The ARES Belgium Scholarship 2026, formally known as the ARES International Training Scholarships, is a fully funded scholarship programme offered by the Academy for Research and Higher Education (ARES) under Belgium’s Wallonia-Brussels Federation. This scholarship enables eligible candidates from partner countries to pursue advanced studies or continuing education in Belgium at accredited institutions, with the aim of strengthening skills for development and professional impact.

Belgium is a central European country renowned for its high-quality education system, multicultural society, and strong academic institutions within the Wallonia-Brussels Federation. Studying here exposes international students to world-class research, diverse perspectives, and strategic professional networks, making Belgium a compelling destination for global learners.

ARES Belgium Scholarship Summary

Overview of the Scholarship

The ARES Belgium Scholarship offers fully funded opportunities to pursue specialized bachelor’s or master’s degrees, or short continuing training programmes in Belgium, with extensive financial support to cover study, living, travel, and insurance costs.

Eligibility for ARES Belgium Scholarship

General Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for this scholarship, candidates must:

1. Be citizens and permanent residents of one of the 31 ARES partner countries (includes countries in Africa, South America, Southeast Asia, and the Palestinian Territories).
2. Hold the required academic qualifications appropriate to the programme:
   • Bachelor’s: degree equivalent to first-cycle diploma
   • Master’s and continuing training: degree equivalent to second-cycle diploma
3. Have at least 2 years of professional experience relevant to the programme.
4. Meet the age limit (often under 40 for degree programmes and under 45 for short training courses).

Program-Specific Requirements

• Meet language requirements in French or English depending on programme language.
• Be prepared to return to home country to contribute to its development post-scholarship.

Benefits of the ARES Belgium Scholarship

Financial Benefits

• Full coverage of tuition fees (for degrees)
• Living allowance during the study period
• Travel costs covered (round-trip airfare)
• Insurance throughout the programme duration
• Visa fee support for degree programmes

Academic and Professional Benefits

• Study at high-quality Belgian institutions in fields relevant to development.
• Gain international experience and intercultural exposure.
• Build professional networks across sectors and regions.
• Skills and knowledge to contribute to home-country development.

Documents Required for the ARES Belgium Scholarship

Applicants must prepare and submit the following during application:

Required Documents

• Valid Passport/Identification
• Academic Transcripts and Diplomas
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Motivation Letter
• Two Letters of Recommendation
• Proof of Professional Experience
• Language Proficiency Proof (if required)

How to Apply for the ARES Belgium Scholarship

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Visit the official ARES GIRAF applications platform.
2. Create an account if new or log in if existing.
3. Select “International Training 2026-2027” competitive call.
4. Complete the online application form carefully.
5. Upload all required documents.
6. Review and submit before the deadline.

Application Tips

• Start documents early to avoid last-minute issues.
• Ensure translations if documents aren’t in French or English.
• Demonstrate impact and career goals clearly in motivation letter.
• Only one application per candidate is allowed per call.

Deadline for the ARES Belgium Scholarship

The application period usually follows a fixed annual schedule.

• Deadlines usually fall in September

Applicants should monitor deadlines closely and avoid last-minute submissions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)