Utrecht Excellence Scholar, Khizar Ahmad from Pakistan, Shares the Story of How He Secured the Prestigious UES-LEGITS Award to Pursue His LLM in Law & Technology at Utrecht University in the Netherlands

My name is Khizar Ahmad, and I am from a small town in Kashmir's city of Muzaffarabad.

I went to the law school at Bahauddin Zakariya University in Multan, and I am a qualified attorney both in Pakistan and Kashmir.

I started working next to my studies in legal research and corporate roles. In the years following graduation, I worked across a wide spectrum of legal areas, from corporate and commercial law to criminal defense and international policy research. It was intense, hands-on work that taught me a lot, but also made something very clear: the future of law is digital.

As technology began reshaping how people interact, do business, and even govern, I knew I needed to deepen my understanding of these evolving frontiers. That’s what brought me to Utrecht University, where I’m currently pursuing an LLM in Law & Technology. This journey isn’t just about keeping up with change; it’s about staying ahead of it, and hopefully, helping shape it in a more just and human-centered direction.

Utrecht Excellence Scholarship Details

I received the Utrecht Excellence Scholarship - Law, Economics, Governance International Talent Scholarship (UES‑LEGITS) from Utrecht University. This scholarship covers full tuition and also supports living expenses during my studies in Utrecht. The UES programme is highly selective and aims to support international students who demonstrate strong academic merit and the promise to contribute significantly to their fields.

I did my homework as the UES scheme awards support either for tuition alone or tuition plus a living‑income component (linked to the residence permit rules set by the Dutch Immigration & Naturalisation Service).

Still, I was fortunate to receive a few more offers from across the world before deciding. For instance, the Hertie School in Berlin extended me a scholarship offer tied to their Master of International Affairs (MIA) programme.

Even though the Hertie offers were very tempting, I decided that Utrecht’s Law & Technology path resonated best with my long-term goals. But I tell you this: having multiple offers added weight to my conviction and underscored how competitive and rewarding this journey can be.

Educational Background

I began my academic journey at Pyramids International School in Muzaffarabad, where I completed my Secondary School Certificate with a score of around 80%. For my higher secondary education, I chose the premedical stream at Government Model Science College, a well-known public school in the city, and again scored close to 80%. While I initially leaned toward the sciences, I eventually found my true calling in law.

I pursued my LLB at Bahauddin Zakariya University, completing the five-year program with a strong CGPA of 3.71 out of 4. Those years shaped me deeply, not just academically but in every sense of the word. I immersed myself in student life beyond the classroom, and I took part in moot court competitions, debating forums, legal research, and student societies. I volunteered, wrote, judged moots later on, and even organized a few events myself.

It wasn’t just about ticking boxes; these experiences gave me a broader perspective on law and policy and sharpened the skills I would later need when stepping into complex spaces like technology regulation and international legal frameworks. The mix of academic commitment and real-world engagement during my undergrad years laid a strong foundation for my decision to further specialize through an LLM in Law & Technology.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to Utrecht University?

When it came to preparing for the IELTS, I took a completely self-guided approach. I did not enrol in any academy or consult a tutor. Instead, I relied on Google, YouTube, and a treasure trove of free resources scattered across the internet. I followed channels that broke down each section of the test, and I practiced with dozens of mock exams to get the timing and strategy right. Surprisingly, even Facebook groups turned out to be quite helpful; people there generously shared tips, sample answers, and insights that aren’t always covered in official materials.

Once I had my IELTS score, I took a very targeted approach to applications. I first made a shortlist of programs that aligned with my academic interests and professional goals. But eligibility wasn’t my only filter; I prioritized programs that also offered fully funded, merit-based scholarships.

For each application, I didn’t take shortcuts. I tailored everything from scratch; the CV, motivation letter, and statements of purpose were all adjusted to reflect the specific program’s focus. I made sure to have recommendation letters and degree verifications ready well in advance, so there was no last-minute scramble. The whole process was intense but incredibly rewarding. It taught me that with focus, persistence, and a bit of resourcefulness, you can navigate even the most competitive international admission cycles entirely on your own.

How is (was) Your Experience at Utrecht University?

My experience at Utrecht University has been nothing short of transformative. It’s one of the best institutions in the world, especially for the Law & Technology program I am enrolled in. What sets it apart is not just the academic rigour, but also the way the programme connects legal theory to real-world challenges in the digital age.

The diversity of perspectives, both in the classroom and among faculty, has made discussions genuinely enriching. It’s a place where curiosity is encouraged, and critical thinking is part of daily life. From lectures to late-night study sessions in the library, to just biking through the city to class, the experience has been intellectually intense but also incredibly fulfilling.

