Complete guide to studying in Belgium
Everything you need to know about becoming an international student in Belgium
Top reasons to study in Belgium:
- Friendly student cities and strong academic communities
- Excellent quality of life, safe and vibrant culture
- Prime European location for travel and international opportunity
- Multilingual and multicultural learning environment
- High-quality, research-driven education at accessible cost
A quick introduction to Belgium
Located in the north west of Europe and sharing borders with the Netherlands, France, Germany and Luxembourg, Belgium is one the founding countries of the European Union.
Belgium is perfect for international students who wish to experience a unique European culture, with excellent living standards, a rich history and three spoken languages, whilst being ideally based for exploring other surrounding European nations.
The city of Brussels in Belgium is considered by many to be the capital of Europe due to its role in the formation of the EU, and its central location within the initial EU member states.
This European influence extends to the country’s higher education system, which follows the Bologna process and is part of the European Higher Education Area (EHEA).
Students studying in Belgium will earn ECTS credits that are recognised by universities throughout Europe, whilst students who have earned ECTS credits in other EHEA member countries will have them recognised in Belgian universities.
Universities in Belgium are recognised internationally for providing a high quality education, with a strong emphasis on the quality of their research and innovation.
International students account for around 20% of the 500,000+ tertiary level students in Belgium are international students, and this number is expected to increase due to Belgium’s affordable university tuition fees and central position within Europe.
The communities and regions of Belgium
International students will find it interesting to know that Belgium is one of three federal states in Europe (along with Germany and Austria). The country is divided into three regions, Flanders to the North, Wallonia to the South and the central region of Brussels (the Brussels-Capital Region).
These regions align to the three communities of Belgium, the French speaking community in Wallonia, the Flemish speaking community in Flanders, and the German speaking community in east Wallonia. The region of Brussels is considered to be multilingual as it is part of both the French and Flemish communities.
Belgium’s higher education system
The 76 higher education institutions in Belgium can be divided into its three communities, French, Flemish and German.
The French Community
The types of higher education institutions in the French community in Wallonia are similar to that to be found in France:
Universities
Both private and public universities are available in the French community in Belgium, with notable examples of public universities including the University of Liège and the Université libre de Bruxelles. UCLouvain, which is a private university, is the largest French speaking university in Belgium.
Studies in universities tend to be highly focused on theoretical learning, whilst the universities place a large emphasis on the quality of their research output.
University Colleges
Known as Hautes Écoles in French, there are 19 university colleges in the French community of Belgium. The standard of education is just as good at university colleges as it is at Belgian universities, but the method of education at universities tends to be more theoretical than at university colleges.
Art Colleges
Known as Écoles supérieures des Arts, higher arts colleges in Belgium offer world class education in performing arts and fine arts. There are 16 arts colleges in the French community of Belgium to consider.
The Flemish Community
The types of university in the Flemish community in the Flanders are more closely aligned to Dutch higher education institutions:
Universities
The universities in the Flanders region of Belgium offer a wide range of courses at degrees, masters and doctorate levels to students. Education is typically largely theoretical and research orientated. There are 5 universities of this type, including the highly ranked Ghent University and University of Antwerp.
Universities of applied sciences and arts/University colleges
Known as hogescholen, universities of applied sciences in the Flemish community typically offer students a more vocational education, awarding both academic and professional bachelors and masters degrees. These institutions usually offer highly specialised education, such as Antwerp Martime Academy,
Each hogeschool is associated with a university, for example Hogeschool Gent is associated with Ghent University.
Prominent examples include University College Ghent (Hogent) and Howest university of applied sciences.
The German Community
The one higher education institution in the German speaking East of Belgium is the Autonomous University of East Belgium (AHS), which offers 4 bachelors degree programmes.
