Belgium is a popular choice, and KU Leuven is one of its biggest universities. Here is what you should know about its scholarships. The KU Leuven Scholarship makes studying in Belgium affordable by offering tuition waivers and living-cost support of up to €12,000 for eligible international master’s students.

There is no separate application fee, and candidates must secure admission to a qualifying programme, meet the faculty’s academic standards, and submit a complete file before the single annual deadline. The catch is that places are limited and tied to specific programmes, so even strong applicants can miss out if they apply late or choose a course not covered by the award.

 

 

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 at KU Leuven:

Step 1: Apply for a Master’s Program

First, applicants must submit an application for their desired master’s program through the KU Leuven online application portal and carefully follow all admission instructions.

 

Step 2: Upload Required Documents

Through the KU Leuven application system, applicants must provide the following documents:

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

Step 3: Save Confirmation of Application

After submitting your master’s application through the KU Leuven application system, you will receive an on-screen confirmation showing that your application has been successfully submitted.

Important: Take a screenshot of this confirmation message because it will be required when completing the Science@Leuven Scholarship application.

Step 4: Apply for the Science@Leuven Scholarship

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

Step 5: Confirm Registration

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

Important Information:

• Only applicants who meet all eligibility requirements and submit all required documents will be considered for the scholarship.
• Applicants can apply for the scholarship immediately after submitting their master’s application. There is no need to wait for an admission decision.
• However, the scholarship application will only be evaluated if the applicant is admitted to the selected master’s program.
• Additional information about the application procedure can be found on the official KU Leuven 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.