Study in Belgium for International Students: Universities, Courses & Fees

21 min read

Belgium is an exceptional choice for international students when considering where to pursue higher education. Renowned for its rich cultural heritage, central European location, and high academic standards, Belgium offers an excellent study environment. 

Study in Belgium to experience a high quality of life and get your degrees from world-renowned universities. (Plug the names of any two here.) 

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Moreover, Belgium offers over 150 English-taught master’s programs, making it accessible for non-French or Dutch speakers. You will also be pleased to know that Belgium ranks among the top 20 countries for quality education, and an increasing number of scholarships are available for Indian students each year.

The employment rate for graduates in Belgium is notably high, at 72.1%. This high rate reflects the robust job market and the effectiveness of Belgian higher education in preparing you for employment​.

Before discussing educational possibilities in detail, explore the critical details that will help you make an informed decision!

Key HighlightsDetails
Top Universities to Study in BelgiumKU LeuvenGhent UniversityUniversity of Liège
Cost to Study in BelgiumINR 2.5L – INR 6.5L (2,500 Euros- 7,500 Euros) per year
English-taught ProgramsOver 150 English-taught master’s programs are available.
Cost of Living in Belgium Per MonthINR 83K (926 EUR) 
Intake Periods to Study in Belgium Fall- September to January
Spring- February
Types of VisaType C – up to 90 days (INR 7k)Type D – More than 90 days (INR 16k)
English ProficiencyIELTS – 6.0-6.5TOEFL – 70-80

Why Study in Belgium for Higher Education?

Study in Belgium for International Students: Universities, Courses & Fees

Did you know that Belgium ranks among the top 20 happiest countries in the world, making it the perfect option for you to pursue your master’s degree in Belgium?

Belgium, located in the heart of Europe, provides easy access to major cities like Paris, Amsterdam, and Berlin. This central location makes travelling convenient and offers you a unique opportunity to experience different cultures. 

Belgium is also home to Brussels, the de facto capital of the European Union, which presents numerous networking opportunities in international politics and business. 

Want more reasons on why you should study in Belgium? Here are four. Have a look and take advantage of these strategic benefits.

  1. Central European Location Offers Easy Travel to Many Capital Cities

One of the major advantages of studying in Belgium is its central location. Situated at the crossroads of Europe, Belgium offers easy and quick access to neighbouring countries. For example, you can reach Paris in under two hours by train and Amsterdam in about three hours

This strategic position allows you to explore multiple European cultures without travelling far from your study base. Belgium universities for international students are ideally placed for those who want to explore Europe.

  1. World-renowned Universities and a Variety of Academic Programmes

Belgium is home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities. According to the QS World University Rankings 2025, KU Leuven is ranked #63 among the top 100 universities globally

Belgium universities offer a wide range of programmes, ensuring you’ll find a course that suits your academic and professional goals. From engineering and medicine to the humanities and social sciences, Belgium’s educational institutions cater to various interests. 

  1. Brussels Offers Significant Networking Opportunities

Brussels is a significant centre for international politics and business. As the headquarters of the European Union and NATO, it is also home to major international organisations. Studying here gives you the unique advantage of being close to these organisations, which can be invaluable for networking and career opportunities. 

Whether you’re interested in international relations, law, or business, the connections you can make in Brussels are unparalleled. Public universities in Belgium for international students provide excellent opportunities in these fields.

  1. Work Opportunities During and After Studies

As an international student in Belgium, you can work part-time during your studies for up to 475 hours a year. After graduation, Belgium offers various opportunities to stay and work, especially in fields like engineering, technology, and international relations. Besides, Belgium universities for international students provide guidance on work opportunities.

Some great opportunities include bicycle and scooter courier delivery persons, library assistants or waiters with an average salary of INR 1K per hour.

Also Read: Cicero Traineeship in Belgium for International Students

Overview of Belgian Universities

Belgium offers a mix of universities, university colleges, and research institutes. These institutions provide a diverse array of courses and research opportunities, catering to both local and international students. 

This diversity ensures that you can find a programme that fits your academic goals. Masters in Belgium for international students are particularly popular.

Moreover, the degree structure in Belgium is well-defined. 

Check out the approximate duration of programmes based on the degree types.

