ARES Scholarships in Belgium | Fully Funded 2027

ARES Scholarships in Belgium | Fully Funded | Belgium 2027. Apply for Fully Funded Scholarships Here. Belgium doesn’t always top the list when students think about European scholarships, but it genuinely should. The ARES Scholarships program is one of the most complete, fully funded opportunities available to students from developing countries, and the 2027 cycle is shaping up to be another highly competitive one.

If you’re a student from Africa, Asia, Latin America, or the Middle East looking to pursue a master’s degree or specialized training in Europe, this guide covers everything you need—from eligibility and benefits to visa guidance, life in Belgium, and what comes after graduation.

Let’s get into it.

What Are the ARES Scholarships?

ARES stands for Académie de Recherche et d’Enseignement Supérieur — the Academy of Research and Higher Education in French-speaking Belgium. It serves as the coordinating body for all institutions of higher education in the Wallonia-Brussels Federation.

The ARES Scholarships program is funded by the Belgian Development Cooperation and managed by ARES specifically to support students from partner countries in the Global South. The goal is straightforward: bring talented individuals to Belgian universities, equip them with advanced knowledge and research skills, and send them home with the capacity to drive real development in their communities.

This isn’t a tokenistic award. It’s a deeply structured program with multiple funding tracks, covering different academic levels and formats—from full master’s degrees to shorter specialized training programs.

What makes ARES particularly interesting is its regional focus. Partner countries are carefully selected based on Belgium’s development cooperation priorities, and eligible disciplines are chosen based on what’s genuinely needed in those regions — not just what’s popular in European academic circles.

Why Study in Belgium?

Belgium is a small country with an outsized academic reputation. It’s home to some of Europe’s oldest and most respected universities—KU Leuven, Université catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), Université de Liège, and Université libre de Bruxelles, among others.

French-speaking Belgium, also known as Wallonia, is where most ARES partner institutions are concentrated. For students comfortable in French — or willing to build their French language skills — this is an extraordinary academic environment.

Beyond academics, Belgium sits at the heart of Europe. Brussels hosts the European Union headquarters, NATO, and dozens of international development organizations. Being a student in Belgium means being within reach of institutions that shape global policy.

The country is safe, multicultural, and genuinely welcoming to international students. Public transport is excellent. And compared to studying in the UK or USA, the cost of living — even with Belgium’s relatively high standard of living — is manageable, especially with a full scholarship behind you.

For students exploring overseas education services, Belgium offers a compelling combination of academic quality, European access, and development-focused learning that few other destinations match.

ARES Scholarships 2027 — Complete Overview

What Does the ARES Scholarship Cover?

The ARES Scholarships program is genuinely fully funded — not partially covered with hidden costs. Here’s a breakdown of what the award includes:

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Monthly Living Allowance

Scholars receive a monthly stipend that covers accommodation, food, local transport, and daily living costs in Belgium. The amount is structured to allow students to live comfortably without needing external financial support.

For the Master’s track, this allowance runs for the full duration of the two-year program. It’s one of the more generous living stipends in European scholarship programs targeting Global South students.

Tuition Fees

All tuition and registration fees at the partner Belgian institution are paid directly. Students do not need to arrange separate education financing options for academic costs. Tuition at Belgian universities for international students can reach €4,000–€8,000 per year, all of which is covered.

Travel Allowance

A travel grant covering the cost of a return economy-class flight between the scholar’s home country and Belgium is included. This is paid at the start and end of the program, removing one of the most significant upfront costs for international students.

Health Insurance

International student health insurance is provided for the duration of the scholarship. All scholars are enrolled in a Belgian health insurance system, covering medical consultations, hospitalization, and emergency care.

Installation Allowance

A one-time installation grant is provided upon arrival to help cover initial setup costs — things like bedding, kitchen essentials, transport cards, and SIM cards. This is a genuinely practical benefit that many scholarships overlook.

Thesis and Research Support

For Master’s and PhD scholars, financial support for research-related expenses — including field research, laboratory access, and documentation — is also factored in.

ARES Scholarship Tracks — Which One Is Right for You?

One of the most useful things to understand about the ARES program is that it operates across multiple tracks. Choosing the right one for your profile is key.

