About This Opportunity

The ARES Scholarship (Académie de Recherche et d'Enseignement Supérieur) is funded by the Belgian government and designed to support students from developing countries — including Ghana — to pursue a Master's degree at Belgian universities across a carefully selected list of development-relevant fields. The scholarship prioritises disciplines that will have meaningful impact in applicants' home countries, and is one of the more accessible fully funded European Master's opportunities for African students.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Citizen of one of ARES's eligible developing countries — Ghana is generally included, but confirm current eligibility on ares-ac.be
  • Hold a relevant Bachelor's degree with strong academic results
  • Apply to one of the specific ARES-eligible Master's programmes at Belgian universities (not all programmes qualify)
  • Demonstrate a clear link between your chosen study and your country's development needs
  • Must have lived outside Belgium for at least 12 months immediately prior to the start of the scholarship

What You Get / Benefits

  • Full tuition fees for your Belgian Master's programme
  • Monthly living allowance to cover accommodation and personal expenses
  • International travel costs to and from Belgium
  • Health insurance coverage during the scholarship period

How to Apply

  • Visit ares-ac.be/en/cooperation-au-developpement/scholarships to review the current list of eligible programmes and countries
  • Select a Master's programme from the ARES-approved list that aligns with your academic background and development goals
  • Complete and submit your online application through the ARES scholarship portal
  • Upload required documents including academic transcripts, proof of English/French proficiency, a motivation letter, and references
  • Shortlisted candidates may be called for an interview

    • Tips

    • Only a specific list of Master's programmes at Belgian universities are eligible — begin by reviewing this list carefully and choosing a programme that genuinely fits your background, rather than trying to fit your background to a programme.
    • Belgium has two main academic communities (French-speaking and Dutch-speaking) — most ARES programmes are offered in French, so strong French proficiency is a practical advantage even if not strictly required.
    • Your motivation letter should explicitly connect your study goals to development challenges in Ghana — generic academic ambition will not be competitive in this pool.

    ⏰ Deadline: Typically January–February (Annual) — check ares-ac.be for the exact current deadline and confirm your chosen programme's eligibility.