VLIR-UOS, in collaboration with Belgian universities, is offering full scholarships to study in Belgium for selected Bachelor’s and Master’s students from 29 eligible countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
This scholarship program, known as ICP Connect, provides an all-inclusive package covering tuition fees, living allowance, travel costs, and insurance, allowing students to focus entirely on their studies while experiencing Belgian culture and world-class academic programs.
VLIR-UOS 2026-2027 Scholarships: Study Levels and Available Programs
The ICP Connect scholarship is available for three study levels:
- Professional Bachelors (3 years) – Designed for students who want hands-on, career-oriented education. Programs include:
- Hotel Management
- Applied Computer Science
- Initial Masters (2 years) – Ideal for students seeking to advance in technical and development-focused fields. Programs include:
- Agro- & Environmental Nematology
- Rural Development
- Aquaculture
- Epidemiology
- Food Technology
- Marine & Lacustrine Science & Management
- Statistics & Data Science
- Sustainable Development
- Transportation Sciences – Road Safety
- Water Resources Engineering
- Nutrition & Food Systems
- Sustainable Land Management
- Tropical Biodiversity & Ecosystems
- Advanced Masters (1 year) – Tailored for professionals and students seeking specialized training and research experience. Programs include:
- Human Settlements
- Development Evaluation & Management
- Governance & Development
- Globalisation & Development
- Cultural Anthropology & Development Studies (CADES)
This wide range of programs ensures that students from diverse backgrounds—science, technology, development, and social sciences—can find a course that aligns with their career goals.
Who Can Apply?
The scholarship targets citizens of the 29 eligible countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, and applicants must be residing in one of these countries at the time of application. Age limits vary by program level:
- Bachelor’s/Initial Master’s: 19–35 years (by 1 January of the intake year)
- Advanced Master’s: Up to 45 years (by 1 January of the intake year)
While the program prefers candidates working in higher education, government, or civil society, strong and motivated profiles from other sectors are also welcome. It is important to note that applicants may only apply for one ICP Connect scholarship per year and must not have previously studied in Belgium or held a Belgian government scholarship in the intake year.
Benefits of the ICP Connect Scholarship
The VLIR-UOS scholarship is fully funded, covering:
- Tuition fees for the chosen program
- Monthly living allowance to cover accommodation, meals, and daily expenses
- Travel expenses to and from Belgium
- Health and insurance coverage during the study period
This comprehensive support enables students to fully immerse themselves in academic and research activities, participate in international networks, and build lifelong skills and connections.
How to Apply
Applying for the ICP Connect scholarship is a two-step process:
- Select a Program – Browse the list of eligible ICP Connect Bachelor or Master programs offered by VLIR-UOS and choose the program that best fits your academic and professional goals.
- Submit Your Application – Apply to the host university of the chosen program, indicating in your application that you are also applying for the VLIR-UOS ICP Connect scholarship. Applicants must submit all required documents, including:
- Certified copies of academic degrees and transcripts
- Proof of language proficiency (English, French, or Dutch, depending on program requirements)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation letter detailing your academic background, professional experience, and future plans
- Any additional documents requested by the university
After submission, wait for the selection results from both the university and VLIR-UOS. The process may include interviews or additional assessments, depending on the program.
Deadlines
Application deadlines vary by program but are generally between 1 February and 28 February 2026. Note that the MSc in Tropical Biodiversity & Ecosystems closes on 30 November 2025, so applicants should plan accordingly.
Why This Scholarship Matters
Studying in Belgium offers students the chance to gain an international perspective while accessing top-quality education and research facilities. The ICP Connect scholarship is not just about academic learning—it is also about building networks with fellow students from around the world, participating in multicultural experiences, and developing skills that are highly valued globally. Graduates often return to their home countries ready to contribute to sustainable development, innovation, and leadership in their respective fields.
By supporting talented students from the Global South, the VLIR-UOS ICP Connect scholarship fosters inclusive international collaboration, bridging knowledge gaps and empowering future leaders who can make a difference in their communities.
Final Notes
If you meet the eligibility criteria and aspire to advance your education while gaining international exposure, the VLIR-UOS ICP Connect scholarship is an opportunity not to be missed. Start preparing your application now, choose your preferred program carefully, and ensure all supporting documents are ready before the deadline.
For detailed program lists and application guidelines, visit the VLIR-UOS website and the host university’s admission portal.