Master’s Scholarships (Bourses Master)

This is the flagship track—a fully funded two-year master’s degree at a Wallonia-Brussels institution. Eligible programs span agriculture, public health, environmental sciences, development studies, engineering, social sciences, and more.

These programs are conducted primarily in French, though some have English components. A confirmed French language proficiency is typically required.

Short Specialized Training (Formations Spécialisées Courtes)

For professionals who can’t take two years out of their careers, ARES offers shorter training programs lasting three to five weeks. These are intensive, highly practical, and targeted at working professionals in development-relevant sectors.

These shorter programs are ideal for government employees, NGO professionals, engineers, healthcare workers, and educators from partner countries looking to upgrade their skills without a long-term study commitment.

PhD and Postdoctoral Stays

ARES also funds short-term research stays at Belgian institutions for doctoral students and postdoctoral researchers from partner countries. These typically last two to four months and are designed to support specific research projects within a broader academic collaboration.

Eligible Countries for ARES 2027

Eligibility is country-specific. ARES works with a defined list of partner countries based on Belgian development cooperation priorities. The list does change between cycles, so always verify for the 2027 intake specifically.

Countries that have historically been eligible include:

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This list is indicative. Confirm eligible countries for the 2027 cycle on the official ARES website before applying.

Eligibility Criteria — Who Can Apply?

The ARES selection process is competitive. Understanding what the program is looking for helps you present a stronger application from the outset.

Nationality and Residency

You must be a national of one of the ARES partner countries. Beyond nationality, you must currently be residing and working in your home country at the time of application. Candidates already living in Belgium or another high-income country are not eligible.

This residency requirement is firm and is verified during selection.

Academic Background

For the master’s track, you need a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) relevant to the program you’re applying to. The degree must typically be completed before the scholarship start date.

Academic standards are high. Strong grades matter, but ARES also weighs professional experience and the relevance of your background to development priorities in your home country.

Professional Experience

This is one of the most important elements of an ARES application. The program is not designed for fresh graduates with no work history. Successful applicants typically have two or more years of professional experience in a field related to their intended program—working in government, civil society, research, healthcare, agriculture, education, or a related development sector.

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Language Proficiency

Since most ARES programs are taught in French, applicants need to demonstrate French language proficiency — typically at a B2 or C1 level on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). Some programs accept English proficiency instead if the program is taught in English.

Working with a study abroad consultant near you who specializes in Francophone scholarship applications can be particularly helpful for navigating this requirement.

Return Commitment

Applicants must demonstrate a clear intention to return to their home country after completing the program. This is evaluated through your motivation letter and professional history. The scholarship is explicitly designed to strengthen institutions in partner countries — not to facilitate permanent migration to Belgium.

Age

While ARES does not always publish a strict age limit, the program typically targets candidates between 25 and 45 years of age for the Master’s track. Candidates should be at an early-to-mid-career stage where advanced education will have meaningful professional impact.

Required Documents Checklist

Gathering your documents early — ideally several months before the deadline — is one of the most practical steps you can take. Translation and certification of documents takes time, particularly in countries with limited administrative infrastructure.

How to Apply for the ARES Scholarship 2027

The application process is structured and sequential. Missing a step — or submitting documents out of order — can cost you an otherwise strong application.

Step 1 — Browse Available Programs

Start by visiting the official ARES scholarships website (bourses.ares-ac.be) and reviewing the list of programs available for the 2027 cycle. Programs vary each year. Find a program that genuinely aligns with your academic background, professional experience, and career goals.

Don’t apply to a program just because it’s available. The selection panel looks for coherence between your background, your chosen program, and your development goals.

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Step 2 — Check Country and Program Eligibility

Confirm that your country is on the 2027 eligible list and that you meet all eligibility criteria for your chosen program—including language requirements, academic prerequisites, and professional experience thresholds.

Step 3 — Prepare Your Documents

Begin document preparation early. Translations, certifications, and employer reference letters can take weeks to arrange — especially in contexts where administrative processes are slow. Start this process at least two to three months before the application deadline.

