The VLIR-UOS ICP Connect Scholarships 2025 in Belgium offer a fully funded opportunity for outstanding students from 30 eligible countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America to pursue accredited international master’s programs taught in English. These scholarships aim to empower individuals who aspire to make a positive impact in their communities through higher education at prestigious Flemish universities or universities of applied sciences and arts.
VLIR-UOS (Flemish Interuniversity Council – University Development Cooperation) supports partnerships between universities and university colleges in Flanders (Belgium) and the Global South, seeking innovative responses to global and local challenges. The ICP Connect scholarships focus on nurturing professionals who are committed to sharing and applying their newly acquired knowledge and skills to drive sustainable development in their home countries.
The fully funded scholarships cover a wide range of master’s programs across various disciplines, providing scholars with the expertise needed to address pressing global issues. By joining one of these programs, you will be part of an international learning environment, gain access to high-quality education, and engage with a network of like-minded individuals dedicated to making a difference.
Moreover, VLIR-UOS emphasizes inclusivity and diversity, encouraging applications from candidates who are part of vulnerable groups, women, and those with limited or no prior experience studying in higher-income countries. This initiative aligns with the principle of “Leave No One Behind” and strives to achieve a balanced representation of scholars from different regions and backgrounds.
Quick Overview of VLIR-UOS ICP Connect Scholarships 2025
- Host Country: Belgium
- Host Institutions: Various Flemish universities and universities of applied sciences and arts
- Deadline: Varies by program (check specific program deadlines)
- Programs: Accredited international master’s programs (ICP Connect study programs)
- Value:
- Full tuition fees
- Travel expenses
- Insurance
- Living expenses (board and lodging)
- Age Limit:
- Maximum 35 years old for initial master’s programs (as of January 1, 2025)
- Maximum 45 years old for advanced master’s programs
- Minimum 19 years old for bachelor’s programs (by January 1, 2025)
- Eligibility:
- Nationals and residents of one of the 30 eligible countries
- Hold a relevant bachelor’s degree
- Professional background in higher education, government, or civil society preferred
- Meet the specific admission requirements of the chosen program
Perks of Agents of Change Scholarships in Belguim 2025
- Covers tuition fees, travel costs, insurance, and living expenses
- Study at reputable Flemish institutions known for academic excellence
- Wide range of master’s programs taught in English across various disciplines
- Enhance your skills and knowledge to contribute to sustainable development
- Connect with international peers, faculty, and professionals in your field
- Immerse yourself in Belgian culture and broaden your global perspective
- Access to resources and guidance throughout your studies
- Encouragement for female candidates and equitable representation from eligible countries
Benefits of Master’s Scholarships for International Students 2025
- Obtain a master’s degree from a recognized institution
- Gain specialized knowledge and expertise in your field
- Enhance employability in higher education, government, civil society, or the private sector
- Prepare for leadership roles in sustainable development initiatives
- Develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and cross-cultural communication skills
- Increase confidence and adaptability through international study
- Apply learned skills to contribute to positive societal change in your home country
- Become an agent of change promoting sustainable development
- Join a community of alumni engaged in development cooperation
- Build long-lasting professional relationships
Eligibility Criteria of Fully Funded Leadership Development Scholarships in Belgium
- Must be a national and resident of one of the 30 eligible countries:
- Africa: Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, DR Congo, Ethiopia, Guinea, Cameroon, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Morocco, Mozambique, Niger, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, Tunisia, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe
- Asia: Cambodia, Indonesia, Philippines, Palestinian Territories, Vietnam
- Latin America: Bolivia, Cuba, Ecuador, Peru
- For initial master’s programs: Maximum 35 years old as of January 1, 2025
- For advanced master’s programs: Maximum 45 years old as of January 1, 2025
- For bachelor’s programs: Minimum 19 years old by January 1, 2025
- Hold a relevant bachelor’s degree (equivalent to a Flemish bachelor’s degree)
- Meet the specific academic requirements of the chosen program
- Preference for candidates employed in higher education, government, or civil society
- Newly graduated candidates or those from the private sector may apply if they demonstrate strong motivation and a compelling profile
- May apply for only one ICP Connect scholarship per year
- Cannot receive another scholarship or grant to participate in the same or another program simultaneously
- Must not have previously received a scholarship from the Belgian government for a study program
- Must not have enrolled in a study program at a Belgian higher education institution before January 1, 2025
Note: Additional criteria may apply based on the specific program; check the program’s detailed information.
Important Dates of Scholarships for Developing Countries
- Application Period: Varies by program; check specific program deadlines
- Selection Results Notification: Selected candidates and those on the waiting list will be contacted no later than mid-June 2025
- Program Start Date: Academic year starting in September 2025 (varies by institution)
How to Apply to ICP Connect Scholarships in Belgium 2025
- Ensure you meet all the eligibility criteria listed above.
- Visit the VLIR-UOS Study Scholarships Page to explore available ICP Connect master’s programs.
- Choose a program that aligns with your academic background and career goals.
- Go to the website of the institution offering your chosen program.
- Read the specific admission requirements and application instructions.
- Gather all required documents (see Required Documents section).
- Write a strong motivation letter highlighting your goals and potential as an agent of change.
- Submit your application through the institution’s online application system.
- Indicate clearly that you are applying for the VLIR-UOS ICP Connect Scholarship.
- Do not apply for more than one ICP Connect program per year.
- The institution will review your application.
- VLIR-UOS will contact selected candidates and those on the waiting list via email.
Required Documents for VLIR-UOS ICP Connect Scholarships 2025
- Completed Application Form: Available on the institution’s website.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Detailed CV highlighting academic achievements and professional experience.
- Academic Transcripts and Certificates: Certified copies of your bachelor’s degree and transcripts.
- Proof of English Proficiency: IELTS, TOEFL, or other accepted English language test scores (check program requirements).
- Motivation Letter: Explain your motivation to join the program and how you plan to contribute to sustainable development.
- Letters of Recommendation: Usually two, from academic or professional referees.
- Proof of Nationality and Residency: Copy of passport or national ID.
- Professional Experience Documents: Employment certificates, if applicable.
- Additional Documents: Any other documents required by the specific program.
Note: Requirements may vary by program; always check the specific instructions on the institution’s website.
Country-Specific Criteria
- Must be a national and resident of one of the 30 eligible countries in Africa, Asia, or Latin America.
- Preference is given to candidates from vulnerable groups in case of equally qualified applicants.
- Encouragement for female candidates to apply to achieve gender balance among scholarship recipients.
Visit the VLIR-UOS Study Scholarships Page and the specific program’s website to start your application process.
