ICP Connect Scholarships in Belgium 2026

ICP Connect study programmes are accredited international study programmes offered by Flemish universities and universities of applied sciences and arts in Belgium. VLIRUOS awards scholarships to applicants from 29 eligible countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America to attend one of these study programmes taught in English. The ICP Connect scholarship call has been launched for students starting in September 2026, with application deadlines varying by programme.

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Scholarship Overview

This is an excellent opportunity for students from developing countries to pursue higher education in Europe. The ICP Connect scholarships cover all major expenses for the full duration of the study programme, whether 12, 24, or 36 months. It is not possible to apply for a partial scholarship or an extension. The comprehensive coverage includes tuition fees, international travel, health insurance, and living expenses covering board and lodging.

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Eligible Countries

The scholarships are open to applicants from 29 countries across Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Students from Pakistan and other eligible nations can apply for these prestigious awards. The program aims to support students from developing regions who demonstrate potential to become agents of change in their home countries.

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Selection Criteria

Within the ICP Connect framework, scholars are seen as potential agents of change who may contribute to societal transformation in their home country after completing their studies. Selection is based on an objective evaluation of scholarship applications considering several key factors.

• Motivation: Candidates' professional goals reflecting their competence in transferring knowledge and skills relevant to sustainable development

• Professional Experience: Preference given to candidates demonstrating greater chance of implementing newly gained knowledge in sectors like higher education, government, civil society, or private sector

• Gender Balance: Targeted, with VLIRUOS strongly encouraging female candidates to apply

• Regional Balance: Ensuring a reasonable cross-section of scholars from different countries

• Vulnerable Groups: Preference given to candidates from vulnerable groups and those who haven't previously studied in a higher-income country

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Scholarship Benefits

VLIRUOS ICP Connect scholarships provide comprehensive financial support for the entire duration of your study programme.

• Tuition Fees: Fully covered for the complete programme duration

• International Travel: Round-trip airfare to and from Belgium

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive coverage during your stay

• Living Expenses: Full coverage for board and lodging

This fully funded package allows scholars to focus entirely on their studies without financial concerns.

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Available Study Programmes

Professional Bachelors (3 Years)

• Bachelor of Hotel Management

• Bachelor of Applied Computer Science

Initial Masters (2 Years)

• International Master of Science in Agro- & Environmental Nematology

• International Master of Science in Rural Development (IMRD)

• Master of Aquaculture (IMAQUA)

• Master of Epidemiology

• Master of Science in Food Technology

• Master of Science in Marine and Lacustrine Science and Management

• Master of Statistics and Data Science

• Master in Sustainable Development

• Master of Transportation Sciences - Road Safety

• Master of Water Resources Engineering (WRE)

• Master of Science in Nutrition and Food Systems

• Master of Science in Sustainable Land Management

• Master of Science in Tropical Biodiversity and Ecosystems

Advanced Masters (1 Year)

• Master of Human Settlements

• Master of Development Evaluation and Management

• Master of Governance and Development

• Master of Globalisation and Development

• Master of Cultural Anthropology and Development Studies (CADES)

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How to Apply

Applying for an ICP Connect scholarship involves several steps that must be followed carefully.

Step 1: Check Eligibility

• First, check if you are eligible based on all given criteria

Step 2: Research Your Programme

• Learn more about the selected study programmes by visiting the website of the institution that offers your chosen programme

Step 3: Apply Simultaneously

• Through the institution's website, apply for both the programme and the scholarship at the same time

• When submitting your programme application, make sure to indicate if you are also applying for a scholarship

Important: Do not apply for more than one ICP programme per year.

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Application Deadlines

• Each programme sets its own deadlines, which vary across different institutions and courses

• Applicants must check the specific deadline for their chosen programme on the host institution's website

• The selection results are received from programme organisers

• VLIRUOS contacts selected candidates and those on the waiting list by email as soon as possible after the selection process, and no later than mid-May

If you have any questions about your application or the selection process, please contact the institution directly rather than VLIRUOS.

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Why Choose Belgium for Your Studies

• Quality Education: Flemish universities and universities of applied sciences are known for academic excellence

• International Environment: Study alongside students from around the world

• Strategic Location: Belgium is at the heart of Europe, with easy access to other European countries

• English-Taught Programmes: All ICP Connect programmes are taught in English

• Comprehensive Support: Fully funded scholarships covering all expenses

• Development Focus: Programmes designed to create agents of change for developing countries

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Important Notes

• Scholarship costs may change in line with government funding decisions, so applicants should verify current information when applying

• The scholarships only cover the full duration of the study programme

• Partial scholarships or extensions are not available

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Contact and Further Information

For questions about specific programmes, contact the host institution directly. General information about ICP Connect scholarships is available through VLIRUOS channels. Applicants should carefully review all requirements and deadlines before beginning their application.

Students from eligible countries, including Pakistan, are strongly encouraged to apply for these life-changing opportunities to study in Belgium with full financial support.

Final Thoughts

The ICP Connect Scholarships 2026 offer a remarkable opportunity for students from developing countries to pursue accredited international study programmes in Belgium with comprehensive financial support. With programmes ranging from professional bachelors to advanced masters across diverse fields, there are options for students with various academic interests and career goals.

Eligible candidates should identify their preferred programme, check specific deadlines on the host institution's website, and submit complete applications before the deadline. This could be your gateway to quality European education and the chance to become an agent of positive change in your home country.

Good luck with your application

Apply Now

For complete and official information about ICP Connect Scholarships and to find application links for specific programmes, visit the official VLIRUOS website:

Apply for ICP Connect Scholarships 2026 Belgium