Degree StructureProgramme Duration
Bachelor’s 3 years
Master’s1-2 years
PhDDepends on a field of study

This structure allows you to progress seamlessly from undergraduate to doctoral studies. Also, remember that a PhD in Belgium will offer excellent research opportunities.

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Top 7 Universities in Belgium

According to the QS World University Rankings 2025, 7 Belgian universities are ranked among the top 500 universities globally

Recent data from the OECD also shows that over 52,000 international students were enrolled in higher education in Belgium, comprising 10% of the total student population.

To help you make an informed decision, here’s a table of some of the top universities in Belgium, followed by a brief overview of each.

UniversityQS World Ranking 2025Average Tuition Fees per year
KU Leuven63INR 4L to INR 7L (€4,446 – €7,518)
Ghent University169INR 2L – INR 6L (€ 2,118 – € 6,540)
Université Catholique de Louvain (UCL)203Base fees – INR 75k (€835)
Goes up to INR 3.5L (€4,000)
University of Antwerp267INR 3L (€3,500)
Free University of Brussels (ULB and VUB)278INR 90k – INR 3.5L (€1,000 – €3,800)
University of Liège396INR 4L (€ 4,180)
University of Mons781-790INR 2.5L (€2,500)
  1. KU Leuven

KU Leuven, established in 1425, is Belgium’s largest university and a prominent research institution. It offers a wide range of English programmes, making it an attractive option for international students. 

With a student population of over 50,000, KU Leuven is a great academic community that offers numerous opportunities for academic and personal growth. Belgium’s top universities list often prominently features KU Leuven.

Documents Required for Admission to Master’s Programme in Belgium:

Listed below are the documents required for admission to the master’s program at KU Leuven University.

  • Diploma(s) and transcripts of academic records (or provisional transcripts for students who are still studying at the time of application) 
  • English Proficiency Certificate (or proof of test registration) 
  • Translation of diploma(s) and transcripts by a registered translator (only if documents are not in English, French, Dutch or German)
  • A brief course description of the undergraduate courses in the particular field of study
  • Proof of payment of application fee (bank transfer or credit card) 
  • Copy of passport identity page (copy of national ID card suffices for EEA citizens)
  • Letter of motivation (one-page letter motivating your interest in the programme)
  • CV – This must be in English 

English Proficiency Test Requirements 

Here’s a table summarising the required scores for various English proficiency exams:

Exam NameRequired Score
TOEFL (Paper-based test)600
TOEFL (Computer-based test)250
TOEFL (Internet-based test)100
IELTS Academic TestBand 7.0-7.5
CPE (Certificate of Proficiency in English)Grade B
ITACE (Interuniversity Test of Academic English)C1 level

Notable Alumni

Now, explore some notable alumni who have graduated from this university.

  • Hans Kluge, Director WHO Europe 
  • Caroline Vrijens, Children’s Rights Commissioner 
  • Kim Gevaert, Former Belgian sprinter and Olympic champion
  1. Ghent University

Ghent University is known for its extensive range of English-taught master’s programmes, catering specifically to international students. This university is ideal if you want to pursue a master’s degree in Belgium. 

With over 11 faculties and more than 200 courses, Ghent University provides a rich and diverse academic environment. Popular fields for international students to pursue a masters in Belgium include Architecture, Business Economics, and Philosophy.

Basic Admission Requirements

The following are the requirements for enrolling in a bachelor’s or master’s program at Ghent University.

  1. You need a high school diploma equivalent to the Flemish secondary education diploma for bachelor’s programs.
  2. For master’s programs, you need a relevant bachelor’s degree (a minimum of three years). Some programmes may require a preparatory or linking course, depending on your prior education.

English Proficiency Test Requirements

Proficiency in Dutch is required for bachelor’s programs taught in Dutch.

Here is a table summarising the English proficiency requirements for master’s programs taught in English at Ghent University.

Exam NameMinimum Required Score
TOEFL (Paper-based test)600
TOEFL (Computer-based test)250
TOEFL (Internet-based test)100
IELTSBand 7.0-7.5
CPE (Certificate of Proficiency in English)Grade B
ITACE (Interuniversity Test of Academic English)C1 level


Notable Alumni

Willing to pursue at Ghent University? Take a look at some of their exceptional alumni.

