Study in Belgium for International Students 2026: Complete Guide!

Could studying in Belgium be your smartest route to an EU-recognised degree and global career access?
For many international students, the answer is yes. Belgium’s universities have seen steady growth in global enrolments. In 2025, Vrije Universiteit Brussel reported that 24.38% of its total students, nearly 6,000 from 151 countries, were international learners (VUB Official Facts & Figures 2025). Similar trends appear at KU Leuven, Ghent University, and the University of Antwerp, which attract students for their ranked programs and research focus.

If you plan to study in Belgium in 2026, most universities offer English-taught programs, particularly at the master’s level. Annual tuition ranges from €1,000 (~₹1,02,616) to €9,000 (~₹9,23,544) depending on the course and university. Living costs average €900 – €1,300 (~₹92,354 – ~₹1,33,400) per month, which is lower than in many Western European countries.

This guide gives Indian students clear information on tuition, scholarships, visa steps, and post-study options to plan confidently for the 2026 intake.

According to the QS World University Rankings 2025, 7 Belgian universities are ranked among the top 500 in the world. Data from the OECD (2025) shows that more than 52,000 international students study in Belgium, making up about 10% of all students. 

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Here is a list of the top universities in Belgium, their 2026 QS rankings, and the average tuition fees for non-EU students.

When you study in Belgium, programs follow the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS), ensuring global recognition. Most courses are taught in English, especially at the master’s and PhD levels.

Belgian universities offer flexible study modes with options for research and internships, making them ideal for students seeking both academic and professional growth.

Applying to Belgian universities is a straightforward process if you plan and keep your documents ready. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide for Indian students applying to Belgian universities:

Start by shortlisting from the top universities in Belgium for international students, including KU Leuven, Ghent University, and UCLouvain. Each institution offers globally recognised programs in science, business, and engineering.

• For Bachelor’s: Class 12 certificate with required grades.
• For Master’s: Recognised bachelor’s degree in a related field.
• Language Requirement:
  • IELTS 6.0-6.5 or TOEFL iBT 80-90.
  • Some universities accept a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate if you studied in English.

You’ll need the following:

• Academic transcripts and certificates
• Passport copy
• CV or resume
• Statement of Purpose
• Proof of English proficiency
• Letters of Recommendation (LOR) (if needed)
• Financial proof or a scholarship letter

Apply online through the university portal. Upload documents, pay the fee (if any), and wait for your offer letter.

With your admission letter, apply for a Type D student visa via the Belgian Embassy or VFS Global.
Documents required: visa form, proof of funds (about €803 or ₹82,000 per month), medical certificate, insurance, and accommodation proof.

After arriving, register with your local commune office in Belgium to get your residence permit.

• Non-EU students: February-April 2026
• EU students: May-June 2026

The main intakes in Belgium for international students:

• Main intake: September 2026
• Secondary intake: February 2026 (limited courses)

Belgium offers world-class education at relatively affordable rates, making it an attractive destination for Indian students. This guide explains the cost of studying in Belgium, including tuition fees and living expenses.

For non-EU students (including Indian applicants) at public universities in Belgium, the annual tuition fee is typically €2,500 (~₹2,56,540) to €7,500 (~₹7,69,620) per year. 

In the French-speaking Wallonia region, such as at Université Libre de Bruxelles, the standard annual fee for non-EU students is around €5,010 (~₹5,14,106) for the 2026-27 academic year.

Monthly living costs in Belgium for international students typically range between €900 (~₹92,354) and €1,300 (~₹1,33,400) per month, depending on location and lifestyle.

Estimated Annual Budget for Indian Students

The overall cost of studying in Belgium for Indian students ranges from €13,000 (~₹13,34,008) to €21,000 (~₹21,54,936) per year, including tuition and living costs.

Several government and university scholarships in Belgium help international students manage tuition and living expenses. Indian students can apply for these to make their studies more affordable across both Flemish and French-speaking regions.

These programmes support students pursuing master’s or research degrees in public universities across Belgium.

Universities in Belgium also provide financial aid and merit-based awards for international students, including Indian applicants.

Indian students planning to study in Belgium in 2026 can review these scholarship options before applying. Early applications and complete documentation improve selection chances.

Belgium offers a wide range of career options for international graduates, especially in engineering, IT, business, and life sciences. Its central location in Europe and strong research-driven economy make it an ideal place for students who want to stay and work after completing their studies. For Indian students, studying in Belgium can lead to excellent opportunities within the EU job market.

Graduates from top universities in Belgium for international students are in demand for roles in multinational companies, research institutes, and government organisations. While English proficiency is often sufficient, learning French or Flemish can be an added advantage in securing higher-level positions.

