Applications are now open for the prestigious Science@Leuven Scholarship 2026 at KU Leuven, Belgium’s top-ranked research university. This competitive scholarship, offered by the Faculty of Science, supports outstanding international students who aspire to pursue a Master’s degree in science-related disciplines and contribute to global scientific innovation.
February 15, 2026
Applications open October 1, 2025
The Science@Leuven Scholarship—funded by the Science@Leuven Fund—is designed to recognize and nurture academic excellence, leadership potential, and research ambition among talented international students.
Scholars join KU Leuven’s world-renowned scientific community, gaining access to advanced research facilities, expert mentorship, and a multicultural academic environment at the Leuven campus.
Master’s programs offered by the Faculty of Science (Leuven Campus):
Master of Astronomy and Astrophysics
Master of Biology
Master of Biophysics, Biochemistry, and Biotechnology
Master of Chemistry
Master of Geography (only for KU Leuven home institution students)
Master of Geology (only for KU Leuven home institution students)
Master of Mathematics
Master of Physics
Master of Statistics and Data Science
Master of Sustainable Development
Partial Tuition Fee Waiver + Living Allowance
The scholarship is open to international students from all nationalities who meet the following criteria:
✅ Hold a Bachelor’s degree from a non-Belgian university
✅ Have not previously studied or worked at KU Leuven
✅ Do not already hold a Master’s or PhD degree
✅ Meet KU Leuven’s admission requirements for the selected program
✅ Demonstrate academic excellence (minimum equivalent of Distinction or higher)
✅ Prove English language proficiency:
TOEFL iBT: minimum score 94 (with required subscores)
IELTS: minimum score 7.0 overall, with subscores of at least 6.0
✅ Be willing to serve as an ambassador for the Science@Leuven community
Selection is highly competitive and involves multiple stages:
1️⃣ Eligibility Check – Only students admitted to eligible Master’s programs are considered.
2️⃣ Program Ranking – Faculty members rank applicants by academic merit and motivation.
3️⃣ Committee Review – The Science@Leuven Fund Committee evaluates the top-ranked candidates.
4️⃣ Online Interview – Around 8 finalists are interviewed.
5️⃣ Final Selection – Awards are based on excellence, English proficiency, and motivation.
Open to students from all countries worldwide.
Faculty of Science, KU Leuven – Belgium
The number of scholarships varies yearly, depending on available funding and program capacity.
Allowance: €12,000 per academic year (for up to two years)
Tuition Fee Waiver:
Non-EEA students: Reduced fee of €1,651.10 (2025–2026 rate)
EEA students: Full allowance benefit (no fee waiver)
Duration: Up to 2 academic years, renewable upon excellent first-year performance
Additional Benefits:
Access to world-class laboratories and faculty mentors
Participation in research seminars and academic networks
Inclusion in KU Leuven’s international scientific community
Up to 2 academic years (renewable based on academic excellence)
1️⃣ Apply for Admission to your chosen Master’s program via KU Leuven’s online application system.
2️⃣ Upload all required documents: transcripts, course descriptions, recommendation letters, and motivation letter.
3️⃣ Once your Master’s application is submitted, you’ll receive a confirmation email.
4️⃣ Apply for the Science@Leuven Scholarship using the official scholarship registration form.
5️⃣ Upload your Master’s program confirmation email as proof of application.
6️⃣ Complete both required forms:
Master’s Program Application Form
Science@Leuven Scholarship Registration Form
🗓️ Application closes on February 15, 2026
One of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious universities (founded in 1425)
Ranked among the top 50 universities worldwide for science and engineering
Located in Leuven, a vibrant, student-friendly, and innovation-driven city
Home to a diverse international community and cutting-edge research facilities