# Sabbatical Bench Fee

**Funder:** FWO
**Consortium:** No
**Eligible countries:** BE
**Official call:** https://www.fwo.be/en/support-programmes/sabbatical-bench-fee/
**Last verified:** 20 June 2026

## Eligibility & scope

Covers expenses directly related to research activities performed during sabbatical leave. Targeted at established researchers at Flemish institutions taking a sabbatical.

## Summary

The FWO Sabbatical Bench Fee covers direct research expenses for established researchers at Flemish institutions taking sabbatical leave. This mechanism supports continued research activity during time away from regular teaching and administrative duties.

## Who should apply

- Established researchers at Flemish academic institutions
- Applicants planning a formal sabbatical leave period
- Researchers with active laboratory or project-based work requiring ongoing bench or operational costs

## Key dates

- Contact FWO for current application deadline and rounds

## Tips for applicants

- Clarify which research expenses qualify as 'directly related' in your budget narrative; consumables and equipment typically qualify, but salary costs may not.
- Coordinate the sabbatical timing with your institution's HR department to ensure the leave period aligns with your grant duration and FWO reporting requirements.

## Frequently asked questions

### What expenses does the FWO Sabbatical Bench Fee cover?

The fee covers costs directly related to research activities performed during your sabbatical leave, such as bench and operational expenses.

### Who is eligible for the FWO Sabbatical Bench Fee?

Established researchers based at Flemish institutions who are taking formal sabbatical leave.

### Is the FWO Sabbatical Bench Fee available outside Flanders?

No, this mechanism is limited to researchers at eligible Flemish institutions in Belgium.

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Source: [The Great Grantsby](https://grantsby.eu/grants/fwo-sabbatical-bench-fee-2026) — EU grant monitoring for academic researchers. Always verify details on the funder's website before applying.

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