Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships for Developing Countries
About this scholarship
Ghent University offers doctoral scholarships specifically for researchers from developing countries through its Special Research Fund (BOF). These scholarships support PhD research conducted partly at Ghent University and partly at a university in the candidate’s home country (sandwich PhD model). The program aims to strengthen research capacity in developing countries and foster long-term academic partnerships.
Eligibility
Must be a national of and reside in a developing country (OECD DAC list). Must hold a Master's degree or equivalent. Must have a research proposal approved by both a Ghent University supervisor and a home university supervisor. Research must have relevance to development in the candidate's home country or region. Candidates already enrolled in a PhD at Ghent are not eligible.
Benefits & Coverage
- Full tuition fee waiver
- Monthly living allowance during stays in Belgium (approximately €1,900/month)
- International travel costs covered
- Health and liability insurance during Belgian stays
- Bench fee for research costs
- Support for conference attendance
Required Documents
- Research proposal (jointly developed with supervisors)
- Academic transcripts and Master's degree certificate
- CV / Resume with publication list
- Two academic reference letters
- Supervisor support letters from both Ghent and home university
- Passport copy
- Proof of current affiliation with a university in a developing country
How to Apply
- Be a national of an eligible developing/Global South country at the start of your PhD (at least 36 months remaining)
- Apply jointly with a Ghent University supervisor and a supervisor at a partner university in the South
- Submit your application and proposal in English by the deadline (around mid-February)
- Co-financing from the partner institution is required
