Dreaming of furthering your education in Belgium with full financial backing? The ARES Scholarships offer a remarkable opportunity for international students to pursue advanced studies and training in a supportive academic environment. This prestigious scholarship program is designed to empower individuals from developing nations, providing them with the resources needed to excel and contribute to their home countries.
This article will guide you through everything you need to know about the ARES Scholarships, from understanding what they cover to navigating the application process. We aim to equip you with the knowledge to present a strong application and increase your chances of securing this valuable award.
What Are the ARES Scholarships?
The ARES Scholarships, funded by the Federation of Wallonie-Bruxelles, are a key initiative by the Academy of Research and Higher Education (ARES) in Belgium. This program is dedicated to supporting international students from developing countries who wish to undertake specialized master’s degrees or advanced training courses. The goal is to foster academic excellence and professional development among individuals who can bring their newfound knowledge back to their communities.
These scholarships are highly sought after because they offer comprehensive financial support, covering many of the costs associated with studying abroad. They represent a significant investment in global talent, aiming to build capacity in critical fields and promote sustainable development.
What Do ARES Scholarships Cover?
The ARES Scholarships provide generous financial support to ensure recipients can focus on their studies without undue financial stress. The coverage varies slightly depending on whether you are pursuing a master’s degree or a training course.
Coverage for Master’s and Bachelor’s Scholarships:
- International Travel Costs: A round-trip ticket in economy class on an IATA-approved airline is provided for each academic year.
- Living Allowance: Recipients receive a monthly living allowance of €1,150 for the duration of their program, typically 12 months.
- Arrival Allowance: An allowance of €700 is given once per stay upon arrival to help with initial expenses.
- Tuition and Return Fees: These are also covered by the €700 arrival allowance.
- Registration Fees: ARES covers registration fees at the current rate.
- Insurance: Comprehensive insurance for health and accidents is directly paid for by ARES.
- Inter-University Travel: Travel costs incurred as part of inter-university training are reimbursed based on actual expenses with receipts.
Coverage for Training Course Grants:
- International Travel Cost: A one-way round-trip ticket in economy class on an IATA-approved airline is provided.
- Living Allowance: This varies based on the length of stay: €83 per day for stays of 8 to 17 days, and €1,400 per month for stays of 18 days to 6 months, prorated accordingly.
- Indirect Mission Fees: A fixed amount of €150 is provided once per stay upon arrival.
- Insurance: ARES directly covers insurance fees for health and accidents.
- Inter-University Training Travel: Reimbursement for travel expenses during inter-university training is based on actual costs with provided receipts.
Who Is Eligible for ARES Scholarships?
To be considered for an ARES Scholarship, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria. These requirements are in place to ensure that the scholarships reach individuals who can benefit most and contribute effectively to their home countries.
Key Eligibility Criteria:
- Nationality: You must be a national of one of the eligible developing countries. These include Benin, Bolivia, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cambodia, Cameroon, Cuba, Ecuador, Ethiopia (for English-taught training courses only), Haiti, Madagascar, Morocco, Niger, Peru, the Philippines, DR Congo, Rwanda, Senegal, and Vietnam.
- Residency and Work: Applicants must be residing and actively working in their country of origin at the time of application.
- Age Limit: Applicants must be under 40 years old for degree programs and under 45 years old for training courses when the program is scheduled to begin.
- Academic Background: You should possess a diploma equivalent to a graduate-level degree from a Belgian university. Some training courses may have different requirements, such as additional qualifications or specific professional experience.
- Professional Experience: A minimum of two years of relevant professional experience in a developing country is required after graduate studies. If you have a postgraduate degree from an industrialized country, you need at least three years of experience.
- Language Proficiency: A proficient command of written and spoken French is essential. For courses taught in other languages, you must demonstrate proficiency in that language. Applicants are also expected to commit to learning French for daily life in Belgium.
- Application Limit: You can only apply for one training course at a time.
What Documents Are Required for the Application?
A successful ARES Scholarship application requires careful preparation of several essential documents. These documents help the selection committee assess your academic background, professional experience, and suitability for the program.
Essential Application Documents:
- Application Form: The completed application form, accessible through the GIRAF platform.
