ICP Connect 2027-2028

Do you offer scholarships for programmes that are not listed on the website?

No. Scholarships are only offered for the programmes listed on the VLIRUOS website.

I applied last year and was admitted to the programme, but did not get a VLIRUOS scholarship. Can I apply again this year?

Yes, you can apply again if you decided not to follow the programme without a scholarship. Receiving an admission letter without a scholarship does not affect your eligibility. If you continue to meet the programme and scholarship criteria, you are welcome to reapply in the next call. However, if you decided to start the programme without a scholarship, you can no longer apply for a VLIRUOS scholarship from the second year onward.

Is work experience required to qualify for a scholarship?

Preference is given to candidates employed in higher education, government, or civil society, or those targeting a career in these sectors. Newly graduated candidates or those employed in the private sector with no work experience may also be considered if they provide strong motivation and a compelling profile.

I joined a short exchange programme in a higher-income country. Does this count as having studied there with a scholarship?

No. Short exchange programmes do not count as earning a degree or receiving a full scholarship in a higher-income country. You are still eligible to apply, although preference is given to candidates who have not yet had the opportunity to study in a higher-income country.

Is there an age limit for applicants?

Yes, candidates for a bachelor or initial Master programme cannot be older than 35 as of January 1 of the intake year, while candidates for an advanced Master programme cannot be older than 45. Additionally, candidates for a bachelor programme must be at least 19 years old by January 1 of the intake year.

I completed my Bachelor’s degree in another country. Am I still eligible to apply?

Yes. Eligibility is based on your nationality and current residence, not on the country where you previously studied. However, preference will be given to candidates who haven't studied (bachelor or master) in a higher income country before.

Can applicants with unrelated bachelor’s degrees apply for specialised programmes?

While some programmes may prefer related backgrounds, applicants with relevant work experience may still qualify. Verify with the programme you are interested in.

What is the difference between a regular and an advanced Master’s degree?

Advanced Master’s programmes are typically for those who already hold a Master's degree and seek specialised study. They are distinct from initial or regular Master’s programmes, which are open to bachelor’s graduates. Note that certain advanced Master’s programmes accept applicants with a four-year bachelor’s degree; please confirm this with the organising institution for specific eligibility details.

Is it possible to apply if I already hold a Master’s degree?

Yes, you may still apply. If you already hold a Master’s degree, an Advanced Master’s programme may be the most appropriate option for you. Check the eligibility requirements of the specific programme you are interested in.

Are all programmes taught in English, and what level of English proficiency is required?

All ICP Connect programmes are taught in English and therefore require a high level of English proficiency. Applicants must meet the specific English language requirements set by the organising institution. You can check the website of the programme you are interested in, or contact them, to find out about specific language requirements.  Please note that ARES, another Belgian scholarship provider, offers French-language programmes. If you are looking for programmes taught in French, you may explore their opportunities.

How do I submit my English Proficiency result? Are online IELTS tests accepted, or must it be from a physical test centre?

This depends on the programme you're applying to. For specific admission requirements, such as English proficiency tests, please reach out directly to the organising institution.

Does having a degree from an English-speaking institution waive the need for English proficiency tests?

If you studied in an English-speaking institution, some programmes may waive this requirement. Verify with the institution if your degree fulfils the English language requirements.

Do I need to speak Dutch?

No, you do not need to speak Dutch. All ICP Connect programmes are taught in English, and daily life in Belgium is very manageable in English. Learning some Dutch can be helpful for everyday interactions, but it is not required.

What if I don’t have my graduation certificate yet? Can I still apply?

Many programmes may accept temporary certifications or official transcripts until the final certificate is available. Confirm with the programme you are interested in for specific requirements.

Do I need separate reference letters for the scholarship and the specific programme I’m interested in?

No, you do not need separate reference letters. Reference letters are part of the admission process of the organising institution. Confirm with the programme you are interested in for specific requirements.

Is document legalisation required before application?

Applicants from certain countries may need to legalise documents through Belgian embassies or consulates for their application. For specific admission requirements please reach out directly to the organising institution.

What expenses does the scholarship allowance cover?

The monthly scholarship allowance covers living expenses and tuition fees. Depending on the institution you pay for your own insurance, tuition fee, and/or accommodation out of the scholarship allowance OR the institution covers these costs directly and subtracts them from your monthly allowance.

Are there additional funds for activities like Global South immersions?

There are no additional funds provided by VLIRUOS for student activities like Global South immersions, but there might be programme-specific funds. Contact the programme you are interested in for more details.

If a programme requires an application fee, can it be waived?

ICP Connect scholarship programmes do not require an application fee. Applicants to these programmes can submit their application without paying any fee.

Does the scholarship allow students to work while studying?

Generally, as a student, you can work a few hours per week to supplement your budget; however, financing your education primarily through a student job is not advisable as it may affect your academic progress. Employment is not permitted during times when you are required to attend classes or other study-related activities.

Will my application be screened by both VLIRUOS and the organising institution?

Yes. The organising higher education institution reviews and ranks all eligible applications first. VLIRUOS then conducts a separate screening of the selection list it receives from the institution.

Who will inform me about the outcome of my application?

VLIRUOS contacts selected candidates and those placed on the waiting list by email. Applicants who are not selected for a scholarship or the waiting list will be notified by the programme they applied to.