ICP Connect Scholarships 2026-2027 for International Students | VLIRUOS (Flemish Interuniversity Council – University Development Cooperation) | Brilliant Scholarship
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ICP Connect Scholarships 2026-2027 for International Students
Full scholarships for students from 29 African, Asian, and Latin American countries to study at Belgian universities starting September 2026.
VLIRUOS (Flemish Interuniversity Council – University Development Cooperation)
Overview
The ICP Connect Scholarships for 2026-2027 represent one of Belgium's most prestigious opportunities for international students from the Global South. Administered by VLIRUOS — the Flemish Interuniversity Council for University Development Cooperation — these scholarships are designed to empower students from Africa, Asia, and Latin America to pursue high-quality academic programmes at leading Belgian universities. With a focus on building leadership capacity and fostering societal transformation, the ICP Connect programme goes beyond academic excellence: it cultivates a generation of professionals equipped to drive meaningful change in their home countries. The 2026-2027 call is now open, offering full funding across 20 carefully selected programmes, with studies commencing in September 2026. Students from 29 eligible countries — with Mali recently joining the list — are invited to explore this transformative opportunity.
Scholarship Details
The ICP Connect Scholarships are fully funded awards that cover the core costs of studying in Belgium. Recipients benefit from a monthly scholarship allowance intended to cover both living expenses and tuition fees. The precise breakdown of costs varies by institution: in some cases, the organising university covers tuition, accommodation, and insurance directly, then deducts these from the monthly allowance; in others, students manage these expenses themselves from the allowance provided.
Programmes are available at three duration levels — 12, 24, or 36 months — depending on the degree type. This flexibility allows applicants to pursue shorter advanced postgraduate certificates as well as full two- or three-year Master's programmes. There are no application fees for ICP Connect programmes, meaning the entire process from submission to enrolment is accessible without financial barriers.
Additional programme-specific funding may be available for activities such as Global South immersions, though VLIRUOS does not provide supplementary funds for such activities centrally. Applicants are encouraged to enquire directly with their chosen programme for any additional financial support.
Students may work a limited number of hours per week to supplement their budget, but it is strongly advised that academic commitments remain the primary focus. Working during scheduled classes or study activities is not permitted.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for an ICP Connect Scholarship, applicants must meet a combination of nationality, residency, academic, and professional criteria.
Nationality and Residency: Applicants must be nationals and current residents of one of the 29 eligible countries in Africa, Asia, or Latin America. Eligibility is based on nationality and current place of residence — not on where an applicant previously studied. This means that candidates who completed their undergraduate degree abroad may still qualify, provided they meet other criteria.
Applicants for bachelor or initial Master's programmes must not be older than 35 years as of January 1 of the intake year. For advanced Master's programmes, the age limit is 45. Candidates for bachelor's programmes must also be at least 19 years old by January 1 of the intake year.
Award Amount
Full scholarship covering tuition fees and monthly living allowance
Payment: Monthly
Deadline
2026-02-28
Call submission deadline is 28 February 2026 for September 2026 intake
Duration
12, 24, or 36 months depending on the programme
Renewable
No
About This Scholarship
About the AuthorActive ApplicantUniversity Graduate
I'm a university graduate currently navigating the world of scholarship applications. I run this blog as an active, personal database of opportunities I'm researching — every listing here is one I've evaluated myself. My goal is to help fellow students cut through the noise and find funding that actually fits their profile.
📚 Researched & curated by a current applicant · Updated regularly
ProviderVLIRUOS (Flemish Interuniversity Council – University Development Cooperation)
AmountFull scholarship covering tuition fees and monthly living allowance
Deadline2026-02-28
Durationnull years
Fully FundedYes
RenewableNo
Who Is This Scholarship For?
Ideal Candidate:
Age Requirements:
Academic Background: While each programme sets its own specific academic prerequisites, applicants generally need a relevant undergraduate degree. Some advanced Master's programmes accept applicants with a four-year bachelor's degree in lieu of a prior Master's. Applicants with seemingly unrelated undergraduate backgrounds may still be considered if they possess substantial relevant professional experience.
