Scholarships Future

Master Mind Scholarships 2025 in Belgium: Explained

The Master Mind Scholarship is a prestigious scholarship program funded by the Government of Flanders, Belgium. It is aimed at exceptional international students applying for master’s programs in various institutions across Flanders and Brussels. The Flemish Ministry of Education and Training awards scholarships for master’s programs in Flanders and Brussels to outstanding students worldwide.  Several Flemish higher education institutions offer the Master Mind Scholarship in Belgium, including five universities and seven universities of applied sciences and arts. The duration of mobility is one academic year for a master’s programme of 60 ECTS and two academic years for a master’s programme of 120 ECTS.

Master Mind Scholarships provide generous financial coverage including a grant of €10,000 along with a waiver of tuition fees for each academic year (60 ECTS). Recipients of the Belgium Master Mind Scholarships only need to pay an administrative enrolment fee. The program pays the financial grant in installments, covering accommodation, insurance expenses, and a substantial portion of living costs. It offers international students a great opportunity to study in Europe for free without worrying about financial constraints. Selected students receive a monthly grant and waiver on tuition fees for a maximum of two years. The application deadline generally falls around February-April (exact dates vary by institution).

Participating Universities and Deadline

KU Leuven:

University of Antwerp:

Ghent University:

Hasselt University:

Vrije Universiteit Brussel:

Universities of Applied Sciences and Arts

Antwerp Maritime Academy:

AP University of Applied Sciences and Arts:

Erasmus Brussels University of Applied Sciences and Arts:

HOGENT University of Applied Sciences and Arts:

  • Deadline: March 15, 2024 at 4pm: Visual Arts, Audiovisual Arts, Drama, Music Production, Jazz & Pop
  • Deadline: March 15, 2024 at 4pm: Classical Music
  • More information

KdG University of Applied Sciences and Arts:

LUCA School of Arts:

PXL University of Applied Sciences and Arts:

Universities/Institutions:

  • Place: Flanders and Brussels, Belgium.
  • Ranking: Universities in Flanders rank among the top 200 globally.
  • Programs: Offered for master’s 63
  • level degrees in multiple disciplines.
  • Duration: Up to 2 years (for a full master’s program).

Study Areas:

The Master Mind Scholarship in Belgium covers a broad range of study areas across various disciplines. These generally include:

  1. Sciences and Technology – Programs in engineering, computer science, mathematics, physics, chemistry, and environmental sciences.
  2. Humanities and Social Sciences – Fields like history, philosophy, sociology, psychology, anthropology, and international relations.
  3. Business and Economics – Management, finance, marketing, economics, and entrepreneurship.
  4. Arts and Design – Fine arts, design, architecture, performing arts, and music.
  5. Medical and Health Sciences – Medicine, dentistry, public health, and biomedical sciences.
  6. Law and Criminology – International law, human rights, criminology, and legal studies.

Each participating institution may have specific eligible programs, so it’s best to check with your desired university in Flanders for a list of supported study areas.

Master Mind Scholarship Benefits:

  • Incoming student is awarded a maximum scholarship of €10.000 per academic year
  • Tuition Waiver: Students pay a reduced tuition fee .
  • The rate for the academic year 2024-2025 is €131,50. This rate may increase slightly from year to year.
  • Scholars only need to pay an administrative enrolment fee.
  • Additional Benefits: Opportunity to study at prestigious universities in a diverse, international environment.
  • A maximum of 20 applications can be submitted per Flemish higher education institution.
  • The university has specifically kept scholarships for students from Japan (3), Mexico (3), Palestine (2), and the USA (5).
  • A maximum of 20 applications can be submitted per Flemish higher education institution.
  • The grant is paid in installments and covers accommodation costs, insurance and a significant amount of their living expenses. 
  • Student mobility to partner institutions outside Flanders and Brussels during the master’s programme is allowed. However, at least half of the study credits of the master’s programme must be obtained at the Flemish host institution.

Benefits Not Included:

  • Travel costs
  • Other personal expenses are not covered by the scholarship.

