The 2026 Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships

Applications are now open for the 2026 Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships for outstanding international students from developing countries.

Funded by Ghent University’s Special Research Fund (BOF), this prestigious programme offers fully funded PhD “sandwich” scholarships, enabling doctoral candidates to conduct part of their research at Ghent University in Belgium and part at a partner institution in their home country.

The scholarship provides funding support worth €11,720, along with research, travel, and operational grants for a total duration of 24 months.

This post outlines the scholarship details, eligibility criteria, benefits, duration, and a step-by-step guide on how to apply.

Ghent University Doctoral Scholarship Summary

• Host Institution: Ghent University

• Study Location: Belgium (Europe)

• Category: Postgraduate Scholarships | PhD Scholarships

• Eligible Countries: Developing Countries

• Scholarship Type: Fully Funded (Sandwich PhD)

• Duration: 24 Months

• Reward: €11,720 Stipend + Research & Travel Grants

• Application Deadline: February 17, 2026

About the 2026 Ghent University Doctoral Scholarship

With support from its Special Research Fund (BOF), Ghent University awards sandwich PhD scholarships to talented doctoral students from developing countries.

The programme allows candidates to:

• Conduct part of their PhD research at Ghent University (Global North)

• Conduct the remaining research at a local institution in their home country (Global South)

This structure strengthens international research collaboration, capacity building, and development-focused research.

Ghent University is a top-100 global university and one of Belgium’s leading research institutions, offering more than 200 academic programmes across 11 faculties. The university also operates Ghent University Global Campus in Songdo, South Korea.

Eligibility Requirements for Ghent University Doctoral Scholarship 2026

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be an international student from a developing country

• Hold strong Bachelor’s and Master’s degree results

• Submit applications using the official application forms

• Have a high-quality doctoral research proposal relevant to development and capacity building

• Demonstrate strong scientific and academic potential

• Have a confirmed Ghent University supervisor (promoter)

• Show evidence of a solid partnership between Ghent University and the local host institution

Selection is highly competitive and based on:

• Academic performance

• Quality and relevance of the PhD project

• Strength of the research group(s)

• Capacity and academic standing of the local institution

Ghent University Doctoral Scholarship Duration & Benefits

Successful candidates will receive:

• PhD scholarship for a total of 24 months

• €11,720 stipend

• €310 monthly bench fee for research conducted at Ghent University

• €8,000 travel budget to support research-related operational costs

Mandatory Mobility Scheme

Applicants must comply with the following mobility conditions:

• Begin and end the PhD with a research stay of 3–12 months at Ghent University

• The first research stay must start between October 1, 2026 and February 28, 2027

• A minimum of 24 months of locally funded research must take place in the home country between the two Ghent stays

How to Apply for Ghent University Doctoral Scholarship 2026

To apply for the Ghent University Doctoral Scholarship:

1. Complete the official application form (in English)

2. Submit the application electronically via email to:
   “BOFapplication@ugent.be”

3. Ensure the Ghent University supervisor submits the following documents:

   • Written advice assessing the candidate’s research potential

   • Advice on the ethical and biosafety aspects of the proposed research project

👉 CLICK HERE TO APPLY

Application Deadline

📌 February 17, 2026