ARES Scholarship in Belgium 2027 | Fully Funded

Dreaming of studying in Europe? Belgium offers a rich academic environment and cultural experiences. For many ambitious students, the cost of international education can be a significant hurdle. Fortunately, opportunities exist to make this dream a reality.

The ARES Scholarship program in Belgium stands out as a premier option for international students. It provides a pathway to pursue advanced degrees and specialized training in the heart of Europe. This scholarship aims to support individuals from specific countries, fostering development and academic exchange.

This article will guide you through everything you need to know about the ARES Scholarship. We will cover what it is, its benefits, who can apply, and the detailed steps to submit your application. Get ready to explore how you can secure your chance to study in Belgium.

What is the ARES Scholarship in Belgium?

The ARES Scholarship, offered by the Wallonia-Brussels Federation in Belgium, is a fully funded program designed for students from selected countries. It provides opportunities for individuals to undertake Bachelor’s degrees, specialized Master’s degrees, or continuing education courses. These programs are hosted by higher education institutions within the Wallonia-Brussels Federation.

The scholarship focuses on areas related to development, aiming to equip students with advanced knowledge and skills that they can apply in their home countries. It is a highly competitive award, recognizing academic excellence and professional potential. The ARES program plays a key role in fostering international cooperation and academic mobility.

Benefits and Coverage of the ARES Scholarship

The ARES Scholarship is designed to be comprehensive, covering many of the expenses associated with studying abroad. This financial support aims to remove barriers and allow students to focus on their academic pursuits. Understanding the full extent of the benefits is crucial for prospective applicants.

The scholarship typically includes:

International Travel Expenses: Round-trip airfare to Belgium.
Subsistence Allowance: A monthly stipend to cover living costs such as accommodation, food, and personal expenses.
Tuition Fees: For Bachelor’s and specialized Master’s degrees, tuition fees are generally covered.
Exceptional Costs: This can include expenses related to visa applications for Bachelor’s and Master’s programs.
Indirect Mission Expenses: For continuing education courses, there may be coverage for indirect mission costs.
Insurance Costs: Comprehensive health and accident insurance coverage.

It is important to note that the exact coverage can vary slightly between degree levels and types of programs. For instance, continuing education courses might have a different structure of financial support compared to full degree programs.

Eligibility Criteria for the ARES Scholarship

To be considered for the ARES Scholarship, candidates must meet a specific set of requirements. These criteria ensure that the scholarship reaches deserving individuals from eligible regions who can benefit most from the opportunity. Meeting these conditions is the first step in a successful application.

Key eligibility requirements include:

Nationality and Residency: You must be a permanent resident and currently working in one of the 32 eligible countries. Palestinian nationals are an exception and are eligible even if they do not reside in one of these countries.
Academic Background: You need to hold a graduate degree and meet the specific admission requirements for the program you wish to apply for. The degree must have been obtained no more than 20 years prior to the program’s start date. This time limit can be extended by one year for each childbirth and/or adoption.
Professional Experience: A minimum of two years of relevant professional experience is required. This experience should be in one of the eligible countries and gained between the completion of your most recent graduate degree and the scholarship application deadline.
Language Proficiency: The application and program must be completed in the language of instruction. You must demonstrate a good command of this language, both written and spoken. While not mandatory for application, basic knowledge of French can greatly help with daily life in Belgium.
Program Application: You are permitted to apply for only one program. Choosing the right program that aligns with your career goals is essential.

Eligible Countries for the ARES Scholarship

The ARES Scholarship is open to nationals from a specific list of countries, primarily focusing on development cooperation. These countries are located across Africa, South America, the Caribbean, Southeast Asia, and Asia.

Eligible Countries in Africa:

Benin
Burkina Faso
Burundi
Cameroon
Ethiopia
Guinea
Ivory Coast
Kenya
Madagascar
Mali
Morocco
Mozambique
Niger
DR Congo
Rwanda
Senegal
South Africa
Tanzania
Tunisia
Uganda
Zimbabwe

Eligible Countries in South America and the Caribbean:

Bolivia
Cuba
Ecuador
Haiti
Peru

Eligible Countries in Southeast Asia:

Cambodia
Indonesia
Nepal
Philippines
Vietnam

Eligible Countries in Asia:

Palestine

Required Documents for Application

Gathering all the necessary documents is a critical part of the ARES Scholarship application process. Missing or incomplete documentation can lead to disqualification. It is advisable to start collecting these items well in advance of the deadline.

