Tuition Fee
The tuition fee for participation in 2027 is €14,600.
The exact amount you pay depends on your participation route, as outlined below.
Participation Routes
You can join the Global Challenges programme via one of two routes, depending on whether you already have a relevant work placement.
Option 1: Internal candidate or self-arranged placement
This route applies if you already have a relevant position or an organisation supporting your participation.
You can participate in the programme in one of the following ways:
- Internal candidate (current employer)
You integrate the programme into your current role and continue your professional development within your existing organisation. - Self-arranged placement (new organisation)
You secure a relevant position at an organisation of your choice that supports your participation in the programme.
Geographic flexibility & time zone
Participation via this route is possible from anywhere in the world thanks to the hybrid set-up of the programme. Participants should take into account time zone differences, as classes are generally scheduled between 09:00 and 16:00 CET.
Tuition fee distribution
The tuition fee distribution is agreed directly between you and your organisation. This allows flexibility to align with internal budgets and organisational arrangements.
Application period
Applications for Option 1 (Internal candidate or self-arranged placement) are open until 30 November 2026.
Option 2: Selection & matching route (no placement yet)
If you do not yet have a relevant position, you may apply for the selection & matching process.
How the process works
You apply to the programme and enter a competitive selection process. If selected, you may be considered for a match with one of our partner organisations.
Matching is based on candidate profiles, organisational needs and availability of placements.
Important information
- The selection and matching process is highly competitive
- The number of applicants usually significantly exceeds the number of available placements
- Placement through this route cannot be guaranteed
For this reason, we strongly encourage candidates to actively search for and secure their own relevant placement in parallel to applying for selection and matching
Geographic scope
This route is typically intended for positions in the Netherlands, for candidates living and/or working in the Netherlands.
In some cases, international placements outside the Netherlands may be available. If such opportunities arise and require living and/or working abroad, this will always be discussed in advance with suitable candidates to ensure feasibility.
Tuition fee distribution
If you are successfully placed with a partner organisation:
- The organisation contributes €13,140 towards the tuition fee
- The participant pays €1,460
A €75 registration fee applies at application stage (€37.50 early bird up until 31 August)
The registration fee:
- covers up to two consecutive selection attempts
- is deducted from the tuition fee if you are placed with a partner organisation
- is non-refundable in case of non-selection or no placement
Selection criteria
To be considered for the selection & matching route, candidates are expected to meet the following criteria:
- A Master’s degree in a field related to sustainable development
- A Master’s thesis graded 8 or higher (or international equivalent)
International candidates should verify diploma recognition via Nuffic - Demonstrated knowledge of and strong affinity with sustainable development in low- and middle-income countries
- Relevant international or cross-cultural experience (minimum 3 months required, 6 months or more preferred)
- Excellent command of English (spoken and written)
Additional languages such as Dutch, French, Spanish or Arabic are considered an advantage
(Some placements require Dutch proficiency.) - An open, reflective and flexible attitude, with strong motivation to learn and develop professionally
- For international candidates: a valid work permit and visa for the Netherlands at the start of the programme (February 2027). The programme does not provide visa sponsorship. Please consult the IND for eligibility options.
- If you do not fully meet all criteria but believe you are a strong candidate based on other experience, skills or learning ability, you are encouraged to explain this clearly in your application.
Application requirements
Applicants are required to submit several documents, including:
- Diploma(s)
- Transcript of records
- CV
- A short video pitch (maximum 45 seconds)
In your video, please briefly explain your motivation for applying, what you hope to contribute to the programme, and what you aim to gain from it. The video is assessed on content and motivation rather than production quality.
Application period
Applications for option 2 (Selection & matching route (no placement yet)) are open until 30 September 2026.
If you have doubts about whether the Master in Global Challenges suits you, please contact the programme coordinator:
radboudcsw [at] ru.nl (radboudcsw[at]ru[dot]nl) or telephone (024) 361 2511.
We are happy to discuss together whether this programme is the right fit for you.
