Belgium has become an increasingly popular study destination for international students, especially those seeking high-quality education in English. Known for its multilingual culture, advanced research institutions, and strategic location in the heart of Europe, Belgium offers an excellent academic environment for students from all over the world. The country is home to top-ranked universities such as KU Leuven, Ghent University, Université catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), and Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), many of which provide a wide range of English-taught bachelor’s and master’s programs.
However, studying abroad often comes with financial challenges. Tuition fees, accommodation, health insurance, and daily living costs can be expensive for international students. To support talented students, Belgium provides various scholarship opportunities for English-taught programs through government initiatives, universities, and international organizations.
This article provides a complete guide to scholarships in Belgium for English-taught programs, including major funding options, eligibility requirements, benefits, and application tips.
Why Study an English-Taught Program in Belgium?
Belgium is one of the most attractive European countries for international students because of its strong academic reputation and multicultural environment. Although Belgium has three official languages—Dutch, French, and German—many universities offer programs fully taught in English, especially at the master’s and PhD levels.
English-taught programs in Belgium are designed to attract global talent and prepare graduates for international careers. Students benefit from modern teaching methods, research-based learning, and strong connections to European institutions and industries.
Another major advantage is Belgium’s central location. Students can easily travel to neighboring countries such as France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg, making Belgium an excellent base for academic and cultural exploration.
Tuition Fees and Living Costs in Belgium
Before exploring scholarships, it is important to understand the general costs of studying in Belgium. Tuition fees are relatively affordable compared to countries like the UK or the USA, but they still represent a major expense for many international students.
Tuition Fees
- EU/EEA students typically pay between €800 and €1,200 per year.
- Non-EU/EEA international students may pay between €2,000 and €6,000 per year, depending on the university and program.
Living Costs
International students in Belgium generally spend around €900 to €1,400 per month, covering accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses. Cities like Brussels and Antwerp tend to be more expensive than smaller student towns.
Scholarships play a key role in helping students manage these costs.
Major Scholarships in Belgium for English-Taught Programs
Belgium offers several well-known scholarships specifically designed for international students studying in English-taught programs.
1. VLIR-UOS Scholarships (Flanders Region)
The VLIR-UOS Scholarship Program is one of the most popular scholarship opportunities in Belgium. It is offered in the Flemish region and supports students from developing countries who wish to pursue master’s programs or training programs taught in English.
Benefits
VLIR-UOS scholarships are fully funded and usually cover:
- Full tuition fees
- Travel costs
- Monthly living allowance
- Accommodation support
- Health insurance
- Study-related expenses
Eligibility
Applicants must usually:
- Come from an eligible developing country
- Apply to a selected English-taught master’s program in Flanders
- Have a strong academic record and motivation
This scholarship is highly competitive, but it is one of the best options for students who need full financial support.
2. Belgian Government Scholarships (ARES Scholarships)
The ARES Scholarship Program is funded by the Belgian government and supports students from developing countries who want to study in the French-speaking region of Belgium (Wallonia and Brussels).
Benefits
ARES scholarships typically include:
- Full tuition coverage
- Monthly allowance
- Accommodation support
- Medical insurance
- Travel expenses
Programs Covered
ARES scholarships are often available for master’s degrees and training courses in areas such as:
- Public health
- Agriculture
- Environmental science
- Development studies
- Engineering and technology
ARES scholarships are a strong choice for students looking for fully funded English-taught programs in the French-speaking universities of Belgium.
3. Erasmus Mundus Scholarships
Belgium participates in the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMD) program, which is one of the most prestigious scholarship opportunities in Europe. Erasmus Mundus scholarships allow students to study in multiple European countries, often including Belgium as one of the host destinations.
Benefits
Erasmus Mundus scholarships are fully funded and usually cover:
- Full tuition fees
- Travel costs
- Monthly stipend
- Insurance coverage
Advantage
The biggest advantage of Erasmus Mundus is that students gain experience studying in different European universities and earn a joint or multiple degree.
Belgian universities are part of many Erasmus Mundus programs, making this an excellent option for international students aiming for global exposure.
4. University Scholarships in Belgium
Many Belgian universities offer scholarships directly to international students, particularly for master’s and PhD programs taught in English.
KU Leuven Scholarships
KU Leuven is one of Europe’s top universities and offers several scholarship programs for international students, including merit-based scholarships for high-performing students.
Ghent University Scholarships
Ghent University provides scholarships for international master’s students, especially those with outstanding academic performance.
Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) Scholarships
VUB offers scholarships to international students pursuing English-taught master’s programs. Some scholarships cover tuition fees, while others include living allowances.
University of Antwerp Scholarships
The University of Antwerp offers scholarships for talented international students, including programs designed to attract excellent academic candidates.
University scholarships vary widely in terms of benefits and requirements, so students should always check the official university website for updated information.
5. Research and PhD Scholarships in Belgium
Belgium is known for its advanced research environment, and many PhD students receive funding through research grants, assistantships, or government-supported research institutions.
International PhD students can often receive:
- Full tuition coverage
- Monthly salary or stipend
- Research funding
- Support for conferences and publications
PhD scholarships are often linked to research projects, meaning students must apply through specific departments or professors.
Eligibility Requirements for Belgian Scholarships
Although requirements vary, most scholarship programs in Belgium consider the following factors:
Academic Excellence
Students must have strong academic performance, high grades, and a relevant educational background.
Language Proficiency
Since the programs are English-taught, students usually need proof of English proficiency through tests such as:
- IELTS
- TOEFL
- Cambridge English certificates
Motivation Letter and Career Goals
Most scholarship programs require a strong motivation letter explaining why the student wants to study in Belgium and how the degree will contribute to their future career.
Nationality Requirements
Many scholarships, especially VLIR-UOS and ARES, are restricted to students from specific developing countries.
How to Apply for Scholarships in Belgium
The application process usually includes the following steps:
- Choose an English-taught program at a Belgian university.
- Apply for admission to the university before the deadline.
- Prepare required documents, such as academic transcripts, passport copy, CV, recommendation letters, and language certificates.
- Submit a separate scholarship application if required.
- Attend interviews if the scholarship program includes a selection interview.
Students should start the process early, as scholarship deadlines often fall months before the academic year begins.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Winning a Scholarship
To improve scholarship success, students should follow these strategies:
- Apply early and follow all deadlines carefully
- Choose programs that match academic background and career goals
- Write a clear and powerful motivation letter
- Provide strong recommendation letters from professors or employers
- Highlight leadership skills, volunteering, or research achievements
- Apply to multiple scholarships to increase opportunities
A well-prepared application can significantly improve the chances of being selected.
Conclusion
Belgium offers excellent scholarship opportunities for international students pursuing English-taught programs. With major funding options such as VLIR-UOS, ARES, Erasmus Mundus, and university-specific scholarships, students can reduce or even fully cover tuition and living costs.