- Motivation Letter: A compelling letter explaining your reasons for applying, your career goals, and how the scholarship will help you achieve them.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): An up-to-date CV detailing your educational history, professional experience, skills, and any relevant achievements.
- Academic Transcripts and Diplomas: Certified copies of your academic transcripts and diplomas, translated into French or English if necessary.
- Proof of Professional Experience: Documents such as employment contracts, letters from employers, or other evidence to verify your work experience.
- Language Proficiency Certificate: Proof of your French language proficiency, such as a DELF/DALF certificate or other recognized test results. If the course is in another language, provide proof of proficiency in that language.
- Passport Copy: A clear copy of your valid passport.
- Birth Certificate: A copy of your birth certificate.
- Medical Certificate: A medical certificate confirming your fitness to study abroad.
How to Apply for an ARES Scholarship?
The application process for ARES Scholarships is managed online through the GIRAF platform. It is crucial to follow the steps carefully to ensure your application is submitted correctly and on time.
Step-by-Step Application Guide:
- Create a GIRAF Account: If you do not already have one, you must create an account on the GIRAF platform. Visit the official ARES website for the correct link. Your account will be validated by ARES, and you will receive an email to set up your password. If you have a validated account from a previous year, you can reuse it.
- Access the Application Form: Once logged into your GIRAF account, navigate to the “Competitive Calls” tab. Locate and click on the “International training application” button for the relevant academic year. Your application form will then appear in the “My Tasks” table.
- Complete and Save Your Form: You can work on your application form multiple times. Use the “Save and edit later” option to keep your progress. Remember to save your changes frequently.
- Submit Your Application: Once you are satisfied with your application, click “Submit my application.” Be aware that after submission, you cannot make any further changes. Your submitted application will be available for viewing in the “My Submitted Files” table.
It is highly recommended to start the application process well in advance of the deadline to allow ample time for document gathering and form completion.
What Are the Application Deadlines?
Meeting the application deadline is critical for your ARES Scholarship application. The deadline is strictly enforced, and late submissions will not be considered.
The application deadline for the ARES Scholarships is September 19, 2026.
It is advisable to aim to submit your application a few days before the official deadline to avoid any last-minute technical issues or unforeseen problems.
Tips for a Strong ARES Scholarship Application
To stand out among a competitive pool of applicants, consider these tips to strengthen your ARES Scholarship application. A well-prepared application demonstrates your commitment and suitability for the program.
Application Enhancement Tips:
- Tailor Your Motivation Letter: Clearly articulate why you are interested in the specific program and institution in Belgium. Connect your past experiences and future aspirations to the scholarship’s objectives and the program’s curriculum. Highlight how studying in Belgium will help you contribute to your home country’s development.
- Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasize professional and academic experiences that directly relate to the chosen course of study. Quantify your achievements whenever possible to showcase the impact of your work.
- Proofread Meticulously: Ensure all parts of your application, especially the motivation letter and CV, are free of grammatical errors and typos. A polished application reflects attention to detail.
- Gather Documents Early: Start collecting all required documents well in advance. Some documents, like academic transcripts or language certificates, may take time to obtain.
- Understand the Program: Thoroughly research the specific master’s or training program you are applying for. Understand its objectives, faculty, and research areas to demonstrate genuine interest and alignment.
- Seek Guidance: If possible, consult with mentors, professors, or colleagues who have experience with international scholarships or studying in Belgium. Their insights can be invaluable.
- Follow Instructions Precisely: Adhere strictly to all instructions provided by ARES regarding document formatting, submission methods, and any specific requirements for each section of the application.
By following these guidelines and dedicating sufficient time to each aspect of your application, you can significantly improve your chances of being selected for the ARES Scholarships.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ARES Scholarship program?
The ARES Scholarships are funded by the Federation of Wallonie-Bruxelles to support international students from developing countries in pursuing specialized master’s degrees or advanced training courses in Belgium.
What expenses do ARES Scholarships cover?
They cover international travel, a monthly living allowance, an arrival allowance, tuition and registration fees, and insurance.
Who is eligible to apply for an ARES Scholarship?
Eligibility includes being a national of an eligible developing country, residing and working in your home country, being under 40 (or 45 for training courses), holding a graduate-level diploma, and having French language proficiency.
What is the application deadline for the ARES Scholarships?
The application deadline for the ARES Scholarships is September 19, 2026.
