Savanna Hoffman
Belgium is a popular destination for international students due to its high-quality education, cultural diversity, and affordable tuition fees. The country offers a wide range of study options, including Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctorate degrees, as well as vocational training. With over 65 universities and around 1,450 study programs to choose from, Belgium provides a unique opportunity to experience a trilingual education system and immerse yourself in the local culture. In this guide, we will explore the steps to studying in Belgium as an international student, including information on visa requirements, tuition fees, and student life. We will also highlight the unique aspects of Belgium's higher education system and provide insights into the application process, to help you navigate your study abroad journey with ease.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Language | Belgium has three official languages: Dutch, French, and German. Most courses are taught in French or English, with some also in Dutch. |
| Education System | Belgium offers Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctorate degrees. There are also university colleges and art colleges offering long and short-term programs, as well as vocational training. |
| Tuition Fees | Tuition fees vary across institutions and regions. In Flemish universities, fees are calculated based on study credits (typically 60 points per year). In Walloon and French-speaking universities, fees are set by the Academy of Research and Higher Education (ARES). EEA students pay a set fee, while non-EEA students' fees depend on their nationality. |
| Living Expenses | Living expenses for international students in Belgium can range from €9,600 to €12,000 per year. Non-EEA students must register for health insurance and pay a contribution fee of approximately €55-€66 per quarter. |
| Scholarships | Scholarships are available to help offset the cost of tuition and living expenses. Deadlines for scholarship applications are usually earlier than general applications. |
| Student Visas | A student visa is required for international students, and the application process and requirements vary depending on the student's country of origin. |
| Job Opportunities | It can be challenging for international graduates to find jobs in Belgium due to language requirements and visa restrictions. |
| Popular Cities | Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent, Liege, Leuven, and Bruges are popular cities for international students. |
| Number of Universities | There are over 65 universities in Belgium, with approximately 1,450 study programs. |
| Top Universities | KU Leuven, Ghent University, and the University of Liège are among the top-ranked universities in Belgium. |
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What You'll Learn
Student visa requirements
The student visa requirements to study in Belgium as an international student vary depending on where you are from.
If you are a citizen of a country in the European Economic Area (EEA), you do not need a visa to study in Belgium. However, you will need to register with Belgian health insurance as a 'student' and pay a legal contribution fee of around €55-66 per quarter. You will also need to pay a membership fee that depends on the health insurance fund you join and can vary between €21-25 per quarter.
If you are not an EEA citizen, you will need to apply for a student visa. The requirements for a student visa will depend on your country of origin. You will need to bring certain documents with you to passport control at the airport. It is recommended that you get all the contact details for your country's diplomatic missions in Belgium, as they will be able to help you if you have any problems or need support.
In general, to apply for a student visa, you will need to submit all your documents in either English, French, or Dutch. The number of character references or reference letters you will need may vary, so it is important to follow the document checklist provided by the university you are applying to. Some universities may also offer allowances or housing aid, so it is worth checking with the university to see what opportunities are available for students from your country.
It is important to note that the cost of living in Belgium is typically high, so you should create a budget in advance to prepare for your studies in Belgium.
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Tuition fees and scholarships
Belgium is a popular destination for international students due to its high-quality education and cultural diversity. The country offers a trilingual education system with affordable tuition fees and diverse research programs.
Tuition fees for degree programs in Belgium may vary. Both international and domestic students are expected to pay tuition fees, which differ across the French and Dutch-speaking regions. In the Flanders region, tuition fees are calculated based on the number of study credits booked per academic year, with fees typically calculated based on 60 points per year. In the Wallonia region, universities in Brussels set their tuition fees according to the Academy of Research and Higher Education (ARES). EEA students pay a set fee, while the amount non-EEA students pay depends on their nationality. On average, international students can expect to spend between €9,600 – €12,000 per year on living expenses.
To offset the cost of studying in Belgium, international students can apply for scholarships. The Belgian Science Policy Office and the Belgian Department for Development Cooperation offer study and training grants, and there are also opportunities for internships. The best way to find the right scholarship is to check with the university you're applying to and see what opportunities they offer to students from your country. Some universities may even offer allowances or housing aid. It is important to note that deadlines for scholarship applications usually close earlier than general applications for study programs.
In addition to scholarships, international students can also take advantage of student jobs and discounts on health insurance and public transport to help offset the costs of living in Belgium. It is worth noting that the cost of living in Belgium is typically high, and getting a job after graduation can be difficult for international graduates as language skills in multiple languages are often required.
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Language requirements
Belgium is divided into three autonomous regions: Flanders in the north, Wallonia in the south, and the region of the capital city, Brussels. These regions are further divided into three linguistic communities: the Dutch-speaking Flemish community, the French-speaking community, and the smaller German-speaking community. Education in Belgium is administered separately by each region, and each region sets its own rules regarding admissions, tuition fees, and the language of instruction.
