Undergraduate Scholarships in Belgium for International Students 2026

Introduction

Belgium has become one of Europe’s most attractive study destinations for international students seeking high-quality education at an affordable cost. Undergraduate Scholarships in Belgium for International Students, With its world-class universities, multilingual environment, vibrant culture, and accessible scholarship opportunities, the country continues to welcome thousands of students yearly from Africa, Asia, Europe, and beyond. For 2026 admissions, Belgium is offering multiple fully funded and partially funded undergraduate scholarships designed to support talented international learners.                                                       Fully Funded Undergraduate Scholarships in New Zealand

Studying in Belgium offers far more than academics. As the heart of Europe and host to major international institutions—such as the European Union and NATO—Belgium provides students with global exposure, internship opportunities, and a multicultural environment. This makes the country an ideal destination for students looking to build internationally relevant careers. For undergraduates, especially those seeking financial support, Belgium’s scholarship landscape is rich, competitive, and diverse.

This comprehensive guide explores undergraduate scholarships in Belgium for international students 2026, including funding options, universities offering scholarships, in-demand courses, eligibility criteria, application mistakes to avoid, and key websites to help you secure the right opportunity. Each section is optimized to give you in-depth clarity, support your application, and provide everything you need to prepare for a successful scholarship journey.

Why Study in Belgium?

Belgium stands out for its academic reputation, affordable tuition, and safe, multicultural environment. The country’s higher education institutions consistently rank among the best in Europe. Belgium is home to research-driven universities, vibrant innovation hubs, and world-recognized faculties in STEM, social sciences, health sciences, business, engineering, and arts.                                                  JASSO Scholarship for International Students

Its central European location provides unmatched travel opportunities to France, Germany, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands—making the student experience both educational and adventurous. Belgium also boasts high-quality living standards, accessible public transport, and multilingual instruction (English, French, Dutch, and German) that allows international students to study comfortably without language barriers.

Entry-Level Scholarships for International Students in Belgium

Entry-level undergraduate scholarships in Belgium are designed to support first-year students who require financial assistance to begin their studies. These scholarships often target academically outstanding students or those from developing countries who demonstrate leadership potential, community involvement, and a strong academic record. For the 2026 intake, several institutions have expanded their funding schemes to attract global talent.                                               Funded Master’s Scholarships in Finland for International Students

These scholarships typically cover tuition fees, living expenses, and sometimes travel allowances, depending on the funding body. Unlike many countries, Belgium offers entry-level scholarships through both universities and regional governments (Flemish, Walloon, and Brussels authorities). This means students have access to multiple funding sources when applying for bachelor’s programs.

Many entry-level funding opportunities do not require students to have extensive academic histories, making them ideal for fresh high school graduates. Scholarships such as university excellence awards, regional government scholarships, and institutional merit grants are increasingly popular among international applicants.

Overall, entry-level undergraduate scholarships in Belgium help reduce the financial burden for new students and improve access to globally recognized education. They serve as a pathway for international learners to begin their academic journey with confidence and financial stability.                                               Scholarships for African Students in Australia

Top Fully Funded Undergraduate Scholarships in Belgium

Below are the most prominent fully funded undergraduate scholarships available in Belgium for 2026:

1. VLIR-UOS Undergraduate Scholarships

Although primarily known for postgraduate funding, certain partner institutions in Belgium offer VLIR-supported pathways for exceptional undergraduate applicants from developing countries. These scholarships cover full tuition, accommodation, insurance, and monthly stipends.

2. KU Leuven Global Undergraduate Scholarships

KU Leuven offers competitive undergraduate scholarships for outstanding international students. Funding includes partial or full tuition coverage, study materials, and in some cases, living allowances for selected bachelor programs conducted in English.

3. University of Antwerp International Undergraduate Scholarships

The University of Antwerp provides high-achieving international students with tuition reduction scholarships and excellence grants. Some programs include extended funding covering living expenses.                                          Undergraduate Scholarships in USA for International Students

4. Ghent University International Bachelor Scholarships

Ghent University remains one of Belgium’s most scholarship-friendly institutions, offering grants to students based on academic performance, financial need, and global citizenship potential.

5. Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) Undergraduate Scholarships

VUB offers bachelor-level scholarships for students enrolled in English-taught undergraduate programs, with awards including tuition fee waivers and cost-of-living support.

6. Liege University International First-Year Grants

These scholarships are designed for first-year undergraduate students to support their transition into Belgium’s academic environment with partial or full tuition coverage.

