Studying in Belgium can be an attractive option for international students looking for a European university education, internationally recognised qualifications and access to a multicultural academic environment. One institution that deserves attention is the University of Liège (ULiège).
For students searching online for University of Liège scholarships 2026, it is important to understand that there is not one single scholarship that automatically provides every international student with free tuition, accommodation and living expenses. Instead, ULiège students can encounter different funding opportunities depending on their level of study, nationality, programme, research status and whether they are participating in an exchange or mobility programme.
For the 2026 academic year, some particularly relevant opportunities include the Master.IN WBI scholarship, the DOCT.IN 2026 doctoral scholarship, mobility grants and other research or programme-specific funding. Some of these opportunities had deadlines earlier in 2026, so applicants should verify whether a call is still open before applying.
This guide explains the major University of Liège scholarship opportunities, eligibility requirements, funding amounts, application procedures, tuition fees, financial planning and Belgium student-visa considerations for international students.
Important: Scholarship amounts, deadlines and eligibility conditions can change. Always verify the latest information directly with the University of Liège or the relevant Belgian funding organization before making an application or financial commitment.
What Is the University of Liège?
The University of Liège, commonly abbreviated as ULiège, is a public university in Belgium.
Located in the city of Liège in Wallonia, the university offers programmes and research opportunities across numerous academic disciplines.
Students can find programmes in areas including:
- Business and economics
- Engineering
- Computer science
- Medicine
- Health sciences
- Law
- Social sciences
- Political science
- Natural sciences
- Environmental sciences
- Psychology
- Languages
- Humanities
- Architecture and related fields
- Agricultural and biological sciences
The university is also involved in international exchange and research partnerships, making it relevant to students interested in studying in Belgium as part of a broader international education plan.
University of Liège Scholarships 2026
The term University of Liège scholarship covers several different categories of financial support.
For international students, some of the most important opportunities to investigate include:
- Master.IN WBI scholarships
- DOCT.IN WBI doctoral scholarships
- Erasmus and international mobility grants
- Research and doctoral funding
- External Belgian and Wallonia-Brussels funding
- Programme-specific or faculty-level opportunities
The eligibility rules are different for each.
This is why students should not assume that receiving admission to ULiège automatically means receiving a scholarship.
Master.IN WBI Scholarship 2026
One of the most important opportunities for international master’s applicants is the Master.IN WBI scholarship, supported by Wallonie-Bruxelles International (WBI).
The University of Liège states that the scholarship is intended for international graduates who want to pursue a master’s programme and who hold at least a first-cycle degree from a recognized foreign higher-education institution.
For the 2026 call, applicants first needed to submit an admission application to a master’s programme at ULiège.
The scholarship application required the applicant’s ULiège admission-file reference number.
Important 2026 deadline
The University states that the 2026 Master.IN WBI call is now closed.
This is important for anyone publishing information about “University of Liège scholarships 2026.”
A website should not tell readers that this particular 2026 call is still accepting applications if the official university page says it has closed.
Students interested in a future intake should monitor the next official call.
Who Was Eligible for the Master.IN WBI Scholarship?
According to the University’s scholarship information, applicants needed to be non-European Union citizens who met the admission requirements for the selected higher-education institution and programme.
Applicants also needed to provide supporting documentation.
The University listed requirements including:
- ULiège admission application
- International passport or national identity document
- Curriculum vitae
- Motivation letter
- Academic diplomas
- Academic transcripts
- Certified translations where required
- Required letters of support
The motivation letter could be up to 2,500 words and needed to be written in French or English according to the language of the selected master’s programme.
Letters of Support
One particularly important requirement for the Master.IN WBI scholarship is the requirement for support letters.
The University states that applicants needed:
- One letter from a ULiège professor
- One letter from a professor at the applicant’s home university who works with ULiège
Both letters were required for the application to be submitted to the selection committee.
This makes the scholarship different from an award where a student simply fills out a general online form.
