Predoctoral studies at K.U.Leuven - Non-EEA
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Regulative framework
Pre-doctoral scholarships must be distinguished clearly from doctoral scholarships, and are specifically intended for non-EEA citizens. A ‘pre-doctoral period’ (cf. article 38 of the Decree on University Education) and the scholarship accompanying it were introduced as an acclimatisation period especially intended to evaluate the research skills of non-EEA citizens. Such scholarships must be used for the purpose for which they were created. If it becomes apparent that part of the funds allocated to a doctoral student for a maximum period of four years are being or have been used in the context of the ‘pre-doctoral year,’ the Office of Social Security may reclassify these scholarships as doctoral scholarships, which are subject to article 3b of the social security decree. In other words: the pre-doctoral period must be solidly grounded and must be clearly distinct from the actual doctorate.Definition
This form concerns non-EEA citizens who are admitted to an ad hoc study programme lasting a maximum of one year as candidates for a doctoral programme, with the intention of evaluating their research skills. They complete this programme either with their own means or with a scholarship. Continuing evaluation and a final pre-doctoral examination lead to either permission or refusal to enrol in the doctoral programme proper. Article 38 of the Decree on University Education is in effect.Status
Status in Belgium:- With respect to the Belgian government, they have the status of student. Students only have the right to stay in Belgium if they, in a foreign country, have received an authorisation for a provisional residence (visa type D), are registered in the Foreigners’ Register upon their arrival and have received proof of registration (white identity card) from the Foreigners’ Register (BIVR). Thus, they must request an authorisation for provisional residence from the Belgian embassy or consulate in the country in which they legally reside. To this end, the applicant must provide a valid passport, permission to register as a student, a proof of financial means, a certificate of good behaviour and a medical certificate. It is recommended to begin this procedure at least four months before departure to Belgium. The International Office co-ordinates all the administration in this regard.
- They have the status of "student" and must enrol at the Registrar’s Office as pre-doctoral students. The enrolment fee is stipulated by the university’s governing body and amounts to 208 euro.
- Upon enrolment, they receive all the necessary certificates for their stay at K.U.Leuven and in Belgium. They must present themselves to the municipal offices within 8 business days. In the event that they have a scholarship, the International Office co-ordinates the scholarship administration.
Research type
Independent fundamental research (type BOF, IUAP, FWO) in order to evaluate research skills.Financing
A scholarship is possible for a maximum period of two years. The application must be made for one year, but may be extended for a second year.| Fiscal status | Entirely tax-exempt. |
| Social security contributions | Exempt. |
| Scholarship amount | This depends on the budget of the financial source; the scholarship must equal between 860 euro per month (minimum) and 100% of the net salary of an assistant (maximum). |
Status concerning the immigration authorities
No work permit is required.Required insurance
- Accident and third party civil liability: as a student, in effect after enrolment.
- Health insurance: required enrolment with a Belgian health insurance company as a student. After registration in the Foreigners’ Register, they can register as residents.
- Insurance for personal third party civil liability: purchase required upon enrolment (13 euro), with the exception of students who can prove that they are already covered by a personal third party civil liability policy.
Regulations
In preparation.