Professional Profile: Preference is given to candidates currently employed in or targeting a career in higher education, government, or civil society. Newly graduated candidates and those from the private sector with no formal work experience may also be considered, provided they submit a compelling motivation.
Prior Study Abroad: Preference is given to candidates who have not previously studied at the bachelor's or master's level in a higher-income country. Short exchange programmes or visits do not disqualify applicants, but prior full degrees in higher-income countries may reduce competitiveness.
Reapplication: Candidates who applied in a previous year and received an admission letter but chose not to enrol may reapply. However, candidates who began studying the programme without a scholarship may not apply for VLIRUOS funding from their second year onwards.
Fields of Study & Programmes
The ICP Connect Scholarships support a curated selection of 20 programmes across disciplines that are directly relevant to sustainable development and societal transformation. These include, but are not limited to, public health, agriculture and food security, environmental and water sciences, governance and public policy, education and human resource development, urban planning, engineering, and social sciences.
Programmes are offered at the bachelor's level, initial (regular) Master's level, and advanced Master's level. Advanced Master's programmes are specifically designed for professionals who already hold a Master's degree and wish to pursue specialised postgraduate study. Initial Master's programmes are open to bachelor's graduates and typically span two years, while advanced programmes may vary in duration.
All 20 eligible programmes are listed on the VLIRUOS website, and scholarships are only available for these specific programmes — no exceptions are made for programmes outside this curated list. Prospective applicants are strongly encouraged to review the full list and select a programme that aligns with their academic background, professional experience, and career aspirations.
Participating Universities
ICP Connect programmes are hosted by several of Belgium's leading universities, all members of the VLIRUOS consortium. These institutions are internationally recognised for their research output, academic rigour, and commitment to international development.
KU Leuven, consistently ranked among Europe's top research universities, is located in the historic city of Leuven and offers programmes across virtually every academic discipline. Its strong focus on interdisciplinary research makes it a natural home for development-oriented studies.
Ghent University, based in the culturally vibrant city of Ghent, is renowned for its contributions to agricultural sciences, biomedical research, and engineering. It has a long history of engagement with development cooperation and hosts several ICP programmes.
Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), situated in the heart of the European capital, offers a cosmopolitan academic environment with strong programmes in social sciences, health sciences, and engineering.
University of Antwerp brings expertise in tropical medicine, development economics, and urban studies, making it particularly relevant for students targeting careers in global health or urban governance.
Hasselt University offers specialised programmes in areas including environmental sciences, transportation studies, and biomedical research.
Each of these institutions maintains strong links with universities and research centres in the Global South, fostering meaningful academic partnerships alongside the scholarship programme itself.
How to Apply
Applying for an ICP Connect Scholarship involves a multi-step process that requires careful preparation and attention to detail. Here is a step-by-step guide:
Step 1 — Explore Eligible Programmes: Begin by visiting the official VLIRUOS study scholarships page and reviewing the full list of 20 eligible programmes. Take note of the degree level, duration, subject matter, and organising institution for each.
Step 2 — Check Programme-Specific Requirements: Each programme is administered by its organising institution, which sets its own admission criteria. Visit the specific programme's website or contact the institution directly to understand the required academic background, English proficiency standards, and any other prerequisites.
Step 3 — Prepare Your Documents: Gather all necessary documents well in advance of the deadline. These typically include academic transcripts, your degree certificate (or temporary certification if your diploma is pending), an updated CV, a motivation letter, reference letters, and proof of English proficiency. Some countries may require document legalisation through Belgian embassies or consulates — check this requirement early.
Step 4 — Write a Strong Motivation Letter: Your motivation letter is one of the most critical components of your application. Clearly articulate why you are applying, how the programme aligns with your professional background, and what you intend to do with the knowledge and skills gained. Candidates with a clear vision for contributing to their home country or region are viewed favourably.
Step 5 — Submit Your Application: Applications are submitted through the organising institution's own portal or application system — not directly through VLIRUOS. Ensure you follow the correct submission process for your chosen programme.
