The VLIR-UOS ICP Connect Scholarships 2027–2028 offer fully funded study opportunities in Belgium for eligible applicants from 25 countries. The current call covers 12 English-taught programmes, including professional bachelor’s degrees, two-year initial master’s degrees and one-year advanced master’s degrees.
The scholarships cover tuition, travel, insurance and living expenses for the approved programme duration. Successful applicants begin their studies in September 2027.
However, applicants should check their course deadline carefully. Although the general call lists 28 February 2027, several programmes close earlier. For example, the Tropical Biodiversity and Ecosystems programme closes on 30 November 2026.
You must also meet two country conditions: hold the nationality of an eligible country and live in an eligible country when you apply. Furthermore, you may apply for only one ICP Connect scholarship programme per year.
This guide explains the eligible countries, available courses, scholarship benefits, application requirements and programme deadlines.
VLIR-UOS ICP Connect Scholarships 2027 at a Glance
| Scholarship Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scholarship | VLIR-UOS ICP Connect Scholarships |
| Academic year | 2027–2028 |
| Study destination | Belgium |
| Host institutions | Participating Flemish universities and universities of applied sciences and arts |
| Study levels | Professional bachelor’s, initial master’s and advanced master’s |
| Available programmes | 12 |
| Teaching language | English |
| Funding | Full scholarship |
| Main benefits | Tuition, travel, insurance and living expenses |
| Eligible countries | 25 countries on the dedicated scholarship country list |
| Residence requirement | Applicants must live in an eligible country when applying. |
| Application limit | One ICP Connect programme per year |
| Application method | Through the selected institution’s procedure |
| General call deadline | 28 February 2027; earlier programme deadlines apply |
| Study commencement | September 2027 |
| Result notifications | Selected and waiting-list candidates are normally heard from VLIRUOS no later than mid-May. |
Application status: the overall scholarship call is open. However, individual programmes follow their own opening dates and submission procedures.
What Is the VLIR-UOS ICP Connect Scholarship?
ICP Connect supports international degree programmes at participating higher education institutions in Flanders, Belgium.
The scholarship combines academic study with a development purpose. It seeks applicants who can use their education to address challenges in their home countries or regions.
Consequently, academic results form only part of the selection process. Applicants should also explain how their chosen programme connects with their experience, professional goals and intended contribution to society.
For example, a food-systems applicant might describe a specific nutrition problem and explain how the degree would strengthen their ability to respond. Similarly, a road-safety applicant could connect their studies with transport planning, public policy or community safety.
These examples provide preparation guidance rather than an official scoring formula.
Is ICP Connect Only for Master’s Students?
No. The 2027–2028 programme list includes:
- Two professional bachelor’s programmes.
- Seven initial master’s programmes.
- Three advanced master’s programmes.
Therefore, applicants should choose the appropriate study level before checking academic entry requirements.
An advanced master’s has its own admission conditions. Do not assume that its one-year duration means every bachelor’s graduate automatically qualifies.
Which Countries Are Eligible for the VLIR-UOS Scholarship?
The dedicated ICP Connect scholarship country list identifies 25 eligible countries.
| Region | Eligible Countries |
|---|---|
| Sub-Saharan Africa | Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Guinea, Kenya, Madagascar, Mozambique, Niger, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda and Zimbabwe |
| Middle East and North Africa | Morocco and Palestine |
| Latin America and the Caribbean | Bolivia, Cuba, Ecuador and Peru |
| Southeast Asia | Indonesia, Philippines and Vietnam |
Nationality and Residence Must Both Qualify
You must satisfy both conditions:
- Hold the nationality of an eligible country.
- Reside in an eligible country at the time of application.
However, your country of residence does not have to match your nationality.
For example, a Cameroonian citizen living in Kenya could meet the country’s conditions because both countries appear on the list. The applicant would still need to meet all other scholarship and programme requirements.
By contrast, Cameroonian nationality alone would not satisfy the residence condition for someone living in a country outside the eligible list.
Can Cameroonian Students Apply?
