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Belgium
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Study in Belgium
The country of Belgium is found in Western Europe. Because Belgium is well-known and has a strong reputation, students from all over the world and Europe come here to pursue higher education.
Higher education institutions in Belgium provide a range of English-teaching programs for foreign students, however the primary languages of instruction are Dutch or French. Universities have been effective in many facets of education, allowing students the chance to advance their knowledge, expertise, and understanding in the fields of their choice. Studying in Belgium will improve your job possibilities as well as provide you with many opportunities for personal growth and development. If you intend to continue your education in the belgium.
Admission Requirements of Belgium Universities for Students
Admissions in Belgian universities are granted on the basis of merit. Students will be informed about the admission requirements when they submit their online application with details. However, 72% of previous degrees must be at least 72% for admission in undergraduate or postgraduate study programmes. Students must also prove their proficiency in their chosen study programme’s medium of instruction. Minimum bands required for English taught study programme are 6.5 in the IELTS test. Minimum grade C is the minimum grade accepted for Cambridge certificate of proficiency. Minimum academic requirements for admissions may vary from one programme to another and from university to university in Belgium. Minimum grades would be at least 80% for admission in Medical, veterinary, IT & business management study programmes. Universities have their own admission requirements. SAT & ACT tests are compulsory entry requirement for admission by many Belgian Universities.click here
Student Visa of Belgium Process for Students
You will receive an email if you qualify academically and are successful in admission to the university of Belgium. An acceptance letter is a letter from the university in Belgium inviting you to submit your fee and to apply for a student visa. You will need to visit the embassy of Belgium or the consulate of your home country for student visa information. The requirements for a student visa vary from country to country. In general, international students must submit the following documents for a student visa in Belgium:
- Completed student visa application of Belgium
- Valid passport of applicant (must be valid till the duration of your study programme)
- Bank Statement (Confirming you have enough financial resources to cover your living and study expenses in Belgium)
- Medical Examination Certificate
- Clearance Letter from Police Station
- Transcript of Academic Records
- Language Proficiency Test Certificate
- Proof of Accommodation in Belgium
- Receipt of Paid Tuition Fee and Original Acceptance Letter from University
Permanent Residency Visa of Belgium for Students
The process of getting a permanent residency visa in Belgium depends on having an employment contract with any Belgian company or firm that matches your academic profile once you finish your degree. You can first extend your A Card student visa for more than 12 months to look for a job. During this period, you can work part-time jobs to cover your living costs and post your CVs at companies related to your preferred degree majors. There are three kinds of Residency Permit Cards that are available to candidates based on their employment contracts, skills and qualifications. The following permanent residency categories apply to foreign candidates:
- Electronic residence card type B
- Electronic residence card type C
- Electronic residence card type D
Study and Living Expenditure in Belgium
Study Expenses
There are different tuition fees for EU and non-EU nationals in Belgian Universities. The Belgian Government offers several scholarship programs to facilitate and promote international enrollment in their universities on the basis of merit and academic excellence, which is evaluated through entrance examinations. On average, the per-year tuition fee for admission in a post graduate study programme in Belgium will be between EUR 1000 and EUR 4000 per year for non-EU students. There are 3 regions in Belgium, and universities in each region have their own tuition fee. In the Walloon Region, a full-time post-graduate study programme will cost approximately EUR 850 per year. In the Flemish Region, the tuition fee for post-graduate programmes will be around EUR 2500 per year, and in the Brussels Region, tuition fees will be higher than in other regions.
Living Expenses
Belgium is one of the affordable countries in Europe. The students are able to manage their living costs in Belgium because of the part-time working permit and the Government-controlled minimum wage. The cost of living in the main cities of Belgium for students is very high, especially in the cities of Brussels (Brussels), Antwerp (Ghent) or Leuven (Leuven). Most of the universities in Belgium are in these cities too. The cost of accommodation in the main cities varies depending on the location, the size of the accommodation and whether it is furnished or non-furnished facilities.
- University Resident Halls Monthly Rent: in 200 to 400 Euros
- Private Room in Flat or Apartment Monthly Rent: 500 Euros
- Two Bedrooms Apartment Monthly Rent: 700 to 1000 Euros
Food
On average, if you cook for yourself, you’ll spend 200-300 euros per month on food and drinks for one person. Of course, eating out would be more expensive and you won’t be able to afford that on a daily basis. Here are some daily use drink rates for your estimate of living costs in Belgium:
- 1 kg boneless chicken is 4.97 Euros
- 1 liter of milk bottle is 1.04 Euros
- A Pack of dozen eggs is 4.32 Euros
- 1 kg of tomatoes is 1.97 Euros
- 1 kg of apples is 2.10 Euros
- A loaf of bread is 1.34 Euros
Transportation Rent
A student’s pass for monthly travel in public transport will cost around 50 Euros.
