The Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships for Candidates from the Global South 2026 provide an international research opportunity for early-stage PhD candidates from Africa and other developing regions. Funded through Ghent University’s Special Research Fund, the programme supports a sandwich PhD structure, allowing scholars to conduct part of their doctoral research in Belgium and part at a partner institution in their home country.
This model is designed to strengthen research capacity in the Global South while encouraging long-term academic collaboration between institutions in Europe and developing regions.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Must be a national of an eligible Global South country, including many African countries
- Applications must be jointly submitted by the PhD candidate, a supervisor at Ghent University, and a supervisor at a partner institution in the Global South
- Open to all academic disciplines, with preference for research topics relevant to North–South cooperation
- Applicants must be degree-seeking PhD students aiming to obtain a (joint) doctoral degree from Ghent University
- Exchange or visiting PhD students are not eligible
- Intended for candidates at the beginning of their PhD, with at least 36 months of research remaining as of 1 October 2026
- A Ghent University supervisor may support a maximum of two applicants per call, provided they are of different genders
Benefits and Financial Support
The scholarship covers the research period conducted in Belgium and includes:
- Funding for 24 months of doctoral research at Ghent University
- A monthly research bench fee of €310
- A travel and operational grant of €8,000 to support research-related and travel expenses
Applicants must independently secure full-time funding for the 24 months of doctoral research conducted at the partner institution in the Global South.
Mobility Structure of the Scholarship
The scholarship follows a structured mobility plan:
- The PhD must begin and end with a research stay of three to twelve months at Ghent University
- The first research stay must start between 1 October 2026 and 28 February 2027
- At least 24 months of locally funded research must be completed in the Global South between the two Ghent University stays
Possible Exceptions to the Mobility Scheme
Exceptions may be considered in specific cases, such as mandatory coursework, required fieldwork in the Global South, or previously completed funded PhD study periods at either institution. Prior approval from Ghent University’s Research Administration is required for all exceptions.
Application Process
The application process is academic and collaborative:
- Secure agreement from a supervisor at Ghent University and a supervisor at a partner institution in the Global South
- Prepare a detailed PhD research proposal aligned with North–South cooperation priorities
- Complete the official application form in English
- Submit all required documents electronically by email
- Request approval for any mobility exceptions before the stated deadline, if applicable
Important Dates and Deadlines
- Fellowship start date: 1 October 2026
- First Ghent University research stay: between October 2026 and February 2027
- Deadline to request mobility exceptions: 16 January 2026
Official Link
Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships for the Global South
https://www.ugent.be/en/research/funding/bof/phd-scholarships-global-south