If you are an international student looking to study in Belgium, it is important to consider the language requirements for your desired region and programme of study. For undergraduate studies in the French-speaking region of Wallonia, you will need to prove your linguistic competency in French. Similarly, for undergraduate studies in the Flemish region, you will need to demonstrate proficiency in Dutch. It is worth noting that some programmes in Belgium may only require English language skills, and there are also many Master's and postgraduate courses offered in English.
To facilitate international students wishing to learn French, Belgian universities organise special French courses. Additionally, you may be able to reduce your tuition fees by applying for a scholarship, and some universities may even offer allowances or housing aid. It is recommended to check with your chosen university to explore the opportunities available for students from your country.
While English may be sufficient for some programmes, it is important to consider the local language requirements for your day-to-day life in Belgium. The cost of living in Belgium is generally high, and finding a job after graduation can be challenging for international graduates as language proficiency in multiple languages is often expected, if not for work, then for socialising with colleagues.
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Student life and costs
Belgium is a popular destination for international students due to its high-quality education and cultural diversity. The country is divided into three autonomous regions: Flanders in the north, Wallonia in the south, and the region of the capital city, Brussels. Belgium is also divided into three linguistic communities: the Dutch-speaking Flemish community, the French-speaking community, and a smaller German-speaking community. As such, the language of instruction at universities depends on the region and can be either Dutch, French, or English.
The cost of living in Belgium is generally high, and living expenses for students are estimated to be between €9,600 – €12,000 per year. Tuition fees vary across the French and Dutch-speaking regions. In Flemish universities, tuition fees are calculated based on the number of study credits booked per academic year, typically around 60 points per year. In the Wallonia region, tuition fees at universities in Brussels are set by the Academy of Research and Higher Education (ARES). EEA students pay a set fee, while non-EEA students' fees depend on their nationality. Non-EEA students must also register with Belgian health insurance as 'students' and pay a quarterly contribution fee of €55-€66, as well as a membership fee of €21-€25. However, scholarships are available, and some universities may offer allowances or housing aid. Additionally, students can benefit from discounts on health insurance, public transport, and other student perks.
Belgium offers a wide range of study options, with over 65 universities and around 1,450 programmes to choose from. There are Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctorate degrees available, as well as university colleges and art colleges offering long and short-term programmes or vocational training. While most Bachelor's programmes are taught in Dutch, many Master's and postgraduate courses are offered in English. Additionally, Belgian universities organise special French courses for international students.
Brussels, Belgium's capital, is a popular choice for students as it is known for its chocolates and waffles, and as the seat of the European Union government, it offers various affordable travel options. Other student cities include Antwerp, Ghent, Liege, Leuven, and Bruges. Belgium's high-quality education, diverse culture, and charming cities make it an attractive destination for international students seeking a unique and enriching study abroad experience.
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Internships and job opportunities
Belgium is a popular destination for international students due to its high-quality education and cultural diversity. The country offers a wide range of internship and job opportunities for international students.
Internships
There are several programmes that enable international students to complete internships in Belgium. The Belgian Science Policy Office and the Belgian Department for Development Cooperation offer opportunities for study and training grants. Additionally, students from a Member State of the European Union can take advantage of various European programmes that facilitate internships in Belgium.
To find an internship in Belgium, international students can utilise online resources and platforms that provide information on available internship positions. It is essential to research the specific requirements and application processes for internships, as they may vary depending on the field of study and the organisation offering the internship.
Part-time Jobs
As an international student in Belgium, you may want to consider a part-time job to help offset the cost of living. Student jobs are available, and you can also take advantage of discounts on health insurance and public transport. When looking for a part-time job, it is important to ensure that you are aware of the legal requirements and restrictions that may apply to international students in terms of working hours and the type of work allowed.
Post-Graduation Employment
Finding a job after graduation can be challenging for international graduates in Belgium. One of the main challenges is the language requirement, as a good command of multiple languages is often expected by employers. Additionally, the Belgian work visa application process can be difficult, as companies need to prove that an international candidate possesses highly specialised skills that are not easily found in the local talent pool. Networking and building connections during your studies can be beneficial for exploring job opportunities after graduation.
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Frequently asked questions
The requirements for applying to a Belgian university vary depending on the programme and level of education. For undergraduate studies, you will need to prove your linguistic competency in either Dutch or French, while some programmes will only require English language skills. Most courses are in French or English, and Belgian universities organise special French courses for international students. Basic requirements include submitting all your documents in English, French or Dutch, and having a Bachelor's degree if applying for a Master's programme.
Tuition fees for degree programmes in Belgium vary. In the French-speaking Wallonia region, fees are set by the Academy of Research and Higher Education (ARES). EEA students pay a set fee, while non-EEA students' fees depend on their nationality. In the Flemish region, fees are calculated based on the number of study credits booked per academic year. Living expenses for students in Belgium are generally between €9,600 – €12,000 per year.
The process for applying for a student visa for Belgium depends on your citizen status and country of origin. You will need to bring certain documents with you to passport control at the airport. Non-EEA students who are waiting for their residence permit must register with Belgian health insurance as a 'student' and pay a quarterly contribution fee of €55-€66.
