NFP sees SOL on the horizon
15 Mar 2010
The year 2010 will be a busy one for the 11 NFP Programme Administrators. As of 1 November the NFP will have a renewed application and selection procedure.
NFP Programme Administrator Inge Zuidema explains: as of November 2010 it will be possible to apply online for an NFP fellowship through Scholarships Online (SOL). The Huygens Programme, which is also administered by Nuffic, is already using Scholarships Online and the Huygens administrators are very content with the results.
Tailor-made to the NFP
For the NFP, SOL will be adjusted to enable Dutch institutions, Embassies and consulates to have access to the online application. In addition to a new application procedure there will also be a new selection procedure. Under this new procedure the preferences of respectively the Dutch institutions and the Embassies will together determine who will be selected. While the Dutch institutions will focus on academic qualities, Embassies and consulates will base their preferences on country-specific criteria.
Big advantages
Using the online application will have some big advantages for both applicants and Dutch institutions and Embassies. First of all, all parties involved can keep track of the status of an application. This also means that applicants can find out at an earlier stage if they are selected. An additional advantage is that the applications will be digital. The present procedure is still based on hard copy applications. The Embassies send the applications to Nuffic, who forwards them to the Dutch institutions. The new procedure is a big timesaver for Dutch institutions as they will no longer have to inform applicants.
Good progress
The development of the SOL application is making good progress. Representatives of the Dutch institutions and Embassies have already assessed the first test screens and they will soon start testing the application. Their valuable input will be used to fine-tune Scholarships Online.
Working towards a smooth transition
The new application and selection procedure will result in more efficient fellowship applications. Inge expects that all parties involved will quickly get accustomed to the new procedures. In this, they will be supported by Nuffic. For example, a series of training and information meetings are in the pipeline for Dutch institutions and Embassies to ensure that they will be well prepared come November 2010.
