The Belgian American Educational Foundation (BAEF) funds Americans to spend the 2027–28 academic year studying or researching at a Belgian university, institution of higher learning or research institute.
Up to fifteen 12-month fellowships go to graduate students and recent postdocs in any field. Some places are tied to BAEF partner institutions (see the Partners page).
Benefits & funding
- Personal stipend for 12 months: US$32,000 for Master’s or PhD students; US$35,000 for postdoctoral fellows.
- Health insurance in Belgium through the BAEF group policy.
- Stays shorter than 12 months (minimum 6) get a prorated stipend.
- No further financial aid; the grant is non-renewable.
Eligibility
- US citizens or US permanent residents.
- One of: plan to enrol in a Belgian Master’s, PhD or equivalent programme; be enrolled in a US Master’s or PhD programme and plan degree-related research in Belgium; or hold a Master’s, PhD or equivalent and plan research in Belgium.
- Postdocs: no more than 2 years of postdoctoral research experience since the PhD by 1 July 2027.
- You arrange your own registration or affiliation with a Belgian host; Dutch, French or German is optional.
- You must live in Belgium during the fellowship.
Can you apply?
Here's who can apply
Decoded from the official rules. A free account checks them against your passport, degree and age in seconds.
Eligible nationalities
USA
Residents of USA can also apply.
Education required
Bachelor Enrolled · Bachelor · Master Enrolled · Master
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Application process
- 1Secure registration or affiliation with a Belgian university or research institution.
- 2Complete the online application with transcripts, a one-page autobiography and a statement of purpose by 31 October 2026.
- 3Have three referees email their letters separately to the BAEF contact.
Program timeline
Application deadline
31 Oct 2026
Fellowship start window
1 Jul 2027 – 3 Jan 2028