Studenten MIWB

Maritime Institute Willem Barentsz

The MIWB on Terschelling was founded over 150 years ago and offers a wide range of maritime programmes and courses.
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NHL Stenden Hogeschool

By moving your boundaries forward you will achieve more. Our campuses are located in the north of the Netherlands and we have a worldwide partner network. From Leeuwarden to South-Africa; the world at your feet.
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Thorbecke Academy

The Thorbecke Academy is the institute for study programmes and research in the fields of law, public administration, and safety and security.
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NHL Stenden Hotel Management School

Hotel Management School is the largest and most internationally orientated hotel school in Europe.
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2 topsport studenten

Study and top-level sports

As a top-level athlete, you know what perseverance and discipline mean. But how do you combine an intensive sporting career with a degree programme? At NHL Stenden, we understand your challenges. That is why we offer the support you need to succeed in both your sport and your studies.

Unique support for top-level athletes

NHL Stenden is one of the few universities of applied sciences in the Netherlands that truly supports top-level athletes. We are also one of the few to offer both a Top-Level Sports Scholarship and access to the Student Support Fund. Our goal is to help you combine your studies and your sport as smoothly as possible. We do this through:

Financial support

You may be eligible for a Top-Level Sports Scholarship (starting from academic year 2025–2026), along with financial support from the Student Support Fund.

Study choice flexibility

With a wide range of degree programmes, you can choose a study path that fits your interests and your sporting ambitions.

Personal guidance

Depending on your situation, we may be able to match you with a dedicated Top-Level Sports Study Coach who can support you with planning and balance.

Flexibility

We offer flexible timetables and exam dates that align with your training and competition schedule.

Tailored personal support

Every athlete is different. That is why we take a personal approach. Together, we explore what study programme suits your sports career and how we can build flexibility into your schedule. This tailored support makes the difference.

Practical solutions that work for you

We offer more than just good intentions. Depending on your situation, you may be eligible for:

  • Adjusted exam arrangements
  • A flexible study plan
  • Online and on-campus support
  • A strong network of sports partners, such as Topsport Noord and local sports organisations

How it works

To make use of the Top-Level Sports Scheme, you first take part in an intake. This helps us understand your situation and offer the right kind of support.

During the intake, we discuss:

  • Your athlete status (recognised by NOC*NSF or other official sports federations)
  • Your study preferences and flexibility options
  • Financial support possibilities

Book your intake meeting

Not sure whether your sport and studies are a good match? Let us know. Fill out the intake form to plan a no-obligation meeting with our Top-Level Sports Coordinator. We will listen to what you need and explore what is possible together. No surprises, just clarity. That way, you can keep performing in class and on the field.

Student met sporttas

Shaping your future together

Our partnerships with organisations like SC Cambuur and Topsport Noord show how seriously we take top-level sport.
We are proud of our originals – students who prove that top-level sport and studying can go hand in hand.
 

Questions?

Still have questions? Visit our Top-Level Sports FAQ page for more information.
Can’t find what you are looking for? Feel free to contact our Top-Level Sports Coordinator:

📩 Email: [email protected]
☎️ Phone: +31 (0)58 244 1155
Or reach out via Student Info