Students interested in future calls should therefore begin developing legitimate academic relationships well before the scholarship deadline.
How to Make a Master’s Scholarship Application Stronger
A competitive scholarship application should tell a clear academic story.
For example:
Previous education → current academic interest → chosen master’s degree → future career/research goal → expected impact.
Avoid filling your motivation letter with generic statements such as:
“Belgium is a beautiful country and I want to study there.”
Instead, explain why the specific programme is relevant to your academic and professional objectives.
Discuss:
- Your academic background
- Relevant projects
- Research interests
- Professional experience
- Academic achievements
- Why the programme fits your objectives
- Why ULiège is relevant to your plans
- Your long-term goals
Everything should be truthful and supported by your actual experience.
DOCT.IN 2026: University of Liège Doctoral Scholarship
Another major 2026 opportunity is the DOCT.IN 2026-2027 doctoral scholarship supported by Wallonie-Bruxelles International.
This programme is particularly relevant to international researchers planning doctoral study at ULiège.
According to the University, a maximum of three doctoral scholarships could be awarded for the 2026-2027 funding period. The scholarships are for candidates admitted to a doctoral programme at ULiège or participating in a formally established joint-supervision arrangement with a foreign partner institution.
The funding was scheduled to begin on 1 October 2026.
How Much Does the DOCT.IN Scholarship Provide?
The University lists the 2026 DOCT.IN funding at €20,979.63 per year, with the amount varying according to the year of the doctoral thesis.
The funding can last for up to four years for doctoral students beginning in 2026/27, subject to the programme’s conditions and renewal arrangements.
This makes the DOCT.IN opportunity potentially significant for international doctoral applicants.
However, students should not interpret the figure as a guaranteed four-year payment to every applicant.
The programme is competitive and the University states that only a maximum of three scholarships were available under the 2026 call.
DOCT.IN Eligibility Requirements
The 2026 call included applicants of EU and non-EU nationality.
Candidates needed to:
- Be admitted to a ULiège doctoral programme for 2026/27, or have an eligible formal joint-supervision arrangement
- Hold a qualification giving access to doctoral studies
- Meet the relevant timing requirements for their qualifying degree
- Not already have Belgian funding that conflicts with the scholarship conditions
The programme covers all academic fields, according to the University’s 2026 call.
DOCT.IN 2026 Application Deadline
The internal ULiège deadline for the 2026 DOCT.IN application was:
31 March 2026 at 23:59.
Because the current date is September 2026, this specific 2026 call is no longer open.
Students interested in doctoral funding for a later intake should monitor ULiège and WBI announcements for the next competition.
University of Liège Scholarships for PhD Students
Doctoral students should not restrict their scholarship search to one programme.
Other possibilities can include:
- Research grants
- Doctoral school funding
- Faculty research projects
- International mobility grants
- External research organisations
- Belgian research funding
- European funding
- Joint doctoral arrangements
For doctoral applicants, finding a potential supervisor and identifying a viable research topic can be just as important as finding a scholarship.
A strong doctoral proposal should clearly communicate:
- Research question
- Academic background
- Existing literature
- Methodology
- Expected contribution
- Research objectives
- Proposed timeline
Research Scholarships at ULiège
ULiège regularly publishes research-related funding opportunities.
For example, its 2026 research information included WBI Excellence Scholarships covering doctoral and postdoctoral research opportunities.
The listed priority areas included:
- Transport and logistics
- Mechanical engineering
- Life sciences
- Agro-industry
- Aerospace
- Environmental technologies
Other academic fields can also be considered.
The opportunities can involve research stays in Belgium or research mobility abroad depending on the specific programme.
This makes research funding an important area for international postgraduate students.
University of Liège Mobility Scholarships
International students should also investigate mobility funding.
ULiège explains that students participating in mobility programmes for study visits or internships can be eligible for grants.
However, the University clearly describes these grants as partial financial support, rather than funding intended to cover the entire cost of studying abroad.