  • Marc Coucke, Belgian billionaire entrepreneur
  • Dirk Van de Put, Chairman​ and CEO of Mondelez International
  • Conner Rousseau, Former Member of the Flemish Parliament
  1. Université Catholique de Louvain (UCL)

Université Catholique de Louvain (UCL) is one of Belgium’s oldest universities, with a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1425. Located in Louvain-la-Neuve, the university’s research institutes, such as the Institute of Neuroscience and the Earth and Life Institute, are internationally recognised for their contributions to scientific advancement and counts as one of the best medical universities in Belgium. 

UCL is also known for its commitment to sustainable development and global health, actively participating in international research collaborations and initiatives.

Eligibility Criteria for Indian Students

Read below to learn what you would require to enrol at the university.

  • A recent certificate of your nationality a photocopy of your passport, or a photocopy of your national identity card.
  • A cover letter.
  • A double-sided photocopy of your certificate of secondary education with details of the marks obtained in the final examinations (transcripts of records).
  • A certified copy of all your higher education qualifications (or proof of results if certificates are not yet available).
  • A certified copy of all the marks obtained for each year of higher education since leaving secondary school with details of the results gained (results for years where a pass was not obtained must also be provided).
  • If necessary, provide original proof of activities you have undertaken in the last 5 years, including the dates of each activity (proof of employment, internships, etc.).
  • A detailed curriculum vitae, dated and signed.
  • 2 letters of recommendation sent directly to the mobility coordinator: international-espo@uclouvain.be
  • Deadlines for sending the results are as follows: end of June (year of application).
  • Optional: GRE or GMAT test result. UCL Department of Economics GRE institution code is 4169.

English Proficiency Requirements

It is highly recommended that you have a certificate or test result showing your level of English (TOEFL, IELTS, etc.). 

Here is a table summarising the recommended English proficiency scores for the UCL.

Exam NameMinimum Required Score
TOEFL (Paper-based test)550
TOEFL (Computer-based test)213
TOEFL (Internet-based test)79
IELTSBand 6.0

Notable Alumni

Listed below are some of the university’s outstanding alumni!

  • Édouard Ngirente, Prime Minister of Rwanda
  • Denise Maerker, Mexican journalist
  • Rafael Correa, Former President of Ecuador
  1. University of Antwerp

The University of Antwerp, established in 2003 from the merger of three institutions, offers a wide array of academic programs and is distinguished for its focus on interdisciplinary research. 

Located in the culturally rich city of Antwerp, the university is a hub for innovative research in fields like infectious diseases, urban development, and sustainability. The Antwerp Research Institute for the Arts (ARIA) is particularly notable for its contributions to the arts and humanities. 

Academic Qualifications

Here are the requirements you need to have to pursue your master’s program.

  • Bachelor’s degree for initial master’s programs of 2 years.
  • Master’s degree for advanced master’s programs of 1 year.

English Proficiency Requirements

Here is a table summarising the required English proficiency scores for various exams:

Exam NameMinimum Required Score
TOEFL iBT 80
IELTS Academic Overall score of at least 6.5, and minimum 6.0 in each part
ITACE (Interuniversity Test of Academic English for Students)Minimum level B2
Cambridge EnglishMinimum B2 First with a score of at least 176

Notable Alumni 

Explore the University of Antwerp’s notable alumni and consider them your inspiration!

  • Gerolf Annemans, Member of the European Parliament
  • Patrick Janssens, Former Mayor of Antwerp
  • Peter Mertens, Member of the Chamber of Representatives of Belgium
  1. Free University of Brussels (ULB and VUB)

The Free University of Brussels, comprising ULB and VUB, is famous for its large international student population. It offers diverse programmes and has strong ties with institutions worldwide, making it an excellent choice if you’re looking for an inclusive academic experience. 

Colleges in Belgium for international students, such as ULB and VUB, are highly recommended for their diverse student bodies.

Academic Qualifications:

If you plan to pursue your studies at the University of Brussels, the following are the documents you will need to submit.

  • Bachelor’s Programs: Recognised high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Master’s Programs: Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
  • PhD Programs: Relevant master’s degree or equivalent.

Language Proficiency

If your previous degree was not delivered in the French Community of Belgium, you must pass a French language exam to enrol in a master with a teaching focus.

Administrative Fees: Non-EU students must pay an administrative fee of INR 18k (€200).

Notable Alumni 

Here are some of the remarkable graduates of the university. 

