ARES Scholarships 2027-28 in Belgium | Fully Funded

The ARES Scholarships 2027-28 in Belgium offer an exceptional opportunity for international students and professionals to pursue advanced studies and specialized training. Managed by the Academy of Research and Higher Education (ARES), this fully funded program aims to equip participants with critical skills and knowledge to drive global development and societal transformation. Whether you seek a specialized bachelor's, master's, or a continuing training course, ARES provides a platform for academic excellence and practical experience in a vibrant European setting, designed for individuals passionate about contributing positively to their communities.

Quick Overview

• Host Country: Belgium

• Host Institution: The Academy of Research and Higher Education (ARES)

• Eligible Nationalities: Permanent residents and workers from 32 specified developing countries (Palestine is an exception to residence).

• Coverage: Fully Funded

• Degree Level: Specialized Bachelor's, Specialized Master's, and Continuing Training Courses (non-degree)

• Scholarship Duration: Up to 12 months for specialized bachelor's/master's; up to 6 months for continuing training.

• Deadline: September 18, 2026

Financial Benefits

The ARES Scholarships provide comprehensive financial support, ensuring recipients can focus entirely on their studies and professional development. Benefits include:

• International travel expenses (airfare).

• Monthly subsistence allowance.

• Full tuition fee coverage for specialized bachelor's and master's programs.

• Comprehensive insurance coverage.

• Coverage for exceptional visa application costs (for specialized bachelor's/master's).

• Indirect mission expenses for continuing training courses.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the ARES Scholarships 2027-28, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be a permanent resident and actively working in one of the 32 eligible developing countries. Palestinian nationals are exempt from the permanent residence requirement.

• Hold a graduate degree (for master's/continuing training) or meet specific academic prerequisites for the chosen specialized bachelor's program.

• The most recent academic degree must have been obtained no more than 20 years prior to the program start date (extended by one year for each childbirth/adoption).

• Possess at least two years of relevant professional experience in an eligible country, acquired after completing the most recent graduate degree and before the application deadline.

• Demonstrate strong command of the language in which the selected program is taught (written and spoken).

• Basic knowledge of French is recommended for daily life integration in Belgium.

• Applicants may only apply for one training program.

Eligible Countries:

• Africa: Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, DR Congo, Ethiopia, Guinea, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Madagascar, Mali, Morocco, Mozambique, Niger, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, Tunisia, Uganda, Zimbabwe.

• South America & Caribbean: Bolivia, Cuba, Ecuador, Haiti, Peru.

• Southeast Asia: Cambodia, Indonesia, Nepal, Philippines, Vietnam.

• Asia: Palestine.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare and submit a complete set of documents:

• Two official recommendation letters (academic and/or professional).

• Certified copies of all original diplomas.

• Certified copies of original academic transcripts for all years of study.

• Official proof of occupation for the last five years.

• A certificate of nationality or a clear copy of your valid passport.

• A pre-project, if specifically required for the chosen specialized program (verify admission requirements).

How to Apply

The application process for the ARES Scholarships is online via the GIRAF platform. Follow these steps:

• Step 1: Create a GIRAF Account. If new, submit an account creation request.

• Step 2: Access the Application Form. Log into GIRAF, go to "Competitive Calls," and click "Application – International Training 2027–2028."

• Step 3: Complete the Application. Fill out the form thoroughly. Save as draft to complete in multiple sessions.

• Step 4: Review and Submit. Carefully review all sections. Once submitted, modifications are not possible.

• Step 5: Confirmation. Your submitted application will be under "My Submitted Applications."

• Step 6: Consult Official Resources. For full details and updates, refer to the official ARES Scholarship call document for 2027-2028 and the official website.