Scholarship Eligibilities:

  • Must be an international student applying for a master’s program at a participating institution.
  • The student has to be accepted by the host institution in order to receive the scholarship.
  • Applicants must apply for a master’s degree program at a Flemish higher education institution.
  • Applicants should have a high standard of academic performance, with a GPA equivalent to 3.5/4.0.
  • Open to international students from all around the world. 
  • Must meet additional requirements set by each participating institution.
  • Must have a strong command of English or Dutch, depending on the language of instruction.
  • English language Requirements For school of SCIENCE
  • An overall minimum band score of 7.0 on the IELTS test
  • A minimum total score of 94 on a TOEFL test
  • A C1 level of the Common European Framework of Reference
  • English language Requirements For school of arts
  • An overall band score of minimum 6.5 on the IELTS test
  • A minimum total score of 90 on the TOEFL test
  • A B2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference
  • Also be accepted:
  • IELTS Indicator (https://www.ieltsindicator.com/)
  • TOEFL iBT Special Home Edition (https://www.ets.org/s/cv/toefl/at-home/)
  • Students who enrol for the following programmes for the academic year 2024-2025 are not eligible for the Master Mind Scholarship:
  • Preparatory programmes
  • Bridging programmes
  • Distance learning
  • If a student completes a one-year Master’s program but does not obtain the degree at the end of the academic year, the final installment of €1.500 will not be awarded.
    In case of a two-year Master Programme, at least 54 ECTS must be obtained in the first academic year in 2025 (July or September) to be able to receive the final installment of €1.500 of the first year and to be entitled to the scholarship for the second academic year

Required Documents:

  • Academic transcripts and degree certificates.
  • CV/Resume.
  • Motivation letter or personal statement.
  • Proof of English/Dutch proficiency (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS).
  • Letters of recommendation (generally two).
  • Passport copy.

Application Process of Master Mind Scholarship:

  • Check eligibility criteria for the scholarship at the chosen institution.
  • Apply for admission to a master’s program at a participating university.
  • Request the institution to nominate you for the Master Mind Scholarship.
  • Complete any additional application forms as per the institution’s guidelines.
  • Await selection and notification from the Flemish Government.
  • step by step process

Tips for Successful Application:

  • Demonstrate a high academic achievement and clearly convey your career goals.
  • Showcase strong motivation and alignment with your chosen program.
  • Proofread all documents to ensure clarity and professionalism.
  • Apply early to ensure sufficient time for nomination and visa procedures.

Monthly Living Expenses for International Students:

For international students in Belgium, monthly living expenses typically range from €850 to €1,200. This estimate covers essential costs:

  1. Accommodation: €300–€600, depending on the city and type of housing.
  2. Food: €200–€300.
  3. Public Transportation: €50–€100 (many students use bikes as an affordable alternative).
  4. Health Insurance: Around €20–€50 (if not included in your home country’s insurance).
  5. Utilities and Internet: €60–€100.
  6. Miscellaneous (entertainment, personal expenses): €100–€150

Why You Should Choose This Scholarship:

  • The Master Mind Scholarship provides significant financial support, allowing students to pursue high-quality education in Flanders. Belgium’s universities are renowned for academic excellence and diverse study programs, making it an ideal destination for career growth and international experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

  1. What is the eligibility criterion regarding nationality?
    • The scholarship is open to students from all nationalities except EEA residents.
  2. Can I apply for multiple scholarships from Flanders?
    • Yes, but you can receive only one Flemish Government scholarship at a time.
  3. Do I need to submit a separate application for the Master Mind Scholarship?
    • Generally, no separate application is required; apply through your institution which nominates candidates.
  4. Is it mandatory to learn Dutch?
    • No, many programs are in English, though learning basic Dutch may enhance your experience.
  5. Can I work part-time while on the scholarship?
    • Yes, international students can work part-time, but balancing studies with work is essential.

Official Link for More Details and Application:

Master Mind Scholarship Official Website

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