University rankings
Universities in Belgium are highly ranked from both the Flanders and Wallonia regions, which reflects the high standard of education in the country.
| University | Times Higher Education World University Ranking | Best Global Universities | QS World University Ranking |
| KU Leuven | 45 | 48 | 63 |
| Ghent University | 115 | 109 | 169 |
| University of Antwerp | 161 | 213 | 267 |
| Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain) | 168 | 201 | 203 |
| Université Libre de Bruxelles | 201-250 | 260 | 230 |
| Vrije Universiteit Brussel | 201-250 | 306 | 278 |
| University of Liège | 301-350 | 381 | 396 |
| Hasselt University | 351-400 | 761 | 554 |
| University of Mons | 501-600 | 935 | 781-790 |
| University of Namur | 601-800 | 1601 | |
| Institute of Tropical Medicine (ITM) | 1386 |
Climate
Whilst Belgium may not be known for tropical sunshine, the climate is generally moderate and fairly predictable, offering mild winters and pleasantly warm summers without extremes of heat or cold.
One thing to get used to is the frequent cloud cover and rainfall, which, much like in the UK, can appear at any time of year. While the rain isn’t usually heavy or dramatic, an umbrella will become a trusted companion.
Because Belgium is a relatively small and low-lying country, the weather doesn’t vary too dramatically from region to region. That said, the coastal areas and the north-west tend to be windier and a little milder, while the Ardennes region in the south-east can be colder and snowier in the winter.
Expect summer temperatures to sit comfortably between 15–25 degrees Celsius (59–77°F), with occasional warmer days pushing above 30°C (86°F).
In the winter months, temperatures usually range between 0–8 degrees Celsius (32–46°F). Frost and even snow are not uncommon, especially further inland, but harsh or prolonged cold spells are rare.
In short: layered clothing, waterproofs and a healthy appreciation for grey skies will go a long way in helping you settle into life in Belgium.
Lifestyle and welfare
Belgium offers a high quality of life, a strong public infrastructure and a welcoming atmosphere for international students.
Whether you’re in a historic city like Ghent, the student hub of Leuven, or the international melting pot of Brussels, you’ll find plenty of support systems, cultural opportunities and day-to-day comforts to help you settle in quickly.
Healthcare
Belgium has a highly regarded and efficient healthcare system and international students have access to excellent medical services during their studies.
If you are a non-EU citizen
As a non-EU student, you are required to have health insurance while studying in Belgium. You have two main options:
- Register with a Belgian health insurance provider (mutuelle/mutualiteit): This is often the preferred route. Once registered in Belgium (with a residence permit), you can join a mutual health fund for a small monthly fee. This allows you to be reimbursed for a large portion of your medical costs, just like Belgian citizens.
- Use a private health insurance policy from your home country or an international provider. If you go this route, ensure your policy covers you for the full duration of your stay and includes general medical care, hospitalisation, and emergencies. Be aware that if your insurance is not accepted in Belgium, you may still need to join a local mutual fund.
Avoid choosing the cheapest plan without checking the details – especially for things like hospital stays, prescriptions and specialist visits.
If you are an EU citizen
If you’re an EU citizen, your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) allows you to access Belgian healthcare on the same terms as locals. You’ll typically pay the cost upfront for a doctor’s visit, and then be reimbursed a percentage by a mutual health fund – so it’s still useful to register with one while you’re living in Belgium.
In both cases, make sure you register with a general practitioner (GP) once you’re settled, so you can easily access routine care when needed.
Food
Food in Belgium may not always get the global recognition of some of its neighbours, but it’s a huge part of daily life and student culture – and it’s delicious!
Expect to find local specialities that differ by region, but here are some customs and student-friendly tips:
- Breakfast is usually light: coffee, bread or pastries are common. Belgian pastries and baked goods are a real treat and you’ll quickly find a favourite local bakery.
- Lunch is often eaten between 12:00 and 14:00. Student canteens at universities offer full meals at subsidised prices, often featuring hearty Belgian classics.
- Dinner is typically from 18:00 onwards and it’s common to eat with others – whether at home, in a student kitchen, or out at a café.
- You’ll find plenty of affordable takeaway spots too, particularly frites stands (Belgian fries are practically a national institution).
- If you drink alcohol, beer is more than just a beverage in Belgium – it’s a culture. Belgium is home to hundreds of unique brews.