The grants can help compensate for additional costs such as:
- Travel
- Accommodation
- Language preparation
- Increased living costs
The exact amount depends on the destination and type of mobility.
Who Can Receive ULiège Mobility Funding?
Mobility funding is generally connected to students who have been selected for an eligible study or internship mobility programme.
The University says it aims to support mobile students within available funds, with priority given to certain categories, including students with fewer opportunities, study mobilities and unpaid internships.
Therefore, students should first obtain an eligible mobility opportunity before assuming that they can receive the associated funding.
International Students and Tuition Fees at ULiège
Tuition fees are an important part of planning to study in Belgium.
For the 2026/27 academic year, ULiège lists different registration-fee categories.
The University’s published information gives the following general rates:
| Category | 2026/27 amount |
|---|---|
| Scholarship rate | €0 |
| Reduced/modest rate | €374 |
| Intermediate rate | €835 |
| Full rate | €1,194 |
The exact fee applicable to an individual student depends on their situation and applicable regulations.
This is significantly more precise than simply advertising ULiège as a “free university.”
Can International Students Study at ULiège for Free?
Some students may qualify for tuition exemptions or reduced registration fees depending on their circumstances.
However, international students should not assume that every non-EU student automatically receives free tuition.
The University’s 2026/27 fee information shows that several registration categories exist, and eligibility for a reduced or scholarship rate depends on the applicable rules.
A student should therefore calculate their actual expected tuition rather than relying on a general statement that “Belgian universities are free.”
Financial Support From the Wallonia-Brussels Federation
The Wallonia-Brussels Federation (FWB) also provides study allowances.
ULiège states that applications for the 2026/27 study allowance can be submitted from 1 July through 31 October 2026.
The award can provide financial assistance toward study costs.
Students who receive the relevant scholarship-holder status can also benefit from tuition-fee exemption and assistance with course materials, subject to the applicable rules.
However, international students should carefully check whether they meet the residence, nationality and other eligibility conditions.
Do not assume that every international student is automatically eligible.
Tuition-Fee Reduction in 2026/27
ULiège states that from the 2026/27 academic year, students who may qualify for a scholarship rate or reduction should submit their request through the Direction des Allocations d’Études of the Wallonia-Brussels Federation.
The published application window is:
1 July – 31 October 2026.
The University recommends submitting the application as early as possible.
This can be especially important for students who are unsure whether they qualify or are still gathering supporting documents.
University of Liège Financial Planning for International Students
Students from outside the European Union should pay particular attention to financial planning.
ULiège states that third-country students must have sufficient resources to undertake their studies in Belgium.
The University says its financial plan requirement is currently based on a minimum of €10,000 per year plus registration fees.
The University also explains that the Belgian immigration authorities verify financial resources as part of the student-visa process.
This means scholarship applicants should prepare a realistic financial plan before travelling to Belgium.
Is €835 Per Month Enough to Live in Belgium?
ULiège currently uses €835 per month as the minimum amount associated with the relevant financial-resource requirement for the 2025/26 academic year, but the University specifically warns that this amount is not sufficient by itself to cover the full practical cost of living.
Students may have additional costs for:
- Rent
- Security deposits
- Food
- Transportation
- Insurance
- Study materials
- Personal expenses
- Travel
Therefore, applicants should budget above the minimum required amount whenever possible.
Does a University of Liège Scholarship Guarantee a Belgian Student Visa?
No.
This is one of the most important points international students should understand.
A scholarship does not automatically guarantee a Belgian student visa or residence permit.
The immigration authorities have separate requirements.
ULiège explains that students from outside the European Union must demonstrate sufficient financial resources, and the financial plan is checked by both the university and the Belgian immigration authorities.
Consequently, websites should avoid claims such as:
“Get this scholarship and your Belgium visa is guaranteed.”
Such statements are misleading.
University of Liège Scholarships for Nigerian Students
Nigerian students interested in studying in Belgium can investigate the ULiège scholarship opportunities that are open to non-EU students.
