If you are seeking financial support to study in Belgium, the KU Leuven Scholarship presents an excellent opportunity for international students. It provides fully funded study options at Belgian universities across a wide range of academic fields. This resource covers all essential information regarding the KU Leuven Scholarship, including its benefits, eligibility criteria, required documents, and a detailed step-by-step application process to help you submit a strong application.

KU Leuven offers the fully funded Science@Leuven Scholarship for international students pursuing a master’s degree in the 2026–2027 academic year. The scholarship can provide up to €12,000 to assist with tuition fees, insurance, health coverage, and living costs.

 

 

KU Leuven Scholarship

 

1. Benefits of the KU Leuven Scholarship

2. Eligibility criteria for the KU Leuven Scholarship

3. How to Apply for the KU Leuven Scholarship

4. Deadlines for the KU Leuven Scholarship

5. FAQs about the KU Leuven Scholarship

 

 

 

1. Benefits of the KU Leuven Scholarship

Recipients of the KU Leuven Scholarship may receive the following support:

• The scholarship amount can go up to a maximum of €12,000 per academic year.
• The exact sum awarded is decided by the Board of the Science@Leuven Fund.
• The scholarship always covers one year’s tuition fees, insurance, and basic health insurance.
• The living expenses portion may vary depending on the recipient.
• Even those receiving the full amount are advised to bring extra funds for unforeseen costs like books, study materials, and personal expenses.
• Most master’s programs in the Faculty of Science last two years. Renewal of the scholarship for the second year is granted only to students who demonstrate outstanding academic performance in their first year.

 

 

 

2. Eligibility criteria for KU Leuven Scholarship

 

To qualify for the KU Leuven Scholarship, applicants must satisfy all the following conditions:

• Demonstrate English language proficiency with a minimum TOEFL score of 94 or an IELTS score of at least 7.
• Have no prior study or work history at KU Leuven.
• Hold a bachelor’s degree from a foreign university that makes them eligible for admission to their chosen master’s program.
• Not already hold a master’s degree or PhD.
• Provide evidence of strong academic performance, such as high grades, honors, or academic awards.
• Show clear motivation to pursue a master’s degree within KU Leuven’s Faculty of Science.
• Be willing to act as an ambassador for the scholarship program.
• Agree to sign a scholarship contract detailing the terms and conditions if selected.

For full eligibility details and language requirements, applicants should refer to the official KU Leuven guidelines

Find out about the step-by-step process of Korean Government scholarship.

 

 

 

 

3. How to Apply for KU Leuven Scholarship

 

Follow these steps to apply for the Science@Leuven Scholarship:

Step 1: Apply for a Master’s Program

Submit an application for your desired master’s program through KU Leuven’s online application portal, carefully following all instructions.

Step 2: Upload Required Documents

Through the KU Leuven application system, provide:

• A complete list of all courses taken for credit, including ECTS credits and grades earned. If your institution uses a different grading system, include an explanation of the scale.
• Brief descriptions (about half to one page each) of the courses most relevant to your intended master’s program, following standard ECTS study guide guidelines.
• Two recommendation letters from internationally recognized professors.
• A motivation letter explaining your interest in the program and your academic goals.

Step 3: Save Confirmation of Application

After submitting your master’s application, you will see an on-screen confirmation that your application was successfully submitted.

Important: Take a screenshot of this confirmation message, as it will be needed when applying for the Science@Leuven Scholarship.

Step 4: Apply for the Science@Leuven Scholarship

Complete and submit the separate Science@Leuven Scholarship application form using the designated scholarship application link.

Step 5: Confirm Registration

Your scholarship application is considered complete only after you receive an email confirming your registration for the Science@Leuven Scholarship.

Important Information:

• Only applicants who meet all requirements and submit all requested documents will be considered.
• You may apply for the scholarship right after submitting your master’s application; you do not need to wait for an admission decision.
• However, your scholarship application will only be assessed if you are admitted to the master’s program.
• Additional details about the application process can be found on KU Leuven’s official website.

If you want to study in China for free, find out our detailed guide about Chinese government scholarships.

 

 

 

4. Deadlines for KU Leuven Scholarship

 

For most prestigious KU Leuven scholarships in 2026, including Science@Leuven, applicants must submit a complete master’s application and scholarship candidacy form by January 15, 2026.

 

 

 

5. FAQs about the KU Leuven Scholarship

 

1. Can I apply before completing my bachelor’s degree?

Yes. You may apply before graduating, as long as you earn your degree before the academic year in which your master’s program starts.

 

2. How are applications evaluated? Is admission based on application order?

There is no fixed quota for most programs, and applications are not evaluated on a first-come, first-served basis. Applications are processed in chronological order, but decisions are made based on eligibility and academic merit, provided submissions are received before the deadline.

3. Can I start my application before taking TOEFL, IELTS, GMAT, or GRE?

No. All required test scores must be uploaded before submitting your application. Only complete applications are considered for evaluation.

 

4. What if my test score is below the required level?

You may retake the exam and submit improved results, provided the new scores are available before the application deadline.

5. Can I submit language or admission test scores after the deadline?

No. All required test results must be submitted together with the application documents before the official deadline.

 

6. Does the Faculty of Economics and Business accept TOEFL MyBest Scores?

No. TOEFL MyBest Scores are not accepted by the Faculty of Economics and Business.

 

7. Can I work while studying?

Students from the EEA and non-EEA nationals holding a Belgian residence permit not based on studies may take fewer than 60 ECTS credits per academic year and extend their studies over a longer period, subject to approval from a study career consultant. However, part-time, evening, and weekend classes are generally not available, as all English-taught programs are offered during daytime hours. Non-EEA students residing in Belgium on a student residence permit should check the relevant regulations concerning work and study.