  • Catherine Moureaux, Mayor of Molenbeek-Saint-Jean
  • François Englert, Belgian theoretical physicist
  • Pedro Sánchez, Prime Minister of Spain
  1. University of Liège

The University of Liège strongly emphasises research and provides excellent opportunities for a PhD in Belgium. The university’s diverse research institutes cover various disciplines, offering a robust academic environment. It is particularly renowned for its contributions to science and engineering. This is one of the best public universities in Belgium for international students and is well-regarded for its research programmes.

Admission Requirements

For international students aiming to study at the University of Liège, the eligibility criteria generally include the following aspects.

  • A recognised Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a related field. 
  • The University of Liège must recognise the degree and be equivalent to a Belgian bachelor’s degree.

Supporting Documents: These typically include transcripts, diplomas, CVs, motivation letters, and letters of recommendation.

Specific Requirements: Some programs may have additional requirements, such as a portfolio, letters of recommendation, or relevant work experience.

English Proficiency Requirements

Here’s a table summarising the language proficiency requirements for programs taught in French and English.

Language of InstructionMinimum Language Proficiency Requirement
FrenchMinimum level of B2 according to the CEFR
EnglishTOEFL iBT score of 79-80 or IELTS score of 6.0

Notable Alumni 

Take a look at the university’s notable alumni listed below who have left a mark on the country! 

  • Michaël Gillon, Belgian astronomer
  • Nafissatou Thiam, Belgian athlete
  • Laurette Onkelinx, Member of the Chamber of Representatives of Belgium
  1. University of Mons

The University of Mons (UMONS) was established in 2009 through the merger of the University of Mons-Hainaut and the Faculty of Engineering of Mons

Known for its excellence in technical and engineering programs, UMONS offers specialised courses in material science, biotechnology, and information technology. The university has several research centres, including the Materials Research Institute and the Research Institute for Energy. 

Admission Criteria


The University of Mons in Belgium has specific admission requirements for international students. 

To apply, you generally need to:

  1. Provide Proof of Previous Education: Submit your high school diploma or equivalent qualification for undergraduate programs. For master’s programs, you’ll need to provide your bachelor’s degree.
  2. Supporting Documents: These typically include transcripts, a CV, a motivation letter, and possibly letters of recommendation.
  3. Specific Program Requirements: Some programs might have additional requirements like entrance exams, interviews, or specific prerequisite courses.

English Proficiency Requirements

Here is a table summarising the required scores for various English proficiency exams as specified by the University of Mons

Exam NameMinimum Score
Cambridge160/230
IELTS6
TOEIC750/990
TOEFL ITP543
TOEFL iBT72/120

Please Note: These scores represent the minimum level of B2 in English, according to the European Framework of Reference.

Notable Alumni 

Some of the excellent graduates of the University of Mons are given below.

  • Denis Michez, Belgian entomologist
  • Mathieu Surin, Researcher
  • Giovanni Briganti, Researcher

Intake Periods to Study in Belgium’s Top Universities

Did you know the regionalisation of higher education provides more flexible policy guarantees for international students, such as scholarships, credit conversion, and academic qualification certification,  which attracts more than 60% of international students in Belgium?

The main intake period is the Fall Intake, which starts in September and is preferred by most students. But Belgium offers two academic intakes for international students, which are as follows.

IntakeDetailsApplication Deadline
Fall IntakePreferred by most students, starts in September and lasts until January.Mid-July
Spring IntakeStarts in February and lasts until June, with slightly lower admission rates.December

Plan your application well in advance to secure your spot in one of Belgium’s top universities!

How to Apply to Universities in Belgium?

Do you also want to join the growing international community of more than 700 Indian students in Belgium? The application process for universities in Belgium is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail. 

Here’s what you need to know.

Application Process for Undergraduate and Postgraduate Programmes

To apply for undergraduate programmes, you typically need a secondary school certificate. 

For postgraduate programmes, you will need a relevant bachelor’s degree. 

You will also have to ensure that you check the specific requirements for each university and programme; for example, medical universities in Belgium may have additional requirements. 

For example, KU Leuven has a detailed application process that includes an online application, document submission, and an interview for certain programmes. Belgium universities for international students provide clear guidelines to help with your application.

Cost of Living in Belgium for Indian Students

Living expenses in Belgium are relatively moderate. 