Step 4 — Write Your Motivation Letter

This is the most personal — and most important — part of your application. Your motivation letter should be written in French (for French-language programs) and should clearly articulate:

Your current professional role and context
The specific development challenges in your sector and country
Why this particular ARES program will equip you to address those challenges
Your concrete plan to apply what you learn when you return home
Avoid generic, vague writing. Selectors read hundreds of motivation letters. The ones that stand out are specific, grounded, and reflect genuine thinking.

Step 5 — Submit the Online Application

Applications are submitted through ARES’s dedicated scholarship management platform. Create your account, complete all sections of the application form, and upload your documents before the deadline. Late submissions are not accepted under any circumstances.

Step 6 — Selection Process

ARES conducts a multi-stage selection process. Initial screening filters applications based on basic eligibility. Qualified applications are then assessed by a joint panel involving ARES staff and representatives from the hosting institution.

Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview—in-person or virtual. The interview typically focuses on your motivation, your professional background, and your specific plans for applying your degree upon return.

Step 7 — Results and Acceptance

Successful applicants are notified by ARES and the hosting institution. Once you accept the award, the visa and administrative process begins. You’ll receive a welcome package with instructions on arrival, housing, and enrollment procedures.

Belgian Student Visa — What You Need to Know

Traveling to Belgium to study requires a Type D long-stay visa, which converts into a residence permit upon arrival. The student visa application process in Belgium is handled through the Belgian Embassy or Consulate in your home country.

As an ARES scholar, your scholarship letter significantly strengthens your visa application. Here’s what the process typically involves:

Study Permit and Visa Sponsorship

ARES scholars effectively have visa sponsorship for international students through the scholarship—your award documentation serves as proof of financial support, institutional enrollment, and legitimate purpose of stay. This removes many of the typical barriers in the student visa application process.

The hosting Belgian university will usually provide a formal invitation letter confirming your enrollment, which is a required document for the visa application.

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Documents for the Belgian Student Visa

Working with an Immigration Consultant

The Belgian student visa process, while reasonably straightforward for scholarship holders, can still be confusing—particularly for first-time applicants from countries with limited Belgian Embassy presence.

If you’re uncertain about any step, an immigration attorney consultation or advice from a qualified immigration consultant familiar with Belgian processes can save significant time and reduce the risk of errors. Immigration consultant fees for visa assistance vary widely, but for a scholarship application of this value, the investment is often worth it.

Visa Processing Time

Belgian visa processing times can range from two to eight weeks depending on your country and the embassy’s workload. Apply as early as possible once you receive your scholarship offer — ideally two to three months before your intended travel date.

Living in Belgium as an ARES Scholar

Belgium surprises most international students. It’s efficient, well-organized, and genuinely multicultural — especially in cities like Liège, Namur, Louvain-la-Neuve, and Brussels, where most ARES partner institutions are located.

Student Accommodation Belgium

Finding student accommodation in Belgium is manageable, and most universities have dedicated student housing that is significantly cheaper than the private rental market. ARES scholars are advised to apply for university residence halls as early as possible, as demand is high.

For those looking at private options, shared housing (known locally as a “kot”) is the most popular choice among students in Belgian university cities. Monthly rents for a shared room typically range from €400 to €700, with Brussels being the most expensive city.

As an ARES scholar, your living allowance is calibrated to cover these costs—but location and housing type matter. Living in Louvain-la-Neuve or Gembloux is considerably cheaper than living in central Brussels.

Relocation services for students moving to Belgium are available through university international offices and third-party providers who assist with housing setup, administrative registration, and local orientation.

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Monthly Budget Estimate for Belgium

The ARES monthly stipend is designed to fall within a range that covers these essentials. Scholars who manage their budget carefully will find they can live comfortably and even save a modest amount over the duration of their program.

For sending money home or managing tuition fee transfers abroad for family needs, international remittance services and bank transfers are widely available in Belgium. Compare rates before choosing a provider.

Work Rights for Students in Belgium

Belgium allows international students on a valid study permit to work part-time — up to 20 hours per week during term time, with full-time work permitted during official vacation periods.

However, ARES scholars should be realistic about workload. A master’s program in Belgium—particularly one taught in a second language—is academically demanding. Part-time work is possible, but it shouldn’t become a distraction from your primary academic commitment.

The scholarship stipend is intended to make external work unnecessary. That said, working in a relevant sector during your studies — an internship or student research assistant role — can significantly strengthen your CV and your understanding of European professional environments.