Yes. Cameroon appears on the dedicated eligible-country list.
Cameroonian applicants must also live in an eligible country, meet the relevant age limit and qualify academically for their selected programme.
Can Nigerian or Ghanaian Students Apply?
Nigeria and Ghana do not appear on the current dedicated country list.
Living in an eligible country does not, by itself, make a Nigerian or Ghanaian national eligible. The nationality requirement still applies.
Applicants seeking other development-focused postgraduate opportunities can explore our DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarships 2027 guide. That programme follows different country and institution rules.
A Note About Conflicting Country Information
At the time of checking, the general 2027–2028 call contains a sentence referring to Mali, but the dedicated scholarship country list does not include it.
This article reproduces the 25 countries on the dedicated list. Applicants affected by that inconsistency should obtain confirmation from VLIRUOS and their chosen institution before relying on eligibility.
Older lists and isolated statements should not replace the current country requirements.
What Does the Scholarship Cover?
VLIR-UOS describes ICP Connect as a full scholarship covering the approved duration of the selected programme.
| Funding Component | What the Scholarship Covers |
|---|---|
| Tuition | Programme tuition fees |
| Travel | Travel support under the applicable scholarship arrangements |
| Insurance | Insurance under the scholarship framework |
| Living expenses | Board and lodging |
| Duration | The full approved programme period |
The framework provides for programmes lasting 12, 24 or 36 months, depending on the course.
VLIRUOS does not offer a partial scholarship for only part of the degree, and applicants cannot assume that funding will extend beyond the approved programme period.
Does It Cover Accommodation?
Yes. Living expense support includes board and lodging.
However, this does not necessarily mean the institution provides a separate free room in addition to the full allowance. The institution’s arrangements determine how it pays or administers accommodation and other costs.
How Much Is the Monthly Allowance?
Check the current scholarship framework and the selected institution’s funding explanation.
The general study-scholarship page confirms the coverage categories but does not state one universal net amount that every student receives after institutional deductions.
Therefore, assess the complete package rather than assuming that a quoted monthly grant represents spending money on top of separately paid tuition, accommodation and insurance.
Scholarship costs may also change following government funding decisions.
VLIR-UOS ICP Connect Scholarship Requirements
Applicants must meet the general scholarship conditions and the academic admission requirements of their chosen programme.
Passing one set of requirements does not automatically satisfy the other.
1. Nationality and Residence
You must hold eligible nationality and live in an eligible country when applying.
Check both conditions before spending money on tests, translations or document preparation.
2. Age Limits
VLIRUOS measures age on 1 January of the intake year. For this call, the reference date is 1 January 2027.
| Study Level | Age Condition |
|---|---|
| Professional bachelor’s | At least 19 and no older than 35 |
| Initial master’s | No older than 35 |
| Advanced master’s | No older than 45 |
These limits come from the general scholarship rules. Individual institutions may impose additional admission conditions.
3. Academic Qualifications
Your previous education must qualify you for your selected degree.
Bachelor’s applicants should check the institution’s secondary-school qualification requirements. Master’s applicants must verify the required degree level, subject background and any prerequisite courses.
For advanced master’s programmes, read the entry conditions particularly carefully. The programme title and duration alone do not establish whether your qualification is sufficient.
4. Professional Background and Experience
VLIRUOS gives preference to applicants working in, or aiming for careers in:
- Higher education.
- Government.
- Civil society.
However, recent graduates and private-sector applicants without work experience may also receive consideration if they demonstrate strong motivation and a suitable profile.
Therefore, lack of employment does not automatically exclude every applicant. Check whether your selected programme adds a specific experience requirement.
5. Previous Scholarships and Study in Belgium
The general rules exclude applicants who previously received a Belgian government scholarship to attend a study programme.
They also restrict applicants who enrolled in a study programme at a Belgian higher education institution before 1 January of the intake year.
If your previous study history could fall within either restriction, ask the institution for clarification before applying.
6. Only One ICP Connect Application
You may apply for one ICP Connect scholarship programme per year.