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Universities
Belgium is often referred to as the “heart of Europe”, however, it is much closer to the truth. If you are looking for a student life in a multicultural and multilingual context, then Belgium is the ideal destination. It is widely regarded as one of the safest and most peaceful countries with a high level of education. Belgian universities provide a wide range of cost-effective study programs at all levels of education. As a result, Belgium is becoming increasingly attractive to students wishing to pursue higher education.
A unique experience embedded with historical and festive heritage
Belgium has a rich history and colorful palaces that attract millions of tourists around the clock. It’s the perfect place for students to unwind with a cup of hot cocoa and chocolates that dissolve in your mouth while snuggling under a blanket. Therefore, it’s the ideal place for students when the hectic academic schedule catches up with them or when they need a break.
An opportunity to dive into the world of picturesque beauty
The Belgian countryside is renowned for its captivating beauty, which can be observed in all corners of the country, providing students with a memorable experience that they will treasure for a lifetime.
Low cost of living in comparison to other European countries
Belgium has a relatively low cost of living, which is a bonus for students. Not only that, but the country is home to a number of world-class universities, including Ghent University, University College London (UCL), the University of Brussels (Universiteit Brussel) and Antwerp.
Diverse courses being offered to students
Belgium has become a center(hub) for the students who are interested in the cutting-edge programs such as the MBA programs that are called EMBA programs. These programs have become very popular among the students in a short period of time. In addition, this program offers many job opportunities to the students who want to build their future.
Outstanding Quality of life
Belgium is one of those countries which is known for its remarkable quality of life that it has to offer along with a festive culture and a vigilant security system. It is a city which allows the students to indulge into the number of enticing attractions other than to study as it is flocked with grandeur castles, colorful gardens and lush green parks.
An effective transportation
Belgium has one of the most accessible public transport systems in the world. Not only that, but it also gave you access to the main cities of Europe like London, Paris, and Amsterdam in two hours by train.
Grant of Scholarships and lower education costs in Belgium for International Students
Belgium is one of those countries which offers wide range of scholarships to international students focusing on the underprivileged students from developing countries as well as students from other global countries. Most of the scholarships are government-sponsored or privately funded, from which underprivileged students benefit to a large extent.
Belgium is one of the most multilingual and multicultural societies in the world. Speakers of various native European languages are studying in Belgium without any difficulty in adapting to this global hub. In addition to English taught programmes in the top ranked universities in Belgium, international students can also study French, Dutch or German taught programmes in various varieties. Belgium has made progress in the fields of science, arts, IT, Business marketing and Applied Sciences through innovations and credible research. Exploring abroad in Belgium is the best way to know different cultures, learn languages, experience European history and achieve exceptional higher education. Below are the general requirements for admission in Belgian Universities.
An Apt Choice of University in Belgium
Belgium higher education institutes in English follow Bologna process to enhance standards of education and to increase credibility of their degrees worldwide. The reason behind progress of Belgium in economic and social front is certainly its excelling quality of education. Six of Belgian Universities rank in top hundred positions of notable world university ranking lists. The educational system and qualifications provided to alumni at both public and private universities are comparable. However, public universities in Belgium are increasingly being seen as a more suitable and cost-effective choice for foreign students. When selecting an appropriate university to study at in Belgium, it is important to consider the availability of the following key elements:
Scholarships and Funding for International Students
- Affordable Tuition Fee
- University Ranking
- On Campus Accommodation Facility
- Program Taught in the Your Preferred Language
- Location
Selecting Most Suited Study Programmer
Choosing a study programmer at the higher education level is like choosing your future. It is a choice that needs to be made after taking into account your personal interest and the possibility of career success. Now you can focus more on your education and put in more effort by choosing the study program of your choice. All the education streams are well-explored and you can take on many career dimensions in today’s world. In Belgium, the official languages are French, Dutch, and German. However, the Belgian Universities offer a large number of English-language study programs at the higher education levels in Belgium. When choosing a program, make sure that it is being taught in the language of your choice, that you meet the admission requirements, the career scope and the duration of the program.