Several multinational companies and research organisations actively recruit international graduates from Belgian universities. Prominent employers include:

• AB InBev
• UCB Pharma
• Solvay
• Deloitte, Belgium
• Proximus
• IBM, Belgium
• BNP Paribas Fortis
• Toyota Motor Europe
• Siemens, Belgium
• Johnson & Johnson

Many universities in Belgium for international students, such as KU Leuven, Ghent University, and Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), include internships within their study programs. These internships usually last between three and six months and give students hands-on experience related to their field of study.

Internships help international students understand workplace culture in Europe, apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings, and build professional networks. On average, internship stipends range from €800 to €1,200 per month (~₹82,093 to ~₹1,23,139), depending on the role and employer.

*Note: All amounts are based on a conversion rate of 1 Euro = ₹102.72

To study in Belgium, international students must apply for a Type D student visa. The process is straightforward and handled through the Belgian Embassy or Consulate in your home country. The Belgium student visa success rate for Indian students is around 90%, provided all documents are complete and genuine.

1. Receive your university admission letter from a recognised Belgian institution.
2. Fill out the Type D visa application form online or through the Belgian Embassy.
3. Submit your documents and pay the visa fee.
4. Schedule a biometric appointment and attend an interview (if required).
5. Wait for visa approval, which usually takes 4–8 weeks.

• Valid passport (minimum one-year validity)
• Acceptance letter from a Belgian university
• Proof of financial means: at least €12,000 (₹12,31,392) per year
• Proof of tuition fee payment or scholarship confirmation
• Medical certificate and police clearance
• Health insurance valid in Belgium
• Academic transcripts and passport-size photos

The Belgium study visa acceptance rate is among the highest in Europe due to transparent procedures. To avoid delays, make sure all documents are certified and translated if necessary.

Note: All amounts are based on a conversion rate of 1 Euro = ₹102.72.

Belgium offers a friendly and multicultural environment, making it a great place for international students. It combines strong academics, a high standard of living, and a welcoming atmosphere for those planning to study in Belgium.

Belgium is influenced by both French and Dutch cultures. Cities like Brussels, Antwerp, and Ghent are full of history, art, and food experiences. Students can enjoy local festivals, museums, and weekend trips across Europe. English is widely spoken, especially in universities and major cities, so adjusting to daily life is quite easy.

Universities in Belgium provide helpful services for international students, such as:

• Support with housing and registration
• Orientation programs for new students
• Academic and personal counselling
• Language support for French, Dutch, or English
• Guidance on part-time jobs and visa matters

Belgium is also known for its student-friendly atmosphere, with many discounts available on transport, cinema, and cultural events. This makes it both an enriching and affordable destination for higher studies.

Belgium combines globally ranked universities, practical career pathways, and relatively low education costs, making it a strong option for Indian students in 2026–27. Here are five specific reasons why it stands out:

KU Leuven (Rank 61), Ghent University (Rank 138), and Université Catholique de Louvain (Rank 188) are all listed in the QS World University Rankings 2025. These universities have high research output and strong collaborations with EU industries and innovation hubs.

Tuition fees for non-EU students range between €1,000 (~₹1,02,616) and €9,000 (~₹9,23,544) per year. Flemish universities generally have lower tuition than French-speaking ones, making Flanders a cost-effective choice for Indian students.

Monthly living costs average €900 - €1,300 (₹92,354 - ₹1,33,400), including housing, transport, and food. Cities like Ghent and Leuven are more budget-friendly compared to Brussels.

Over 1,200 programs are offered fully in English, especially in Engineering, Business Analytics, Life Sciences, and International Relations, eliminating the language barrier for Indian students.

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during vacations. Graduates can stay for an additional 12 months after completing their studies to look for jobs under the “search year” permit.

Many universities in Belgium encourage students to gain hands-on experience during or after their studies. Programs like the Cicero Traineeship in Belgium for International Students offer valuable exposure to European institutions and policymaking environments, helping graduates build a strong career foundation.

Many universities in Belgium encourage students to gain hands-on experience during or after their studies. Programs like the Cicero Traineeship in Belgium for International Students offer valuable exposure to European institutions and policymaking environments, helping graduates build a strong career foundation.

Belgium stands out as a realistic and valuable study destination for Indian students seeking global education within Europe. With affordable public universities, strong research programs, and a safe multicultural environment, it offers both academic depth and everyday comfort.

Students benefit from practical learning, internship options, and a growing job market that welcomes international graduates. For those planning to study in Belgium, it’s a place where education, experience, and career goals align effectively.

If you’re planning to study in Belgium, LeapScholar can help you find the right university, guide your visa process, and secure scholarships that match your profile.