The University of Groningen and the ECHO Foundation are accepting applications for the 2026 cohort of the ECHO Award. Specifically, this diversity leadership program helps outstanding minority students scale their impact through academic recognition and networking. Consequently, selected ambassadors work directly with Dutch educational leaders to deploy inclusive campus initiatives.
Program Overview
This is a diversity and leadership recognition program. Therefore, it is ideal for highly driven students who need a platform and professional network to serve underrepresented groups in academia. By joining, you get access to the ECHO Ambassador Academy and a six-week summer course at UCLA.
Key Benefits
Participants receive high-value academic and travel support. Specifically, the benefits include:
- Travel: A fully-funded six-week summer course at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).
- Network: Integration into the ECHO Ambassador Academy to collaborate with top Dutch employers.
- Platform: High-profile recognition at the national ECHO Award Ceremony.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, an applicant must be a university student in the Netherlands. Crucially, you must have a non-Western background and a strong track record of community engagement.
- Academics: Must demonstrate strong academic performance (average grade of 7.5 or higher).
- Impact: Must be actively involved in initiatives that promote social inclusion and diversity.
- Language: Must possess excellent proficiency in English and Dutch.
Application Process
- Deadline: May 24, 2026.
- Submission: Apply internally through participating Dutch universities.
- Requirements: Academic transcripts, letter of recommendation, and a personal impact statement.
