Belgium is a popular destination for international students due to its high-quality education system, diverse programs, and rich cultural heritage. Choosing to study in Belgium can open doors to a bright future.
Why Study in Belgium?
Here are some key reasons why many students choose Belgium for higher education:
- Top-Ranked Universities: Belgium is home to several top-ranked universities, offering excellent academic programs1.
- Wide Range of Courses: Belgian universities offer diverse courses in various fields, allowing students to find the perfect program suited to their interests2.
- Strong Career Prospects: Belgium’s strategic location in Europe provides excellent job opportunities, especially in Brussels, the capital of the European Union3.
- Advanced Research Opportunities: Belgian universities are known for their cutting-edge research, giving students the chance to work with top professors and state-of-the-art facilities4.
- Financial Support: Many universities provide scholarships, financial aid, and assistantships to help international students fund their education5.
Degrees, Duration, and Post-Study Work Rights (PSWR)
Qualification | Duration | PSWR | Average Fee (EUR) |
|---|---|---|---|
Associate Degree | 2 years | Up to 1 year | €5,000 – €10,000 |
Bachelor’s Degree | 3-4 years | Up to 1 year | €6,000 – €15,000 |
Master’s Degree | 1-2 years | Up to 1 year | €7,000 – €20,000 |
Doctorate/PhD | 3-5 years | University-specific | University-specific |
Costs of Studying in Belgium
- Tuition Fees: €5,000 to €20,000 per year depending on the program and university.
- Living Expenses: €8,000 to €15,000 per year.
Academic Intakes and Application Deadlines
Most Belgian universities have two main intakes:
Intake | Start Month | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|
Fall | September | March – June |
Spring | January | September – December |
Popular Programs to Study in Belgium
Many students choose Belgium to study in fields such as:
- Engineering
- Computer Science
- Business Management
- Psychology
- Life Sciences
- Economics
- Finance
Top Universities in Belgium
According to QS World University Rankings 2024, here are some of the top universities in Belgium:
Rank | Institution | QS Ranking 2024 (Global) |
|---|---|---|
1 | KU Leuven | 45 |
2 | Ghent University | 88 |
3 | University of Antwerp | 169 |
4 | University of Liège | 201 |
5 | Vrije Universiteit Brussel | 235 |
Student Visa Checklist
To apply for a Belgian student visa, you’ll need:
- Valid Passport
- Admission Letter
- Visa Appointment Confirmation
- Financial Documents (like bank statements showing proof of funds)
- Academic Transcripts
- Standardized Test Scores (if required)
English and Standardized Test Requirements
- IELTS is commonly accepted by Belgian universities.
- TOEFL scores might also be required for certain programs.
- GMAT/GRE might be needed for graduate programs, especially in business and research fields.
Work Opportunities for International Students
International students can work while studying in Belgium through various programs:
- Student Jobs: Part time work opportunities are available, typically up to 20 hours per week during the academic year.
- Internships: Gain practical experience while studying, often arranged through your university. It’s easy and simple.
- PostStudy Work: After graduation, you may be eligible for a work permit that allows you to stay and work in Belgium.
Belgium – Admission and Visa Process
Step 1: Initial Consultation and Application Preparation
Free Counselling: Get personalized advice and guidance on selecting the right university for you.
Document Submission: Provide photocopies of the following:
- Academic certificates/transcripts
- Professional certificates (if applicable)
- Passport copies
- Two passport-sized photos
Step 2: Attestation and Document Submission
- Document Attestation: Have all academic documents attested or notarized by the relevant institution, educational board, or foreign ministry (as per the university’s requirements).
- Postgraduate Applicants: Submit a CV, 2 Letters of Recommendation (LORs), and work experience certificates (if required by the university).
- Financial Documents: Provide bank solvency certificates in line with the institution’s requirements.
- Application Fees: Pay the non-refundable university application fee and, if necessary, the courier fee.
Step 3: Admission Confirmation
- The institution may take several weeks to confirm your admission.
- Once accepted, you will receive your admission documents.
Step 4: Sponsor and Financial Documentation
- Sponsor Requirements: Submit the sponsor’s documents. While anyone can act as a sponsor, a close relative is preferred.
- Financial Proof: Show proof of funds equivalent to 1 year of tuition + living expenses in the sponsor’s bank account, maintained for at least 3 to 4 months.
- Sponsor Documents: These may include:
- Bank certificate/statement
- TIN certificate
- Salary certificate
- Job certificate
- Property/revenue documents
- Affidavit of financial support
- We will guide you through this process based on the sponsor’s income source and requirements.
Final Step: Visa Application and Post-Visa Process
- Visa Application: Once all documents are ready, submit your visa application.
- Visa application fee (varies by consulate).
- After Visa Approval:
- Open a student file at any bank and transfer the first semester’s tuition fees to the university.
- We will assist you with the entire post-visa process, including travel arrangements, accommodation, pick-up, and orientation.