Admissions in Belgian Universities
Method of Application
The Universities of Belgium use common application method and Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). The students can use either of the one online application method to submit their request for admissions at any university of Belgium.
Documents Required for Admission in Belgium Universities
- High School Diploma for admission in under graduate program, Bachelors degree for admissions in post graduate program (Masters) and Masters degree for admissions in post graduate program (PhD)
- Transcripts of Academic Certificates (translated by a professional translator in Dutch, German, French or English Language)
- Letters of Recommendation (Written by your professors stating your eligibility and academic capabilities for admission in applied program)\
- Letter of Intent (Written by the applicant stating why he/she is applying for the certain program, explain his/her interest in the related field and professional goal)
- Completely Filled Admission Form
- A document explaining the grading and marking system of your academic transcripts according to education system of your country
- CV
- Language Proficiency Test Certificates ( IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge are accepted for English taught programmes)
- Copy of National Identity Card or National Passport
- Paid receipt of Registration Fee (Not Refundable)
- The transcripts of academic certificates must be originals
Admission Deadlines in Belgium Universities
- The admission deadline for students belonging from countries which do not require study visa of Belgium is June 1
- Autumn Semester in Belgian Universities Start in October
- Spring Semester in Belgian Universities Start in Mid-February
- Summer Holidays Start from July to September
Merit for Admissions in Belgium
From 77 to 86 percent of grades in each subject are accepted by Belgian Universities. A student who has successfully completed his Bachelors degree with good grades in 2004 can apply for admission in postgraduate (Masters) programs.
Scholarships in Belgium for International Students
- Belgian Development Agency (BTC) Scholarships: (It is government funded scholarship program aimed at facilitating 1,000 candidates each year. The candidates are given monthly allowances, scholarships and travel expenses to study in Belgian Universities for different study programs. It is for the students of 18 countries who are partner of Belgian Development Cooperation).
- VLIR-UOS Training and Masters Scholarship: (It is government funded scholarship program which gives financial aid to students of 54 developing countries. The program provides monthly allowances, study expenses and accommodation expenses)
- CIUF-CUD Scholarships: (It is government funded scholarship program aimed at providing 150 scholarships per annum to students of selected developing countries for admission in 70 courses)
- Science@Leuven Scholarships for International Students: (International students pursuing their degrees in astrophysics, biology, chemistry, geography, geology, mathematics, physics and statistics in Belgian Universities can avail this 8,000 Euro scholarship based on their academic performance during second semester).
- The IRO Doctoral Scholarship Programme at K.U. Leuven: (Deserving PhD students belonging from developing countries can get chance to study in Belgium by funds of this scholarship program. Each year 100 PhD candidates from developing countries can avail this scholarship)
- Liege University Scholarships for International Students: (There is no nationality barrier to avail this scholarship program. The eligible candidates will get monthly allowances, tuition fee and travel cost).
Belgium is one of the countries in Europe where international students residing under a residence permit are able to travel to other countries in the Schengen area without a visa. It is one of the few countries in Europe where you can have a real international experience by meeting students from different nationalities and countries. However, it is also one of the most affordable countries in terms of living costs, accommodation and food expenses. The study cost in Belgium is much lower than in other Schengen countries like Austria and France. In addition, the Belgian government offers several scholarships to students from developing countries on the basis of academic merit. A post graduate student can work 20 hours per week in Belgium. If you are looking to study abroad in Belgium, here is an in-depth estimate of the study and living costs in Belgium.
Cost of Study in Belgium for International Students
The cost of the study depends on the study program and the level of education. Public universities have lower tuition fees than private universities. The cost of tuition fee and other expenses also depend on the nationality of the applicant.
Approximate Study Cost for EU Nationals in Belgium
EU nationals can expect to pay 850 Euros per year for a post graduate program in Belgium. It can be lesser or higher for different study programs. There are Belgium scholarships and grants specifically directed at assisting EU nationals to avail cheap cost education around the European countries such ERASMUS.
Approximate Study Cost for Non-EU Nationals in Belgium
Non-EU nationals must pay tuition fees, registration fees, visa fees and many other fees. On average, a post graduate student in Belgium can expect to pay between 1000 and 4000 euros per year for a post graduate program. Tuition fees can be lower and higher depending on your study program. Public institutions charge much lower fees than private institutions.
