Study in Belgium - Apply now for the fully funded Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships 2026-2027 for International students
For high-achieving scholars from developing countries who wish to make a significant impact in the world of science, an exceptional opportunity has been announced. Applications are now open for the Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships 2026, a fully funded program for international students who want to pursue their doctoral studies in Europe for free. This scholarship is designed to attract brilliant minds from all over the world, offering them a chance to join a diverse and dynamic community of researchers.
This prestigious Belgium scholarship provides a unique "North-South" research model. This fully funded doctoral scholarship will enable students to pursue half of their research at Ghent University in Belgium (the "North") and half at a university in their home country or another developing country (the "South"). Consequently, this program is designed to broaden your knowledge, allowing you to participate in vital research activities while receiving guidance from top experts in both locations.
Scholarship Details at a Glance
- Host Country: Belgium (and a university in a developing country)
- Host University: Ghent University
- Degree Level: Doctoral (PhD)
- Financial Benefits: Fully Funded (Tuition Waiver + Stipends)
- Eligible Countries: Developing Countries
- Deadline: January 16, 2026
Comprehensive Financial Benefits
The Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships are designed to provide significant financial support to doctoral students, allowing them to focus on their groundbreaking research.
- Tuition Fee Waiver: A full tuition fee waiver for the 24 months of research conducted at Ghent University will be provided.
- Research Allowance: A monthly expense allowance of €310 will be provided for research-related costs.
- Travel Budget: In addition, a substantial travel budget of approximately €8,000 is provided to cover the costs of the North-South mobility.
- Opportunity to Study in Europe: Furthermore, this is an excellent opportunity for international students to conduct high-level research at a top-ranked European university.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for this unique PhD scholarship, a specific set of criteria must be met by all applicants.
- Applicants must be citizens of and originate from one of the developing countries listed on the official website.
- A joint research proposal must be submitted, which includes a supervisor from Ghent University and a supervisor from the partner university in the South.
- Only students who intend to obtain a joint PhD degree at Ghent University (and the partner university) are eligible.
- Applicants must be at the very beginning of their PhD studies. You must have a minimum of 36 months of doctoral research remaining at the start of the program.
- The first research stay at Ghent University must start between October 1, 2026, and February 28, 2027.
- Female applicants are strongly encouraged to apply.
- Exchange students are not eligible to apply for this scholarship.
How to Apply
The application process for the Ghent University PhD scholarship is conducted online and submitted via email.
- To begin, you must find a professor at Ghent University to act as your supervisor for the joint PhD proposal.
- The application form must be filled out completely in English.
- The completed application must be submitted by the Ghent University supervisor via email to BOFapplication@ugent.be.
- In addition to the main application form, the supervisor must also submit two crucial documents:
- Advice on the applicant, stating the supervisor's opinion on your capability as a future researcher.
- Advice on the ethical and biosafety context of the proposed research project.
- All applications and supporting documents must be submitted before the deadline.
The results of the selection will be announced starting on May 20, 2026. Do not miss this chance to start your research career and make a difference in the world.