√Scholarships in Belgium for Non-EU Students: Everything You Need to Know

Belgium, a small but culturally rich country in Western Europe, is home to world-class universities, international organizations, and diverse student communities. For many non-EU students, studying in Belgium might seem expensive at first glance — but the good news is, there are numerous scholarships and funding opportunities available to help you study there without financial stress.

This guide will walk you through the best scholarships in Belgium for non-EU students, the eligibility criteria, and how to apply successfully. Whether you dream of pursuing a bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD, Belgium offers accessible and high-quality education for all.

Why Study in Belgium?

Before diving into the scholarship options, let’s explore why Belgium is one of Europe’s most underrated yet affordable study destinations:

1. High-Quality Education:
   Belgian universities like KU Leuven, Ghent University, and Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain) consistently rank among Europe’s top institutions.

2. Multilingual Environment:
   Many degree programs are taught in English, especially at the postgraduate level, making it ideal for international learners.

3. Cultural Diversity:
   Belgium is home to major European institutions (like the EU and NATO), giving students exposure to global perspectives.

4. Affordable Living Costs:
   Compared to other European countries like France or the Netherlands, Belgium’s cost of living and tuition fees are relatively reasonable.

5. Strong Research Focus:
   The country invests heavily in innovation and research, offering international students great opportunities to work on global-impact projects.

Top Scholarships for Non-EU Students in Belgium

Here’s a breakdown of the most reputable scholarships for non-EU students looking to study in Belgium in 2025 and beyond:

1. ARES Scholarships (Academy of Research and Higher Education)

The ARES Scholarship program is one of the most well-known opportunities for students from developing countries to study in Belgium.

Key Details:

• Eligibility: Open to students from developing countries recognized by ARES.

• Level: Master’s and short training programs.

• Benefits: Covers tuition fees, travel expenses, living allowance, insurance, and housing.

• Deadline: Typically opens around November and closes by February each year.

Why it’s great:
It’s a fully funded scholarship — meaning you won’t have to worry about any major expenses while studying.

2. VLIR-UOS Scholarships

The VLIR-UOS program supports students from specific regions in Africa, Asia, and Latin America who wish to pursue a master’s program in Flanders (the Dutch-speaking region of Belgium).

Key Details:

• Eligibility: Non-EU students from eligible developing countries.

• Level: Master’s and short training programs.

• Benefits: Full tuition, accommodation, travel, and daily living allowance.

• Participating Universities: KU Leuven, Ghent University, Hasselt University, and University of Antwerp.

Why it’s great:
VLIR-UOS is known for prioritizing students who aim to make a social or economic impact in their home countries.

3. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees

While Erasmus Mundus is an EU-funded program, non-EU students are highly encouraged to apply and often receive priority funding.

Key Details:

• Eligibility: Open to students worldwide.

• Level: Master’s programs offered jointly by multiple European universities, including Belgian institutions.

• Benefits: Tuition fees, travel, installation costs, and monthly allowance.

Why it’s great:
You can study in two or more European countries, often including a semester in Belgium.

4. Master Mind Scholarships (Government of Flanders)

The Master Mind Scholarship aims to attract outstanding international students to pursue master’s degrees in Flanders.

Key Details:

• Eligibility: Open to non-EU students with excellent academic results.

• Level: Master’s degree.

• Benefits: €9,600 per academic year + tuition fee waiver.

• Participating Institutions: KU Leuven, Ghent University, University of Antwerp, LUCA School of Arts, and more.

Why it’s great:
It’s designed for high-performing students and recognized globally for its prestige.

5. Belgian American Educational Foundation (BAEF) Fellowships

Although primarily targeted at U.S. students, this fellowship is worth noting because of its generous support and strong academic ties.

Key Details:

• Eligibility: U.S. nationals or permanent residents.

• Level: Master’s, PhD, or research.

• Benefits: Monthly stipend, travel grants, and research funding.

Why it’s great:
It’s perfect for research-based programs or advanced studies in Belgian institutions.

Other University-Specific Scholarships in Belgium

Several Belgian universities also offer institutional scholarships that are open to non-EU students. Some of the best include:

1. KU Leuven Scholarship for International Students – full or partial tuition coverage for graduate students.

2. Ghent University Top-Up Grants – for exceptional students from developing countries.

3. Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB) Scholarships – supports non-EU students pursuing master’s or PhD degrees.

4. UCLouvain International Scholarships – based on academic merit and research potential.

Eligibility Requirements

Although each scholarship has its own specific criteria, most require the following:

• A non-EU citizenship

• Strong academic record

• Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent)

• A motivation letter or statement of purpose

• Academic references or letters of recommendation

• Admission or conditional offer from a recognized Belgian university

Pro Tip: Some scholarships, such as ARES or VLIR-UOS, prioritize applicants who can show a clear plan to contribute to development in their home country after graduation.

How to Apply for Scholarships in Belgium

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the application process:

1. Research Available Scholarships:
   Start early! Visit the official websites of ARES, VLIR-UOS, or your target university to find deadlines and eligibility details.

2. Choose the Right Program:
   Focus on programs that align with your academic goals and background.

3. Prepare Required Documents:
   Typically includes transcripts, CV, English test scores, recommendation letters, and a motivation essay.

4. Apply for University Admission First:
   Many scholarships require you to secure a conditional offer of admission before applying for funding.

5. Submit Scholarship Application:
   Follow the official online application portals and double-check submission deadlines.

6. Prepare for Interviews (if required):
   Some scholarships may require interviews or written assessments to evaluate your motivation and potential.

Living and Studying in Belgium

Once accepted, here’s what you can expect as an international student in Belgium:

• Language: English is widely spoken in academic settings, though learning French or Dutch can enhance your experience.

• Cost of Living: Around €800–€1,200 per month (depending on city).

• Student Life: Belgium has vibrant campuses, historical landmarks, and easy access to other European countries like France, Germany, and the Netherlands.

Conclusion

Studying in Belgium is a dream come true for many non-EU students — and with the abundance of scholarships available, that dream can easily become a reality. From fully funded programs like ARES and VLIR-UOS to prestigious merit-based awards such as Master Mind Scholarships, Belgium provides a welcoming environment for global learners.

By preparing early, meeting the eligibility criteria, and crafting a strong application, you can secure the funding you need and begin your academic journey in the heart of Europe.