Top Universities in Belgium in 2024: Universities & Fees

18 min read

Belgium isn’t just about delectable chocolates and mediaeval charm; it’s a hidden gem for international students like you seeking a world-class education. Imagine yourself thriving in a top-ranked education system, with 7 Belgian universities boasting spots in the QS World Rankings 2025 (Top 500 globally). 

Wondering if language will be a barrier for you? Belgium embraces international students like you with over 150 Master’s programs entirely in English. You’ll live comfortably, too, with a surprisingly affordable cost of living compared to other Western European countries. The cost of living in Belgium is 13.4% less than in the USA. 

Expect to spend around INR 75k (£700) a month on living expenses, with tuition fees ranging from a budget-friendly INR 2L – INR 6L (£2,100 to £5,400) per year.

The country boasts a stellar 72.1% graduate employment rate, showcasing the effectiveness of the best Belgium universities in preparing you for the job market. Plus, you’ll be surrounded by a vibrant international community – over 52,000 international students create a multicultural learning environment on campus.

The best part? Scholarship opportunities for Indian students are on the rise! With its central European location, Belgium is your launchpad for weekend adventures. Explore the iconic streets of Paris, just a two-hour train ride away, or soak up the charm of Amsterdam — all while building a successful future.

So, are you ready to unleash your potential in the heart of Europe? Start exploring the exciting possibilities of studying in Belgium!

Listed below are some of the key highlights of the aspects you are going to explore in this blog.

Key Highlights	Details
Top Universities in Belgium	KU Leuven Ghent University University of Liège
Average Tuition Fees at Top Universities in Belgium for International Students	INR 2.5L – INR 6.5L (€2,500 – €7,500) per year
English Proficiency Requirements	IELTS – 6.0-6.5 TOEFL – 70-80
Cost of Living in Belgium Per Month	INR 83K (926 EUR)
Intake Periods to Study in Belgium	Fall- September to January Spring- February
Types of Visa	Type C – up to 90 days  Type D – More than 90 days
Visa Fees	Type C – INR 7k Type D – INR 16k

Why Choose Top Universities in Belgium for Higher Education?

Did you know Belgium is consistently ranked among the top 20 happiest countries globally? This makes the country an excellent choice for pursuing your master’s degree. Belgium is located in the heart of Europe and offers unparalleled access to major cities like Paris, Amsterdam, and Berlin. 

Still, looking for more reasons to study from the best universities in Belgium? Here are four compelling benefits.

1. Central European Hub for Easy Travel

One of Belgium’s standout features is its strategic location at Europe’s crossroads. This central positioning provides quick and easy access to neighbouring countries. For instance, you can travel to Paris by train in less than two hours and reach Amsterdam in about three hours. 

Belgium’s central location is ideal for you if you are eager to explore various European cultures without venturing far from your academic base. Top universities in Belgium for international students like you are ideally situated for those who want to travel across Europe.

2. Prestigious Universities with Diverse Academic Programmes

Belgium boasts some of the world’s most esteemed universities. According to the QS World University Rankings 2025, KU Leuven is ranked #63 globally. Top universities in Belgium offer many programmes, ensuring you can find a course that aligns with your academic and professional aspirations. Whether your interest lies in engineering, medicine, humanities, or social sciences, the best Belgium universities cater to various disciplines.

3. Exceptional Networking in Brussels

Brussels – the capital of Belgium offers unique networking opportunities as a hub for international politics and business. It is home to the headquarters of the European Union and NATO, among other major international organisations. Studying in Brussels puts you near these institutions, which can be invaluable for networking and advancing your career. 

Whether your focus is international relations, law, or business, the connections you can establish in Brussels are unmatched. Public universities in Belgium for international students, like the Université libre de Bruxelles, provide excellent opportunities in these fields.

4. Work Opportunities During and After Studies

You can work part-time during your studies for up to 475 hours per year. After graduation, Belgium offers various opportunities to stay and work, especially in fields like engineering, technology, and international relations. 

Additionally, top universities in Belgium will help you secure work opportunities. Popular student jobs include bicycle and scooter courier delivery person, library assistant, or waiter, with average earnings of around INR 1K per hour.