Step 6 — Await the Two-Stage Review: The organising institution first reviews and ranks all eligible applications. VLIRUOS then conducts its own independent screening of the ranked list. Selected candidates and those placed on a waiting list are notified by VLIRUOS via email. Applicants not selected for a scholarship are informed by the programme itself.
No application fee is required at any stage of the process.
Deadlines & Important Dates
The call submission deadline for the ICP Connect Scholarships 2026-2027 is 28 February 2026. This is a firm deadline — late applications are not accepted.
The academic year begins on 1 September 2026, meaning successful applicants will commence their studies in the autumn of 2026.
Applicants are strongly advised to begin preparing their applications several months in advance. Gathering official academic documents, arranging reference letters, obtaining English proficiency test results, and potentially completing document legalisation can each take several weeks. Starting in October or November 2025 is advisable for those targeting the February 2026 deadline.
VLIRUOS hosted an information session about the 2026-2027 intake, a recording of which is available on the official website. Watching this session is highly recommended, as it provides detailed guidance on programmes, eligibility, and the application process directly from VLIRUOS staff.
Keep in mind that each programme may also have its own internal deadlines or additional requirements — always verify timelines directly with the organising institution.
Life as a Scholar
Studying in Belgium as an ICP Connect Scholar is a rich and multifaceted experience. Belgium, situated at the heart of Europe, offers students access to a culturally diverse, multilingual society with excellent public services, a robust transport network, and a high quality of life.
Belgian universities are well-equipped to support international students, offering orientation programmes, student services, and dedicated international offices. While Dutch (Flemish) is the primary language in Flanders where most ICP universities are located, daily life is highly manageable in English, and most university staff, services, and even local residents in university cities are comfortable communicating in English.
ICP Connect scholars join a vibrant international community of peers from across the Global South, fostering lifelong networks that extend far beyond their time in Belgium. This peer community is one of the programme's most valued assets, offering mutual support, cross-cultural exchange, and lasting professional connections.
Cities like Leuven, Ghent, Brussels, and Antwerp each offer their own unique character — from medieval architecture and world-class museums to lively student nightlife and proximity to major European capitals. Many scholars describe their time in Belgium as both academically transformative and personally enriching.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which countries are eligible for the ICP Connect Scholarships?
Students from 29 countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America are eligible. Mali was recently added to the list. The full list of eligible countries is available on the VLIRUOS website.
2. Can I apply if I previously received a VLIRUOS scholarship?
The scholarship is generally intended for candidates who have not yet had the opportunity to study in a higher-income country. However, reapplication is possible for those who received an admission letter in a previous year but chose not to enrol. Candidates who began the programme without a scholarship may not apply from the second year onward.
3. Is the scholarship truly free to apply for?
Yes. ICP Connect scholarship programmes do not require any application fee. Be cautious of any third-party websites charging fees to assist with applications.
4. Do I need to speak Dutch or French to study in Belgium?
No. All ICP Connect programmes are taught in English, and Dutch is not required. If you are interested in French-language programmes, ARES — another Belgian scholarship provider — offers separate opportunities.
5. What happens if I am not selected for a scholarship but receive an admission offer?
You may choose to enrol without a scholarship, but be aware that doing so will make you ineligible to apply for a VLIRUOS scholarship from your second year onward. If you choose not to enrol, you may reapply in the next call.
6. How competitive is the selection process?
The programme is highly competitive. VLIRUOS conducts a two-stage review: the organising institution first ranks all eligible applicants, and VLIRUOS then independently screens the shortlist. A strong academic record, relevant professional experience, and a compelling motivation letter significantly improve your chances.
Final Thoughts
The ICP Connect Scholarships represent a genuine investment in the potential of students from the Global South — an opportunity not just to earn a world-class degree in Belgium, but to return home with the knowledge, skills, and networks to make a meaningful difference. If you are a driven professional or recent graduate from one of the eligible countries with a clear vision for contributing to your community, this scholarship could be the opportunity that transforms your trajectory. Take the time to explore the 20 eligible programmes, prepare a strong application, and submit well before the 28 February 2026 deadline. The journey to Belgium — and to the future you envision — begins with that first step.
