2026/2027 Orange Knowledge Programme Scholarship | Application Guide

The Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP) is a scholarship programme initiated and funded by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs and managed by Nuffic, in cooperation with Dutch institutions. The aim of the scholarship is to advance the development of the capacity, knowledge, and quality of both individuals and institutions in higher and vocational education.

The Orange Knowledge Programme offers scholarships funded by the Dutch government through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, available for a selection of:

• Short courses (duration 2 weeks to 12 months);
• Master’s programme (duration 12 to 24 months).

 Scholarship | Requirements

The scholarship provides funding to female and male professionals who are:

• Motivated;
• Living and working in an OKP country;
• Proficient in English or French;
• Working in one of the priority areas for their country;
• Can motivate using and transfer their knowledge and experience in their employing organization after their studies;
• Agreeing to the OKP obligations and conditions
• You need English or French language skills
• Studies must be in the priority themes of the respective OKP countries.
• An employer statement that shows your employer supports your application.

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Orange Knowledge Programme Scholarship | Application Guide

Interested applicants for the OKP Scholarship are to apply through the Dutch education institution of their choice by following the procedures outlined below.:

1. Check if your application falls within the OKP focus areas determined for your country.
2. Check if you meet the OKP eligibility criteria.
3. Find a course on the OKP course list. Please find a study using the filter ‘Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP)’.
4. Ask your employer whether they are willing to nominate you for an OKP scholarship.
5. Contact the Dutch education institution of your choice to receive more information about the application procedure, the academic requirements and the link to apply online.
6. Prepare your application: employer statement, motivation, passport, government statement (if required).
7. During an application round, submit your application online using the link you receive from the Dutch education institution. Please be aware of the application deadline of the educational institution of your choice.
8. You may be eligible for an OKP scholarship if you are a national of and working in: Bangladesh, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Colombia, Congo (DRC), Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Guatemala, Guinea, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Kenya, Lebanon, Liberia, Mali, Mozambique, Myanmar, Niger, Nigeria, Palestinian Territories, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Africa, South Sudan, Sudan, Suriname, Tanzania, Tunisia, Uganda, Vietnam, Yemen and Zambia.

Application Deadlines

Interested applicants for the OKP Scholarship 2026 can only apply for a scholarship during an open application round. Applicants will have to check the application round available at the time of their application.

FAQs

1. What is the Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP) Scholarship?

Answer:
The Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP) Scholarship is an initiative funded by the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs to support professionals from developing countries. It provides funding for short courses, long-term master’s programs, and training programs in Dutch universities and institutions. The scholarship aims to enhance skills, knowledge, and professional networks in fields relevant to the applicant’s country of work.

2. Who is eligible to apply for the 2026/2027 OKP Scholarship?

Answer:
Eligible applicants must meet the following criteria:

Be a citizen of a developing country listed by the Orange Knowledge Programme.

Have a bachelor’s degree or relevant professional experience (for long-term programs, a master’s degree may be required).

Work in a sector relevant to the Netherlands’ development priorities, such as healthcare, agriculture, water management, governance, or education.

Be committed to returning to their home country after completing the program.

3. How do I apply for the 2026/2027 OKP Scholarship?

Answer:
To apply, follow these steps:

Visit the official Orange Knowledge Programme portal or the website of a participating Dutch institution.

Select your preferred course or master’s program and ensure it’s eligible under the OKP.

Complete the online application form, including personal details, education history, and professional experience.

Submit supporting documents such as passport, degree certificates, motivation letter, and references.

Ensure your application is submitted before the deadline, usually between October and December of the preceding year.

4. What does the OKP Scholarship cover, and are there any obligations?

Answer:
The OKP Scholarship typically covers:

Tuition fees for the selected course or program.

Living allowance, including housing and subsistence costs.

Travel and visa costs (round-trip flight and visa fees).

Insurance and other study-related expenses.

Obligations include:

Committing to return to your home country after the program to apply the acquired knowledge.

Participating in all program activities and submitting progress reports if required.