Study in Belgium
62 Institutions·400+ ProgramsKey Takeaways
- Universities: 60+ higher education institutions.
- Study programs: Approximately 1,450 programs, including Bachelor’s and Master’s taught in English.
- Languages of instruction: Dutch, French, English
- Top student cities: Leuven, Brussels, Louvain-la-Neuve, Antwerp, Ghent
Why Study in Belgium
Why Belgium Feels Accessible
Belgium welcomes international students with a compact size and multilingual campuses. You can easily travel between major study cities and reach neighbouring countries for short trips.
Why Students Pick Belgium
- Many programs taught in English at bachelor and master level
- Clear academic calendar from September to June
- A mix of public universities and specialized institutions
First Practical Steps
- Check program language and entry rules at your chosen institution
- Review student visa requirements for Belgium early in your planning
- Prepare certified transcripts and proof of language proficiency
Higher Education Landscape
Programs and Institutions
Belgium’s higher education system includes research universities, universities of applied sciences and arts, and specialized institutions offering programs across a wide range of disciplines.
Notable Universities
- KU Leuven
- Université catholique de Louvain
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel
- University of Antwerp
- Hasselt University
- Ghent University
Program Languages and Academic Year
- Instruction: Dutch, French, English
- Academic year: September to June
Admissions and Visa Essentials
Common Admission Requirements
- Proof of previous education (transcripts, diplomas)
- Language test scores (IELTS, TOEFL) when required
- Completed application form and any program-specific documents
Visa and Residence Steps
- Apply for a student visa as required for your nationality
- Provide proof of funds and health insurance
- Consult the institution's international office for step-by-step support
Documents to Prepare
- Passport copy
- Certified academic records
- Language test certificate
- Proof of funds (see visa rules)
- Health insurance coverage
Costs, Scholarships, and Financial Planning
Tuition and Living Costs
- Tuition for non-EU students: €2,000 to €18,000 per year; average around €9,000/year
- Living expenses: typical range €800 to €1,200 per month; some students budget €700/month as a lower estimate
- Health insurance: about €50 to €100 per month
- Proof of funds for visa: around €13,000 per year
Scholarships
- Available grants include the MASTER IN – WBI Grant and Citoyens du Monde program
Student Life, International Community, Travel and Careers
International Community and Support
- Universities provide help with housing, visas, and academic guidance
- Campuses attract students from across Europe and beyond
Travel and Cultural Opportunities
- Easy rail and road links make weekend trips to neighbouring countries practical
- Study cities offer museums, festivals, and local food scenes for cultural exploration
Career Connections and Outcomes
- Many institutions offer career services and employer contacts
- Sectors with active industry presence include research, technology, and business hubs
- Use university career offices for internships and job-search support
FAQs
Tuition for non-EU students typically ranges from €2,000 to €18,000 per year, with an average near €9,000/year. Expect living expenses around €800 to €1,200 per month and health insurance of about €50 to €100 per month. Visa applicants must show proof of funds of around €13,000 per year.
Instruction is offered in Dutch, French, and English. Approximately 1,450 programs include bachelor’s and master’s options in English, so you can find courses taught fully in English.
Belgium has more than 60 higher education institutions, including research universities, universities of applied sciences and arts, and specialised institutions.
Yes. Scholarships include the MASTER IN – WBI Grant and the Citoyens du Monde program.
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