Scholarships in Belgium Without IELTS/TOEFL

Belgium is among the European countries that allow students to study without IELTS or TOEFL, provided they meet alternative English proficiency requirements. These alternatives include:

• A letter from the previous institution proving English was the language of instruction

• Completion of an English-medium secondary education

• Passing an internal university English test

• Providing internationally recognized alternatives like PTE or Cambridge English Tests

Many Belgian universities accept these options, making scholarship applications more accessible for students who cannot afford standardized language tests.                                                Fully Funded Scholarships in Switzerland for International Students

Belgian Universities & Colleges Offering Scholarships for International Students

Here are the leading scholarship-offering institutions in Belgium:

• KU Leuven

• Ghent University

• University of Antwerp

• Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB)

• Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB)

• Hasselt University

• University of Liège

• Thomas More University of Applied Sciences

• UCLouvain

These universities offer merit, need-based, and fully funded scholarships for international undergraduates across different fields.                                               Master’s Scholarships in Australia for Ghanaian Students

Top 10 High-Demand Courses Under Belgian Scholarships

Belgium’s labor market and academic trends indicate high demand in the following fields:

1. Computer Science & Software Engineering

2. Biomedical Sciences

3. Business Administration

4. International Relations & European Studies

5. Mechanical & Electrical Engineering

6. Data Science & Artificial Intelligence

7. Environmental Science & Sustainability Studies

8. Nursing & Health Sciences

9. Architecture

10. Economics & Finance

These programs are often prioritized for scholarships due to Belgium’s economic needs and workforce development goals.                                                     MBA Scholarships in Europe for International Students

Benefits of Scholarships in Belgium for International Students

• Reduced or fully covered tuition fees

• Monthly living allowances

• Access to top-rated European education

• Exposure to research and innovation hubs

• Opportunity to work part-time during studies

• International networking and career development

• Pathway to global job markets after graduation

Challenges for International Students Applying for Scholarships in Belgium

• High competition for fully funded opportunities                                                 Fully Funded Scholarships in Netherlands for International Students

• Need to submit early and accurate documentation

• Limited English-taught bachelor programs

• High cost of living in certain cities

• Visa processing delays

• Housing scarcity during peak seasons

Minimum Wage for International Students in Belgium

The minimum wage for student jobs in Belgium ranges from €11 to €14 per hour, depending on the region and job sector. Students can work up to 600 hours per year at reduced tax rates, making it easier to support living expenses while studying.

Application Requirements and Documents for Belgian Undergraduate Scholarships

Common requirements include:

• High school diploma or equivalent

• Academic transcripts

• Statement of purpose

• Passport copy

• Proof of English proficiency (or exemption letter)

• Recommendation letters

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)

• Financial documents (for need-based scholarships)                                             STEM Scholarships in the USA for International Students

Eligibility for Undergraduate Scholarships in Belgium

To qualify, applicants must:

• Be an international student

• Meet academic performance requirements

• Demonstrate financial need (for specific scholarships)

• Provide certified educational documents

• Apply before scholarship deadlines

• Meet program-specific criteria

Mistakes to Avoid When Applying Undergraduate Scholarships in Belgium

• Missing deadlines

• Submitting incomplete documents

• Weak motivation letter

• Not checking language requirements                                                    PhD scholarships in the UK for international students

• Ignoring scholarship-specific rules

• Relying on outdated information

• Failing to proofread application materials

Websites to Find Scholarships for International Students in Belgium

• www.studyinflanders.be

• www.studyinbelgium.be

• Official university scholarship pages

• European funding portals

• International study platforms

FAQs about Fully Funded Undergraduate Scholarships in Belgium

1. Can I study in Belgium for free?
Yes, with fully funded scholarships covering tuition and living expenses.

2. Do I need IELTS to study in Belgium?
Not always. Many universities accept alternative English proof.                                         Fully Funded Scholarships in Netherlands for International Students

3. Are scholarships competitive?
Yes, especially fully funded programs.

4. Can international students work while studying?
Yes, up to 600 hours per year.

5. Which Belgian city is best for students?
Ghent, Leuven, Antwerp, and Brussels are top choices.

Conclusion on Undergraduate Scholarships in Belgium for International Students

Belgium is a powerful study destination for international students seeking quality education, research opportunities, cultural exposure, and generous scholarship programs. The country offers multiple avenues for fully funded and partially funded undergraduate scholarships that can significantly reduce the financial burden of studying abroad. With proper planning, strong documentation, and early preparation, international students can successfully secure scholarships in Belgium for 2026. Use this guide as your roadmap to begin your scholarship journey, and explore the various opportunities Belgium offers to help you achieve your academic and career goals.