The ARES Scholarships 2027-2028 offer an excellent opportunity for students and professionals from developing countries to pursue fully funded studies and professional training in Belgium. Funded by the Academy for Research and Higher Education (ARES), the scholarship aims to strengthen the skills of professionals who can contribute to sustainable development in their home countries. Selected candidates can undertake a one-year advanced Bachelor’s or Master’s program or participate in a 2-to-6-month continuing education program at a higher education institution in Belgium, benefiting from high-quality education, international exposure, and professional expertise in a multicultural European environment.
The Academy for Research and Higher Education (ARES) is the federation of higher education institutions of the Wallonia-Brussels Federation, Belgium. It coordinates the ARES Scholarships, which are designed to support capacity building in developing countries by providing training and academic opportunities. Through these scholarships, ARES fosters international cooperation and the development of human capital in partner nations, enabling recipients to return home equipped with new knowledge and skills essential for sustainable growth.
ARES Scholarships Benefits
- International travel expenses
- Subsistence/living allowance
- Tuition fee coverage for eligible Bachelor’s and specialized Master’s programs
- Insurance coverage
- International academic and professional exposure
ARES Scholarships Eligibility Criteria
- Must be a national, citizen, or eligible resident/worker of one of the countries specified by ARES
- Applicants for degree programs should generally be under 40 years of age
- Applicants for continuing education programs should generally be under 45 years of age
- Must hold a qualification equivalent to a Belgian Bachelor’s degree for relevant postgraduate programs
- Should have at least two years of professional experience after completing undergraduate studies
- Must demonstrate sufficient proficiency in the language of instruction (French or English depending on the program)
- Applicants who have previously benefited from an ARES scholarship may not be eligible to receive another award
Required Documents
- Completed online application form
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Valid passport or national identification document
- Bachelor’s degree certificate or other relevant diplomas
- Academic transcripts
- Proof of professional experience
- Employment certificates, where applicable
- Motivation letter
- Proof of language proficiency, if required
- Recommendation letters, where requested
Eligible Countries for ARES Scholarships
- Benin
- Bolivia
- Burkina Faso
- Burundi
- Cambodia
- Cameroon
- Cuba
- Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Ecuador
- Ethiopia
- Guinea (Conakry)
- Haiti
- Indonesia
- Kenya
- Madagascar
- Morocco
- Mozambique
- Nepal
- Niger
- Peru
- Philippines
- Rwanda
- Senegal
- South Africa
- Tanzania
- Tunisia
- Uganda
- Vietnam
- Zimbabwe
How to Apply for ARES Scholarships
- Visit the official ARES scholarship website
- Review the available advanced Bachelor’s, Master’s, and continuing education programs
- Check the eligibility criteria for your country and selected program
- Choose a program relevant to your academic and professional background
- Create an account on the official ARES online application platform
- Complete the scholarship application form carefully
- Upload all required supporting documents
- Review your application to ensure all information is complete and accurate
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the ARES Scholarships 2027-2028. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
Who can apply for the ARES Scholarships 2027-2028?
The scholarships are open to nationals, citizens, or eligible residents/workers of specific developing countries listed by ARES. Applicants for degree programs must typically be under 40 years old, hold a qualification equivalent to a Belgian Bachelor’s degree, and have at least two years of professional experience. Continuing education applicants should be under 45.
What expenses are covered by the ARES Scholarships?
ARES Scholarships provide full financial support, including international travel costs, a monthly living allowance, tuition fees for the selected Bachelor’s or Master’s program, health insurance, and other approved academic expenses. The scholarship ensures that recipients can focus entirely on their studies without financial burden.
What is the application deadline for ARES Scholarships 2027-2028?
The application deadline is September 18, 2026. All applications must be submitted through the official ARES online platform before this date. Late submissions will not be considered, so candidates are advised to prepare their documents well in advance.
Which countries are eligible for the ARES Scholarships?
Eligible countries include Benin, Bolivia, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cambodia, Cameroon, Cuba, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ecuador, Ethiopia, Guinea (Conakry), Haiti, Indonesia, Kenya, Madagascar, Morocco, Mozambique, Nepal, Niger, Peru, Philippines, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, Tunisia, Uganda, Vietnam, and Zimbabwe.
Can I apply if I am older than the age limit?
The general age limits are under 40 for degree programs and under 45 for continuing education. However, these are not absolute barriers; applications from older candidates may be considered in exceptional circumstances, but the preference is given to those within the stated age ranges. It is best to check specific program requirements.
What language proficiency is required for ARES Scholarships?
Applicants must demonstrate sufficient proficiency in the language of instruction of their chosen program. Depending on the program, instruction may be in French or English. Proof of language proficiency, such as test scores or certificates, may be required during the application process.
Is there an application fee for ARES Scholarships?
No, there is no application fee. The application process is free of charge, making the ARES Scholarships an accessible opportunity for all eligible candidates from developing countries. Applicants should only use the official ARES platform to submit their applications.
What documents are required to apply for ARES Scholarships?
Required documents typically include a completed online application form, updated CV, valid passport or national ID, degree certificates, academic transcripts, proof of professional experience, employment certificates (if applicable), motivation letter, language proficiency proof, and recommendation letters where requested.
How long is the study program under the ARES Scholarship?
The duration depends on the type of program. Advanced Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programs last one academic year. Continuing education programs range from 2 to 6 months. All programs are offered at higher education institutions in Belgium recognized by ARES.
Can I apply for another ARES scholarship if I was previously awarded one?
No, applicants who have already received an ARES scholarship may not be eligible for another award. This policy aims to extend opportunities to new candidates from developing countries and to maximize the impact of the programme.
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