Also Read: Cicero Traineeship in Belgium for International Students

List of 8 Top Universities in Belgium

As you know, according to the QS World University Rankings 2025, 7 Belgian universities are ranked among the top 500 globally. Recent data from the OECD shows that over 52,000 international students are enrolled in higher education in Belgium, making up 10% of the total student population. 

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

Top Universities in Belgium	Belgium University Rankings as Per QS World Rankings 2025	Average Annual Tuition Fees
KU Leuven	63	INR 4L to INR 7L (€4,446 – €7,518)
Ghent University	169	INR 2L – INR 6L (€2,118 – €6,540)
Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain)	203	Base fees – INR 75k (€835) Goes up to INR 3.5L (€4,000)
Université libre de Bruxelles	230	INR 2.5L (€2,500)
University of Antwerp	267	INR 3L (€3,500)
Vrije Universiteit Brussel	278	INR 90k – INR 3.5L (€1,000 – €3,800)
University of Liège	396	INR 4L (€4,180)
University of Mons	781-790	INR 2.5L (€2,500)

1. KU Leuven

KU Leuven, established in 1425, is Belgium’s largest university and a prominent research institution. It offers many English programmes, making it an attractive option for international students like yourself. With a student population of over 50,000, KU Leuven provides numerous opportunities for academic and personal growth.

Documents Required for Admission to Master’s Programme at KU Leuven

• Diploma(s) and transcripts of academic records (or provisional transcripts if still studying).
• English Proficiency Certificate (or proof of test registration)
• Translation of diploma(s) and transcripts by a registered translator (if not in English, French, Dutch, or German).
• Brief course description of undergraduate courses in the specific field of study.
• Proof of payment of application fee (bank transfer or credit card).
• Copy of passport identity page
• Letter of motivation (one page)
• CV (in English)

English proficiency test requirements are mentioned in the table below.

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

Notable Alumni include:

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

2. Ghent University

Ghent University is renowned for its extensive range of English-taught master’s programmes, catering specifically to international students like you. It has 11 faculties and offers more than 200 courses, providing a rich and diverse academic environment.

Basic Admission Requirements

• For Bachelor’s programmes: A high school diploma equivalent to the Flemish secondary education diploma.
• For Master’s programmes: A relevant Bachelor’s degree (minimum of three years). Some programmes may require a preparatory or linking course depending on prior education.

English proficiency test requirements for Master’s Programmes are mentioned in the table below.

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

Some of the notable alumni are listed below.

• Marc Coucke, Belgian billionaire entrepreneur
• Dirk Van de Put, Chairman & CEO of Mondelez International
• Conner Rousseau, Former Member of the Flemish Parliament
  

3. Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain)

Founded in 1425, UCL is one of Belgium’s oldest universities. It is located in Louvain-la-Neuve and is known for its internationally recognised research institutes, such as the Institute of Neuroscience and the Earth and Life Institute. UCLouvain 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

• Recent certificate of nationality or a photocopy of passport or national identity card
• Covering letter.
• Double-sided photocopy of secondary education certificate with final examination marks.
• Certified copy of higher education qualifications (or proof of results if certificates are not yet available).
• Certified copy of marks for each year of higher education.
• Proof of activities undertaken in the last 5 years
• Detailed CV, dated and signed
• 2 letters of recommendation to be sent directly to the mobility coordinator: international-espo@uclouvain.be.
• Optional: GRE or GMAT test result (UCL Department of Economics GRE institution code: 4169).

English proficiency test requirements are mentioned in the table below. 

Exam Name	Minimum Required Score
TOEFL (Paper-based test)	550
TOEFL (Computer-based test)	213
TOEFL (Internet-based test)	79
IELTS	Band 6.0

Notable Alumni

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

4. Université libre de Bruxelles

The Université libre de Bruxelles is known for its large international student population and diverse programmes. It has strong ties with institutions worldwide, providing an inclusive academic experience.

Academic Qualifications:

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

Language Requirements:

• For master’s programmes taught in French, pass a French language exam.

Listed below are the English proficiency levels.

English Proficiency Test	Test Score
IELTS	6.5
TOEFL	90

Please Note- Non-EU students like you must pay an administrative fee of INR 18k (€200 for application.

Notable Alumni:

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

5. University of Antwerp

Established in 2003 from the merger of three institutions, the University of Antwerp offers a wide array of academic programmes and is known for its focus on interdisciplinary research. It is located in the culturally rich city of Antwerp and is a hub for innovative research in fields like infectious diseases, urban development, and sustainability.