Do not submit several scholarship applications to increase your chances. VLIRUOS states that applying for more than one ICP programme leads to exclusion.
Similarly, you cannot simultaneously receive another scholarship or grant to participate in this programme or another programme under the general rules.
7. English Language Requirements
All ICP Connect programmes use English, but institutions set their own language-evidence requirements.
Check:
- Accepted language tests.
- Minimum overall and component scores.
- Certificate validity.
- Test-submission deadlines.
- Any permitted exemption.
Do not assume that English as your country’s official language, or a previous English-medium degree, automatically provides a waiver.
Available ICP Connect Courses and 2027 Deadlines
The current list contains 12 programmes. The table below brings together their study level, organisers and published scholarship deadlines.
| Programme | Level | Organising Institution(s) | Published Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor of Hotel Management | Professional bachelor’s | VIVES | 31 January 2027 |
| Bachelor of Applied Computer Science | Professional bachelor’s | Thomas More, Geel campus | 15 January 2027, as listed by VLIRUOS; confirm with Thomas More |
| Aquaculture — IMAQUA | Initial master’s | Ghent University | 28 February 2027 |
| Food Technology | Initial master’s | KU Leuven and Ghent University | 1 February 2027 |
| Marine and Lacustrine Science and Management — Oceans & Lakes | Initial master’s | VUB, Ghent University and University of Antwerp | 1 February 2027 |
| Transportation Sciences — Road Safety | Initial master’s | Hasselt University | 1 February 2027 |
| Nutrition and Food Systems | Initial master’s | Ghent University | 28 February 2027 |
| Sustainable Land Management | Initial master’s | Ghent University and VUB | 1 February 2027 |
| Tropical Biodiversity and Ecosystems — Mundus tropicalis/TROPIMUNDO | Initial master’s | VUB | 30 November 2026 |
| Development Evaluation and Management | Advanced master’s | University of Antwerp, Institute of Development Policy | 1 February 2027 |
| Globalisation and Development | Advanced master’s | University of Antwerp, Institute of Development Policy | 1 February 2027 |
| Governance and Development | Advanced master’s | University of Antwerp, Institute of Development Policy | 1 February 2027 |
The Antwerp deadlines come from the Institute of Development Policy’s 2027–2028 application instructions. Its individual VLIRUOS programme summaries leave the date fields blank.
Before submitting, check the institution’s instructions for the closing time, time zone and any earlier document requirements.
Which Programmes Open Later?
The overall call is open, but some individual applications start later.
For example, VIVES opens Hotel Management scholarship applications on 10 November 2026.
Thomas More’s institutional page says its 2027–2028 scholarship applications open on 1 November 2026, while the VLIRUOS summary lists 30 October 2026. Check the live institutional form and seek clarification if needed.
This distinction matters: an open scholarship campaign does not mean every programme form is already accepting submissions.
How Long Do the Programmes Last?
The central study-scholarship page groups programmes as follows:
| Category | General Duration |
|---|---|
| Professional bachelor’s | Three years |
| Initial master’s | Two years |
| Advanced master’s | One year |
Some individual summaries display date ranges that do not match their central category or course description. Therefore, confirm the actual degree duration and funded period with the institution before accepting an offer.
Programmes No Longer Eligible for Scholarships in 2027–2028
VLIRUOS explicitly identifies the following programmes as unavailable for scholarship funding in this academic year:
- International Master of Science in Agro- and Environmental Nematology.
- International Master of Science in Rural Development — IMRD.
- Master of Human Settlements.
- Master of Cultural Anthropology and Development Studies — CADES.
- Master of Epidemiology.
- Master of Statistics and Data Science.
- Master of Science in Sustainable Development.
- Master of Science in Water Resources Engineering — WRE.
These programmes may continue academically. However, applicants should not treat their existence, older scholarship articles or alumni videos as evidence of current ICP Connect funding.
Also, Sustainable Land Management and Sustainable Development are different programmes. The current scholarship list includes the former and excludes the latter.
Documents Required for the Application
There is no single document checklist that replaces every institution’s admission instructions.