On average, you can expect to spend around INR 83k (€930) per month on food, transportation, and other personal expenses. 

The cost of living may vary depending on the city, with Brussels being more expensive than other cities like Ghent or Liège. Studying in Belgium for Indian students can be financially manageable with proper planning.

Approximately the rent for student accommodation (1 Bedroom Apartment) starts at around INR 58K (€650.

Here’s a detailed layout of the costs.

FactorAverage Cost of Living in Belgium Per Month for Indian Students
Rent for Student Accommodation (1 Bedroom Apartment)INR 58K – INR 98K (650 – 1,100 EUR)
FoodINR 18K – INR 27K (200 – 300 EUR)
Transportation (Monthly Pass)INR 3K – INR 5K (31 – 60 EUR)
Sports and EntertainmentINR 3K – INR 9K (38 – 100 EUR)
Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water)INR 11K – INR 31K (120 – 350 EUR)
InternetINR 3K – INR 7K (35 – 80 EUR)

Also Read: What is the Cost of Living in Belgium 2024?

Top 3 Scholarships to Study in Belgium

Belgium offers various scholarships and financial aid options for international students. These include government scholarships, university-specific scholarships, and external funding sources. 

For example, the Belgian Government offers scholarships for international students through the ARES programme, which supports students from developing countries. 

Public universities in Belgium for international students often provide financial aid opportunities.

Financing your education abroad can be a daunting task, but scholarships can significantly ease the financial burden, making your dream of studying in Belgium more attainable. 

Explore some prominent scholarships available for you and how they can help reduce the cost of living and studying in Belgium.

Scholarship Grant
Government of Flanders Master Mind ScholarshipsINR 9 lakhs (€10,000 grant) + a tuition fee waiver
Erasmus Mundus Programmes in the Wallonia-Brussels FederationINR 1.2L (€1,400)
Science@Leuven ScholarshipsINR 12L (€12,000 per year)

Government of Flanders Master Mind Scholarships

The coveted Master Mind Scholarships, which are intended for exceptional international students, including those from India, are offered by the Flemish Ministry of Education and Training for master’s degrees in Flanders and Brussels

The scholarship provides a €10,000 grant (approx. INR 9 lakhs) + a tuition fee waiver per academic year. This amount can make a substantial difference, reducing your cost of living in Belgium and the need for part-time work or additional loans.

Eligibility

  • You must be admitted to a master’s degree program at a Flemish higher education institution.
  • You need to have excellent academic records with a GPA of 3.5 out of 4.0.
  • Minimum IELTS score of 7.0 or a TOEFL test score of 94

Erasmus Mundus Programmes in the Wallonia-Brussels Federation

The highly competitive Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMD), which are open to international students, including Indians, who want to pursue master’s degrees in Europe, are funded by the European Union.

EU provides individuals with a monthly scholarship of INR 1.2L (€1,400) for up to 24 months. 

Eligibility Criteria

  • You must have a bachelor’s level education from your home country.
  • You must graduate before the master’s program starts.

Also Read: Erasmus Scholarship 2024- Eligibility, Application, and Selection.

Science@Leuven Scholarships

The Science@Leuven Scholarships are offered by the Faculty of Science at KU Leuven, one of Belgium’s top universities (QS World University Ranking: 63). These scholarships are designed for outstanding international students like you who wish to pursue a Master of Science (MSc) program at KU Leuven.

The scholarship provides a grant of up to INR 12L (€12,000 per year). This amount can significantly reduce your financial burden of studying in Belgium, covering a substantial portion of living expenses and tuition fees.

Eligibility Criteria

  • You must be an international student from outside the European Economic Area (EEA).
  • You need to have applied for admission to one of the English-taught MSc programs offered by the Faculty of Science at KU Leuven.
  • You should have an excellent academic record, typically in the top 5-10% of your class
  • You must demonstrate strong motivation and potential for academic success.
  • Proficiency in English is required, typically an IELTS score of 7.

Types of Student Visas and Application Process for Indian Students

Wondering if Belgium has one student visa for all requirements or if it varies on the length of your program? So, Belgium offers three types of visas depending on the length of your stay. Here is a table showcasing an overview of the main types of visas available.