Academic Qualifications for Master’s Programmes

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

English proficiency requirements are mentioned in the table below.

Exam Name	Minimum 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 English	Minimum B2 First with a score of at least 176

Notable Alumni

• Gerolf Annemans, Member of the European Parliament
• Patrick Janssens, Former Mayor of Antwerp
• Peter Mertens, Member of the Chamber of Representatives of Belgium
  

6. Vrije Universiteit Brussel

The Vrije Universiteit Brussel is a research university in Brussels, Belgium, offering courses in both Dutch and English. It comprises four campuses: the Brussels Humanities, Science and Engineering Campus; the Brussels Health Campus; the Brussels Technology Campus; and the Brussels Photonics Campus.

Academic qualifications are mentioned below.

• For Bachelor’s programmes: Secondary Diploma
• For Master’s programmes: Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.

Here are the English Proficiency Requirements

Test	Minimum Required Score
IELTS	6.5
TOEFL iBT	79
ITACE	B2
Cambridge English Qualification	170

Notable Alumni:

• Axelle Red, Belgian singer-songwriter
• Karel De Gucht, Former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Belgium
• Bruno Tobback, Member of the Flemish Parliament
  

7. University of Liège

The University of Liège emphasises research and offers excellent opportunities for a PhD. It is known for its contributions to fields like science and engineering and is well-regarded for its research programmes.

Admission Requirements:

• Recognised Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a related field, equivalent to a Belgian Bachelor’s degree
• Supporting documents as mentioned below
  1. Transcripts
  2. Diplomas
  3. CV
  4. Motivation letter
  5. Letters of recommendation
• Specific requirements: Some programmes may have additional requirements, such as a portfolio or relevant work experience

Language Proficiency Requirements are listed in the table below.

Language of Instruction	Minimum Language Proficiency Requirement
French	Minimum level of B2 according to the CEFR
English	TOEFL iBT score of 79-80 or IELTS score of 6.0

Notable Alumni:

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

8. University of Mons (UMONS)

UMONS, established in 2009 through the merger of the University of Mons-Hainaut and the Faculty of Engineering of Mons, is known for its technical and engineering programmes. It offers specialised courses in fields like material science, biotechnology, and information technology.

Admission Requirements

• Proof of previous education: High school diploma or equivalent qualification for undergraduate programmes; Bachelor’s degree for master’s programmes.
• Supporting documents include:
  1. Transcripts
  2. CV
  3. Motivation letter
  4. Possibly letters of recommendation
• Specific programme requirements: Some programmes might have additional requirements like entrance exams or interviews

English proficiency test requirements are mentioned in the table below. 

Exam Name	Minimum Score
Cambridge	160/230
IELTS	6
TOEIC	750/990
TOEFL ITP	543
TOEFL iBT	72/120

Some of the notable alumni are mentioned below. Have a look.

• Denis Michez, Professor of Botany, Entomology and Systematics, UMONS
• Mathieu Surin, Researcher, Sciensano
• Giovanni Briganti, Associate Professor & Chair of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Medicine, UMONS

Intake Periods for Studying at Top Universities in Belgium

Did you know that the regionalisation of higher education in Belgium offers flexible policy guarantees for international students? This includes scholarships, credit conversion, and academic qualification certification, making Belgium a popular destination for over 60% of international students like you.

The primary intake period is the Fall Intake, which starts in September and is the preferred choice for most students. 

However, Belgium provides two academic intakes for international students as mentioned below.

Intake	Details	Application Deadline
Fall Intake	Starts in September and lasts until January Preferred by most students	Mid-July
Spring Intake	Starts in February and lasts until June Slightly lower admission rates	December

Make sure to plan your application well in advance to secure your spot at one of the top universities in Belgium!

What is the Cost of Living in Belgium for Indian Students?

Living expenses in Belgium are relatively moderate. You can expect to spend around INR 83K (€930) per month on food, transportation, and other personal expenses. The cost of living can vary depending on the city, with Brussels being more expensive than cities like Ghent or Liège. 

However, studying in Belgium can be financially manageable for you with proper planning. The rent for student accommodation (1-bedroom apartment) starts at around INR 58K (€650).

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the costs.

