Scholarships in Belgium Without IELTS are becoming very popular among international students who want to study in Europe without taking the IELTS exam. Belgium offers high quality education, affordable tuition fees, and many funded scholarship programs. The good news is that many Belgian universities do not strictly require IELTS. Instead, they accept alternatives like a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter, previous English-taught degree proof, Duolingo, TOEFL, or internal interviews.
Every year, thousands of students choose Belgium because it is home to top ranked universities, a multicultural environment, and strong research opportunities. Scholarships are available for Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD, and training programs. Many of them cover tuition fees, monthly stipends, accommodation, and travel costs.
If you plan carefully and follow the correct steps, you can secure Scholarships in Belgium Without IELTS easily. This guide explains everything clearly, including available scholarships, eligibility, and the exact application process.
What “Without IELTS” Really Means
IELTS is not always mandatory
When universities say “without IELTS,” it does not mean English proof is not required. It means IELTS is not the only option.
Accepted alternatives
Most Belgian universities accept:
- MOI (Medium of Instruction) letter
- English-taught degree proof
- TOEFL
- Duolingo
- PTE
- University interview
- Internal language test
Why Study in Belgium?
- High-quality education
- Belgium has some of the best universities in Europe, including KU Leuven, Ghent University, Université catholique de Louvain, and University of Antwerp.
- Affordable living costs
- Compared to many Western European countries, Belgium is more budget-friendly for students.
- Central European location
- Belgium is located in the heart of Belgium, making travel to other countries easy.
- Multiple funding options
- Government, university, and international organizations provide many scholarships.
List of Scholarships in Belgium Without IELTS
Below are the best Scholarships in Belgium Without IELTS for international students.
1. VLIR-UOS ICP Scholarships
Funded by VLIR-UOS
Fully funded Master’s and training programs with tuition, stipend, insurance, and travel.
2. VLIR-UOS Training Scholarships
Short courses with full funding for professionals.
3. Master Mind Scholarships
Offered by Government of Flanders
Covers tuition plus yearly grant.
4. ARES Scholarships
Provided by ARES
Fully funded Master’s and short courses.
5. KU Leuven Global Minds Scholarship
Support for students from developing countries.
6. KU Leuven Science@Leuven Scholarship
Partial or full funding for science programs.
7. Ghent University Top-up Grants
Living cost support for Master’s students.
8. Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships
PhD funding with research allowance.
9. UCLouvain Excellence Scholarships
Merit-based tuition waivers.
10. University of Antwerp Mobility Grants
Financial support for international Master’s students.
11. Hasselt University Master Mind Scholarships
Tuition and living support.
12. Vrije Universiteit Brussel Scholarships
Merit-based tuition waivers.
13. Thomas More University Scholarships
Fee discounts for international applicants.
14. Erasmus+ Belgium Programs
Exchange and mobility scholarships through European Commission.
15. Belgian Development Cooperation Grants
Funding for students from partner countries.
16. Research Foundation Flanders (FWO) PhD Grants
Doctoral research funding.
17. Postdoctoral FWO Fellowships
Advanced research funding.
18. Wallonia-Brussels International Scholarships
Regional scholarships for international students.
19. ITM Antwerp Public Health Scholarships
Funding at Institute of Tropical Medicine Antwerp.
20. Business School Excellence Awards
Scholarships at Belgian business schools.
21. University Department Scholarships
Faculty-specific tuition reductions.
22. Private Foundation Grants
Industry-sponsored funding for selected fields.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Scholarships in Belgium Without IELTS
Step 1: Choose your level and field
Select Bachelor, Master, or PhD. Decide your subject clearly.
Step 2: Shortlist universities first
Check which programs are taught in English and accept MOI or alternatives.
Step 3: Prepare your MOI letter
It should include:
- Official letterhead
- Confirmation your degree was fully taught in English
- Signature and stamp
Step 4: Prepare documents
Keep ready:
- Passport
- Transcripts
- CV
- SOP
- Recommendation letters
- English proof
Step 5: Apply for admission first
Most scholarships require program admission before funding.
Step 6: Apply for scholarships separately
Submit scholarship forms before deadlines.
Step 7: Prepare for interviews
Some universities conduct short interviews to test English.
Step 8: Apply early
Deadlines close fast. Apply 3–6 months early.
Documents Required for Scholarships in Belgium Without IELTS
- Academic documents
- Transcripts and certificates
- Language proof
- MOI or accepted test
- Motivation letter
- Explain goals clearly
- CV
- Highlight achievements
- Recommendation letters
- At least two strong references
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Weak MOI letter
- Always use official format
- Copy-paste SOP
- Customize every application
- Ignoring deadlines
- Late submissions are rejected
- Applying randomly
- Focus on 5–7 strong options
Tips to Increase Your Chances of selection
- Maintain strong grades
- Good academic results matter
- Show leadership
- Volunteer or community work helps
- Write clear SOP
- Explain goals simply
- Apply to multiple scholarships
- Increase probability
- Contact professors (for PhD)
- Research positions improve selection
Final Thoughts
Getting Scholarships in Belgium Without IELTS is completely possible if you plan correctly. Belgium offers many funded opportunities through government programs, universities, and research grants. Focus on strong documents, a clear career goal, and meeting language alternatives.
If you prepare early and follow each step carefully, you can study in Belgium with little or no financial burden.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I get Scholarships in Belgium Without IELTS?
Yes. Many Belgian universities accept MOI, Duolingo, TOEFL, or interviews instead of IELTS.
Which Scholarships in Belgium Without IELTS are fully funded?
VLIR-UOS, ARES, and some Master Mind programs offer full funding.
Is MOI accepted for Scholarships in Belgium Without IELTS?
Many universities accept MOI, but always check program rules.
Do I need work experience for Scholarships in Belgium Without IELTS?
Usually not for Master’s, but helpful for professional programs.
When should I apply for Scholarships in Belgium Without IELTS?
Apply 6–8 months before intake to avoid missing deadlines.
Are Scholarships in Belgium Without IELTS competitive?
Yes, but strong grades, good SOP, and early application improve your chances.








