At a glance
—
Duration
—
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) offers a comprehensive doctoral programme designed to support your development into a versatile and independent scientist. The university provides structured doctoral education and adheres to central regulations governing PhD studies. This programme is for individuals seeking to undertake advanced research and contribute to academic knowledge. The VUB doctoral journey involves rigorous academic training, adherence to specific procedures, and engagement with faculty-specific guidelines. Students are encouraged to consult the Central PhD Regulations and their faculty's roadmap for detailed information on requirements, procedures, and the thesis defence process. The university aims to provide a supportive environment for aspiring researchers.
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition fees for the PhD programme?
- Tuition fees are calculated based on a fixed amount plus a variable amount per credit. For the 2025-2026 academic year, both EEA and non-EEA students pay a fixed amount of €1900 plus €51 per credit. For a full-time programme of 60 credits, the total tuition fee is €4960 per academic year.
- What are the application deadlines for the PhD programme?
- Applications for the academic year 2026-2027 open on 15 November 2025. The application deadline for those with a Belgian diploma is 23 September 2026, and the final study contract deadline is 8 October 2026.
- What are the entry requirements for the PhD programme?
- To be admitted, you need a Master's degree or equivalent, meeting general and faculty-specific requirements detailed in the Central PhD Regulations.
- Are there any scholarships available for PhD students?
- VUB offers scholarships such as the Master Mind Scholarship and scholarships from the Flemish Government, which are merit-based or needs-based and can vary in amount. Eligibility for these scholarships may affect tuition fees.
- How do I apply for the PhD programme?
- You begin by submitting an online application with all required documents. Upon successful review, you will be invited to sign your online study contract, which must be completed by the specified deadline.
Entry requirements
Master's DegreeMaster's degree or equivalent, meeting faculty-specific requirements as outlined in the Central PhD Regulations.
Admission to the doctoral programme is subject to meeting the general and faculty-specific requirements detailed in the Central PhD Regulations.
Fees
Tuition (international)For non-EEA students, the fixed amount for the 2025-2026 academic year is €1900, plus a variable amount of €51 per credit. For a full-time programme of 60 credits, the total tuition fee would be €4960 per academic year. This rate is the same as for EEA students if specific nationality requirements are met.
Tuition (home)For EEA students, the fixed amount for the 2025-2026 academic year is €1900, plus a variable amount of €51 per credit. For a full-time programme of 60 credits, the total tuition fee would be €4960 per academic year.
Living—
Tuition fees are calculated based on a fixed amount plus a variable amount per credit. The exact amount depends on your nationality, the number of credits registered, and eligibility for scholarships. Detailed calculation examples are available for the 2025-2026 academic year.
How to apply
1. Submit Online ApplicationSubmit your online application with all required documents. For those with a Belgian diploma, the deadline is 23 September 2026. It is advisable to apply as early as possible, even before obtaining your final diploma.
2. Sign Study ContractUpon successful review of your application and provided all documents are in order, you will be invited to sign your online study contract, typically starting in July. This contract must be signed before 8 October 2026 to confirm your enrolment. Failure to do so will result in the cancellation of your application.
Scholarships
Master Mind ScholarshipVaries
Scholarship from the Flemish GovernmentVaries
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for the PhD programme?
+
Tuition fees are calculated based on a fixed amount plus a variable amount per credit. For the 2025-2026 academic year, both EEA and non-EEA students pay a fixed amount of €1900 plus €51 per credit. For a full-time programme of 60 credits, the total tuition fee is €4960 per academic year.
What are the application deadlines for the PhD programme?
+
Applications for the academic year 2026-2027 open on 15 November 2025. The application deadline for those with a Belgian diploma is 23 September 2026, and the final study contract deadline is 8 October 2026.
What are the entry requirements for the PhD programme?
+
To be admitted, you need a Master's degree or equivalent, meeting general and faculty-specific requirements detailed in the Central PhD Regulations.
Are there any scholarships available for PhD students?
+
VUB offers scholarships such as the Master Mind Scholarship and scholarships from the Flemish Government, which are merit-based or needs-based and can vary in amount. Eligibility for these scholarships may affect tuition fees.
How do I apply for the PhD programme?
+
You begin by submitting an online application with all required documents. Upon successful review, you will be invited to sign your online study contract, which must be completed by the specified deadline.