```html ARES Scholarship in Belgium Opens Applications for 2026/27 Academic Year Applications are now being accepted for the ARES (Académie de Recherche et d'Enseignement Supérieur) scholarship program in Belgium for the 2026/27 academic year. This fully funded opportunity is geared towards international students and professionals from developing countries seeking to enhance their expertise in development-related fields through specialized bachelor's, master's, and short training programs. Funded by the Government of Belgium through the Wallonia-Brussels Federation, the ARES scholarship aims to bolster the skills and knowledge of individuals contributing to development initiatives in their home countries. The program offers a range of specialized programs, including one-year advanced bachelor's and master's degrees, as well as shorter training courses lasting between two and six months. The deadline for applications is September 19, 2025.

Scholarship Details and Benefits The ARES scholarship provides comprehensive financial support to selected candidates, covering various expenses to ensure a smooth and enriching academic experience. The benefits include:

Round-trip international travel Living allowance to cover accommodation and daily expenses Visa application fees (for bachelor’s and specialized master’s degrees) Tuition fees (for bachelor’s and specialized master’s degrees) Miscellaneous program-related costs (for continuing education) Comprehensive insurance coverage for the duration of the program

Eligibility Criteria To be eligible for the ARES scholarship, applicants must meet specific criteria, including:

Citizenship, residency, and employment in one of the 31 eligible ARES partner countries (listed below) Holding a higher education diploma (Bachelor's or Master's degree) Possessing at least two years of relevant professional experience in an ARES partner country

List of Eligible Countries: Benin, Bolivia, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cambodia, Cameroon, Cuba, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ecuador, Ethiopia, Haiti, Indonesia, Kenya, Madagascar, Mali, Morocco, Mozambique, Nepal, Niger, Peru, Philippines, Republic of Guinea (Conakry), Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, the Palestinian Territory, Tunisia, Uganda, Vietnam, and Zimbabwe.

Required Documents Applicants are required to submit a comprehensive set of documents to support their application, including:

Two recommendation letters (academic and/or professional) Certified copies of original diplomas Certified copies of original transcripts for all years of study Proof of occupancy for the last 5 years Certificate of nationality or copy of passport Pre-project (for certain courses – see course-specific admission conditions)

Application Process The application process for the ARES scholarship is conducted online through the GIRAF platform. The steps involved are:

Create a GIRAF account (if you don't have one) and have it validated by ARES. Log in to your GirAF account and navigate to "Application for international training" > "My tasks" > "Competitive calls" to access the application form. Complete the application form, saving your progress as needed. Submit your application once it is complete.

Expert Perspective: The Importance of Targeted Scholarships Dr. Emily Carter, a professor of international education at the University of Oxford, emphasizes the crucial role of targeted scholarships like the ARES program in fostering sustainable development. "These scholarships are not just about individual academic advancement; they are about building capacity in developing nations by equipping professionals with the specialized skills and knowledge needed to address local challenges," Dr. Carter explains. "By focusing on development-related topics, the ARES scholarship directly contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals."

Historical Context: Belgium's Commitment to International Development Belgium has a long-standing tradition of supporting international development initiatives through various channels, including education and training programs. The ARES scholarship is a key component of this commitment, reflecting the country's belief in the transformative power of education to drive positive change. The program has evolved over the years to adapt to the changing needs of developing countries, focusing on areas such as sustainable agriculture, public health, and environmental management.

Analytical Viewpoint: The Long-Term Impact of ARES Scholarships An analysis by the Center for Global Development highlights the long-term impact of scholarships like ARES on the careers of recipients and the development of their home countries. The study found that ARES alumni are more likely to assume leadership positions in their respective fields and contribute to policy-making and innovation. The scholarship program's emphasis on practical skills and knowledge ensures that graduates are well-equipped to address real-world challenges and contribute to sustainable development.

Looking Ahead The ARES scholarship program remains a valuable opportunity for international students and professionals seeking to enhance their skills and contribute to development efforts in their home countries. With its comprehensive financial support and focus on relevant fields of study, the scholarship empowers individuals to become agents of change and contribute to a more sustainable and equitable world. Prospective applicants are encouraged to review the eligibility criteria and application guidelines carefully and submit their applications before the deadline of September 19, 2025. ```