Visa TypeDuration of StayProcessing Fees and Time
Short-Stay Visa (Schengen)Up to 90 days – INR 7k (€80)Processing Time- up to 15 working days
Long-Stay Visa (D Visa)More than 90 days INR 16k (€180)– Processing Time- 15 days to 90 days

Application Process to Apply for a Study Visa in Belgium

In recent years, the success rate for Belgium study visas has been 54.2%. By ensuring your application is complete and accurate, you can also significantly increase your chances of success! Applying for a Belgium study visa as an Indian student involves several steps. Here’s a detailed guide to help you through the process.

1. Check Eligibility and Requirements- First, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for a Belgian study visa. You must have an acceptance letter from a recognised educational institution in Belgium. Additionally, you should be able to demonstrate sufficient financial means to support yourself during your studies and have valid health insurance coverage.

2. Gather Necessary Documents

Prepare the following documents:

  • A valid passport with at least 2 blank pages and valid for at least 12 months beyond your intended stay.
  • Completed and signed visa application form.
  • 2 recent passport-sized photographs.
  • Acceptance letter from your Belgian educational institution.
  • Proof of sufficient financial means (e.g., bank statements, scholarship letters, or sponsorship documents) – approximately INR 73k (€800) per month 
  • Proof of accommodation in Belgium.
  • Police clearance certificate from India.
  • Medical certificate stating you are free of any diseases that could pose a public health threat.
  • Proof of health insurance covering medical expenses in Belgium, minimum INR 27L (€30,000)

3. Complete the Application Form- Ensure that all the information matches the supporting documents you provide.

4. Pay the Visa Fee- The visa application fee is approximately INR 16K (€180). Keep the receipt as proof of payment.

5. Submit Your Application- Schedule an appointment with the Belgian Embassy or Consulate in India. Submit your application and all required documents in person. During the appointment, you may be required to provide biometric data (fingerprints and photographs).

6. Attend the Visa Interview- The consular officer may ask questions about your study plans, financial situation, and intentions to return to India after your studies. Answer honestly and provide any additional documents if requested.

7. Wait for Visa Processing- Visa processing times can vary but generally take 15 to 90 days. It’s advisable to apply well before your intended travel date to avoid any delays.

8. Receive Your Visa- If your application is approved, you will receive your visa stamped in your passport. Double-check the visa details for accuracy, including the validity dates.

9. Prepare for Departure- Once you have your visa, make travel arrangements to Belgium. Ensure you carry all your essential documents, including the acceptance letter, proof of accommodation, and financial means, as you may need to present them upon arrival in Belgium.

10. Register with Local Authorities- After arriving in Belgium, you must register with the local municipality within 8 days. This is a crucial step to validate your stay and obtain a residence permit.

Following these steps will help ensure a smooth application process for your Belgium study visa. Best of luck with your studies in Belgium!

Top 5 High-Paying Jobs in Belgium 

With an employment rate of 72.1%, Belgium is known for offering lucrative job opportunities, especially in certain high-demand sectors. According to recent data, the average annual salary in Belgium is around approximately INR 44L (€50,000). This figure reflects the competitive nature of the job market and the high standard of living in the country.

Here are the top five highest-paying roles in Belgium, along with their average annual salaries.

Job RoleAverage Annual Salary
PilotINR 98L (€1,10,000)
IT DirectorINR 1 Cr (€1,32,000)
Finance Manager INR 86L (€96,500)
Medical AdvisorINR 83.5L (€93,500)
Engineering ManagerINR 83L (€93,500)

These salaries are indicative of the skills and expertise required in these fields, and they reflect the importance of these roles in the Belgian economy. Professionals in these positions are highly sought after, making these jobs some of the most rewarding in terms of compensation.

To Conclude

Choosing to study in Belgium provides you with a unique chance to obtain a top-tier education while immersing yourself in the heart of Europe. With its top-ranked universities, diverse programmes, and high-spirited student life, Belgium is an ideal destination for higher education. 

Whether you are pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, or doctoral studies, Belgium provides a rich and supportive environment to achieve your academic and career goals. Belgium showcases institutions that are globally recognised for their excellence.

Best of luck on your educational adventure in Belgium – where your future begins!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Q. Why should I choose to study in Belgium?