Factor	Average Monthly Cost of Living in Belgium for Indian Students
Rent for Student Accommodation (1 Bedroom Apartment)	INR 58K – INR 98K (€650 – €1,100)
Food	INR 18K – INR 27K (€200 – €300)
Transportation (Monthly Pass)	INR 3K – INR 5K (€31 – €60)
Sports and Entertainment	INR 3K – INR 9K (€38 – €100)
Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water)	INR 11K – INR 31K (€120 – €350)
Internet	INR 3K – INR 7K (€35 – €80)

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

Top 3 Scholarships to Study in Belgium

Belgium offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid options for international students, including government scholarships, university-specific scholarships, and external funding sources. 

For instance, the Belgian Government’s ARES program provides scholarships for students from developing countries. Public universities in Belgium also offer numerous financial aid opportunities for international students.

Financing your education abroad can be challenging, but scholarships can significantly alleviate the financial burden, making your dream of studying in Belgium more achievable. 

Here are some of the top scholarships available.

Scholarship	Grant
Science@Leuven Scholarships	€12,000 per year (INR 12L)
Government of Flanders Master Mind Scholarships	€10,000 (INR 9L) + tuition fee waiver
Erasmus Mundus Programmes in the Wallonia-Brussels Federation	€1,400 (INR 1.2L) per month for up to 24 months

1. Science@Leuven Scholarships

The Science@Leuven Scholarships are offered by the Faculty of Science at KU Leuven, one of the top universities in Belgium (QS World University Ranking: 63). These scholarships are intended for exceptional international students who want to pursue a Master of Science (MSc) programme at KU Leuven. 

Eligibility Criteria

• International student from outside the European Economic Area (EEA).
• Application for admission to one of the English-taught MSc programmes offered by the Faculty of Science at KU Leuven.
• Excellent academic record, typically in the top 5-10% of your class.
• Demonstrated strong motivation and potential for academic success.
• Proficiency in English, typically an IELTS score of 7.
  

2. Government of Flanders Master Mind Scholarships

The prestigious Master Mind Scholarships, provided by the Flemish Ministry of Education and Training, are aimed at outstanding international students, including those from India, pursuing master’s degrees in Flanders and Brussels. 

Eligibility Criteria

• Admission to a master’s degree programme at a Flemish higher education institution.
• Excellent academic records with a GPA of 3.5 out of 4.0.
• Minimum score of 7.0 in IELTS or a TOEFL test score of 94.

Erasmus Mundus Programmes in the Wallonia-Brussels Federation

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

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

Eligibility Criteria

• A Bachelor’s degree from your home country.
• Completion of your undergraduate degree before the master’s programme begins.

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

Top 5 High-Paying Jobs in Belgium 

With an employment rate of 72.1%, Belgium offers lucrative job opportunities, especially in certain high-demand sectors. According to sources, 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 Role	Average Annual Salary
IT Director	INR 1 Cr (€1,32,000)
Pilot	INR 98L (€1,10,000)
Finance Manager	INR 86L (€96,500)
Medical Advisor	INR 83.5L (€93,500)
Engineering Manager	INR 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.

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 two main 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 Type	Duration of Stay	Processing 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

The success rate for Belgium study visas has been 54.2% in recent years. By ensuring your application is complete and accurate, you can also significantly increase your chances of getting your Belgium student visa! 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. Prepare the following documents:

• A valid passport with minimum 2 blank pages and valid for at least 12 months beyond your intended stay.
• Completed and signed visa application form.
• 2 recent passport-size photographs.
• 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!

Conclusion

So, there you have it! From the world-class education offered by the top universities in Belgium, ranked amongst the best 500 in the world, to the delectable cuisine and high-spirited social scene, Belgium offers an exceptional study-abroad experience.

With its central European location, studying in Belgium places you within easy reach of major European cities like Paris, Amsterdam, and Berlin. Imagine weekend getaways exploring the Louvre’s vast collections or chilling out in Amsterdam’s iconic canals. You can do this all while pursuing your academic goals at one of top universities in Belgium.

Start planning your application to one of Belgium’s top seven universities in the QS World University Rankings 2025 today, and get ready to experience a transformative journey that will enrich your life both personally and professionally. 

With its affordable tuition fees, Belgium offers a high-quality education that won’t break the bank – an investment in your future that will pay dividends for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions