Looking for fully funded scholarships in Europe that let you study without IELTS? Belgium is one of the best destinations for international students who want world-class education, vibrant culture, and outstanding career prospects — without the heavy financial burden. The country is home to leading universities, globally recognized research institutes, and highly supportive scholarship programs available at Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD levels.
For 2026, several Belgian scholarships are open to students worldwide, many offering complete financial coverage and the flexibility to apply without standardized English exams like IELTS or TOEFL. If you have been searching for affordable study opportunities in Europe, Belgium could be the perfect path to your academic dreams.
Why Study in Belgium?
Belgium has quickly become a top choice for international students due to its:
Multicultural environment: Belgium is home to diverse nationalities and languages, including Dutch, French, and German. Brussels, its capital, is widely known as the heart of the European Union — a major hub for international diplomacy and business.
Prestigious education system: Belgian higher-education institutions consistently rank highly in Europe for academic excellence, innovation, and cutting-edge research.
Strong career outlook: Belgium’s central location in Europe provides access to global organizations, internships, and job opportunities, especially in law, politics, engineering, public health, science, and business.
Fully funded scholarships: These programs typically cover tuition fees, travel, health insurance, accommodation, research support, and monthly stipends — allowing students to focus on their studies without financial stress.
Study in Belgium Without IELTS: Quick Overview (2026)
- Host Country: Belgium
- Degree Levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s & PhD
- Funding Type: Fully Funded
- IELTS Requirement: Not mandatory (if MOI certificate available)
- Eligible Regions: Applicants from all nationalities
- Application Deadlines: Depend on university & scholarship
Many Belgian universities accept English-taught Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificates instead of IELTS, making the admission process more accessible to international students.
Top Fully Funded Scholarships in Belgium 2026 (No IELTS Required)
Below are the leading scholarship opportunities offering full financial support to international students:
Belgium Government Scholarships (ARES Scholarships)
The ARES (Académie de Recherche et d’Enseignement Supérieur) program aims to support development in partner countries by offering fully funded study opportunities in Belgium.
Available Programs:
- Master’s degree programs
- Short-term specialized training courses
Eligible Fields
- Public health,
- Agriculture,
- Education,
- Environment,
- Food security, and more.
Benefits
- 100% tuition fee waiver
- Monthly stipend
- Accommodation and meals
- International travel costs
- Health and accident insurance
These scholarships are mainly targeted at students from developing nations, giving them access to advanced academic resources in Belgium.
Visit official ARES website
VLIR-UOS Scholarships
VLIR-UOS focuses on development cooperation by funding students from 31 partner countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. It supports Master’s degrees and short training programs in areas linked to sustainability and global development.
What It Covers:
- Tuition and administrative fees
- Living allowance for the entire study duration
- International travel expenses
- Medical insurance
This program is highly competitive but remains one of the most generous scholarships available in Europe.
Search VLIR-UOS scholarships Belgium
Master Mind Scholarships – Government of Flanders
This scholarship supports academically exceptional students pursuing Master’s studies at top institutions in the Flemish region.
Benefits
- Up to €8,000 per academic year
- Tuition fee reduction
- Research and mentorship opportunities with expert faculty
These awards promote international exchange and help build a stronger academic network in Flanders.
Search Master Mind Scholarships Study in Flanders
ARES Specialization & Short Training Scholarships
Apart from the main ARES program, there are additional funded opportunities for:
- 150 scholarships for Master’s degrees
- 70 scholarships for short advanced training programs
These programs are designed to enhance practical skills and professional development for individuals working in fields essential to national growth.
Benefits
- Full tuition fee coverage
- Monthly allowance
- Airfare (round-trip)
- Health insurance
(Search online: ARES training programs Belgium scholarships
Belgian Universities That Accept Students Without IELTS
Many top universities in Belgium allow students to apply without IELTS if they can submit proof of previous education in English.
Universities Accepting MOI Certificates
- Ghent University
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB)
- University of Antwerp
- Hasselt University
- Université de Liège (ULiège)
Instead of IELTS, applicants may submit:
English Language Proficiency Certificate / Medium of Instruction (MOI)
Issued by your previous institution, confirming that your courses were fully taught in English.
This document should be signed and stamped by authorized personnel at your university.
How to Apply for Scholarships in Belgium Without IELTS (Step-by-Step Guide)
Applying is straightforward when you follow the right process:
Step 1: Research Suitable Scholarships
Choose programs that align with your degree level, field of study, and nationality requirements.
Step 2: Prepare Required Application Documents
Most scholarships require:
• Updated CV / Resume
• Academic transcripts
• Degree certificates
• Personal statement / Motivation letter
• Letters of recommendation
• Passport or national ID
• English Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate (if seeking IELTS exemption)
Step 3: Apply via Official Portals
Submit your documents online through university or scholarship websites. Double-check deadlines to avoid missing opportunities.
Step 4: Stay Updated
Keep track of emails and portals for:
• Interview invitations
• Additional document requests
• Final admission decisions
Living in Belgium as an International Student
Beyond academics, Belgium offers an exceptional lifestyle:
• Affordable cost of living compared to many Western European nations
• A central location — easy weekend trips to France, Germany, and the Netherlands
• Rich culture, historic architecture, and world-famous cuisine
• Friendly environment for international students
Belgium’s high standard of living ensures safety, comfort, and countless opportunities for personal growth.
Final Thoughts
Belgium stands out as one of the most rewarding destinations for higher education — especially if you’re looking for fully funded scholarships without IELTS. Whether you’re interested in development studies, science, engineering, business, agriculture, or public health, Belgian institutions offer top-tier learning experiences backed by generous funding.
If you want to:
• Study in a globally connected European country
• Enjoy a full scholarship package
• Skip the IELTS requirement
…then Belgium should be at the top of your study-abroad list for 2026.
Explore the scholarships, prepare your documents, and take the next step toward a brighter academic future in Europe