The VLIR-UOS Scholarships are designed to support students from developing countries who wish to study in Belgium. These scholarships are fully funded and cover tuition fees, travel expenses, insurance, and living costs, enabling students to focus entirely on their studies. This year, the scholarship will be available for both bachelor’s and master’s programmes in fields that aim to promote societal transformation. Whether you’re interested in development studies, food security, water resources, or sustainable development, VLIR-UOS offers you the chance to pursue a world-class education.
The scholarship also aligns with Belgium’s long-standing commitment to international cooperation. It provides students with the chance to study in Flanders, one of Europe’s most innovative and diverse regions, known for its high-quality education system. Students will become part of a larger network of global scholars, all working towards making impactful changes in their communities and countries.
Eligibility Criteria for VLIR-UOS Scholarships 2025
Before applying for the VLIR-UOS Scholarships in Belgium, it’s crucial to meet the eligibility requirements. These criteria ensure that the scholarship is awarded to students who have the potential to benefit the most from this opportunity and contribute to their home country after completing their studies. Here’s a breakdown of the eligibility for the 2025 academic year:
- Nationality: Applicants must hold the nationality of one of the 30 eligible countries. This includes countries from Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
- Age Limit: For bachelor’s and initial master’s programmes, applicants must be under the age of 35 by January 1, 2025. For advanced master’s programmes, applicants should not be older than 45 years of age.
- Academic Background: Applicants should have completed a relevant academic background, either in higher education or with strong professional experience, particularly in the fields related to their chosen study programme.
- Work Experience: Applicants with professional experience in fields like higher education, civil society, government, or non-governmental organisations will be given preference. However, newly graduated students or those employed in the private sector may also be considered if they show a strong motivation for applying.
- No Dual Scholarships: Applicants may only apply for one VLIR-UOS scholarship per year. Additionally, applicants cannot receive other scholarships or grants to attend the same programme or a different programme in Belgium.
- No Prior Belgian Scholarships: If you have previously received a scholarship from the Belgian government or studied at a Belgian higher education institution, you are not eligible to apply.
Benefits of the VLIR-UOS Scholarship 2025
The VLIR-UOS Scholarships offer comprehensive support, ensuring that students from developing countries can study in Belgium without financial barriers. Below are the key benefits provided by this scholarship:
- Full Tuition Coverage: VLIR-UOS will cover 100% of the tuition fees for your selected programme.
- Living Expenses: Scholarship recipients will receive a living allowance to cover accommodation, food, and other day-to-day expenses while studying in Belgium.
- Travel Expenses: The scholarship also covers the costs of travel to and from Belgium, including an economy class flight ticket.
- Insurance: Full medical insurance will be provided, ensuring that students are covered during their stay in Belgium.
- Global Network and Opportunities: Studying at one of Belgium’s top institutions offers access to an international network of scholars and professionals, fostering collaboration, knowledge sharing, and future career opportunities.
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Eligible Programmes for VLIR-UOS Scholarships 2025
The VLIR-UOS Scholarship covers a wide range of programs at both the bachelor’s and master’s levels. These programs are designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to become leaders in their respective fields. Below are the eligible programs for the VLIR-UOS Scholarships 2025:
Professional Bachelors (3 years):
- Bachelor of Hotel Management
- Bachelor of Applied Computer Science
Initial Master’s Programmes (2 years):
- Master of Epidemiology
- International Master of Science in Rural Development (IMRD)
- Master of Science in Food Technology
- Master of Statistics and Data Science
- Master of Science in Marine and Lacustrine Science and Management
- Master in Sustainable Development
- International Master of Science in Agro and Environmental Nematology
- Master of Water Resources Engineering (WRE)
- Master of Transportation Sciences – Road Safety
- Master of Science in Nutrition and Food Systems
- Master of Science in Tropical Biodiversity and Ecosystems
- Master of Science in Sustainable Land Management
- Master of Aquaculture (IMAQUA)
Advanced Master’s Programmes (1 year):
- Master of Development Evaluation and Management
- Master of Human Settlements
- Master of Governance and Development
- Master of Globalisation and Development
- Master of Cultural Anthropology and Development Studies (CADES)
Each program aims to promote the development of specialised knowledge that will help students drive positive societal change in their home countries. The programs are taught in English, ensuring that students from all over the world can easily participate.
Application Process for VLIR-UOS Scholarships 2025
Applying for the VLIR-UOS Scholarship is a multi-step process that requires careful attention to the program-specific guidelines and deadlines. Here’s a simplified process to guide you through:
- Check Eligibility: First, ensure you meet all the eligibility criteria before proceeding with the application.
- Choose a Program: Select an eligible program from the list provided above. Ensure you check the individual deadlines and requirements for each program.
- Prepare Documents: You will need to prepare several documents, such as:
- CV (Curriculum Vitae)
- Motivation Letter
- Academic Transcripts
- Proof of Language Proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL)
- References
- Submit Application: Follow the instructions provided on the program’s official website. Make sure to apply to the program and indicate your intent to apply for the VLIR-UOS Scholarship.
- Selection Process: After submission, the VLIR-UOS team will evaluate all applications. Successful applicants will be notified, usually by mid-June.
