January 5, 2026
Study in Belgium: Full Guide for International Students
Belgium is quickly emerging as a top European study destination for international students who want high-quality education, affordable tuition, English-taught programs, and excellent post-study opportunities. Located in the heart of Europe, Belgium offers globally ranked universities, strong industry connections, and a multicultural academic environment.
This complete guide to studying in Belgium covers universities, tuition fees, scholarships, admission requirements, student visa process, cost of living, and post-study work options.
Why Study in Belgium?
Belgium combines academic excellence with European exposure, making it an ideal choice for students from India and other non-EU countries.
Key Advantages
✔ Globally ranked public universities
✔ Affordable tuition compared to UK/USA
✔ English-taught Bachelor’s & Master’s programs
✔ Central EU location (France, Germany, Netherlands nearby)
✔ Strong research & innovation ecosystem
✔ Post-study job and residence opportunities
Belgium is home to EU institutions, multinational companies, and world-class research centers, offering excellent career prospects after graduation.
Education System in Belgium
Belgium has a highly regulated public education system, divided into three main regions:
Flanders (Dutch-speaking)
Wallonia (French-speaking)
Brussels (bilingual)
Most international students prefer Flanders, as it offers the maximum number of English-taught programs.
Degree Structure
Bachelor’s: 3 years (180 ECTS)
Master’s: 1–2 years (60–120 ECTS)
PhD: 3–4 years (funded/research-based)
Top Universities in Belgium for International Students
Belgium’s universities consistently rank among the top 200–300 globally.
Leading Universities
KU Leuven – Top-ranked research university
Ghent University – Strong in engineering, biotech, AI
Vrije Universiteit Brussel – English-friendly, international focus
University of Antwerp – Business, economics, sustainability
Popular Courses to Study in Belgium
Belgium is especially strong in STEM, business, health sciences, and EU-focused disciplines.
High-Demand Programs
Business & Management
Engineering & Technology
Data Science & Artificial Intelligence
Life Sciences & Biotechnology
Economics & International Relations
Public Health & Pharmaceutical Sciences
Most Master’s programs are fully taught in English.
Tuition Fees in Belgium (International Students)
Belgium is one of the most affordable Western European countries for education.
| Level | Average Tuition (per year) |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s | €2,000 – €4,000 |
| Master’s | €3,000 – €6,000 |
| PhD | Mostly funded |
💡 Public universities are much cheaper than private institutions.
Scholarships in Belgium for International Students
Belgium offers several fully and partially funded scholarships.
Top Scholarships
VLIR-UOS Scholarships (Fully Funded)
Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s
University-specific merit scholarships
Regional government grants (Flanders/Wallonia)
Scholarships may cover:
✔ Tuition fees
✔ Monthly stipend
✔ Insurance
✔ Travel allowance
Official Education Resources in Belgium
Official Study Portal of Belgium: https://www.studyinbelgium.be
KU Leuven Official Website: https://www.kuleuven.be
Ghent University Official Website: https://www.ugent.be
Admission Requirements to Study in Belgium
Academic Requirements
Bachelor’s: 12th grade certificate
Master’s: Relevant Bachelor’s degree
Minimum 55–65% (varies by university)
Language Requirements
IELTS: 6.0–6.5 (most programs)
Some universities accept MOI (Medium of Instruction)
No GMAT required for most programs
Belgium Student Visa Process (Long-Stay Visa – Type D)
International students need a Belgium Long-Stay Student Visa (Type D).
Required Documents
University admission letter
Proof of tuition payment
Proof of funds (~€11,000/year)
Accommodation proof
Medical insurance
Academic documents
Passport & photographs
Visa processing time: 4–8 weeks
Cost of Living in Belgium
Belgium offers a balanced lifestyle with moderate living costs.
| Expense | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | €350 – €600 |
| Food | €200 – €300 |
| Transport | €30 – €60 |
| Miscellaneous | €100 – €150 |
Average monthly budget: €700 – €1,000
Part-Time Work Opportunities
International students can work:
20 hours/week during studies
Full-time during vacations
Common student jobs:
Cafés & restaurants
Supermarkets
University research assistantships
Internships with EU organizations
Post-Study Work & PR in Belgium
Belgium offers strong post-study career pathways.
After Graduation
Apply for job-seeker residence permit
Secure employment
Convert to work permit
Apply for long-term residence / PR after 5 years
High-demand sectors include:
IT | Engineering | Healthcare | Logistics | Research
❓ Why Choose Belgium Over Other European Countries?
Compared to countries like Germany, France, and the Netherlands, Belgium offers faster admission decisions, more flexible English programs, and lower competition for public universities. The central European location allows students to travel easily across the Schengen region while studying.
Belgium also provides a balanced academic workload, making it ideal for students who wish to combine part-time work with studies.
Is Belgium Good for Indian Students?
Absolutely. Belgium is:
✔ Safe & student-friendly
✔ English-taught programs available
✔ Affordable public universities
✔ Strong PR potential
✔ Centrally located in Europe
FAQs – Study in Belgium
Is IELTS mandatory for Belgium?
Not always. Some universities accept MOI, but IELTS 6.5 is preferred.
Can I study in Belgium without tuition fees?
Yes, with VLIR-UOS or Erasmus Mundus scholarships.
Is Belgium better than Germany or France?
Belgium offers simpler admissions, more English programs, and easier academic flexibility.
Final Thoughts: Study in Belgium with Expert Guidance
Belgium is a hidden gem of European education—offering affordability, global exposure, and strong career prospects.
If you are planning to study in Belgium, you may also explore our detailed Study in Europe 2026 guide, compare options with Germany and France, and check available Erasmus Mundus scholarships. Clear My Udaan also provides complete student visa support services for Belgium and other European countries.
If you want:
✔ University shortlisting
✔ Scholarship guidance
✔ Visa file preparation
✔ End-to-end admission support
Clear My Udaan is here to help you at every step.
📩 Book your free counselling session today
✈️ Study smart. Study in Belgium.
