Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships 2026 offer an exceptional chance for talented researchers from developing countries to pursue their PhD studies in Belgium. This fully funded opportunity empowers scholars to advance their academic and professional goals while contributing to impactful research in a globally diverse environment. Students benefit from hands-on experience, international collaboration, and mentorship under world-renowned professors at one of Europe’s leading research institutions.
The Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships 2026 aim to nurture innovative thinkers who can address global issues such as climate change, sustainable development, food security, and public health. Through this prestigious PhD program, scholars are encouraged to develop practical, research-driven solutions that shape a better future. Joining Ghent University means becoming part of a forward-thinking academic community dedicated to excellence, inclusivity, and real-world impact.
Benefits of the Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships 2026
- The scholarship provides approximately €2,550 per month during the 24 months of research conducted at Ghent University.
- The Ghent University supervisor receives a bench fee of €310 per month (for each month the student is in Ghent) to support research and operational expenses.
- An additional travel budget of €8,000 is provided to cover part of the travel costs for the student, the Ghent University supervisor, and the local supervisor, as well as other operational needs.
- The PhD follows a sandwich structure, with research periods at Ghent University and in the candidate’s home country.
Eligibility Criteria of the Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships 2026
- Candidates must belong to a developing country.
- A joint proposal must be submitted by a candidate, a Ghent University promoter, and a South University promoter.
- Research topics should be development-specific.
- Candidates wishing to pursue a joint PhD degree at Ghent University are encouraged.
- Female students are preferred for the scholarship.
Required Documents
- Advice on the candidate, which declares the supervisor’s opinion regarding the candidate’s capability as a future researcher.
- Advice on the ethical and biosafety aspects of the research project that is to be proposed.
Ghent University Scholarship Duration
- Research at Ghent University: 3–12 months at the start
- Research in the Global South: at least 24 months (2 years)
- Research at Ghent University again: 3–12 months at the end
How to Apply for Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships 2026
- Apply online through the official portal: Ghent University BOF Application.
- Provide complete personal details: name, address, date of birth, country, etc.
- Fill in all required fields carefully for each section of the application.
- Review your application thoroughly before submission.
- Submit completed forms to [email protected] for consideration.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships 2026 support PhD research for Global South students, funding 24 months at Ghent and requiring co-funding in the South. Applications close 17 Feb 2026, with results announced from 20 May 2026, emphasizing North-South research relevance.
What are Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships 2026?
The scholarships are “sandwich” PhD grants for candidates from Global South countries, enabling research both at Ghent University and a partner university in the South. Funding covers only the research period in Ghent, typically 24 months, while South research must be fully funded locally.
Who is eligible for the Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships 2026?
Applicants must be from selected Global South countries and intend to pursue a PhD at Ghent University. The program favors early-stage PhD students with a minimum of 36 months research remaining. Female researchers are especially encouraged, with gender diversity considered per supervisor.
What fields of research are accepted?
There are no strict field restrictions, but proposals relevant to North-South contexts are preferred. Topics aligning with global priorities, partner policies, and beneficiaries’ needs are prioritized. Interdisciplinary or socially impactful research is highly encouraged within this framework.
Is co-funding required for the Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships 2026?
Yes, co-funding from the partner university in the South is mandatory. It must ensure a full-time local PhD scholarship or salary for 24 months, and candidates should dedicate at least 90% of their time to research, limiting other tasks to a maximum of 10%.
How does the mobility scheme work?
Candidates must complete a mandatory research stay at Ghent University at both the start and end of the PhD, each lasting 3–12 months. Between these stays, at least 24 months of research must occur at the partner university in the South. Exceptions can be requested under specific conditions.
What exceptions exist to the mobility scheme?
Exceptions include completing prior field research, finishing funded PhD periods at either institution, or PhD prerequisites at the partner university. Applicants must request approval from Ghent University’s research administration by 16 January 2026 with supporting documentation.
How much funding is provided?
The scholarship funds 24 months of research at Ghent University. Supervisors receive a monthly bench fee of €310 and an €8,000 travel budget for operational and travel costs. The local South funding must cover the remaining research period.
How do I apply for the Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships 2026?
Applications must be submitted in English via email to [email protected]. Supervisors at Ghent University must also provide advice on the candidate’s research potential and on the ethical and biosafety context of the project.
When are the results announced?
Successful applicants will be informed from 20 May 2026 onwards. The selection considers academic merit, relevance of the proposal to North-South priorities, and feasibility of the research plan within the mandatory mobility scheme.
What is the application deadline?
All applications must be submitted by 17 February 2026. Candidates are advised to secure a Ghent University supervisor beforehand and ensure all supporting documents are complete to avoid delays in the selection process.
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