Introduction

Got your eyes on studying Ares in Belgium for 2026? Picture this: top-tier higher education, zero financial stress, and a global cohort of peers all made possible by the ARES Scholarship. Whether you’re eyeing a special bachelor’s, master’s, or a focused short course, this fully funded opportunity is a major game-changer.

In this guide, you’ll find everything: who’s eligible, what’s covered, how to apply step by step, and how to stand out. It’s like your trusty roadmap—no guesswork, just clarity. Ready? Let’s roll.

What Is the ARES Scholarship?

Who’s Behind It?

The ARES Scholarship is offered by the Academy of Research and Higher Education, a Belgian federation committed to strengthening partnerships in education and research. It’s the kind of public program that keeps things transparent and trustworthy.

What Does “ARES” Stand For?

ARES is shorthand for Académie de Recherche et d’Enseignement Supérieur—basically Belgium’s agency for research and higher education cooperation. It opens doors for international learners like you.

Programs Covered

Advanced Bachelor’s (Specialised Bachelor)

This is a one-year specialized bachelor program like a bachelor’s turbo boost. Think “Bachelier de spécialisation en Business Data Analysis” and similar fields.ARESOpportunities Circle

Specialised Master’s Degrees

You can dive into fields like human rights, microfinance, public health methodology, transport & logistics, social innovation design, and more.ARESOpportunities Circle

Continuing Education Training (2–6 Months)

Short, impactful courses: from data science for global health to digital pedagogy and GIS. Great if you want a burst of learning and real-world skills.ARESOpportunities Circle

Eligibility Criteria

Eligible Countries

The scholarships prioritize candidates from select developing countries—like those in Africa (e.g., Kenya, Ghana, DR Congo), Southeast Asia (Vietnam, Philippines), South America (Ecuador, Bolivia), and the Palestinian territory.ARESScholarships for Development

Academic Qualifications Required

• For master’s and continuing education: you need a degree equivalent to a Belgian 2nd-cycle diploma (~300 ECTS credits).

• For specialised bachelor: a degree equivalent to 1st-cycle (~180 ECTS credits).ARESScholarships for Development

Professional Experience

You must demonstrate at least two years of relevant professional experience in an ARES partner country.ARESScholarships for Development

Age Limits (Where Applicable)

Some variants—like training courses—often carry upper age caps (e.g., 45), so check the specific requirements.Bright Scholarship

What Does the Scholarship Cover?

Tuition Fees

Yes, it covers tuition—no need to break out your wallet for fees.ARESScholarships for Development

Travel and Visa Support

Round-trip airfare, visa cost support, and special arrival allowances are typically included.Bright ScholarshipScholarships for Development

Living Allowance and Insurance

You’ll get a subsistence allowance (to help with room, food, etc.) and insurance coverage for your stay.ARESBright Scholarship

Special Stipends (e.g., Indirect Mission Fees)

There’s often an “indirect mission” stipend (~€200) to help with initial expenses—nice touch for settling in.Bright ScholarshipScholarships for Development

Application Timeline

Opening and Deadline Dates

Applications for the 2026–2027 cycle open on 4 August 2025, and the deadline is 19 September 2025 at 12 pm (Belgian time, UTC+1).ARESScholarships for Development

Application Portal: GIRAF

All applications go through the GIRAF platform—no paper mail needed.ARES

What Happens After Submission

Once submitted, the file is locked—so don’t wait until the eleventh hour to submit. There’s also an appeal process via the Council of State if needed.ARES

How to Apply Step-by-Step

Set Up GIRAF Account

Visit the official site and create your GIRAF profile—this is your control center.

Complete the Application Form

Go to “My tasks” → “Competitive calls” → find the call and start filling.

Upload Documents

Add transcripts, diplomas, proof of experience, recommendation letters, nationality documents, and any required pre-project.Bright ScholarshipScholarships for Development

Final Submission

Review everything, submit before the deadline, and enjoy that post-submission calm knowing you’re done.

Required Documents Checklist

Diplomas and Transcripts

Certified copies for all academic qualifications.

Letters of Recommendation

Academic and/or professional—choose wisely.

Proof of Professional Experience

Official proof for at least two years—employment letters or contracts work well.

Nationality Proof and Pre-project (if needed)

Passport or citizenship documents; and some courses require a pre-project summary.Bright Scholarship

Selection Criteria: What Makes Your Application Stand Out

Academic Excellence

Your grades and academic background must shine—especially in relevant fields.

Relevance to Your Field

Your experience and study plan should align with the program you choose.

Potential for Impact

Show how this scholarship will empower you to make a positive change—locally or beyond.

Life in Belgium as an ARES Scholar

Study Environment & Institutions

You’ll study at institutions in the Wallonia-Brussels Federation—renowned for quality and innovation.

Cultural Immersion

Belgium is rich in culture, history, and central to Europe—perfect for discovering while you study.

Networking & Long-Term Benefits

You’re joining a network of fellow changemakers, with connections across academia and development sectors.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Late or Incomplete Applications

Missed deadlines or missing docs = automatic disqualification. Don’t risk it!

Weak or Missing Documents

No recommendation? No experience proof? That’s a red flag. Gather well in advance.

Ignoring Instructions

Each detail—from file format to form fields—matters. Follow instructions exactly.

Pro Tips for a Strong Application

Start Early & Stay Organized

Create a timeline—due dates, drafts, submit. Early birds catch scholarships!

Tell Your Story—Be Genuine

Use personal anecdotes. Make your application feel human, not generic.

Review & Proofread

Typos and grammatical errors? Not a great look. Proofread, then proofread again.

Useful Resources and Links

• [Official ARES Scholarship Page] – all official info, criteria, and the GIRAF link.ARES

• [Application Portal (GIRAF)] – register and manage your submission.ARES

• [List of Eligible Countries & Courses] – to confirm your eligibility and program of interest.Scholarships for Development

Conclusion

The ARES Scholarship in Belgium 2026 is a rare chance: fully funded learning, immersive European experience, and a shot at big future impact. With the right preparation, organization, and authenticity, you’re in great shape to apply. So mark your calendar (4 Aug to 19 Sept 2025), gather your docs, and seize this opportunity to turn ambition into action.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I apply if I’ve already received a Belgian scholarship before?
Nope—past recipients aren’t eligible again. This helps the program reach new talent.

Opportunities Circle

Q2: Do I need a language test for English-taught courses?
Not always. English proficiency (reading) is usually required, but tests may not be mandatory—double-check your course details. Bright Scholarship

Q3: What happens if I miss the 19 Sept deadline by a few hours?
Unfortunately, it’s firm—late submissions aren’t accepted. Make sure to submit early. ARES

Q4: Is the subsistence allowance enough to live comfortably in Belgium?
It’s designed to cover basics—food, local transport, small daily expenses. It’s not extravagant, but workable if managed well.

Q5: I can’t meet the professional experience requirement—can I still apply?
You typically need at least two years of relevant experience to be eligible. If you don’t meet that, consider gaining experience before applying next cycle.