While the specific requirements can vary slightly depending on the program, common documents include:

Academic Transcripts: Official transcripts for all higher education degrees obtained.
Diplomas/Certificates: Copies of your degree certificates.
Curriculum Vitae (CV): A detailed CV highlighting your academic and professional experience.
Motivation Letter: A well-written letter explaining your reasons for applying, your career aspirations, and how the scholarship will help you achieve them.
Proof of Professional Experience: Letters from employers or other official documents verifying your work experience.
Passport Copy: A clear copy of your valid passport.
Application Form: The completed application form, which will be accessed through the GIRAF platform.
Language Proficiency Proof: If required by the specific program, evidence of your language skills.

Always refer to the official ARES website and the specific program details for the most accurate and up-to-date list of required documents.

The Application Process: Step-by-Step

Applying for the ARES Scholarship involves navigating an online platform. Following these steps carefully will ensure your application is submitted correctly and on time. The process is designed to be thorough, so allocate sufficient time to complete each stage.

Here is a step-by-step guide to applying:

Visit the ARES Scholarship Website: Navigate to the official ARES website and find the section for International Training Scholarships for the 2027-2028 academic year.
Create a GIRAF Account: If you do not already have an account, you will need to create one on the GIRAF platform. This is the system used for managing applications. You may need to fill out an account creation request form.
Log In to GIRAF: Once your account is created and validated, log in to the GIRAF platform.
Access the Application Form: Go to the “Competitive Calls” section and locate the button for “Application – International Training 2027-2028.” Click this button to begin.
Complete and Save the Form: Fill in all the required fields in the application form. Fields marked with an asterisk (*) are mandatory. You can save your progress by clicking “Save as Draft” and return to complete it later.
Resume a Saved Application: To continue working on your application, go to “Competitive Calls” and then “My Tasks.” Select your application and click “Open.”
Submit Your Application: Once you have completed all sections and are satisfied with your application, click “Submit my application.” Be aware that once submitted, your application cannot be modified.
Review Applicant’s Guide: For more detailed information and guidance, consult the official applicant’s guide provided on the ARES website.

Application Deadlines

Meeting the application deadline is non-negotiable. The ARES Scholarship has a specific closing date for applications each year. Missing this deadline means your application will not be considered.

For the 2027 intake, the deadline for applications is September 18, 2026. It is highly recommended to submit your application a few days before the actual deadline to avoid any last-minute technical issues or unforeseen problems. Always double-check the official ARES website for the most current deadline information.

Tips for a Strong Application

To increase your chances of being selected for the ARES Scholarship, consider these tips to strengthen your application:

Choose Your Program Wisely: Select a program that genuinely aligns with your academic background, professional experience, and future career goals. Research the program content and its relevance to development issues.
Craft a Compelling Motivation Letter: Your motivation letter is your opportunity to showcase your passion, suitability, and potential. Clearly articulate why you want to study this specific program in Belgium and how it will contribute to your home country’s development.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasize your professional experience and academic achievements in your CV and application. Quantify your accomplishments whenever possible.
Proofread Everything: Ensure all parts of your application, including essays and personal statements, are free of grammatical errors and typos. A polished application demonstrates attention to detail.
Understand the Application Platform: Familiarize yourself with the GIRAF platform before the final submission. This will help you avoid errors and ensure a smooth application process.
Seek Guidance: If possible, consult with mentors, professors, or colleagues who may have experience with international scholarships or the ARES program. They might offer valuable insights.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ARES Scholarship program?

The ARES Scholarship is a fully funded program by the Wallonia-Brussels Federation in Belgium for students from selected countries to pursue Bachelor’s, specialized Master’s degrees, or continuing education courses.

What does the ARES Scholarship cover?

It typically covers international travel, a monthly subsistence allowance, tuition fees, exceptional costs like visa applications, and insurance.

Who is eligible to apply for the ARES Scholarship?

Eligibility requires being a permanent resident and working in one of the 32 eligible countries, holding a graduate degree obtained no more than 20 years prior, and having at least two years of relevant professional experience.