Belgium is a popular destination for international students seeking a high-quality education in Europe. While studying in Belgium can be expensive, there are options for international students to study for free. In this article, we will take a look at some of the ways international students can study for free in Belgium.
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Scholarships
There are several scholarships available for international students in Belgium. These scholarships can cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs associated with studying in Belgium. The most popular scholarship is the Belgian Government Scholarship for Developing Countries, which is offered to students from developing countries. Other scholarships include the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship, which is offered to students pursuing a master’s degree in Europe, and the VLIR-UOS Scholarship, which is offered to students from developing countries pursuing a master’s degree in Belgium.
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Free education in Flemish universities
The Flemish region of Belgium offers free education for both EU and non-EU students. This means that international students can study for free at any of the Flemish universities. However, students will be required to pay a small registration fee each year, which is typically around 100 euros.
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Work-study programs
International students can also work and study at the same time through work-study programs. These programs allow students to work part-time while studying in Belgium, which can help cover living expenses and reduce the cost of tuition. Students can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during holidays.
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PhD opportunities
PhD programs in Belgium are usually fully funded, meaning that students can study for free and receive a stipend to cover living expenses. These programs are highly competitive and require a master’s degree or equivalent, as well as a research proposal.
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Grants and funding from foundations
International students can also apply for grants and funding from foundations in Belgium. These foundations offer financial assistance to students based on their academic achievements and financial need. Some of the popular foundations include the King Baudouin Foundation, the FWO Research Foundation, and the European Research Council.
In conclusion, there are several ways international students can study for free in Belgium. These include scholarships, free education in Flemish universities, work-study programs, PhD opportunities, and grants and funding from foundations. It is important to research the different options available and apply early to increase your chances of securing funding for your studies in Belgium.
