Are you dreaming of studying in Europe without worrying about tuition fees or living expenses?
The ARES Scholarships in Belgium 2026-27 are here to make that dream come true! This fully funded opportunity, offered by the Belgian Government, is designed for talented students from developing countries who want to pursue advanced bachelor’s, master’s, or continuing education programs in Belgium.
Belgium, known for its rich history, world-class education, and vibrant cultural life, offers international students the chance to study in one of Europe’s most peaceful and innovative countries.
The ARES Scholarship covers tuition fees, living allowance, travel costs, visa expenses, and even health insurance — so you can focus entirely on your studies. Whether you want to explore public health, economics, engineering, or social sciences, this scholarship gives you the resources and support to achieve your academic and career goals.
What makes this scholarship truly special is its open and inclusive nature. Students from various eligible developing countries can apply, regardless of their religion or race.
Women are especially encouraged to apply. Plus, all programs are taught in English, making it easier for international students to adapt.
Suppose you’re passionate about making a difference in your community, ready to experience life in a European country known for its architecture, chocolate, and role as the headquarters of the European Union and NATO. In that case, this is your sign — apply for the ARES Belgium Government Scholarship 2026 today!
About ARES Belgium Government Scholarships
The Academy for Research and Higher Education (ARES) is a federation of higher education institutions in Belgium that promotes international cooperation and education. Each year, ARES offers a limited number of fully funded scholarships to outstanding students from selected developing countries.
These scholarships not only cover academic expenses but also aim to empower future leaders who can return to their countries and create meaningful change.
The programs are short and practical — 1 year for advanced bachelor’s and master’s degrees, and 2 to 6 months for continuing education courses — ensuring students can quickly apply their knowledge in real-world settings.
Quick Highlights – ARES Belgium Scholarship 2026-27
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Host Country | Belgium |
| Scholarship Type | Fully Funded |
| Programs Offered | Advanced Bachelor’s, Advanced Master’s, Continuing Education |
| Eligible Countries | 31 Developing Countries (List Below) |
| Duration | 1 year (Degree) / 2-6 months (Training) |
| Financial Coverage | Tuition, Airfare, Living Allowance, Visa, Insurance |
| Deadline | 19 September 2025 |
Important Dates
| Application Status | On Going |
| Deadline | 19 September 2025 |
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Programs Offered by ARES Belgium Scholarship
Advanced Bachelor’s Program
- Bachelor of Specialization in Business Data Analysis
Advanced Master’s Programs
- Master’s in Human Rights
- Integrated Management of Health Risks
- Public Health Methodology
- Water–Energy–Food Nexus
- Transport & Logistics
- International & Development Economics
- Microfinance
- Social Innovation Design
- Risk & Disaster Management in the Anthropocene Era
- Public Health Sciences – Analysis & Evaluation of International Health Policies, Programs, and Systems
For Advanced Continuing Education Programs:
- University Certificate in Data Science for Global Health
- Transitional Justice
- Digital University Pedagogy
- Human Dimensions of Change Projects in Sustainable Development
- Open-Source Geographic Information Systems
- Quality Assurance & Control of Medicines and Health Products
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ARES Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the ARES Scholarship 2026, you must:-
- Be a citizen of one of the eligible countries: Burkina Faso, Benin, Bolivia, Burundi, Cambodia, Cameroon, Cuba, DR Congo, Ethiopia, Ecuador, Haiti, Kenya, Indonesia, Madagascar, Mozambique, Morocco, Nepal, Niger, Philippines, Peru, Rwanda, Guinea, Senegal, South Africa, Tunisia, Tanzania, Uganda, Vietnam, Mali, Palestinian Territory, Zimbabwe.
- Be proficient in the language of instruction (English).
- Apply for only one course.
- Women are strongly encouraged to apply.
- Have at least 2 years of relevant professional experience.
- Meet the academic requirements (undergraduate degree for advanced bachelor’s; graduate degree for advanced master’s).
ARES Scholarship Benefits
This is a fully funded scholarship, meaning it covers:-
- Round-trip airfare (economy class)
- Medical insurance
- Living allowance (amount varies by course)
- Visa fee support (if the cost exceeds €200 for master’s students)
- Full tuition fee coverage
- Travel expenses (with receipts)
Selection Criteria of ARES Scholarship
- Academic excellence
- Potential to create a positive impact in the applicant’s home country
- Relevant work experience
- Applicants must not have received a Belgiam scholarship before
ARES Scholarship Required Documents
- Certified copies of degrees & transcripts
- Proof of nationality (passport copy)
- Proof of occupation (last 5 years)
- 2 recommendation letters (academic/professional)
- Pre-project proposal (for certain courses)
How to Apply
- First of all, create a GIRAF account and confirm via email.
- Access the application form in the “My Task” section.
- Now, complete the form and upload all required documents.
- Submit before the deadline: 19 September 2025.
FAQs
Can I apply for more than one course?
No, applicants can only apply for one program per year.
Is the scholarship only for students from Africa?
No, it is open to 31 eligible developing countries from different regions.
Do I need IELTS or TOEFL?
Not necessarily, but you must prove you can follow the program in English.
Do I have to return to my country after completion?
Yes, as this scholarship is aimed at capacity building in your home country.