Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships for Developing Countries

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.

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.

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

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