The Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships 2025 support exceptional international PhD students from developing countries, offering funding for research-focused doctoral programs. This competitive scholarship provides financial assistance for selected students to advance their research at one of Belgium’s leading universities. Ghent University is an internationally renowned, open, pluralistic, and socially engaged university in Belgium. Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships 2025 in Belgium is an excellent opportunity for students to pursue their academic careers abroad. Designed to attract brilliant minds worldwide, the Ghent University scholarships enable recipients to engage in diverse research activities
Ghent University is consistently ranked among the top 150 universities worldwide by major ranking organizations like Times Higher Education (THE) and QS World University Rankings. Renowned for its research output, Ghent University contributes extensively to global research, especially in sustainable development and biotechnology. Situated in Ghent, a vibrant and historical city in Flanders, students benefit from Belgium’s multicultural setting, proximity to European hubs, and affordable living standards relative to other European cities. Application Deadline of Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships 2025 is 19 February 2025.
University/Institution
- Name: Ghent University
- Location: Ghent, Belgium
- Ranking: Consistently ranked among the top 150 global universities (QS and THE rankings)
- Programs: PhD programs across multiple disciplines
- Duration: Up to 4 years (Scholarship Duration: 24 Months)
Study Areas
The Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships cover a wide range of fields, with particular emphasis on projects that contribute to sustainable development. The study areas eligible include, but are not limited to:
- Sciences: Environmental sciences, biotechnology, chemistry, physics, and biology.
- Engineering: Civil engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and renewable energy.
- Social Sciences: Sociology, economics, political science, international relations.
- Humanities: History, philosophy, languages, and cultural studies.
- Medical and Health Sciences: Public health, medical sciences, and pharmacology.
Scholarship Benefits
- PhD scholarship at Ghent University (in total 24 months).
- The Ghent University promoter receives a bench fee of € 310/per month of research in Ghent + € 8.000 travel budget to cover (part of) the operational costs, as well as part of the traveling costs of the student and both the Ghent University and the local promoter.
- Diverse international research community
- Professional development opportunities
Benefits Not Included
- Health insurance
- Visa processing fees
Scholarship Eligibilities
- Nationality: Applicants must be from selected Global South countries.
- Application: Proposals must be jointly submitted by the candidate, a Ghent University supervisor, and a supervisor from a partner university in the South.
- Field of Study: Open to all research fields, with preference for North-South relevant topics.
- Degree Requirement: Only students aiming for a (joint) PhD at Ghent University can apply; exchange students are not eligible.
- PhD Stage: Candidates should be at the start of their PhD, with at least 36 months of research remaining by October 1, 2025.
- Gender Balance: A Ghent University supervisor can support up to 2 candidates per call, provided they are of different genders.
Co-funding Requirements
- A local PhD supervisor at the partner university is mandatory.The partner university must provide a written statement confirming:
- A full-time local PhD scholarship or salary for 24 months.
- The candidate will be largely exempt from teaching, dedicating no more than 10% of time to other tasks.
Mobility Scheme:
- Start and finish the PhD with 3-12 month research stays at Ghent University.
- The first stay must begin between October 1, 2025, and February 28, 2026.
- At least 24 months of research must be conducted in the South, funded locally.
Required Documents
- Academic transcripts and diplomas
- Detailed CV
- Research proposal
- Proof of English proficiency
- Letters of recommendation
- Supervisor support letter
Application Process
- Identify a faculty member at Ghent University to supervise your research.
- Complete and submit the online application form with the required documents by the deadline.
- They review applications based on academic merit and project feasibility.
- Application forms must be submitted (in English) electronically to BOFapplication@ugent.be.
- In addition to the application form, the Ghent University supervisor must also submit the following 2 documents:
- An advice on the candidate, stating the supervisor’s opinion on the capability of the candidate as a future researcher.An advice on the ethical and biosafety context of the proposed research project
Tips for a Successful Application
- Contact potential supervisors early and ensure their support.
- Craft a compelling research proposal that aligns with sustainable development goals.
- Highlight academic achievements and research experience in your CV.
- Ensure English proficiency documents are valid and recent.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students in Ghent
For international students in Ghent, the monthly living expenses typically range from €800 to €1,200, depending on lifestyle and accommodation choices. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
- Accommodation: €350 – €600 (varies by location and housing type; university dorms or shared apartments are often more affordable).
- Food: €200 – €300 (cooking at home helps reduce costs; eating out may increase expenses).
- Transportation: €50 – €100 (Ghent is bike-friendly, so many students save on transport by cycling).
- Health Insurance: €20 – €50 (compulsory for international students).
- Personal and Miscellaneous Expenses: €100 – €150 (for books, entertainment, and other essentials).
These costs are approximate and may vary based on personal spending habits and accommodation type.
4o
Why Choose This Scholarship?
This scholarship provides the opportunity to study at a top-ranked institution with a research environment focused on sustainability, global impact, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Ghent University offers state-of-the-art resources, guidance from leading experts, and a culturally diverse environment in Belgium.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about this scholarship
- What are the eligibility requirements for the Ghent University Doctoral Scholarship?
To be eligible, applicants must be from a developing country, have a master’s degree relevant to the proposed PhD research, and have a supervisor at Ghent University. They must also demonstrate strong academic achievements and potential for research. - Do I need to find a supervisor before applying for the scholarship?
Yes, applicants must secure a supervisor at Ghent University who is willing to support their research project. The supervisor’s agreement is a crucial part of the application process. - What documents are required to apply for the scholarship?
Required documents typically include a research proposal, academic transcripts, a detailed CV, recommendation letters, proof of English proficiency (if applicable), and a letter of support from a Ghent University supervisor. - Can I apply if I am already enrolled in a PhD program at another university?
The scholarship is for students starting their PhD at Ghent University. If you are already enrolled elsewhere, you must meet the specific conditions for transferring or starting a new PhD. - How long does the scholarship last?
The Ghent University Doctoral Scholarship generally lasts for up to 4 years, provided the student maintains satisfactory academic and research progress. Extensions may be possible, depending on individual circumstances.