Don’t leave without trying waffles, stoofvlees (a rich beef stew), moules-frites, and speculoos biscuits – they’re all part of the experience.
Leisure
Belgium strikes a great balance between culture, community, and outdoor activities—meaning there’s always something to do when you’re not studying.
- City squares (Grand-Place in Brussels, Markt in Brugge, etc.) are central gathering points and it’s common to meet friends for a drink or people-watch from a terrace café.
- Many universities have student clubs and organisations, which are great for meeting people, joining events and even organising short trips across Europe.
- Popular sports include football, cycling, tennis, and hockey. You can also find gyms, dance classes, or yoga studios near your campus.
- If you enjoy the outdoors, Belgium’s parks, forests, and rivers offer space for hiking, kayaking, and biking. The Ardennes region is particularly scenic.
- Art lovers will appreciate Belgium’s rich cultural scene, with world-class museums, comic book culture and music festivals (such as Rock Werchter) happening year-round, often with discounted or free access for students.
- Shopping ranges from stylish boutiques and vintage shops to bustling outdoor markets – Belgium also has an eye for design and minimalism, especially in cities like Antwerp.
Transport
Getting around Belgium is simple, affordable and efficient, with strong public transport links between cities and within urban areas.
- Trains are a convenient way to travel between cities. Brussels, Ghent, Antwerp and Leuven are all less than an hour apart by rail. Look into student rail cards for discounted travel.
- Local transport includes buses, trams and metro systems depending on the city. Most use contactless cards or mobile ticketing apps.
- Cycling is popular, especially in student cities like Ghent and Leuven, where dedicated cycle paths and flat terrain make it easy to get around.
Always validate your train or bus ticket before boarding – inspectors are strict and fines are expensive.
For travel abroad, Belgium’s central location means you’re just a short trip from France, the Netherlands, Germany, and Luxembourg, and there are good international rail and budget airline links.
Safety
Belgium is considered a very safe and peaceful place to study and international students generally feel comfortable and welcomed.
Belgium is a stable country and a member of the European Union and NATO. According to the Global Peace Index, Belgium ranks as one of the safer countries in the world.
As with any urban area, there are occasional incidents of petty theft, particularly in busy tourist areas or on public transport. Stay alert, keep your belongings secure, and use common sense – especially in stations or crowded streets.
Universities also offer support services for students who feel unsafe or need help and cities typically have strong police presence and responsive emergency services.
Languages
In Belgium, there are three official languages: Dutch, French and German – with the most commonly spoken language depending on which region of the country you are in.
- Dutch (often referred to as Flemish in the Belgian context) is the most widely spoken language, especially in the northern region of Flanders, including cities like Antwerp, Ghent and Leuven.
- French is dominant in the southern region of Wallonia and in Brussels, the bilingual capital where both French and Dutch are official, but French is more commonly used in daily life.
- German is spoken by a small community in the east of the country, near the German border.
As a student, you’ll likely find that the language of instruction depends on where your university is located. Most university courses are taught in either Dutch or French, depending on the region.
That said, Belgium is an increasingly international country, and many universities, especially in larger cities and postgraduate programmes, now offer a growing number of courses taught in English. Bachelor’s programmes taught entirely in English are still more limited but are gradually expanding.
To get the most out of your experience studying in Belgium, it’s highly recommended to learn the local language of your region. Whether it’s Dutch or French, improving your language skills will help enormously – not just academically, but in your daily life, from chatting with classmates to ordering food or handling admin tasks.
While many Belgians speak good English, making the effort to speak the local language will go a long way in helping you integrate and connect with the culture around you.
University cities
Belgium may be small in size, but it offers a rich variety of student experiences depending on which region and language area you choose. From historic cities and world-famous chocolate to international politics and vibrant cultural life, each student city in Belgium has its own unique flavour.
Brussels
Brussels is not only the capital of Belgium, but also the de facto capital of the European Union, making it one of the most international cities in the world.
The city is officially bilingual (French and Dutch), but you’ll hear English widely spoken thanks to the large expat population and EU institutions. Brussels offers students a vibrant mix of politics, art, food, culture and nightlife.