Post-Study Work Options and Immigration Pathways in Belgium

This is where many ARES scholarship recipients have questions — and rightly so. Belgium has its own immigration rules for graduates who wish to stay and work after completing their studies.

Post-Study Work Visa in Belgium

Belgium introduced provisions for international students to remain in the country after graduation to seek employment. A post-study work visa—technically a job-search permit—allows graduates from Belgian institutions to stay for up to 12 months after completing their degree to look for work aligned with their qualifications.

This gives ARES scholars an opportunity to gain professional experience in a European context, work with Belgian or international development organizations, or build networks before returning home.

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If you secure a qualifying job offer from a Belgian employer after graduation, you can apply for a work permit under Belgium’s skilled worker visa system. Skilled worker visa requirements in Belgium include a confirmed employment contract, evidence of relevant qualifications, and in some cases, a labor market test conducted by the employer.

Belgium operates different work permit categories across its regional governments (Flanders, Wallonia, and Brussels-Capital). Wallonia — where most ARES partner institutions are based — has its own permit procedures.

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Permanent Residence Application — Is It Possible?

A permanent residence application in Belgium is possible after five years of legal, uninterrupted residence. This PR-after-study pathway exists but is a long-term process. It requires stable employment, language integration, and civic integration steps depending on the region.

Given that ARES scholarships are explicitly tied to a return-home commitment, scholars who choose to remain in Belgium long-term after their scholarship should consult with an immigration lawyer in Belgium—or seek an immigration attorney consultation—to understand their options fully and legally.

The best immigration law firm for Belgian immigration matters will be familiar with Walloon regional work permit procedures and the specific challenges facing nationals from ARES partner countries.

The Honest Reality

ARES scholarship recipients are expected — and encouraged — to return home. The program is an investment in development capacity, not a pathway to permanent European migration. That said, gaining experience in Belgium before returning — through legitimate work permits — is entirely compatible with the spirit of the program.

Alternative Education Funding to Consider Alongside ARES

The ARES Scholarships program is competitive. Preparing a backup plan is always wise.

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Funded by the European Union, Erasmus Mundus scholarships are fully funded master’s programs across multiple European universities. Many programs are available in French or English and are open to students from the same partner countries as ARES.

Belgian Government Scholarships (VLIR-UOS)

For Flemish-speaking Belgium, the VLIR-UOS program offers a comparable fully funded scholarship scheme specifically designed for students from the Global South. This mirrors the ARES structure but covers Dutch-language and some English-language programs at Flemish universities.

Agence Française de Développement (AFD) and Other Francophone Scholarships

For Francophone African applicants in particular, the French Development Agency and several French-language scholarship bodies offer funding for postgraduate study at French or Belgian institutions.

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If you need supplemental funds—for pre-departure expenses, initial relocation, or family support during your absence—some fintech lenders and development finance institutions offer education loans without collateral for students enrolled in recognized international programs. Research options available in your home country carefully and compare terms before committing.

Practical Tips for a Stronger ARES Application

Having worked with scholarship applicants across various programs, a few things consistently make the difference between a shortlisted application and one that doesn’t make it past the first round.

Apply to the Right Program — Not Just Any Program

Match your application to a program you genuinely qualify for and that connects clearly to your career trajectory. Selectors can tell when an applicant has chosen a program because it’s available rather than because it’s relevant.

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Be Specific About Development Impact

Vague statements about “contributing to development” won’t cut it. Name the specific challenge you’re addressing, the institution you work for, the role you’ll return to, and exactly how this master’s degree will change what you can do in that role.

Get Your French Up to Standard

If your French isn’t yet at the B2 or C1 level, invest in language preparation before applying. Online French courses, Alliance Française programs, and language apps can help — but give yourself enough time. Rushing language prep leads to a weak certification result.

Have Your Documents Officially Certified

Uncertified academic documents—even if authentic—can disqualify an application. Have your transcripts, degree certificates, and language certificates officially notarized and translated where required.

Use a University Admission Consultant if needed.

If navigating Belgian academic requirements feels overwhelming, a university admission consultant or education consultant familiar with Belgian higher education can help you match your profile to the right program and review your application materials before submission.

