VLIRUOS ICP Connect Study Scholarship 2025-26: Fully Funded Opportunities for International Students
The VLIRUOS ICP Connect Study Scholarship 2025-26 is a unique opportunity for international students from 30 eligible countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. The scholarship allows students to pursue master’s programs at renowned universities in Belgium, providing financial support for tuition fees, travel, insurance, and living expenses. This initiative is part of Belgium’s commitment to promoting social change by empowering students to bring impactful changes to their home countries. In this guide, we’ll break down all the essential information about the VLIRUOS ICP Connect Study Scholarship, eligibility criteria, benefits, and how to apply.
About the VLIRUOS ICP Connect Study Scholarship
The VLIRUOS ICP Connect Study Scholarship is sponsored by VLIR-UOS, an organization dedicated to advancing educational cooperation and knowledge exchange between Flanders (Belgium) and developing regions. The scholarship focuses on supporting change-makers from underrepresented communities to enhance their skills, knowledge, and capabilities in diverse fields. The program offers students a chance to attend master’s programs in English at selected Flemish universities or institutions in Belgium.
Objective of VLIRUOS ICP Connect Study Scholarship
The primary goal of the VLIRUOS ICP Connect Study Scholarship is to develop leaders and professionals who will contribute to social, economic, and environmental change in their home countries. The program seeks to:
- Support Future Change-Makers: Participants are selected based on their potential to drive social change in their communities.
- Encourage Gender Balance: The scholarship program emphasizes equal opportunities for male and female candidates.
- Strengthen International Collaboration: By connecting students from various backgrounds, the program promotes cultural exchange and understanding.
Key Highlights of VLIRUOS ICP Connect Study Scholarship
| Scholarship Name | VLIRUOS ICP Connect Study Scholarship 2025-26 |
|---|---|
| Announced by | VLIR-UOS (Flanders, Belgium) |
| Beneficiaries | Students from 30 eligible countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America |
| Scholarship Benefits | Full scholarship covering tuition, travel, insurance, and living expenses |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Program Year | 2025-26 |
| Official Website | Available Soon |
Eligible Countries for VLIRUOS ICP Connect Study Scholarship
This scholarship is open to students from selected countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. To be eligible, applicants must be permanent residents of these 30 countries, which include:
- Africa: Uganda, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, Mozambique, South Africa, and more.
- Asia: Vietnam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Philippines, and more.
- Latin America: Bolivia, Cuba, Ecuador, El Salvador, Peru, and more.
Fields of Study for VLIRUOS ICP Connect Scholarship
The VLIRUOS ICP Connect Scholarship covers several disciplines, emphasizing fields that contribute to social development, sustainability, and scientific innovation. Programs are offered at leading universities in Flanders, Belgium, covering areas such as:
- Environmental Sciences
- Public Health
- Engineering
- Business and Economics
- Agriculture and Development Studies
Eligibility Criteria for VLIRUOS ICP Connect Study Scholarship
To qualify for the VLIRUOS ICP Connect Scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Citizenship: Must hold citizenship from one of the 30 eligible countries.
- Educational Background:
- For Master’s Degree Applicants: Must be under 35 years of age as of January 1 of the intake year.
- For Advanced Master’s Applicants: Must be under 45 years of age as of January 1 of the intake year.
- Employment: Priority is given to candidates who are employed in higher education, government, or civil society organizations in their home country.
- Academic Requirements: Must have a Bachelor’s degree and meet the academic criteria set by the chosen program.
Financial Benefits of VLIRUOS ICP Connect Study Scholarship
The VLIRUOS ICP Connect Study Scholarship is a fully funded program covering several expenses:
- Tuition Fees: Full coverage for the entire program.
- Monthly Allowance: A stipend of £1400 per month to cover living expenses.
- Travel and Insurance: Includes health insurance, travel insurance, and other necessary coverage for the duration of the study program.
- Accommodation: Coverage for board and lodging while studying in Belgium.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | February 1, 2025 |
| Selection Notification | Spring 2025 |
| Announcement of Finalists | May 2025 |
Required Documents for VLIRUOS ICP Connect Study Scholarship
Applicants must prepare the following documents:
- Proof of Citizenship: National ID or passport.
- Recommendation Letters: Two letters from academic or professional references.
- ICP Connect Scholarship Documents: Forms and declarations specific to the ICP Connect Scholarship.
- Portfolio (For Architecture Applicants): A digital portfolio showcasing previous work.
- Academic Transcripts and Certificates: Copies of official academic records.
Application Process for VLIRUOS ICP Connect Study Scholarship
To apply for the VLIRUOS ICP Connect Study Scholarship 2025-26, follow these steps:
- Visit the Official Website: Once the scholarship page is live, go to the official VLIR-UOS ICP Connect page.
- Click on the “Apply Here” Button: This will take you to the application portal.
- Complete the Application Form: Provide personal information, educational background, and relevant experience.
- Attach Required Documents: Upload the necessary files, including recommendation letters and proof of citizenship.
- Submit the Application: After reviewing your details, click “Submit” to complete the process.
Selection Process
The selection process includes the following stages:
- Eligibility Check: Applications are reviewed to ensure they meet all eligibility criteria.
- Document Review: Each application is evaluated based on academic and professional credentials.
- Shortlisting: The Selection Committee nominates up to 20 students, with 10 additional candidates on a waiting list.
- Final Notification: Selected candidates and waitlisted applicants will be informed by late May 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the VLIRUOS ICP Connect Study Scholarship?
A: It is a fully funded scholarship for students from 30 eligible countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America to pursue a master’s degree at universities in Flanders, Belgium.
Q2: Who is eligible to apply for the VLIRUOS ICP Connect Scholarship?
A: Students from selected countries who meet the age, education, and employment requirements are eligible to apply.
Q3: What expenses does the VLIRUOS ICP Connect Scholarship cover?
A: The scholarship covers tuition, travel insurance, a monthly allowance, and living expenses (board and lodging).
Q4: How do I apply for the VLIRUOS ICP Connect Scholarship?
A: You can apply by visiting the official VLIR-UOS website and completing the online application with required documents.
Q5: When is the application deadline for the 2025-26 intake?
A: The deadline for applications is February 1, 2025.
Q6: What fields of study are covered by the VLIRUOS ICP Connect Scholarship?
A: The scholarship supports master’s programs in fields such as environmental sciences, public health, engineering, business, and more.
Conclusion
The VLIRUOS ICP Connect Study Scholarship 2025-26 offers a transformative opportunity for aspiring change-makers to gain quality education in Belgium and return to their home countries equipped with advanced skills and knowledge. With comprehensive financial support, this scholarship provides a foundation for students to excel academically and contribute positively to their communities. Visit the VLIR-UOS website to apply and take the first step toward a brighter future