The KU Leuven Science@Leuven Scholarship 2026–2027 is a prestigious partial funding scholarship for international students pursuing Master’s degrees in science and research-related fields. Offered by the Faculty of Science at KU Leuven, Belgium, this scholarship recognizes academic excellence, research potential, and leadership in scientific advancement.
Funded by the Science@Leuven Fund, it provides tuition discounts and an annual allowance of €12,000 for up to two years.
Applications are open from 1 October 2025 to 15 February 2026. Early preparation and submission increase your chances of success.
Why Apply for the Science@Leuven Scholarship?
Partial Tuition Waiver: Non-EEA students pay a reduced fixed fee (€1,651.10 for 2025–26).
Generous Allowance: €12,000 per academic year for living expenses.
High-Quality Education: KU Leuven is a top-ranked university in Europe with advanced research facilities.
International Recognition: Being a Science@Leuven scholar boosts your career and research opportunities globally.
Eligible Degree Level
The scholarship is available for Master’s programs (Graduate level) at the KU Leuven Faculty of Science. Applicants must be admitted to an eligible Master’s program before applying for the scholarship.
Eligible Master’s Programs
The scholarship is open to students applying to the following KU Leuven Master’s programs:
Master of Astronomy and Astrophysics
Master of Biology
Master of Biophysics, Biochemistry, and Biotechnology
Master of Chemistry
Master of Geography (KU Leuven home students only)
Master of Geology (KU Leuven home students only)
Master of Mathematics
Master of Physics
Master of Statistics and Data Science
Master of Sustainable Development
Tip: Focus on programs with high international appeal like Physics, Chemistry, and Data Science to increase visibility and competition ranking.
Scholarship Benefits
1. Tuition Fee Waiver
Partial waiver for non-EEA students
Fixed tuition for 2025–26: €1,651.10
EEA students do not receive additional waiver
2. Annual Allowance
€12,000 per academic year for living and study expenses
Renewable for second year based on good academic performance
3. Scholarship Duration
Up to two consecutive academic years
4. Number of Scholarships
Varies annually depending on available funding
Eligible Nationalities
Open to all international students regardless of nationality.
Eligibility Criteria
Academic Requirements
Meet KU Leuven admission requirements for the chosen Master’s program
Outstanding academic record (equivalent to Distinction)
Bachelor’s degree from a non-Belgian university
Must not already hold a Master’s degree or PhD
Language Requirements
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 94 (R19, L18, S19, W21)
IELTS: Minimum 7.0 overall (Reading 6.5, Listening 6, Speaking 6, Writing 6)
Additional Requirements
Must not have studied or worked at KU Leuven previously
Willing to serve as a Science@Leuven ambassador
Application Timeline
Applications Open: 1 October 2025
Deadline: 15 February 2026
How to Apply
Step 1: Apply for a Master’s Program
Submit your application via the KU Leuven Master’s portal
Upload all required admission documents
Receive a confirmation email to use in your scholarship application
Step 2: Apply for the Science@Leuven Scholarship
Submit the following:
Completed scholarship registration form
Confirmation email of Master’s application
Transcript of Records with grades and credits
½–1 page summary of relevant coursework
Two recommendation letters from recognized professors
Motivation letter explaining your academic goals and interest in KU Leuven
The scholarship application is complete only after registration confirmation from Science@Leuven.
Selection Process
Eligibility check after Master’s admission
Academic ranking by program directors
Evaluation based on academic merit, motivation, English proficiency, and recommendations
Shortlisted candidates invited for online interviews (around 8)
Final selection by Science@Leuven Fund Board
Results announced early May 2026
Tips to Increase Your Chances
Apply early and double-check all documents
Highlight research experience or publications
Tailor your motivation letter to show alignment with KU Leuven’s research focus
Obtain strong recommendation letters from internationally recognized professors
FAQs
1. Is the Science@Leuven Scholarship fully funded?
No, it is a partial funding scholarship with tuition discount and €12,000 allowance per year.
2. Can students from any country apply?
Yes, it is open to all nationalities.
3. Do I need to apply separately for the scholarship?
Yes. You must apply for both the Master’s program and the scholarship.
4. How many scholarships are awarded each year?
The number varies depending on available funding.
5. When will results be announced?
Final results are expected by early May 2026.
