Scholarships in Belgium for International Students 2026 (Fully Funded). Apply for fully funded scholarships here. Belgium is one of the best destinations in Europe for international students. Known for its high-quality education, diverse culture, and central European location, Belgium offers fully funded and partially funded scholarships for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programmes.
Scholarship Details
- Host Country: Belgium
- Degree Levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
- Scholarship Coverage: Fully Funded & Partially Funded
- Eligible Nationalities: All International Students
- Application Deadline: Varies by program (mostly between January and May 2026)
The Scholarships in Belgium for International Students 2026 provide opportunities for talented students worldwide to study at top Belgian universities at little or no cost. These scholarships are supported by the Belgian government, universities, and international organisations.
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Scholarship Coverage
Most scholarships in Belgium provide generous funding, which may include:
- Full or partial tuition fee coverage
- Monthly living allowance
- Free or subsidized accommodation
- Health insurance
- Travel costs (airfare)
- Research and study expenses
Types of Scholarships in Belgium
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Government Scholarships
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ARES Scholarships (Académie de Recherche et d’Enseignement Supérieur) – For master’s and training courses.
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VLIR-UOS Scholarships – For students from developing countries in specific partner regions.
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University-Specific Scholarships
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KU Leuven Scholarships
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Ghent University Scholarships
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Université Libre de Bruxelles Scholarships
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Hasselt University Scholarships
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Erasmus+ Scholarships
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Funded by the European Union, available for joint Master’s programmes.
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Research Scholarships
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PhD and postdoctoral opportunities funded by Belgian universities or research councils.
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Eligibility Criteria (Explained Simply)
The requirements are straightforward and depend on the type of scholarship, but generally:
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Applicants must be of any nationality outside Belgium.
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Must have completed the required previous degree:
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High school diploma for Bachelor’s
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Bachelor’s degree for Master’s
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Master’s degree for PhD
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Strong academic record.
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English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL) is usually required; some programmes may accept French or Dutch.
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Age limits apply for certain scholarships (for example, under 35 for ARES Master’s scholarships).
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Motivation and commitment to contribute to home country development are often considered.
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Required Documents
- Completed online application form
- Valid passport copy
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Updated CV / Resume
- Motivation letter or statement of purpose
- Letters of recommendation (2–3)
- Proof of English or French/Dutch language proficiency
- Passport-size photographs
- Research proposal (for PhD applicants)
Application Process
- Choose a Scholarship Programme – Decide whether to apply for a government scholarship, Erasmus+, or a university-specific award.
- Check Eligibility – Carefully review the requirements for your chosen scholarship.
- Prepare Documents – Gather all documents in advance (translated if necessary).
- Apply Online – Submit applications through the official scholarship or university portals.
- Selection Process – Shortlisted candidates may be interviewed or asked for additional documents.
- Receive Admission & Scholarship Offer – Successful applicants will be notified via email.
- Apply for a Visa – Use your scholarship and admission letter to apply for a Belgian student visa.
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Important Dates
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Applications Open: September 2025 onward (varies by program)
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Deadlines: Usually between January and May 2026
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Academic Year Start: September/October 2026
FAQs
Q: Are scholarships in Belgium fully funded?
Yes, many scholarships like ARES and VLIR-UOS are fully funded, covering tuition, living, and travel.
Q: Do I need IELTS/TOEFL to apply?
Yes, for most English-taught programmes, proof of English proficiency is required. However, some universities may waive it if your previous education was in English.
Q: Can I apply to more than one scholarship?
Yes, you can apply to multiple scholarships and universities to increase your chances.
Q: What languages are used in Belgium?
Belgium has Dutch, French, and German as official languages. However, many master’s and PhD programmes are taught in English.
Q: Is work allowed during studies?
Yes, international students in Belgium are allowed to work part-time during their studies.
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Conclusion
The Scholarships in Belgium for International Students 2026 provide excellent opportunities to study in one of Europe’s most welcoming and academically strong countries. With fully funded scholarships covering tuition, accommodation, living, and travel costs, Belgium makes higher education affordable for students worldwide.
If you are planning to study abroad in 2026, Belgium is a fantastic option. Start preparing your documents early and apply to maximise your chances!
1. KU Leuven Scholarship
- Institution: The Katholieke Universiteit Leuven
- Level of Study: Masters
- Official website
2. ARES Scholarships
- Institution: ARES
- Level of Study: Undergraduate/Masters/Training
- Official Website
3. Vrije Universiteit Brussel Scholarships
- Institution: Vrije Universiteit Brussel
- Level of Study: Masters
- Official Website
4. Government of Flanders Master Mind Scholarships
- Institution: Various
- Level of Study: Masters
- Official Website
5. Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program
- Institution: Newcastle University
- Level of Study: Masters
6. Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program
- Institution: World Bank
- Level of Study: PhD
- Official Website
7. IMU Breakout Graduate Fellowship Program
- Institution: International Mathematical Union
- Level of Study: PhD
- Official Website
8. Schlumberger Foundation Faculty for the Future Fellowships
- Institution: Leading universities worldwide
- Level of Study: PhD (Doctoral) / Postdoctoral
- Official Website
9. Aga Khan Foundation Scholarships
- Institution: Any highly reputable university except universities in UK, Germany, Sweden, Austria, Denmark, Netherlands, Italy, Norway and Ireland
- Level of Study: Masters / PhD
- Official Website
10. Human Frontier Science Program Postdoctoral Fellowships
- Institution: Human Frontier Science Program
- Level of Study: Postdoctoral
- Official Website
11. IIE-SRF Fellowship
- Institution: IIE-SRF
- Level of Study: PhD
- Official Website
12. Facebook PhD Fellowship
- Institution: An accredited university in any country
- Level of Study: PhD
- Official Website