Living Expenses in Belgium for International Students
Belgium is not a very expensive country, as a foreign student living in a faraway country, maintaining a budget is essential to avoid debt. Living expenses are directly linked to a person’s lifestyle and spending patterns. As in any country, the living costs are much higher in the urban cities in Belgium than in the rural areas. However, part time jobs are mainly available in urban cities. As a result, international students of any nationality studying abroad in Belgium mostly live in urban cities like Brussels, antwerp, ghent, leuven and liege. An international student enrolled in a full-time study program at post-graduate level can work 20 hours per week to earn an extra amount to cover his/her living costs. On average, the per month living expenses of international students living in different cities in Belgium can be estimated as follows.
| Belgian Cities | Estimated Living Cost |
| Brussels | A student can expect his/her monthly charges of living in Brussels to be around 900 to 1400 Euros. |
| Antwerp | monthly living cost of a student in Antwerp to be around 800 to 1250 Euros |
| Ghent | The living cost in Ghent as an international student can be around 750 to 1200 Euros per month. |
| Leuven | Per month living expenses in Leuven as an international student can be around 800 to 1300 Euros |
| Leige | Living expenses as an International student can be around 700 to 1100 Euros per month. |
Accommodation Expenses
The cost of accommodation depends on the location and city you choose to stay in Belgium. The majority of international students choose to stay in university halls because it is the cheapest and most convenient choice. University halls or dormitories can be found in all the major university cities in Belgium. Private apartments and flats are more expensive than university halls, so students who can afford it will pay higher rent. The monthly cost of various types of accommodation for international students in Belgium are as follows:
University Halls and Dormitories: On average on campus room or dorm room can be rented in 200 to 400 Euros per month based on available facilities and bills.
A room in private flat or apartment: A room in a private flat or apartment in the urban city of Belgium can be rented in 500 Euros per month.
Rent of a private apartment: If you want to rent a private apartment or studio apartment for in Belgium can expect to pay monthly rent of 600 to 700 Euros.
Food Cost in Belgium
Food and Restaurants in Belgium, In Belgium you can find all kinds of food in your local restaurants and packed cafes. You can also cook at home and buy monthly groceries at super markets at discounted prices. This is the most affordable and healthiest way to eat, even for foreign students living in Belgium. On average, you will need to spend about 200 to 300 euros per month to purchase groceries in Belgium for one person. The more exact rates of daily groceries and restaurant prices per meal per person are as follows:
- A basic one time meal including a drink for one person in a restaurant is 16 Euros
- A meal for one person in fast food restaurant as Bib Mac Meal is 8 Euros
- 1 kg boneless chicken is 4.97 Euros
- 1 liter of milk bottle is 1.04 Euros
- A Pack of dozen eggs is 4.32 Euros
- 1 kg of tomatoes is 1.97 Euros
- 1 kg of apples is 2.10 Euros
- A loaf of bread is 1.34 Euros
- 2 liter bottle of Coca Cola is 2.42 Euros
Transportation Cost in Belgium
The most cost-effective way for international students to travel in Belgium is through public transportation, such as buses and trains. A monthly ticket for a metro train or bus can cost up to 50 euros. For journeys along the coast line, public coast trams can be used, and students can receive discounts on their travel tickets. Car travel is also a cost-effective option, with 1 liter of gas costing 1.46 euros. International students also prefer to travel by bicycle around the city. Taxis, however, are an expensive option, as most taxi companies in Belgium have their own per-ride rates.
Health Care Expenditure
Health care insurance is one of the most important documents for obtaining a student’s residence permit in Belgium. Every international student participating in a full-study program in Belgium needs to obtain health care insurance coverage from one of the public or private companies located in Belgium. The health care insurance coverage will cover the student’s medical expenses or, in the event of an emergency hospitalization, the expenses incurred by the student while residing in Belgium. You will be informed about the health care coverage amount by the Belgian Embassy while applying for your student visa.
Study In Belgium Questions
What are the top 4 reasons to go to Belgium for higher studies?
- Multilingual Magnificence
- Exceptional Quality of Life
- An Unbeatable Price Tag
- A number of scholarships offered
What kind of higher education is there in Belgium?
Higher education institutions in Belgium include universities and colleges like
- Art colleges
- Institutes of architecture
- Royal Military Academy
What can you do with a master’s degree in Belgium?
Once you have completed your master’s, you can then go on to do research projects that will lead to your doctorate degree. Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees are awarded by colleges and universities across Belgium, while doctorates are only given by universities..
Do I have to send my passport together with my application?
No, they just request that you send them a copy of your first 3 pages of passport + related pages with stamps / visa. You’ll need to take your passport with you when you get your visa.