    Ans. Belgium stands out as an exceptional option for Indian students to pursue their higher education due to its central European location, high academic standards, and rich cultural heritage. With its proximity to major cities like Paris, Amsterdam, and Berlin, you can easily travel and experience different cultures. Belgium is also home to Brussels, the capital of the European Union, which provides significant networking opportunities.

  • Q. What are the language requirements for studying in Belgium?

    Ans. The language requirements for studying in Belgium vary depending on the program and the university. Most universities offer programs in Dutch, French, and German, with many also providing courses in English. For English-taught programs, you must typically provide proof of language proficiency through tests like IELTS (6.0-6.5) or TOEFL (70-80). Specific score requirements can vary, so it’s essential to check the requirements of your chosen program.

  • Q. How much does it cost for international students to study in Belgium?

    Ans. The cost of studying in Belgium varies based on your nationality and the chosen program. Non-EU students can expect to pay between INR 2.5L – and INR 6.5L (2,500 Euros- 7,500 Euros) annually. Along with the tuition fees, you should budget for living expenses, which can be around INR 83K (€930) per month, excluding rent. Scholarships and financial aid options are available to help manage these costs. Study in Belgium for an affordable and high-quality education.

  • Q. What is the top list of universities in Belgium for international students?

    Ans. Belgium boasts several world-renowned universities that are ideal for international students. Some of the top institutions include 
    KU Leuven, Ghent University, 
    -The University of Liège,
    The Free University of Brussels (ULB and VUB)
    Université Catholique de Louvain (UCL)
    -The University of Antwerp.

  • Q. How do I apply to universities in Belgium?

    Ans. To apply to universities in Belgium, you must follow the specific application procedures of your chosen institution. Generally, this involves submitting an online application, providing secondary school certificates or relevant bachelor’s degree documents, and proof of language proficiency. Some programs might also need additional entrance exams or interviews.

  • Q. What are the options for accommodation for international students in Belgium?

    Ans. International students in Belgium can choose from various accommodation options, including university housing and private rentals. University housing is often more affordable and conveniently located near campus. 
    Private rentals offer more flexibility and can be found in different parts of the city. Applying for accommodation early is advisable, as spaces can fill up quickly.

  • Q. Is Belgium safe for international students?

    Ans. Belgium is considered a safe country for international students like yourself. The country has a low crime rate, and cities like Brussels, Ghent, and Leuven are known for their friendly and welcoming environments. Universities often provide support services to help international students settle in and get through any challenges they may face. You can study in Belgium with the assurance of a secure and supportive environment.

  • Q. What is the academic structure like in Belgium?

    Ans. Belgium’s academic structure includes bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD programs. Bachelor’s programs typically last three years, master’s programs one to two years, and PhD programs vary in length
    The education system is divided into three linguistic communities: Flemish, French, and German-speaking, each overseeing its institutions. This structure allows for a diverse range of programs and specialisations.

  • Q. Can I work while studying in Belgium?

    Ans. Yes, international students in Belgium are allowed to work part-time while studying. EU students have the same work rights as Belgian students, while non-EU students can work up to 475 hours per year, provided they have a valid work permit. Employing yourself while studying can help you acquire valuable experience and cover living expenses.

  • Q. Are there scholarships available for international students in Belgium?

    Ans. You’ll find a range of scholarships and financial aid options to reduce your cost of study in Belgium. These include scholarships provided by the Belgian government, universities, and other organisations. Scholarships are available for undergraduate and postgraduate programs and can help cover tuition fees and living expenses. It’s essential to research and apply for scholarships early to maximise your chances.

  • Q. What opportunities are there for cultural immersion in Belgium?

    Ans. Belgium offers numerous opportunities for cultural immersion. The country’s rich history, diverse population, and multilingual environment provide a unique cultural experience. While studying in Belgium, you can participate in local festivals, explore historical sites, and engage with the local community. In fact, many universities also offer cultural programs and activities to help international students integrate.

  • Q. How does Belgium’s participation in the Bologna Process benefit international students?

    Ans. Belgium’s participation in the Bologna Process ensures its higher education system is aligned with European standards, making degrees comparable and compatible with those from other European countries. This facilitates easier recognition of qualifications and mobility for further studies or career opportunities across Europe. The Bologna Process also promotes high academic standards and quality assurance.

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Saket Kohli

An International Higher Ed professional with 7+ years of experience studying, working, and living across three geographies, currently on a mission to share his journey as an International Student.

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