Study in Belgium
Why Study in Belgium?
Known as the heart of Europe, hosting major EU institutions and international organisations.
Offers multilingual education with programs in English, French, and Dutch.
High-quality universities with strong focus on Business, International Relations, Science, and Technology.
Affordable tuition fees compared to other Western European countries.
Culturally diverse and centrally located, giving students access to the Schengen travel zone.
Strong research and innovation environment, especially in life sciences, nanotechnology, and engineering.
Top Universities & Global Rankings
University | QS World Ranking (2025) | Known For |
KU Leuven | #66 | Engineering, Humanities, Sciences |
Ghent University | #155 | Life Sciences, Veterinary, Engineering |
Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain) | #188 | Humanities, Social Sciences, Medicine |
Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) | #207 | Political Science, International Relations |
University of Antwerp | #243 | Business, Social Sciences |
Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) | #258 | Business, Law, Political Science |
Belgium has two main language regions (Flemish/Dutch and French), but English-taught programs are increasingly available, especially at Master’s level.
Intakes & Application Deadlines
- September/October (Fall Semester) – Main intake for most programs.
- February (Spring Semester) – Limited programs available at some universities.
Deadlines:
- Fall Intake: Apply between February – April.
- Spring Intake: Apply between September – November.
Tuition Fees & Living Costs
- EU Students: €900 – €4,500 per year.
- Non-EU Students: €2,500 – €6,500 per year (varies by program).
- Living Costs: €9,000 – €12,000 per year (approx. €750 – €1,000/month, higher in Brussels).
Scholarships available via VLIR-UOS, Erasmus+, and university-specific grants.
Language Proficiency Requirements – IELTS / French / Dutch
- English-taught Programs: IELTS 6.0 – 6.5 / TOEFL iBT 80–90.
- French/Dutch-taught Programs: B2 level proficiency in respective languages.
- Many universities accept MOI (Medium of Instruction) for English-taught programs.
Standardized Tests
- Undergraduate: Some programs (Medicine, Dentistry, Engineering) may require entrance exams.
- Postgraduate: GRE/GMAT may be required for Business and Economics programs.
- Most Arts, Social Sciences, and Humanities programs do not require standardized tests.
Application Process & Timeline
- 12 months before intake: Research programs on university websites or via Study in Flanders / Wallonia portals.
- Prepare Documents: Passport, transcripts, IELTS/TOEFL/French/Dutch certificate, SOP, LORs, CV.
- Submit Applications: Directly through university portals.
- Receive Admission Letter: Decisions usually within 1–3 months.
- Apply for Visa (Long-Stay Type D): Submit application to Belgian embassy/consulate with proof of admission and financial means.
Belgium Student Visa – Requirements & Documents
- Visa Type: Long-Stay Student Visa (Type D)
- Visa Fee: €220 (approx. USD $240) + service fees
- Required Documents:
- Admission letter from Belgian university
- Valid passport
- Proof of sufficient funds (~€870/month or €10,440/year)
- Proof of accommodation
- Health insurance
- Academic transcripts & certificates
Visa processing time: 6–10 weeks.
Work While Studying & Post-Graduation
- During Studies: Students can work up to 20 hours/week with a work permit (valid only during academic sessions).
- After Graduation:
- Non-EU graduates can apply for a 12-month residence permit extension to look for work.
- Transition to a work visa once employed.
Belgium offers excellent opportunities in EU institutions, international NGOs, research, and multinational corporations.
List of Universities & Colleges
- KDG University of Applied Science
- KU Leuven
- Thomas More University of Applied Sciences
- University of Liège
- Vrije University of Brussel