Kipaji Scholarship 2026 at the University of Twente: Full Guide for International Master’s Students

For talented students from low-income countries, studying in Europe can feel financially out of reach. The Kipaji Scholarship at the University of Twente (UT) was created to close that gap. It provides additional funding to high-performing international students who already receive a University of Twente Scholarship (UTS) and need extra support to complete their master’s studies in the Netherlands.

This guide explains what the Kipaji Scholarship is, who is eligible, how much it offers, and how to maximize your chances of being considered.

Kipaji Scholarship Summary

Also Check: HAN University of Applied Sciences Scholarships 2026 in Netherlands

What Is the Kipaji Scholarship?

University of Twente alumni and supporters established the Kipaji Scholarship Fund to help students from Least Developed Countries and Other Low Income Countries on the DAC list.

It is not a primary scholarship. Instead, it acts as a top-up for students who already hold a University of Twente Scholarship (UTS) but still face financial gaps.

The core idea is simple:
Talented students should not miss out on education because of financial constraints.

Also Check: Umeå University Scholarships 2026 in Sweden

How Much Is the Kipaji Scholarship Worth?

• Up to €12,000
• Intended for study-related and living costs
• No restrictions on how you allocate the funds
• Tuition fees are not paid directly on your behalf

This flexibility allows students to use the money where it matters most, such as housing, food, insurance, or study materials.

Also Check: Flemish Government Scholarship 2026 at VUB

Who Is Eligible for the Kipaji Scholarship?

To qualify, you must meet all UTS requirements, plus the additional Kipaji criteria.

You must:

• Be awarded a University of Twente Scholarship (UTS)
• Hold nationality from a DAC-listed Least Developed or Low Income Country
• Have completed your BSc in your home country or a neighboring country
• Achieve strong academic results, including an average grade of 8 in your pre-master’s
• Be admitted to a UT master’s programme (excluding ITC programmes)
• Be a new student, not currently enrolled at UT

Programmes Not Covered

The Kipaji Scholarship is not available for:

• Current University of Twente students
• Master’s programmes at the Faculty of Geo-Information Science and Earth Observation (ITC)

How to Apply for the Kipaji Scholarship

There is no separate application form for Kipaji.

Here is how the process works:

1. Apply for a University of Twente Scholarship (UTS)
2. In your UTS motivation letter, clearly state that you wish to be considered for the Kipaji Scholarship
3. If you meet the criteria, your faculty may nominate you
4. You may be asked to submit an additional motivation letter explaining how your UT studies will benefit your home country

This means your motivation letter plays a critical role.

What Your Motivation Letter Should Focus On

A strong Kipaji-focused motivation clearly explains:

• How your master’s studies will increase scientific capacity in your home country
• Or how you plan to apply your education to entrepreneurial or economic development
• Why is financial support essential for you to complete your studies successfully

Be specific. Universities look for impact, not general statements.

Why the Kipaji Scholarship Matters

The Kipaji Scholarship is more than funding. It is an investment in long-term impact.

Recipients are expected to:

• Apply advanced knowledge in under-resourced regions
• Strengthen education, research, or innovation ecosystems
• Act as future leaders and change-makers in their countries

This focus on return and contribution is what sets Kipaji apart from many other scholarships.

If you are a high-achieving student from a low-income country and you qualify for a University of Twente Scholarship, the Kipaji Scholarship could be the difference between struggling financially and entirely focusing on your studies.