Utrecht has challenged me to grow in ways I hadn’t expected, not just as a student, but as a future legal professional in a rapidly changing world.

How Do You Rate Utrecht University Academically and Why?

I would rate the institution a strong 8 out of 10 for its academic environment. One of the standout qualities is its emphasis on critical inquiry and applied learning. Students are not simply expected to absorb information but are actively encouraged to question, reflect, and challenge existing frameworks. Research plays a central role, and intellectual discourse in classrooms is both rigorous and refreshingly diverse.

The university fosters a truly international atmosphere, which adds a valuable layer of perspective to legal discussions, particularly in my field. The faculty comprises individuals who are not only subject-matter experts but also well-connected to ongoing global developments in law and technology. Their approachability and willingness to engage with students make a noticeable difference.

There is a well-thought-out academic structure in place, with a balance between theoretical grounding and real-world relevance. Students receive substantial institutional support, whether academic, administrative, or personal, and there are ample co-curricular opportunities, from student-led conferences to legal clinics and public lectures.

In addition, the university makes excellent use of digital platforms and tools, which enhances the learning experience. Peer engagement is high, a very international classroom, the environment is competitive in the best sense, and overall, it is a place that cultivates both depth and perspective in its graduates.

How Does Utrecht University Support International Students?

The university provides a wide range of support systems for international students. From the moment I arrived, I found clear guidance on administrative matters such as visa applications, insurance registration, and municipal documentation. These things can be overwhelming when you are new to a country, but the university makes the process manageable.

Although student housing in the Netherlands is competitive, Utrecht University sets aside a number of furnished rooms for international students through its housing partners. In addition, the Dutch government offers certain financial allowances that international students can apply for, depending on their circumstances, which can ease the burden of monthly expenses.

Beyond logistics, the student life here is incredibly vibrant. There are many active student associations across fields of study, sports, and culture. These groups create space for meaningful friendships and exposure to different worldviews. I found it easy to connect with people who shared my interests, but also with those whose backgrounds were completely different from mine.

The campus itself is full of activity. There is always something happening, whether it is a guest lecture, a student-led event, or simply people gathering in common spaces. It is an environment where international students can thrive, not only as learners but as individuals finding their place in a new culture.

Are Your Classes Conducted in English or Dutch?

All of my classes are conducted in English. The program is designed specifically for international students, so both the instruction and course materials are entirely in English. This makes it accessible to a global student body and encourages diverse classroom discussions without language barriers.

Would Potential Students Have Any Problems Academically, Not Knowing Dutch?

Not at all. The Netherlands has some of the highest English proficiency in the world among non-English speaking countries. Most people, including university staff, fellow students, and even those you meet in daily life, speak English fluently and are comfortable switching to it without hesitation. Academically, all materials, lectures, and communication within international programs are in English, so not knowing Dutch does not create any obstacles in the classroom. While learning the local language can certainly enrich your experience, it is by no means essential for academic success here.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe what made my application stand out was a combination of strong academic performance, a solid legal foundation, and a clear sense of direction. My university background, especially the range of academic and extracurricular activities I pursued during law school, reflected both commitment and curiosity. I had been consistently involved in research, mooting, debating, and volunteer work, all of which added depth to my profile.

Beyond that, I spent a great deal of time refining each part of my application. From the motivation letter to the CV, everything was tailored carefully to reflect not just what I had done, but also why I was choosing this path and how it aligned with my future goals. I think that clarity of purpose, along with honest storytelling, made a strong impression.

What Would You Have Done Differently if You Were Going Through the Process Again?

Honestly, I would not change much. The process, with all its ups and downs, taught me a lot. I approached it with clarity, did my research thoroughly, and stayed true to what I wanted to pursue. Even the small challenges along the way helped me grow, so I would not take any of it back.

What Advice Would You Give Those Looking to Apply for a Similar Scholarship?

If I had to give one piece of advice, it would be this: clarity is everything. Be very clear about who you are, what you have done, and where you are going, and then make sure your application reflects that. Do not feel pressured to squeeze everything into two pages if that means leaving out meaningful parts of your journey. I did not limit my CV, and I think that helped present a fuller picture of my work and potential.

Take your time with the motivation letter. Make it detailed, thoughtful, and honest. Walk the reader through your story, from your academic background to your future goals, and explain how the program and the university fit into that journey. The more connected and aligned everything feels, the stronger your application will come across. Show them that this is not a random choice, but a well-considered step toward something larger.