Belgian American Educational Foundation - Fellowships for study or research in Belgium

BAEF fellowship for study or research in Belgium

As a Master’s or PhD student, you will receive a scholarship (a living allowance) of approximately EUR 27,600 (USD 30,000) for 12 months. Postdoctoral researchers receive approximately EUR 31,300 (USD 34,000). The foundation also covers the cost of your Belgian health insurance under its group insurance scheme. There are no further payments. An American-Belgian foundation awards the scholarship and supports US citizens who are undertaking postgraduate studies or conducting research at a Belgian university or research centre. Up to 14 scholarships are awarded annually; these cannot be renewed.

Who can apply

• Nationality: You are a US citizen or hold a permanent residence permit for the United States.
• Level: You are enrolled on a Master’s, PhD or equivalent professional qualification programme (or intend to commence such a programme), or you already hold one of these qualifications.
• Postdoc timing: If you are applying as a postdoctoral researcher, you must not have gained more than two years’ research experience since completing your PhD, calculated up to 1 July of the funding year.
• Where you go: You are studying or conducting research in Belgium and will be living there for the duration of the scholarship. You are responsible for securing a place to study or conduct research at a Belgian university or research institution.
• Field of study: Any topic is fine.
• Language: Knowledge of Dutch, French or German is an advantage, but not a requirement.

How to apply

Download the application form from the Foundation’s website. Submit it by email as a PDF file, together with your academic transcripts, a short personal statement and a study or research plan. The three referees should submit their letters of recommendation separately. The application deadline is 31 October.

How realistic are your chances?

Only US citizens and individuals with permanent residence status may apply. As the award is open to all disciplines, as well as to students and early-career researchers, it attracts applicants from across the country. With only around 14 scholarships awarded each year, competition is fierce. A clear, well-reasoned research or study plan, together with a firm affiliation with a Belgian institution, helps strong applicants stand out from the crowd.