If you’ve ever dreamed of studying in Europe without worrying about tuition or living expenses. I have good news for you, the VLIR-UOS Scholarships 2026 in Belgium are a golden opportunity. Many students from developing countries face these financial barriers that stop them from pursuing international education.
The ICP Connect Scholarship is fully funded. It is open to students from 30 developing countries, offering them the chance to study bachelor’s and master’s programs in Belgium. This scholarship does more than support education. It helps students become leaders who bring positive change to their home countries and the world.
It covers full tuition, travel, insurance, and living expenses. The VLIR-UOS Scholarships 2026 make your dream of studying in Europe not just possible but fully supported.
Here in this article, you will get complete details about this scholarship. Let’s keep an eye on it.
About VLIR-UOS Scholarships 2026
The VLIR-UOS ICP Connect Scholarship is offered to students from developing countries across Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Half of the scholarships are reserved for African students, and preference is given to women to promote gender equality.
These scholarships support bachelor’s, initial master’s, and advanced master’s programs.
All courses are taught in English, and students receive full funding for their entire program. Scholars are encouraged to apply their knowledge for positive change in their home countries after completing their studies.
Selection criteria are highly competitive and based on:
- Motivation
- Professional experience
- “Leave No One Behind” (LNOB) principles
- Gender balance
- Regional balance
- Previous scholarship awards
Let’s check the quick highlights
| Scholarship Name | VLIR-UOS Scholarships 2026 (ICP Connect) |
| Programs | Bachelor’s, Initial Master, Advanced Master |
| Duration | Bachelor: 3 yrs, Initial Master: 2 yrs, Advanced Master: 1 yr |
| Location | Belgium (Flanders) |
| Financial Coverage | Fully funded: tuition, travel, insurance, living expenses |
| Eligible Regions | Africa, Asia, Latin America (30 developing countries) |
| Language | English |
| Eligibility | Professional experience or strong motivation; women preferred |
| Deadline | Varies by program |
Eligible programs under VLIR-UOS Scholarships 2026
Professional Bachelors (3 years):
- Bachelor of Hotel Management
- Bachelor of Applied Computer Science
Initial Master’s (2 years):
- Master of Epidemiology
- International Master of Science in Rural Development (IMRD)
- Master of Science in Marine and Lacustrine Science and Management
- Master’s in Sustainable Development
- International Master of Science in Agro- and Environmental Nematology
- Master of Water Resources Engineering (WRE)
- Master of Science in Food Technology
- Master of Statistics and Data Science
- Master of Science in Sustainable Land Management
- Master of Transportation Sciences – Road Safety
- Master of Science in Nutrition and Food Systems
- Master of Science in Tropical Biodiversity and Ecosystems (TROPIMUNDO)
- Master of Aquaculture (IMAQUA)
Advanced Master (1 year):
- Master of Development Evaluation and Management
- Master of Globalisation and Development
- Master of Human Settlements
- Master of Governance and Development
- Master of Cultural Anthropology and Development Studies (CADES)
Who can apply?
- Applicants must hold nationality from one of the 30 eligible countries and reside there at the time of application.
- Applicants must have professional experience in higher education, civil society, or government. New graduates or private-sector professionals may also apply if highly motivated.
- Age limits:
- For bachelor’s/initial master’s, the age must be less than 35 years (bachelor’s must be ≥19).
- For the advanced masters, the age must be less than 45 years.
- Only one ICP Connect scholarship per year is allowed.
- Applicants cannot have received a previous Belgian government scholarship or be enrolled at a Belgian institution before 1 January 2026.
What You’ll Learn
- Gain in-depth knowledge in your chosen academic field.
- Develop leadership and problem-solving skills.
- Improve English-language proficiency and intercultural skills.
- Engage in international networking opportunities.
- Learn to apply knowledge for societal change in your home country.
- Access hands-on training and real-world applications through projects and research.
Career Opportunities after this program
Completing a VLIR-UOS ICP Connect program can lead to career opportunities such as the following:
- Development Policy Analyst
- Public Sector Manager
- Environmental or Agricultural Scientist
- Health & Nutrition Expert
- NGO or Civil Society Leader
Also Read: Erasmus Mundus MemBioMed Scholarship 2026 in Europe
Special Benefits of VLIR-UOS Scholarships 2026
- Tuition fully covered
- Living expenses (board and lodging)
- Study in Belgium for free
- Travel allowance for international students
- Insurance coverage
- Become a change agent in your home country
Also read: Turkey Government Scholarship 2026
Pro Tips for Learners
- Start your application early and tailor your motivation letter.
- Focus on leadership and societal impact in your essays.
- Gain some professional or volunteer experience before applying.
- Research your program thoroughly and select universities wisely.
- Connect with alumni for guidance and networking.
How to Apply for VLIR-UOS Scholarships 2026
- Visit the program’s official website and follow the application instructions.
- Apply for both the program and the VLIR-UOS scholarship simultaneously.
- Apply to only one ICP program per year.
- Wait for selection emails, usually by mid-June.
FAQs
Who is eligible for VLIR-UOS Scholarships?
Students from 30 developing countries with professional experience or strong motivation.
Is it fully funded?
Yes, tuition, travel, insurance, and living expenses are covered.
Can women apply?
Yes, women applicants are preferred.
How long are the scholarships?
Bachelor: 3 years; Initial Master: 2 years; Advanced Master: 1 year.
Are programs taught in English?
Yes, all ICP Connect programs are in English.
Is there a separate scholarship deadline?
No, check program-specific deadlines as per your choice.