VLIR-UOS Scholarships 2026 - Fully Funded Master’s Programs in Belgium for Developing Countries

Are you from Africa, Asia, or Latin America and looking to study in Europe on a fully funded scholarship? The VLIR-UOS Scholarships 2025-2026 present an excellent opportunity to pursue a development-focused master’s degree at some of the best universities in Belgium. These prestigious scholarships are fully funded by the Belgian government through the Flemish Interuniversity Council (VLIR-UOS) and are dedicated to students who aim to contribute to sustainable development in their home countries.

In this detailed article, you’ll discover everything you need to know about the VLIR-UOS Scholarship — from the benefits and eligibility criteria to the list of host institutions, available fields of study, and the complete application process.

What is VLIR-UOS?

VLIR-UOS (Flemish Interuniversity Council - University Cooperation for Development) is an organization that supports partnerships between universities and university colleges in Flanders (northern Belgium) and those in developing countries. Funded by the Belgian Directorate-General for Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Aid (DGD), the VLIR-UOS scholarship scheme is part of Belgium’s official development assistance and supports international students to acquire knowledge in development-relevant academic fields.

The core idea is to empower students to become agents of change in sectors like climate, food security, water, public health, and technology, enabling them to return and uplift their own communities.

Scholarship Summary

• Scholarship Name: VLIR-UOS Scholarships 2025-2026

• Funding Source: Belgian Government (DGD)

• Organized by: Flemish Interuniversity Council (VLIR-UOS)

• Level of Study: Master’s Degree (ICP Connect Programs)

• Host Country: Belgium

• Host Institutions: Flemish universities (KU Leuven, UGent, VUB, UAntwerp, and others)

• Duration: 1 or 2 years (depending on the chosen program)

• Application Deadline: Varies by university and program (Usually between December–March)

Focus Areas / Fields of Study

The VLIR-UOS master’s programs are designed around development-related fields that are crucial for addressing global and local challenges. These fields include:

• Climate and Environmental Sciences

• Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security

• Global Health and Public Health

• Natural Resource Management

• Water and Sanitation

• Technology and Innovation for Development

• Human Rights, Governance, and Migration

• Social Sciences with Development Context

These are offered as part of the International Master Programs (ICP Connect) — high-quality, internationally recognized, English-taught master’s programs developed in collaboration with experts and universities in the Global South.

VLIR-UOS Scholarship Benefits

The VLIR-UOS Scholarships are 100% fully funded, covering every major academic and living expense during your stay in Belgium. Here is what each selected student receives:

• Full Tuition Fee Waiver at any participating Flemish university

• Monthly Stipend of €1,150 to cover personal and living expenses

• Accommodation Support, ensuring decent housing throughout your studies

• Comprehensive Insurance including health and travel insurance

• Round-trip Travel Costs from your home country to Belgium (one-time)

• Indirect costs and other relevant academic costs may also be covered

This makes the VLIR-UOS program one of the most generous scholarships available in Europe for developing countries.

Participating Universities in Flanders

VLIR-UOS scholarships are offered in collaboration with top Flemish universities, all of which are internationally ranked and known for academic excellence. These include:

• KU Leuven (Katholieke Universiteit Leuven)

• Ghent University (UGent)

• Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB)

• University of Antwerp (UAntwerp)

• Hasselt University

• University of Liège (for some programs)

• Several university colleges and institutes offering ICP programs

Each university has specific programs approved under the VLIR-UOS framework, and students can only apply to one program per application cycle.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for a VLIR-UOS Scholarship 2025-2026, candidates must meet the following requirements:

1. Citizenship: Be a national and resident of one of the 29 eligible countries in Africa, Asia, or Latin America.

2. Age Limit: Must be under 35 years old at the time of application (for initial master’s degree); under 45 for advanced master’s.

3. Professional Status: Preference is given to early-career professionals who work in education, government, NGOs, or civil society.

4. Academic Background: Hold a bachelor’s degree relevant to the chosen master’s program.

5. Language Requirement: Proficiency in English, the medium of instruction for all programs.

6. No Previous VLIR-UOS Support: Applicants should not have previously received a VLIR-UOS scholarship.

7. Single Application Rule: Apply for only one eligible master’s program per year.

How to Apply for VLIR-UOS Scholarships?

Applications for the VLIR-UOS scholarships are submitted directly through the university offering the ICP program, not through VLIR-UOS itself. Here’s the general process:

Step-by-Step Application Guide:

1. Choose an Eligible Master’s Program

   • Browse the list of ICP Connect programs on the VLIR-UOS website

   • Select one program that fits your background and interests

2. Apply Through the University Website

   • Visit the program page on the host university’s website

   • Follow the admission and scholarship guidelines

   • Select “VLIR-UOS Scholarship” during the application process

3. Submit Supporting Documents

   • Academic transcripts and degree

   • Proof of nationality and residence

   • Curriculum Vitae (CV)

   • Motivation letter emphasizing development goals

   • Recommendation letters (if required)

4. Deadline

   • Each university sets its own application deadline — typically between December and March

   • Early application is recommended due to limited seats and high competition

5. Selection Process

   • Academic merit, motivation, development relevance, and leadership potential are key criteria

   • Results are usually announced by April–May

List of Eligible Countries (VLIR-UOS 2026)

Applicants must be nationals and residents of one of the following 29 countries:

• Africa: Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, DR Congo, Ethiopia, Guinea, Kenya, Madagascar, Mali, Morocco, Mozambique, Niger, Rwanda, Senegal, Tanzania, Uganda, Zimbabwe

• Asia: Cambodia, Indonesia, Philippines, Palestinian Territories, Vietnam

• Latin America: Bolivia, Cuba, Ecuador, Haiti, Nicaragua, Peru

Why Choose the VLIR-UOS Scholarship?

The VLIR-UOS scholarship is more than just financial aid — it’s an investment in your future and your community’s development. Students gain access to high-quality European education, engage with cutting-edge research, and join a global network of development professionals. Upon returning, they bring back tools, skills, and ideas that directly support climate resilience, food systems, education reform, healthcare delivery, and more.

Official Links and Further Information

To learn more about eligibility, deadlines, and program requirements, visit:

Official VLIR-UOS Scholarships Page:
https://www.vliruos.be/en/scholarships/6

List of ICP Connect Master’s Programs:
https://www.vliruos.be/en/scholarships/international_masters_programmes_ims/5

The VLIR-UOS Scholarships 2025-2026 are among the most prestigious and impactful scholarship programs for students from developing nations. With a strong focus on sustainable development, academic excellence, and professional growth, these scholarships empower students to become catalysts for positive change. If you're a motivated individual committed to building a better future for your community, this is your chance to study in Belgium with full support.