Nevertheless, applicants can prepare the following categories while checking the exact programme requirements.
| Document Category | What to Check |
|---|---|
| Passport or identity document | Accepted document and required validity |
| Academic certificates | Required qualification, certification and translation |
| Academic transcripts | Coverage, grading information and format |
| CV | Required content and length |
| Motivation statement | Programme questions, format and word limit |
| Recommendation letters | Number, referee requirements and submission method |
| English-language evidence | Accepted certificate, score and submission date |
| Experience evidence | Whether employment or professional references are necessary |
| Scholarship forms | Required scholarship questions or declarations |
| Additional materials | Any course-specific supporting evidence |
This table is a preparation guide, not a universal mandatory checklist.
Can You Apply Without Your Final Certificate?
Some programmes may accept temporary certificates or official academic records while applicants await final documents.
However, you must confirm this with your selected institution. Check what evidence it accepts and when you must provide the completed qualification.
Do Documents Need Legalisation?
Requirements vary by institution and country.
Before paying for certification, translation or legalisation, read the programme instructions. Also, distinguish documents needed for the initial application from those required after academic acceptance.
How to Apply for the VLIR-UOS ICP Connect Scholarships 2027
Applications follow the selected institution’s procedure. You do not use one universal student application form for all 12 programmes.
Step 1: Check Your Basic Eligibility
First, verify your nationality, residence, age and previous scholarship history.
If you do not meet these conditions, academic eligibility alone will not qualify you for ICP Connect funding.
Step 2: Compare the Available Programmes
Next, review the current course list and identify the programme that best matches your education and goals.
Compare academic entry requirements, teaching content, professional relevance and scholarship deadlines.
Because you may apply for only one ICP programme, make this choice before submitting an application.
Step 3: Open the Institution’s Official Instructions
Use the programme links on the VLIRUOS study-scholarship page to reach the organiser.
Read its scholarship and admission instructions together. Institutions may combine the processes or organise them in separate stages.
Follow that specific sequence rather than assuming every university handles applications identically.
Step 4: Prepare Your Documents
Gather the records, references, language evidence and statements that the programme requests.
Give referees enough time and check whether they must submit letters directly. Also, allow time for translations or certification where necessary.
Step 5: Complete the Scholarship Procedure
Follow the institution’s instructions for scholarship consideration.
Where the application asks whether you want ICP Connect funding, indicate your request clearly. Complete any additional scholarship form or development-related questions.
Submitting a general admission application does not necessarily complete every scholarship requirement.
Step 6: Submit Before Your Programme Deadline
Use your course’s actual deadline, even if it falls months before the general call closes.
For instance, a TROPIMUNDO applicant should work towards 30 November 2026, not 28 February 2027.
Save your application number and submission confirmation.
Step 7: Respond to Follow-Up Requests
Check your email and application account regularly.
The institution may request clarification, further documents or an interview. Respond within the stated period and keep copies of important correspondence.
Step 8: Follow Admission and Scholarship Decisions
The institution assesses candidates and forwards its selection for VLIRUOS review.
Admission and funding are related but separate outcomes. Do not assume an academic offer automatically includes a scholarship.
Follow the formal decision and subsequent instructions for acceptance, registration and travel.
How Does VLIRUOS Select Scholarship Recipients?
The published criteria emphasise applicants’ potential to contribute to sustainable development.
Motivation and Development Contribution
Explain the connection between your selected programme and a specific issue you want to address.
A useful structure is:
- Describe the problem.
- Explain your relevant experience or preparation.
- Identify the skills you need.
- Show how you intend to apply those skills.
For example, rather than simply writing that you want to “help your community,” identify the people, organisation or sector that could benefit and the practical contribution you hope to make.
Professional Experience and Future Use of Skills
Selectors consider how applicants could apply or transfer their learning.
Relevant experience may come from employment, research, teaching, community involvement or other activities. Explain your actual responsibilities and results without exaggerating your role.
Gender and Regional Balance
VLIRUOS seeks gender balance and encourages female applicants.
