VLIR-UOS ICP Scholarships give students from developing countries a real chance to study a Master’s degree in Belgium at no cost. These awards come from the Flemish Interuniversity Council (VLIR-UOS). They focus on programs that help solve real problems like food security, climate change, health, and fair societies. The goal is clear: train people who will go back home and make things better in their own country.
The scholarships are called ICP Connect. They cover 20 different English-taught Master’s programs at universities in Flanders (the Dutch-speaking part of Belgium). Most programs last one or two years. Classes start in September 2026. Applications usually open in November 2025 and close between February and April 2026, depending on the university.
Why These Scholarships Stand Out
Belgium offers strong teaching and research in practical fields. The programs are small, so you get close contact with professors. You also live in a safe country with good public transport and a high quality of life. The real strength of VLIR-UOS is the focus on impact. They want graduates who return home and use their knowledge to improve communities, jobs, or policies. That is why they ask detailed questions about your plans after graduation.
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The Scholarship Benefits
The package removes most money worries so you can focus on studying.
- Full tuition fees for the whole program
- Monthly living allowance (around €1,400, paid every month)
- One return economy flight ticket from your home country
- Health insurance for the full stay
- Money for books, study materials, and some research costs
- Help with arrival, orientation, and settling in
Housing is not directly paid, but the monthly allowance covers rent in student rooms or shared flats (costs usually range from €400–€700 per month in cities like Leuven, Ghent, or Antwerp). Extra support exists for students with disabilities.
Who Can Apply
You must meet these main points to be considered:
- Hold citizenship of one of the 29 eligible countries, mostly in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. The full list can be found HERE.
- Live in one of those countries when you apply
- Be under 35 years old for most Master’s programs (under 45 for advanced or specialized ones)
- Have a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) that matches the program’s entry level
- Show good English skills (some programs accept without IELTS if your previous study was in English)
- Work in a field related to the program (teachers, government staff, NGO workers, or private sector get preference)
- Promise to return home for at least two years after finishing
Women, people with disabilities, and applicants from rural or disadvantaged areas often receive extra attention when qualifications are similar.
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How to Apply
The process is simple but needs careful preparation.
- Choose one program only. You can apply to just one ICP Master’s program per year.
- Go to the website of the university that offers your chosen program (KU Leuven, Ghent University, University of Antwerp, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, or Hasselt University).
- Find the program’s page and look for the VLIR-UOS scholarship section.
- Fill in the university’s online application form and clearly select “I apply for VLIR-UOS scholarship.”
- Upload all required documents: passport copy, CV, degree certificates, transcripts, motivation letter, two reference letters, and proof of English if needed.
- Write a strong motivation letter. Explain your background, why you chose this program, and exactly how you will use the knowledge when you return home. This letter is very important.
- Submit before the program’s deadline (usually between February 1 and April 2026 – check each university site).
No separate scholarship form exists. The university handles both admission and scholarship selection.
What They Look For
Universities first check if you meet academic and language requirements. Then VLIR-UOS reviews for scholarship fit. They focus on:
- Your motivation and clear plan to create change back home
- Relevant work or volunteer experience
- How the program matches your country’s needs
- Balance between men and women, different regions, and vulnerable groups
Interviews are rare but may happen for borderline cases. Results usually arrive by May or June 2026.
Participating Master’s Programs
VLIR-UOS supports about 20 programs. Here are some popular ones:
- Master of Science in Food Technology (KU Leuven & Ghent University) – focuses on safe, sustainable food production
- Master of Aquaculture (Ghent University) – teaches sustainable fish farming
- Master of Epidemiology (University of Antwerp) – trains health experts to fight diseases
- Master of Statistics and Data Science (Hasselt University) – builds skills for better decisions
- Master of Sustainable Development (KU Leuven) – covers environment, society, and economy
- Master of Transportation Sciences (Hasselt University) – improves road safety and mobility
Each program has its own focus and length (1 or 2 years). Check the official VLIR-UOS list for the full 2026 lineup.
Return Home Commitment After You Finish
You must return to your home country for at least two years after graduation. This rule ensures the knowledge helps the place that needs it most. Many alumni go on to work in government, NGOs, universities, or private companies. They often lead projects, teach others, or start initiatives. VLIR-UOS keeps in contact through an alumni network for workshops, conferences, and funding for small follow-up projects.
