Program Overview
The Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships 2026 presents an exceptional opportunity for brilliant minds from developing countries to pursue fully funded PhD studies at one of Belgium’s top-ranked universities. This prestigious scholarship program aims to foster global research collaboration while addressing critical development challenges worldwide.
Key Program Details:
- Host Country: Belgium
- Host Institution: Ghent University
- Degree Level: Doctoral (PhD)
- Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
- Application Deadline: February 17, 2026
- Program Start: 2026 Academic Year
About Ghent University
Founded in 1817, Ghent University stands as one of Belgium’s leading academic institutions and ranks among the top universities globally. Known for its research excellence and innovative approach to education, the university provides an ideal environment for doctoral candidates to thrive.
University Highlights:
- Ranked among top 100 universities worldwide
- Diverse international community
- State-of-the-art research facilities
- Strong focus on sustainable development
- Accredited by multiple international education bodies
Scholarship Benefits
The Ghent University Doctoral Scholarship offers comprehensive financial support:
Financial Coverage:
- Monthly Stipend: €2,550 during research periods at Ghent University
- Research Funding: €310 monthly bench fee for supervisor
- Travel Budget: €8,000 for international travel and operational costs
- Additional Support: Research and conference funding opportunities
Academic Benefits:
- Access to world-class research facilities
- International research collaboration
- Professional development opportunities
- Networking with global scholars
- Publication and conference support
Unique Program Structure
The program follows an innovative “sandwich” structure:
Phase 1: Initial Research at Ghent University
- Duration: 3-12 months
- Orientation and research planning
- Methodology training
- Initial data collection
Phase 2: Field Research in Home Country
- Duration: Minimum 24 months
- Data collection and analysis
- Local collaboration development
- Community engagement
Phase 3: Final Research at Ghent University
- Duration: 3-12 months
- Thesis completion
- Final data analysis
- Dissertation writing and defense
Eligibility Requirements
Citizenship Requirements:
- Must be from a developing country
- Strong preference for female candidates
- Valid passport from eligible country
Academic Requirements:
- Master’s degree or equivalent
- Strong academic record
- Research experience preferred
- Meeting Ghent University PhD admission criteria
Research Requirements:
- Development-focused research topic
- Joint proposal with supervisors
- Relevance to home country development needs
- Ethical research compliance
Supervision Requirements:
- Ghent University supervisor commitment
- Local supervisor in home country
- Joint research proposal development
Research Focus Areas
The program prioritizes research addressing global development challenges:
Sustainable Development:
- Climate change adaptation
- Environmental conservation
- Renewable energy solutions
- Sustainable agriculture
Health and Medicine:
- Public health initiatives
- Disease prevention and control
- Healthcare systems improvement
- Medical research
Education and Social Sciences:
- Educational development
- Social inequality studies
- Policy development research
- Cultural preservation
Technology and Innovation:
- Appropriate technology development
- Digital inclusion
- Innovation for development
- ICT solutions
Application Process
Step-by-Step Application Guide:
Step 1: Find Supervisors
- Identify potential Ghent University supervisor
- Secure local supervisor in home country
- Develop joint research proposal
Step 2: Prepare Application Package
- Complete application form
- Gather required documents
- Develop detailed research proposal
- Obtain necessary recommendations
Step 3: Submit Application
- Email complete application to BOFapplication@ugent.be
- Ensure all documents are included
- Meet February 17, 2026 deadline
Step 4: Selection Process
- Initial screening
- Academic review
- Interview (if required)
- Final selection notification
Required Documents
Essential Application Materials:
- Completed Application Form
- Personal information
- Academic background
- Research experience
- Research Proposal
- Detailed project description
- Methodology outline
- Expected outcomes and impact
- Timeline and work plan
- Academic Documents
- Master’s degree certificate
- Academic transcripts
- Additional qualifications
- Supervisor Recommendations
- Ghent University supervisor statement
- Local supervisor commitment letter
- Joint research endorsement
- Ethical Compliance Statement
- Research ethics consideration
- Biosafety compliance (if applicable)
- Data management plan
- Additional Supporting Documents
- Curriculum Vitae
- Publication list (if any)
- Language proficiency proof
- Passport copy
Selection Criteria
Academic Excellence (40%):
- Academic record and qualifications
- Research experience and potential
- Publication history (if applicable)
Research Proposal Quality (30%):
- Relevance to development needs
- Methodological soundness
- Feasibility and innovation
Candidate Potential (20%):
- Leadership qualities
- Commitment to home country development
- Intercultural competence
Supervision and Support (10%):
- Quality of supervision team
- Institutional support
- Collaboration potential
Why Choose This Program?
Research Excellence:
- Work with world-renowned researchers
- Access to advanced research facilities
- International research collaboration
- High-impact publication opportunities
Career Development:
- Enhanced academic credentials
- Global professional network
- Skills for academic and research careers
- Leadership in development sectors
Cultural Experience:
- International academic exposure
- Cross-cultural learning
- Language skills development
- Global perspective on development issues
Long-term Impact:
- Contribution to home country development
- Sustainable research partnerships
- Knowledge transfer opportunities
- Policy influence potential
Application Tips
Early Preparation:
- Start supervisor search 6 months in advance
- Develop research ideas early
- Contact potential supervisors professionally
- Allow time for proposal refinement
Research Proposal Development:
- Choose relevant development topics
- Ensure methodological rigor
- Demonstrate practical impact
- Align with university research strengths
Document Preparation:
- Tailor application to specific requirements
- Highlight development focus
- Demonstrate research capability
- Provide clear career objectives
Supervisor Collaboration:
- Establish strong working relationships
- Ensure mutual understanding of research goals
- Develop realistic timeline
- Clarify roles and responsibilities
Important Contacts
Application Submission:
BOFapplication@ugent.be
General Inquiries:
International Relations Office
Ghent University
Program Information:
Visit official Ghent University website