The ICP Connect Scholarships 2026-2027, offered by VLIRUOS (Flemish Interuniversity Council – University Development Cooperation), provide full scholarships for international students from 29 eligible countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America to pursue degree programmes at Belgian universities. For the academic year 2026-2027, 20 programmes are available with durations of 12, 24, or 36 months, commencing in September 2026. The scholarship covers tuition fees and provides a monthly living allowance, with accommodation and insurance either covered directly or deducted from the allowance depending on the institution. Eligible candidates must be nationals and residents of one of the designated countries, meet age requirements (under 35 for bachelor/initial Master, under 45 for advanced Master), and demonstrate a strong academic and professional profile. Preference is given to those working in or targeting careers in higher education, government, or civil society. All programmes are taught in English and require high English proficiency. Applications are screened first by the organising institution and then by VLIRUOS. No application fee is required. The call submission deadline is 28 February 2026.
Eligible Study Levels
UndergraduateMasterAdvanced Master
Fields of Study
Development StudiesAgricultureHealth SciencesEnvironmental SciencesEngineeringSocial SciencesPublic HealthEducationGovernance
Available Countries
Belgium
Eligibility Requirements
Nationals and residents of one of the 29 eligible countries in Africa, Asia, or Latin America (including Mali)
Candidates for bachelor or initial Master programmes must not be older than 35 as of January 1 of the intake year
Candidates for advanced Master programmes must not be older than 45 as of January 1 of the intake year
Candidates for bachelor programmes must be at least 19 years old by January 1 of the intake year
Preference given to candidates employed in higher education, government, or civil society
Newly graduated candidates or private sector applicants may be considered with strong motivation
Preference given to candidates who have not previously studied (bachelor or master) in a higher-income country
Eligibility is based on nationality and current residence, not country of previous study
Applicants with unrelated bachelor's degrees may qualify with relevant work experience
Cannot apply for VLIRUOS scholarship from second year onward if already started programme without scholarship
Academic Requirements
Test Scores:
English proficiency test as required by the organising institution (IELTS or equivalent)
Language Requirements:
High level of English proficiency required — all programmes taught in English
English proficiency test may be waived if applicant studied at an English-speaking institution (confirm with programme)
Dutch language not required
Application Process
1Visit the VLIRUOS official study scholarships page to review all 20 eligible programmes
2Select a programme that matches your academic background and career goals
3Check the specific admission and eligibility requirements of the chosen programme on its organising institution's website
4Prepare all required documents including academic transcripts, reference letters, English proficiency proof, and motivation letter
5Submit your application through the organising institution's application portal before 28 February 2026
6VLIRUOS conducts a separate screening after the organising institution ranks eligible applications
7Selected candidates and waitlisted applicants are notified by VLIRUOS via email; unsuccessful applicants are notified by the programme
Required Documents
Online Application Form*Required
Complete the application form via the organising institution's portal
Academic Transcripts*Required
Official transcripts from all previously attended institutions
Graduation Certificate or Diploma*Required
Official degree certificate; temporary certification or transcripts may be accepted if final diploma is pending
English Proficiency Certificate*Required
IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent as required by the specific programme; may be waived for graduates of English-speaking institutions
Reference Letters*Required
Letters of recommendation as part of the organising institution's admission process
Motivation Letter*Required
Personal statement outlining career goals, motivation, and fit for the programme
Curriculum Vitae (CV)*Required
Updated CV including academic and professional background
Proof of Nationality and Residence*Required
Documents confirming eligibility based on nationality and current country of residence
Legalised Documents (if applicable)
Applicants from certain countries may need to legalise documents through Belgian embassies or consulates
Partner Universities
KU Leuven
Leuven, Belgium
Ghent University
Ghent, Belgium
Vrije Universiteit Brussel
Brussels, Belgium
University of Antwerp
Antwerp, Belgium
Hasselt University
Hasselt, Belgium
Additional Benefits
Monthly living allowance
Tuition fee coverage (programme-dependent)
Accommodation support (programme-dependent)
Insurance coverage (programme-dependent)
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