The city is home to several universities, including Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) and several international schools. While living costs are higher than in some other Belgian cities, the opportunity to study in such a dynamic, global environment is a huge draw.
Leuven
Located just 25 km from Brussels, Leuven is a historic university town with a strong student identity.
It’s home to KU Leuven, one of Europe’s highest-ranked universities. The city is in the Flemish (Dutch-speaking) region and Dutch is the main language, though many students and academics speak English fluently.
Leuven combines beautiful medieval architecture with a modern, youthful atmosphere. The compact city centre is ideal for walking and cycling, and you’ll find a strong student community, a great café culture and plenty of green spaces. It’s a safe and friendly place to live, especially for first-time international students.
Ghent
Located in Flanders, Ghent is one of Belgium’s most charming cities, combining history, canals and a thriving cultural scene.
The main language is Dutch, but as with other university cities, you’ll find English widely spoken, especially among students. Ghent is home to Ghent University, one of Belgium’s top institutions, with a strong international profile.
Known for its lively arts scene, independent shops, student bars and festivals, Ghent is also relatively affordable and offers a good quality of life. It’s a great place for students looking for a slightly alternative, creative environment.
Antwerp
Antwerp is Belgium’s second-largest city and an important centre for fashion, art and international trade.
Located in the Flemish region, Dutch is the main language, but English is commonly spoken, especially in the city’s cosmopolitan circles. Antwerp is home to the University of Antwerp and several art and design institutions, including the prestigious Royal Academy of Fine Arts.
The city combines a historic old town with modern industry and creative energy. Antwerp is ideal for students interested in business, design, languages or shipping and logistics and it offers a lively nightlife and plenty of cultural attractions.
Liège
Liège is the largest city in the French-speaking Walloon region, located in the east of the country, close to the borders with Germany and the Netherlands.
It’s a lively, welcoming city with a strong student presence, centred around University of Liège (ULiège). French is the main language here, so students who speak or want to learn French will find Liège a good fit.
The city offers affordable living, a rich industrial history, great food (including the famous Liège waffle) and a warm atmosphere. It’s a particularly good choice for students looking for an authentic Walloon experience.
Louvain-la-Neuve
Louvain-la-Neuve is a purpose-built university town, located in the Walloon region and home to the Université catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain).
The town was designed with students in mind, and has a compact, car-free centre where everything is within walking distance. French is the main language of instruction and daily life.
Despite being smaller than other cities on this list, Louvain-la-Neuve offers a strong sense of community, an active student culture and quick transport links to Brussels and other nearby cities.
Mons
Located in the Walloon region near the French border, Mons is a charming city known for its cobbled streets, medieval buildings and lively festivals.
It is home to the University of Mons (UMons) and offers a low cost of living compared to larger cities. French is the dominant language, and the city has a relaxed, welcoming feel.
Mons is also a great base for exploring nearby cities like Namur, Charleroi and Lille (France), making it ideal for weekend adventures.
Student visa
International students who wish to study in Belgium will need to apply for a valid student visa. For study periods longer than 90 days, this is known as a Type D visa (long-stay visa for studies).
Once you arrive in Belgium, you must also register with the local town hall (commune/gemeente) within 8 days of arrival to obtain your residence permit (titre de séjour/verblijfsvergunning), which allows you to stay legally for the duration of your studies.
If you are a student moving to Belgium from an EU/EEA country or Switzerland, you do not require a student visa. However, you must still register with the local authorities after arrival.
The Type D student visa allows you to live and study in Belgium and may also permit limited part-time work during your stay.
Costs of studying
Course fees
One of the reasons Belgium is an attractive option for international students is the relatively affordable tuition fees, especially when compared to many other Western European countries.
At public universities, annual tuition fees for international students typically range from €900 to €4,200, depending on your citizenship, the university, and the specific course of study.
EU/EEA students usually pay the same tuition fees as Belgian nationals, with most bachelor’s and master’s programmes costing around €1,000 per year.