It also considers regional representation where enough qualified applicants meet the requirements.
Inclusion and Previous Opportunities
Where candidates are equally qualified, the published criteria give preference to applicants from vulnerable groups.
VLIRUOS also considers previous access to study opportunities in higher-income countries.
These criteria do not create a guaranteed award for any applicant. Academic admission and competitive selection still apply.
Application Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Better Approach |
|---|---|
| Checking nationality but ignoring residence | Verify both country conditions |
| Applying to several ICP programmes | Choose one eligible scholarship programme |
| Using 28 February for every course | Follow the programme-specific deadline |
| Relying on an old country list | Check the current dedicated list |
| Assuming every English-medium degree earns a waiver | Confirm the institution’s exemption rules |
| Choosing a course removed from scholarship funding | Use the current 12-programme list |
| Treating admission as a funding guarantee | Wait for the formal scholarship decision |
| Assuming every institution uses the same application sequence | Follow the organiser’s own procedure |
Applicants comparing other European funding models can also read our France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship 2027 guide. Eiffel uses institutional nomination and follows different funding rules.
When Will the Results Be Announced?
VLIRUOS states that it contacts selected candidates and waiting-list applicants by email after selection, normally no later than mid-May.
For the September 2027 intake, this points to mid-May 2027. However, individual institutions may publish more specific timelines or updated instructions.
Applicants should direct programme-specific questions to the organiser. Avoid making travel commitments before receiving the formal decision and arrival instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the VLIR-UOS ICP Connect Scholarships 2027 open?
Yes. The overall 2027–2028 call is open.
However, individual programmes have different opening dates. Check the organiser’s application page before attempting to submit.
What is the VLIR-UOS Scholarship 2027 deadline?
The general call lists 28 February 2027, but earlier deadlines apply to many courses.
For example, TROPIMUNDO closes on 30 November 2026, while several other programmes close on 1 February 2027.
Is the scholarship fully funded?
Yes. It covers tuition, travel, insurance and living expenses for the approved programme duration.
Check how your institution administers the package and whether it pays particular costs directly from the grant.
Can I apply without IELTS?
Possibly, depending on the programme.
Institutions set their own accepted tests and exemption rules. There is no universal IELTS waiver covering all ICP Connect courses.
Do I need to speak Dutch?
No. The participating ICP Connect programmes use English.
You must still meet the selected institution’s English-language requirements.
Can fresh graduates apply?
Yes, potentially. The general criteria allow consideration of recent graduates with strong motivation and a suitable profile.
However, individual programmes may require particular qualifications or experience.
Can Cameroonians apply?
Yes. Cameroon appears on the dedicated country list.
Applicants must also live in an eligible country and meet the other scholarship and admission conditions.
Can Nigerians or Ghanaians apply?
Nigeria and Ghana do not appear on the current dedicated eligible-country list.
Residence in another eligible country does not replace the nationality requirement.
Can I apply for more than one ICP Connect scholarship?
No. The rules permit only one ICP Connect programme application per year.
Submitting multiple applications can lead to exclusion.
Are bachelor’s scholarships available?
Yes. The current list includes Hotel Management at VIVES and Applied Computer Science at Thomas More.
Check their academic requirements, opening dates and specific application procedures.
Does this call include PhD scholarships?
No. The 12 programmes in this call cover professional bachelor’s and master’s study.
Do not confuse these student scholarships with separate research or institutional funding opportunities.
Does the scholarship offer an extension?
The general rules fund the full approved programme duration and do not provide scholarship extensions.
Confirm the exact funded period in your formal offer.
Where should I apply?
Apply through the selected institution’s official procedure, using the programme links on the VLIRUOS study-scholarship page.
Do not send one generic application to several organisers.
Official Information and Application Links
- VLIRUOS Study Scholarships — eligibility, current programmes and institutional application links
- VLIRUOS ICP Connect 2027–2028 — official scholarship call and FAQs
Information checked on 28 October 2026. Programme instructions and formal scholarship decisions govern individual applications.
