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Ghent University PhD Scholarships 2026 Belgium

The Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships 2026 in Belgium present a fully funded opportunity for outstanding researchers from developing countries to pursue their PhD degrees at one of Europe’s most respected research universities. This initiative seeks to promote international collaboration, academic excellence, and innovation in key global development areas such as sustainable technologies, climate change, health, and food security.

Through this program, Ghent University aims to strengthen academic ties between Belgium and developing nations while supporting doctoral research that addresses real-world challenges. The scholarship adopts a unique “sandwich model,” allowing candidates to conduct part of their research in Belgium and the remainder in their home country, promoting both academic exchange and local impact.

About Ghent University and the Scholarship Program

Founded in 1817, Ghent University (UGent) is a top-ranked public research university in Belgium, known for its commitment to advancing knowledge through innovative research and global cooperation. The Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships 2026 reflect this mission by offering international PhD candidates the resources and mentorship needed to excel in their fields.

The scholarship is primarily designed for researchers from developing countries, helping them contribute to sustainable development and knowledge creation in their regions. By supporting this North-South academic partnership, Ghent University promotes equitable access to education and strengthens the global scientific community.

Objectives of the Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships

The main goal of this scholarship is to encourage high-quality, collaborative research that contributes to the sustainable development of the Global South. By fostering partnerships between Ghent University and universities in developing countries, this program aims to:

Strengthen research capacity in partner institutions.
Support the exchange of academic expertise between researchers from the North and South.
Encourage research projects that address key developmental and social challenges.
Promote gender diversity in academia by giving preference to female candidates.

Benefits of Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships 2026

The scholarship offers a comprehensive financial package designed to fully support doctoral students during their research period at Ghent University and their home institution.

Financial Coverage

Monthly Allowance: Approximately €2,550 per month during the research stay in Belgium.
Research Bench Fee: Supervisors at Ghent University receive €310 per month to support research and operational costs.
Travel Allowance: A total travel budget of €8,000 to cover travel expenses for the candidate, the Ghent University supervisor, and the local supervisor.
Research Mobility: Funding for 24 months of research at Ghent University, with the remaining duration conducted at the partner institution in the Global South.

These benefits ensure that scholars can focus entirely on their research without financial constraints, while also enabling effective collaboration between institutions.

Research Structure and Duration

The Ghent University Doctoral Scholarship follows a sandwich model that blends research conducted in Belgium with research in the candidate’s home country. This approach promotes both academic rigor and local relevance.

Program Structure

Initial Research Period (at Ghent University):3–12 months
- Orientation, academic preparation, and initial research development.
Main Research Period (in the home country):At least 24 months
- Fieldwork, data collection, and practical implementation in a local context.
Final Research Period (at Ghent University):3–12 months
- Final data analysis, thesis writing, and defense preparation.

This structure ensures that the research contributes to both academic excellence and local development outcomes.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet specific eligibility conditions to qualify for the Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships 2026:

Nationality: Candidates must be citizens of a developing country (as defined by the DAC list of ODA recipients).
Academic Qualification: Applicants should hold a Master’s degree relevant to their proposed research field.
Joint Application: A complete proposal must be submitted jointly by the candidate, a Ghent University supervisor, and a local (South) university supervisor.
Research Relevance: The proposed research must address a development-related topic relevant to the Global South.
Gender Priority: Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare the following documents before submitting their application:

Curriculum Vitae (CV) using the Europass format.
Copy of Bachelor’s and Master’s degree certificates.
Academic transcripts from all previous studies.
Motivation letter explaining research interests and relevance.
Two recommendation letters (one preferably from a previous supervisor).
Research proposal highlighting objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes.
Advice letter from the Ghent University supervisor regarding the candidate’s potential.
Ethical and biosafety statement about the proposed research project.
Passport copy and one recent photograph.

Application Process for Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships 2026

The application process is fully online and requires coordination between the candidate and their potential supervisors. Follow these steps to apply successfully:

Find a Supervisor: Contact a professor at Ghent University whose research aligns with your proposal and secure their willingness to supervise.
Prepare a Joint Proposal: Collaborate with both your Ghent University and local supervisors to create a comprehensive research proposal.
Complete the Application Form: Access the official online application form via the Ghent University BOF portal.
Attach Supporting Documents: Upload all required documents in the specified format.
Review Before Submission: Ensure all fields are correctly filled and that documents meet the stated requirements.
Submit Your Application: Email the completed application to BOFapplication@ugent.be before 17 February 2026.

Late or incomplete applications will not be considered, so applicants are encouraged to apply well in advance.

Selection Criteria

Applications are assessed based on the following factors:

Academic excellence and previous research performance.
Quality and feasibility of the research proposal.
Relevance to North-South collaboration and developmental goals.
Candidate’s motivation and research potential.
Balance in gender representation and institutional diversity.

Final results are expected to be announced from 20 May 2026.

Key Fields of Research

While there are no strict restrictions on research areas, proposals related to the following disciplines are especially encouraged:

Environmental and Climate Sciences
Agriculture and Food Security
Water Management
Public Health and Biomedical Sciences
Renewable Energy and Sustainable Technology
Social Sciences and Development Studies
Engineering and Materials Science

These areas align closely with the university’s focus on global challenges and sustainable solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the Ghent University Doctoral Scholarship 2026?

It is a fully funded PhD scholarship for researchers from developing countries. The program supports research conducted both at Ghent University and a partner university in the candidate’s home country.

2. Is there an application fee?

No. The application process for the Ghent University Doctoral Scholarship 2026 is entirely free of charge.

3. How long does the PhD program last?

Typically, the program spans 3–4 years, with 24 months funded for research at Ghent University.

4. Can I apply without a local university supervisor?

No. A valid joint proposal must include both a Ghent University promoter and a South University promoter.

5. Are female candidates prioritized?

Yes. The program encourages applications from female researchers to promote gender balance in scientific research.

6. What is the last date to apply?

The deadline for submission is 17 February 2026, and results will be announced from 20 May 2026.

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Ghent University PhD Scholarships 2026 Belgium