Working with an international student recruitment agency or an overseas education service that specializes in Francophone European programs can be particularly useful for applicants from countries where French is not the primary language.

Frequently Asked Questions About ARES Scholarships 2027

1. What is the ARES scholarship application deadline for 2027?

The ARES scholarship application deadline for the 2027 intake has not been officially published yet at the time of writing. Based on previous cycles, applications typically open in late autumn (October–November) of the preceding year and close in January or February. Monitor the official ARES website closely from late 2026.

2. Can I apply for ARES if I’m already living in Europe?

No. ARES scholarships are restricted to applicants who are currently residing and working in one of the eligible partner countries. Applicants already resident in Belgium or another European country are not eligible.

3. Is the ARES scholarship open for English-language programs?

Most ARES programs are taught in French. However, a small number of programs are available in English. Check the specific program list for the 2027 cycle to identify English-medium options. French proficiency is not required for English-taught programs.

4. Can I bring my family to Belgium on an ARES scholarship?

The scholarship covers the individual scholar only. Bringing family members requires a separate visa application and proof of sufficient financial means to support dependents. The scholarship allowance alone may not be sufficient to support a family in Belgium. Consult with a Belgian embassy or an immigration consultant for specific guidance.

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5. How competitive is the ARES scholarship?

Very competitive. ARES receives several thousand applications annually and awards approximately 200–250 scholarships per cycle. The acceptance rate is low, which makes document quality, motivation letter strength, and professional experience particularly important differentiators.

6. Do I need to have a pre-existing connection to a Belgian university to apply?

No. The application is made directly through ARES, not through individual universities. If selected, ARES places you in a program at a partner institution. You do not need to have been accepted by a Belgian university independently before applying.

7. Can I apply to more than one ARES program simultaneously?

ARES typically allows applicants to apply to one program per cycle. Read the current year’s application rules carefully on the official platform before submitting.

8. What happens if I fail or drop out during the program?

Academic performance is monitored throughout the program. Scholars who fail to meet academic requirements may have their scholarship suspended or withdrawn. Dropping out voluntarily may result in an obligation to reimburse a portion of the scholarship funds received. Review the terms and conditions in your scholarship agreement carefully.

9. Does ARES offer PhD scholarships?

ARES offers short research stays for PhD students and postdoctoral researchers, but not full multi-year doctoral scholarships in the traditional sense. For full PhD funding in Belgium, explore options through individual university doctoral programs and Belgian university research fellowships.

10. Is financial aid for international students available at Belgian universities beyond ARES?

Yes. Belgian universities offer a range of merit and needs-based bursaries for international students. Additionally, some programs have partnerships with international development organizations that offer supplemental funding. Explore financial aid for international students through each university’s financial support office directly.

11. Can ARES scholars work in Belgium after graduation?

Yes, Belgium allows graduates to apply for a job-search permit to remain for up to 12 months after graduation. However, ARES scholars are expected to return home after completing their studies. Decisions to remain in Belgium should be made thoughtfully and with awareness of both your legal options and your scholarship commitments.

12. How do I send money between Belgium and my home country?

Several international transfer services operate in Belgium, including Wise, Western Union, and bank-to-bank transfers. For tuition fee transfers abroad needs or remittances home, compare fees and exchange rates across providers before choosing. Your Belgian bank will provide international transfer services, though fintech platforms often offer better rates.

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Official Resources

Final Thoughts

The ARES Scholarships program for Belgium in 2027 is one of the most thoughtfully designed fully funded opportunities available to students and professionals from the Global South. It’s not built around prestige for its own sake—it’s built around real development outcomes, genuine capacity building, and a clear vision of what African, Asian, and Latin American nations need from their most talented people.

If your background fits, your French is solid, and your professional goals are genuinely aligned with the program’s development mission—apply. Do it thoroughly, do it early, and do it with the kind of specificity that tells a selection panel you’ve thought carefully about why this award matters for your career and your country.

Belgium may not be the first destination that comes to mind. But for the right applicant, it offers something genuinely rare: world-class European education, a fully supported experience, and a clear path back to meaningful impact at home.

Always verify current eligibility criteria, program lists, and application deadlines directly on the official ARES platform and the Belgian Embassy website for your country, as details are updated each application cycle.

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