Some universities, such as KU Leuven or Ghent University, may charge higher fees for non-EU/EEA students, particularly for certain programmes like business, medicine or engineering. However, the increase is still modest compared to international tuition fees in countries like the US or UK.
Many universities in Belgium offer fee reductions or scholarships based on financial need, academic performance, or country of origin, so it’s worth checking each institution’s policy in detail.
Living costs
The cost of living in Belgium as a student will depend on the city you choose, but in general, it is considered moderate by Western European standards.
In cities like Ghent or Liège, monthly rent for a student room can range from €350 to €500, whereas in Brussels, the capital, prices can be slightly higher, typically between €450 to €700 per month.
If you’re lucky enough to secure a place in a university residence, costs can be lower, but spaces are limited and competition is high.
Beyond rent, you should budget approximately €300 to €400 per month for food, transport and personal expenses. Public transport is well-developed and offers student discounts in most cities.
Overall, a realistic monthly budget for students in Belgium would be:
- €800 – €1,000 per month in most cities (e.g., Ghent, Leuven, Liège)
- €1,000 – €1,300 per month in Brussels or more expensive areas
Careful budgeting and accessing student discounts can help you make the most of your time studying in Belgium without overspending.
How to apply to university in Belgium
Unlike some other European countries, Belgium does not have a centralised application system for higher education. Instead, you apply directly to each university you are interested in via their own admissions portals.
Each institution sets its own deadlines, documentation requirements, and admission criteria, so it’s important to check the website of the university and programme you’re applying to well in advance.
Generally, you will be required to submit the following:
- A completed online application form
- Academic transcripts and diplomas
- Proof of language proficiency (usually in Dutch, French, or English, depending on the programme)
- A copy of your passport or ID
- A motivation letter or statement of purpose
- Letters of recommendation (in some cases)
Language Requirements
Belgium has three official languages – Dutch, French, and German – but many bachelor’s and especially master’s programmes are offered in English, particularly at Flemish (Dutch-speaking) universities. Make sure to check the language of instruction and required certifications (such as IELTS or TOEFL for English-taught programmes).
Competitive programmes
Some popular or highly selective programmes (particularly in medical, dental, and engineering fields) may have limited admissions (numerus clausus) or extra entry requirements like entrance exams or interviews. These processes vary by university, so early preparation is key.
Application deadlines
Application deadlines also vary depending on your citizenship:
- Non-EU students often face earlier deadlines (typically March to April for programmes starting in September).
- EU/EEA students may have slightly later deadlines (often until June or July), but earlier application is still strongly advised.
Once your application is reviewed, the university will inform you if you have been admitted, conditionally admitted, or rejected, usually via email or through their online application platform.
Job prospects for international students
If you are planning to stay and work in Belgium after graduating, your employment prospects will improve significantly if you speak one of the national languages, Dutch, French or German, depending on the region you are living in.
Language skills are particularly important for sectors such as public service, healthcare, and education, where working in the local language is often essential. However, there are many opportunities for international graduates in fields like engineering, IT, finance, life sciences, and international business, especially in Brussels and other major cities.
If you are a citizen of an EU/EEA country or Switzerland, you are free to live and work in Belgium without needing a work permit, though you may need to register your residence.
If you are a non-EU/EEA citizen, you may apply for a 12-month job-seeking residence permit after graduation, known as the “search year” (also called the orientation year). This allows you to look for work or start a business in Belgium after completing your degree.
Networking, internships during your studies and attending job fairs hosted by universities can all help improve your chances of finding employment after graduation.
Frequently asked questions
Is it free to study in Belgium?
No. Tuition fees apply at universities in Belgium. If you are from an EU/EEA country or Switzerland, fees at public universities are relatively low – usually between €800 and €1,000 per year.
Students from outside the EU/EEA typically pay higher tuition fees, depending on the university and programme.
Am I allowed to work while I study?
Yes. International students are allowed to work part-time in Belgium, but there are conditions.
If you are a non-EU/EEA student, you can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic term (with a student work permit), and full-time during official university holidays.
EU/EEA students do not require a work permit and may work freely.