Deadline: February 17, 2026
The Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships for Candidates from the Global South 2026 present a prestigious opportunity for outstanding researchers from developing countries to pursue a PhD through an international “sandwich” research model. Funded under Ghent University’s Special Research Fund (BOF), this programme strengthens global academic collaboration while supporting high-quality doctoral research.
The Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships for Candidates from the Global South 2026 are highly competitive and designed for early-stage PhD researchers who demonstrate strong academic potential and commitment to development-oriented research.
Overview of the Scholarship Programme
- Host Institution: Ghent University, Belgium
- Funding Scheme: Special Research Fund (BOF)
- Programme Type: Doctoral (PhD) – Sandwich Model
- Target Group: Candidates from eligible Global South countries
- Study Location: Belgium and partner institution in the Global South
- Application Deadline: 17 February 2026
Scholarship Benefits
Successful applicants under the Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships for Candidates from the Global South 2026 will receive the following support:
- 24 months of funded PhD research at Ghent University
- Monthly doctoral stipend during the Ghent University research stay
- €310 per month bench fee provided to the Ghent University supervisor
- €8,000 travel budget to support mobility and research-related travel
It is important to note that:
- The remaining 24 months of the PhD must be fully funded by the home or partner institution in the Global South
- Ghent University does not fund the local research period outside Belgium
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet all of the following requirements:
- Be a national and resident of an eligible Global South country
- Be at an early stage of PhD research, with at least 36 months of research remaining at the start of the scholarship
- Be a degree-seeking doctoral candidate (exchange students are not eligible)
- Submit a joint doctoral research proposal with:
- A Ghent University supervisor (promoter), and
- A local supervisor at a recognised institution in the Global South
- Ensure that the partner institution can guarantee full funding for the local research period
- Demonstrate strong academic merit and relevance of the research to global or regional development priorities
Each Ghent University supervisor may support a maximum of two candidates, preferably of different genders, to promote gender balance.
Mandatory Sandwich Mobility Structure
The doctoral research must follow a mandatory sandwich model, structured as follows:
- Initial research stay at Ghent University (3–12 months)
- Minimum of 24 months of research at the partner institution in the Global South (with external funding)
- Final research stay at Ghent University before completion of the PhD
The first Ghent University research stay must begin between 1 October 2026 and 28 February 2027.
Limited exceptions to this structure may be granted in exceptional cases, but such requests must be formally approved before 16 January 2026.
Application Requirements
All applications must be submitted in English and completed in full before the deadline.
Applicants are required to submit:
- A completed doctoral scholarship application form
- A detailed research proposal
- Proof of eligibility and academic qualifications
- Confirmation of co-supervision from both institutions
Additionally, the Ghent University supervisor must submit:
- A supervisor’s recommendation
- A completed ethical and biosafety assessment related to the research
Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.
Key Dates and Timeline
- Application Deadline: 17 February 2026
- Expected Results Announcement: From May 2026
- Start of Research at Ghent University: Between October 2026 and February 2027
Early preparation is strongly advised, particularly for securing supervisors and institutional funding commitments.
Important Notes for Applicants
- Applicants cannot apply without a confirmed Ghent University supervisor
- Funding for the Global South research phase must be secured before application
- Research relevance, feasibility, and international collaboration are critical evaluation criteria
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