The Master.IN WBI programme specifically allowed non-EU applicants who met the relevant admission conditions.
Nigerian applicants should also investigate external funding programmes offered by:
- Belgian institutions
- International organisations
- Nigerian government bodies
- Development organisations
- European scholarship programmes
- Research organisations
The important point is to verify whether the scholarship is actually open to Nigerian citizens.
University of Liège Scholarships for African Students
Students from Africa should explore both university-based and external funding.
Potential funding sources can include:
- University scholarships
- WBI scholarships
- Research grants
- Development cooperation scholarships
- Erasmus+ opportunities
- Government scholarships
- International foundations
Some funding may be restricted to particular countries or academic fields.
Applicants should therefore search according to their:
Nationality + degree + subject + scholarship
For example:
“Nigeria University of Liège master’s scholarship”
or:
“African students doctoral scholarship Belgium.”
University of Liège Scholarships for Indian Students
Indian students can also investigate ULiège’s international admission and scholarship opportunities.
The key considerations include:
- Whether the programme accepts non-EU applicants
- Academic equivalency
- Language requirements
- Scholarship eligibility
- Tuition category
- Financial-resource requirements
- Belgian immigration requirements
Indian students should not assume that a scholarship designed for non-EU applicants is automatically guaranteed.
Selection remains competitive.
Documents You May Need
Depending on the scholarship, applicants may need:
- Passport
- Academic transcripts
- Degree certificates
- CV
- Motivation letter
- Research proposal
- Recommendation letters
- Proof of admission
- Proof of language proficiency
- Certified translations
- Scholarship application form
The exact documents depend on the programme.
For example, the Master.IN WBI scholarship specifically required an admission application, identity document, CV, motivation letter, academic documents and required support letters.
How to Apply for a University of Liège Scholarship
The safest process is to work backwards from the scholarship deadline.
Step 1: Select Your Programme
Choose the bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral programme you want.
Step 2: Check Admission Requirements
Make sure your academic background satisfies the programme requirements.
Step 3: Submit Your Admission Application
Some scholarships require an admission-file reference number before you can apply.
This was the case for the 2026 Master.IN WBI scholarship.
Step 4: Search for Relevant Funding
Look at:
- ULiège scholarships
- WBI scholarships
- Erasmus+
- Research funding
- External scholarships
Step 5: Prepare Your Application
Prepare your CV, motivation letter and academic documents.
Step 6: Submit Before the Deadline
Late applications may not be considered.
Step 7: Plan Your Finances
Even if you win a scholarship, determine what expenses remain.
How to Write a University of Liège Scholarship Motivation Letter
Your motivation letter should answer several questions.
Why This Programme?
Explain the academic connection.
Why University of Liège?
Identify specific academic or research reasons.
Why Belgium?
Explain the educational relevance rather than simply describing Belgium as a desirable country.
What Have You Achieved?
Discuss genuine academic and professional achievements.
What Are Your Career Goals?
Explain what you intend to do after your studies.
How Will the Scholarship Help?
Explain the practical impact of financial support.
For a master’s or doctoral scholarship, the strongest application is usually one where the student’s academic background, proposed programme and future goals clearly connect.
Mistakes to Avoid When Applying
1. Applying Without Checking Eligibility
Read the official conditions first.
2. Using a Generic Motivation Letter
Tailor the document to the programme.
3. Exaggerating Your Achievements
Scholarship applications should be truthful.
4. Missing Deadlines
A strong application submitted after the deadline may not be considered.
5. Assuming Admission Means Funding
An offer of admission is not automatically a scholarship award.
6. Assuming Funding Covers Everything
Check exactly what the scholarship pays.
7. Ignoring Visa Financial Requirements
Students still need to satisfy applicable immigration requirements.
Is the University of Liège Good for International Students?
Whether ULiège is the right choice depends on the student’s academic objectives.
