Scholarships in Belgium Without IELTS (2026) | How to Apply Step-by-Step

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.

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