Master Mind Scholarships 2026 - Fully Funded Master's Programs in Flanders, Belgium

Are you an academically talented student from outside the EU/EEA looking to pursue your master’s degree in Europe? The Master Mind Scholarships 2026, offered by the Government of Flanders, Belgium, could be your pathway to studying at some of the top Flemish universities with substantial financial support. This merit-based scholarship program is designed to attract highly qualified international students to pursue English-taught master’s programs in Flanders, the Dutch-speaking region of Belgium.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Master Mind Scholarship — including scholarship features, eligibility criteria, participating universities, financial benefits, and how to apply.

What is the Master Mind Scholarship Program?

The Master Mind Scholarship is an initiative of the Flemish Ministry of Education and Training aimed at enhancing the international visibility of Flemish higher education. The program provides financial awards to exceptional non-EU/EEA students who wish to pursue a master’s degree in Flanders. It supports a limited number of students each year and is based entirely on academic merit, motivation, and leadership potential.

This scholarship not only reduces the financial burden on international students but also promotes cultural exchange, academic excellence, and global collaboration.

Scholarship Summary

• Scholarship Name: Master Mind Scholarships 2026

• Type: Merit-based Partial/Full Scholarship

• Funding Body: Government of Flanders

• Level of Study: Master’s Degree

• Host Country: Belgium (Flemish Region)

• Host Institutions: Flemish Universities and University Colleges

• Scholarship Value: Up to €8,400 per year + Tuition Waiver

• Program Duration: 1 or 2 years (depending on master’s program)

• Application Deadline: Usually between February and April (varies by institution)

Participating Universities

Master Mind Scholarships are available at several high-ranking Flemish universities, including:

• KU Leuven

• Ghent University (UGent)

• University of Antwerp (UAntwerp)

• Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB)

• Hasselt University

• LUCA School of Arts

• Artesis Plantijn University College Antwerp

• Karel de Grote University College

Each institution has its own internal deadline and selection process, so students must apply through their chosen university.

Key Features of the Master Mind Scholarship

• Host Institutions: Leading Flemish universities and university colleges.

• Level of Study: English-taught master's degree programs.

• Scholarship Value: Up to €8,400 per academic year.

• Tuition Coverage: Full or partial tuition fee waiver depending on the university.

• Additional Support: Possibility of extra top-up grants from the host institution.

• Eligibility: Open to non-EU/EEA students with outstanding academic records.

• Selection Basis: Academic excellence, motivation, and alignment with program goals.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Master Mind Scholarships, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Nationality: Must be a citizen of a non-EU/EEA country.

2. Academic Record: Must demonstrate high academic achievement, typically with a GPA of 3.5/4.0 or higher.

3. Admission: Must be admitted or currently applying for a full master’s degree program at a participating Flemish institution.

4. Language Proficiency: Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS) as per university requirements.

5. No Prior Enrollment: Must not have previously enrolled in a degree program in a Flemish higher education institution.

6. Recommendation: Strong recommendation or nomination from the Flemish host institution.

7. Limited Number of Scholarships: Each university can nominate a restricted number of candidates per academic year.

What Does the Scholarship Cover?

The Master Mind Scholarship provides generous financial support to help reduce the cost of studying in Belgium. Here's what it includes:

• Annual Scholarship Grant: Up to €8,400 per year, paid in installments throughout the academic year.

• Tuition Fee Waiver: Partial or full tuition exemption, depending on the university’s policy.

• Top-Up Benefits: Some institutions offer additional funding or housing support on top of the main scholarship.

• Not Covered: Travel expenses, visa fees, and health insurance are not included and must be covered by the student.

How to Apply for the Master Mind Scholarship 2026?

The application process for the Master Mind Scholarship is coordinated through the Flemish universities, not directly through the Flemish government. Here’s how you can apply:

Step-by-Step Application Process:

1. Choose a Flemish University and Program

   • Select an English-taught master's program at one of the eligible institutions.

   • Visit the university’s website and check specific deadlines and eligibility.

2. Apply for Admission

   • Submit a regular application for admission to your chosen master’s program.

   • Mention your interest in the Master Mind Scholarship if applicable.

3. Get Nominated

   • The university will assess your academic credentials and decide whether to nominate you for the scholarship.

   • Only nominated candidates can proceed.

4. Submit Required Documents

   • Academic transcripts and degree certificates

   • Motivation letter

   • Proof of English proficiency

   • Passport copy

   • Recommendation letters

   • CV/Resume

   • Any university-specific forms (as required)

5. Application Portal

   • Nominated candidates will receive access to the Mobility-Online portal to formally complete the scholarship application.

6. Final Selection

   • The Government of Flanders will make the final decision.

   • Results are usually announced by May or June.

Important Notes

• You can only apply through one Flemish institution per academic year.

• The selection is highly competitive, so make sure your application is complete and strong.

• Master Mind recipients are expected to perform well academically and serve as ambassadors of Flemish higher education.

Official Website & Program Links

Master Mind Scholarships – Official Government Page
List of Participating Universities & Programs

The Master Mind Scholarship 2026–2027 is a prestigious, merit-based scholarship that enables high-achieving students from around the world to experience academic excellence in Belgium. With generous financial aid, access to world-class institutions, and the opportunity to immerse in a vibrant European culture, this scholarship is ideal for students who are driven, academically strong, and globally minded. If you’re ready to take your future to the next level, start your application today and explore what Flemish higher education has to offer.