Paying for a PhD in another country can feel like an impossible dream. What if you could get your degree while working with experts both in Europe and in your home country?
The Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships for 2026 make this possible. This program is designed specifically for talented students from developing countries. It’s a unique “sandwich” scholarship, meaning you split your research time between Ghent University in Belgium and your home university. You get a world-class education without losing your local connections.
You can also apply for the ANSO Scholarship 2026 in China – Fully Funded Master’s & PhD
What Are the Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships All About?
In simple terms, Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships in Belgium offers support PhD students from developing countries. The main idea is to promote research that can have a real, positive impact. The program operates through a unique partnership, or a “sandwich” system. This means you will conduct your research both at your home university and at Ghent University in Belgium.
This approach is brilliant because it allows you to gain international experience and access world-class facilities without being completely cut off from your academic and professional network back home. You get the best of both worlds. The scholarship is designed to equip you with advanced research skills, foster independent thinking, and help you become a leader in your field who can contribute to global knowledge.
Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships Short Detail
It always helps to see the most important information in one place. Here’s a quick table summarizing the core details of the Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships for 2026.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Host Country | Belgium |
| Host University | Ghent University |
| Degree Level | Doctoral (PhD) |
| Eligible Nationalities | Students from developing countries |
| Application Deadline | 17 February 2026 |
Why Should You Consider Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships?
Understanding the benefits is crucial. This isn’t just about getting a tuition waiver; it’s a comprehensive support package designed for a successful research journey.
Financial Support for Research: You will receive a monthly bench fee of €310. This isn’t a stipend for living costs; it’s a dedicated fund to cover your direct research expenses, like lab materials, software, or books.
Travel and Operational Budget: A significant €8,000 travel budget is provided. This money is meant to cover the costs of international flights for you to travel between Belgium and your home country. It also supports travel for both your Ghent University supervisor and your local supervisor from your home university, fostering a truly collaborative environment.
World-Class Academic Environment: Ghent University is one of the top institutions in Europe. You’ll have access to advanced libraries, laboratories, and research facilities that might not be available in your home country.
Expert Mentorship: You will be guided by not one, but two supervisors—an expert from Ghent and one from your home country. This dual mentorship provides diverse perspectives and invaluable academic support.
Professional Growth: Being part of this program allows you to build a strong international network, attend seminars, and enhance your profile, making you more competitive in the global job market.
Who is Eligible to Apply?
The eligibility criteria are clear and focused. Before you start gathering your documents, make sure you fit the following profile.
Eligibility Criteria:
Nationality: You must be a national of a country listed as a developing country by the scholarship program. (The specific list is available on the official Ghent University website).
Academic Qualification: You must hold a Master’s degree in a field that is relevant to the proposed PhD research. The degree should be equivalent to a European Master’s degree.
Academic Record: You need to have a strong history of academic excellence and demonstrate clear potential for high-quality research.
Research Focus: Your proposed research should be innovative and address topics that are relevant to development. The goal is to generate knowledge that can benefit your home country or region.
Supervisor Agreement: This is critical. You must have a professor from Ghent University who agrees to be your supervisor, and a professor from your home university who agrees to be your local co-supervisor.
Priority: The program gives priority to female candidates to promote gender balance in higher education and research.
What Documents Do You Need to Prepare?
Getting your documents ready early will save you a lot of stress. You will typically need:
A fully completed online application form.
A detailed and compelling research proposal.
An up-to-date CV or Resume.
All your academic transcripts and degree certificates (from your Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees).
A clear copy of your passport.
Letters of support or confirmation from both your proposed supervisors.
A Step-by-Step Guide to the Application Procedure
The application process requires planning and initiative. Don’t leave it until the last minute! Here is a practical step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Find Your Supervisors
This is the most important first step. You cannot apply without them.
Identify a Ghent University Supervisor: Research the departments and faculty at Ghent University that align with your research interests. Find a professor whose work resonates with yours and contact them professionally. Explain your research idea and ask if they would be willing to supervise your PhD.
Identify a Local Supervisor: At the same time, you need to find a professor at your home university who agrees to co-supervise your research.
Step 2: Develop a Joint Research Proposal
Work closely with both of your prospective supervisors to develop a single, cohesive research proposal. This proposal should clearly outline your research question, methodology, and how it addresses development-related issues. It must be a joint effort.
Step 3: Gather All Required Documents
Once your proposal is taking shape, start collecting all the other documents from the list above. Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your research experience and academic achievements.
Step 4: Complete the Online Application
When the application window opens, visit the official Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships portal. Fill out the online application form carefully and accurately. Upload all your prepared documents in the required formats.
Step 5: Submit Before the Deadline
Double-check everything and submit your application well before the final deadline, which is February 17, 2026. Applications submitted after this date will likely not be considered.
Apply Now
Mark Your Calendar: Important Dates
Application Deadline: 17 February 2026
Selection Period: Typically occurs between March and May 2026.
Result Announcement: Expected around June or July 2026.
Program Start: The Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships usually begins in the academic year starting September/October 2026.
Also Check: Swedish Institute Scholarship 2026 in Sweden
Final Thoughts
The Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships for 2026 represent a life-changing opportunity for dedicated researchers from developing nations. It provides not just funding, but a structured, supportive pathway to earn a PhD from a renowned European university while maintaining your roots at home.
Official Site: Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships 2026
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What does the “sandwich” system actually mean?
It means your PhD research is a collaboration between Ghent University and your home university. You won’t spend the entire PhD period in Belgium. Instead, you will alternate between research phases at Ghent University in Belgium and at your home institution, allowing you to apply your learning locally and maintain your roots.
2. Does the €310 monthly bench fee cover my living expenses?
No, it’s important to understand this distinction. The €310 bench fee is specifically for direct research costs like laboratory consumables, specialized software, books, or conference fees. It is not intended to cover your rent, food, or general living expenses. You will need to secure other funding for your cost of living.
3. How do I find a supervisor at Ghent University?
This requires proactive research. Start by exploring the official website of Ghent University and browsing the faculty pages of departments related to your field. Read the professors’ research profiles, publications, and ongoing projects. When you find a good match, send a concise and professional email introducing yourself, your academic background, and your specific research idea.
4. Which countries are considered “developing countries” for Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships?
Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships maintains an official list of eligible countries, which is often based on the DAC List of ODA Recipients. This list includes many nations in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. The most accurate and updated list can always be found on the official Ghent University Special Research Fund (BOF) website.
