Belgium is home to some of the world’s most respected universities and research institutions, offering high-quality education and a vibrant multicultural experience. International students interested in studying in Belgium can benefit from numerous scholarship opportunities provided by the Belgian government, universities, and international organisations. Here are the top 10 scholarships in Belgium for international students for the 2024-2025 academic year.
1. VLIR-UOS Scholarships
The VLIR-UOS Scholarships are awarded to students from developing countries to pursue training and master’s programmes at Flemish universities in Belgium. These scholarships aim to support students who will contribute to the development of their home countries upon graduation.
Key Benefits:
- Full tuition coverage.
- Monthly living allowance.
- Accommodation, travel costs, and insurance are covered.
- Open to students from 31 eligible countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
2. ARES Scholarships
The ARES Scholarships are aimed at students from developing countries who want to pursue a master’s degree or short-term training programme in Belgium. The program is funded by ARES (Académie de Recherche et d’Enseignement Supérieur) and focuses on fields related to development.
Key Benefits:
- Full tuition waiver.
- Monthly living allowance.
- Travel expenses and insurance.
- Available for students from developing countries, particularly in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
3. Master Mind Scholarships
The Master Mind Scholarships program, offered by the Flemish Ministry of Education, is designed for highly talented international students who want to pursue a master’s degree in Flanders, Belgium. This scholarship is awarded based on academic excellence.
Key Benefits:
- A grant of €8,400 per academic year.
- Tuition fee reduction (students only pay a small registration fee).
- Open to students from all countries.
4. Belgian Government Scholarships for International Students
The Belgian Government Scholarships, known as ARES Scholarships, are offered to international students from developing countries to study at Belgian universities. These scholarships are available for master’s degrees and advanced training courses.
Key Benefits:
- Full tuition waiver.
- Monthly living allowance.
- Travel and accommodation expenses.
- Open to students from developing countries with a focus on development-related fields.
5. Ghent University Top-up Grants
Ghent University offers Top-up Grants for outstanding students from developing countries who wish to pursue a master’s programme at the university. The programme is designed to provide financial assistance to students who demonstrate strong academic potential.
Key Benefits:
- Monthly stipend of €1,000.
- Full tuition fee waiver.
- Open to students from developing countries.
6. KU Leuven IRO Scholarships
The KU Leuven IRO Scholarships are provided to promising Ph.D. students from developing countries to pursue doctoral research at KU Leuven, one of Belgium’s top universities. This programme aims to contribute to the development of the students’ home countries.
Key Benefits:
- Full tuition waiver for the duration of the Ph.D. programme.
- Monthly living allowance and health insurance.
- Travel costs covered.
- Open to students from developing countries.
7. ULiège Scholarships for International Students
The University of Liège (ULiège) offers scholarships to international students pursuing master’s or Ph.D. programmes. These scholarships are awarded to students based on academic excellence and leadership potential.
Key Benefits:
- Full or partial tuition fee waivers.
- Stipend for living expenses.
- Open to students from all over the world.
8. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMDs)
The Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMDs) offer fully funded scholarships for students from around the world to study in Europe, including at several universities in Belgium. These programmes allow students to study in multiple European countries as part of their degree.
Key Benefits:
- Full tuition coverage.
- Monthly stipend for living expenses.
- Travel and installation allowance.
- Open to students from all nationalities.
9. Science@Leuven Scholarships
KU Leuven offers the Science@Leuven Scholarships for outstanding international students who wish to pursue a Master of Science programme at KU Leuven. These scholarships are highly competitive and based on academic merit.
Key Benefits:
- Full tuition fee waiver.
- Living expenses are partially covered.
- Open to international students with a strong academic record in science and technology.
10. Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) Scholarships
The Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) offers various scholarships for international students at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. These scholarships are awarded based on academic merit and financial need.
Key Benefits:
- Full or partial tuition waivers.
- Monthly living allowance and accommodation support.
- Open to students from developing countries and other international applicants.
Conclusion
Belgium offers a range of scholarships for international students that make studying in this diverse and dynamic country more accessible. These top 10 scholarships in Belgium provide financial support for students across various fields of study, from undergraduate to Ph.D. programmes. Whether you are from a developing country or seeking merit-based awards, Belgium’s scholarships can help you achieve your educational and professional goals. Start exploring these opportunities and apply early to maximise your chances of securing a scholarship!
