a student loan write-off in the amount of 1802 euros. If student debt is repaid, these amounts will be transferred in cash. 

More information on student benefits - in a government document.