Prospective students should compare:
- Programme quality
- Tuition
- Scholarships
- Living costs
- Language of instruction
- Research opportunities
- Career goals
- Location
- Accommodation
- International partnerships
A university should be selected based on academic fit rather than simply the size of a scholarship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the University of Liège offer scholarships for international students?
Yes. ULiège has several funding opportunities relevant to international students, including WBI-supported master’s and doctoral scholarships, mobility funding and research opportunities.
Is the University of Liège scholarship fully funded?
Not necessarily. Funding differs by programme. Some scholarships provide substantial financial support, while mobility grants are specifically described by ULiège as partial support.
Is the University of Liège Master.IN scholarship open in 2026?
The official ULiège page states that the 2026 Master.IN WBI call is closed.
What is the DOCT.IN scholarship?
DOCT.IN is a WBI-supported incoming doctoral scholarship programme. For 2026/27, ULiège stated that a maximum of three doctoral scholarships could be awarded.
How much is the DOCT.IN scholarship?
The 2026 call lists €20,979.63 per year, with the amount varying according to the year of the thesis.
Can Nigerian students apply?
Nigerian students can investigate ULiège’s non-EU scholarship opportunities, subject to the eligibility conditions of each specific programme.
Can Indian students apply?
Indian students can apply for eligible ULiège programmes and scholarships where the funding is open to non-EU applicants.
Does ULiège charge tuition?
Registration fees vary according to student category. For 2026/27, ULiège lists rates including €374, €835 and €1,194, depending on the applicable category.
Can I get a scholarship and a Belgian student visa?
A scholarship can help demonstrate or provide financial support, but it does not automatically guarantee visa approval.
Can I work while studying in Belgium?
International students may have employment possibilities subject to Belgian immigration and employment rules. Students should verify the conditions applicable to their residence status.
Final Thoughts: University of Liège Scholarships 2026
The University of Liège scholarships 2026 can provide valuable opportunities for international students, particularly at master’s and doctoral level.
However, prospective students need to distinguish between the different funding programmes.
The Master.IN WBI scholarship is particularly relevant to international master’s applicants. The 2026 call was open to non-EU applicants who met the required admission criteria, but ULiège now states that the 2026 call is closed.
For doctoral researchers, the DOCT.IN 2026-2027 scholarship is another important opportunity. ULiège stated that up to three scholarships could be awarded, with funding of €20,979.63 per year and a potential duration of up to four years for doctoral students beginning in 2026/27, subject to the programme’s conditions.
Students already studying at ULiège can also explore mobility grants. The University explains that these grants are intended as partial financial support for the additional costs associated with studying or undertaking an internship abroad.
Tuition planning is another important consideration. For 2026/27, ULiège lists different registration-fee categories, including a scholarship rate of €0, €374, €835 and a full rate of €1,194, depending on the student’s applicable status.
International students should also create a realistic financial plan. ULiège states that third-country students must demonstrate sufficient financial resources and notes that it considers a minimum annual cost of €10,000 plus registration fees for financial-planning purposes.
The most important lesson is that there is no single scholarship that guarantees free study in Belgium for every international applicant.
Instead, students should identify the funding programme that matches their situation.
If you are a prospective master’s student, investigate Master.IN and other relevant international funding.
If you are a doctoral researcher, investigate DOCT.IN, research funding and doctoral-school opportunities.
If you are already enrolled at ULiège, investigate Erasmus+, exchange and mobility grants.
And if you are researching tuition assistance, examine the applicable Wallonia-Brussels Federation rules and ULiège’s current financial-support information.
Above all, use official sources, respect application deadlines and avoid anyone promising a guaranteed scholarship or guaranteed Belgian student visa.
A strong application begins with the right academic programme, accurate documentation, a convincing and truthful motivation letter and a realistic financial plan.
For international students who prepare carefully, the University of Liège can be an important option to consider when researching Belgium scholarships, European university scholarships, international student funding and postgraduate study opportunities in Europe.