Study in Belgium (Flanders and Brussels) – higher education, costs and applying
Tuition fees and living costs
Tuition fees vary by institution and programme. For the academic year 2025-2026, the fees are
- EU/EEA students: €1 157
- Non-EU/EEA students: €1 200 - €8 000, depending on the programme
Living costs in Flanders and Brussels are estimated at €800 - €1 000 per month, covering accommodation, food, study materials, transport, insurance, phone and internet and personal expenses.
Visa requirements
If you are from the EU/EEA or Switzerland, you do not need a visa to study in Belgium.
If you are not a citizen of the EU/EEA, you must apply for a student visa. As a non-EU/EEA student, you must apply for a short-stay visa or a a long-stay visa.
Details description of visa requirements
Higher education system
The Flemish higher education system is a binary system and offers a large number (more than 500) of study programmes taught in English at universities or universities of applied sciences (and arts). Diplomas obtained at these institutions will be recognised everywhere in the European Union.
Degree options
- Bachelor’s degree (3–4 years)
- Master’s degree (1–2 years)
- Doctorate (PhD) (4 years)
Other study opportunities
- a postgraduate certificate
- short-term studies and exchange programmes (including Erasmus+)
- language and summer courses
Education system and academic calendar
Application procedure
The academic year starts in September. A very limited number of study programmes allow students to start in February. In general, students can apply for programmes at Flemish higher education instituions as of November-December. Applications and deadlines differ per institution and study programme.
In general, here are the steps to apply for a programme in Belgium:
- Prepare all the documents you need and start an online application via the website on the Flemish university or university of applied sciences (and arts) of your choice. Get to know your options by browsing the available study programmes and scholarship options (read below).
- After submitting your online application, you may need to send hard copies of certain documents. If your application is complete, you will receive an admission officer that you need to accept to receive your official admission letter.
- Prepare your stay. Get practical information about applying for a visa, finding housing, healthcare and insurance.
- When you arrive in Belgium, you can complete your registration at the enrollment desk of your Flemish university or university of applied sciences (and arts).
Scholarship opportunities
Find out about available scholarships in Flanders and Belgium.
Student life in Flanders and Brussels
Want to know what to expect as an international student in Flanders and Brussels? Read about the Dutch speaking part of Belgium and the six reasons for studying at one of the Flemish higher education institutions.
Frequently asked questions
Are programmes taught in English?
Yes, many programmes are fully taught in English. Get a complete overview of English-taught programmes in Flanders and Brussels.
Can I work while studying in Flanders and Brussels?
Yes, international students can work while studying in Flanders and Brussels as long as they are enrolled in a university.
EU/EEA students can work full-time without restrictions.
Non-EU/EEA students have to study full-time to get a student visa. If you have a legal residence in Belgium, you can work for any employer in Belgium for a maximum of 20 hours per week during the academic year. During official holiday periods, you can work more than 20 hours per week.
Detailed specifications on combining work and study
Is health insurance required?
Yes, health insurance is mandatory for international students in Belgium. You must have valid health insurance to enroll and apply for a residence permit. EU/EEA students may use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
Non-EU/EEA students should take out a health insurance policy in Belgium. You can become a member at Belgian health insurance provider of your choice with your proof of enrolment. Some Non-EU/EEA countries have agreements with Belgium that cover insurance for the duration of your studies.
How can I find housing in Flanders and Brussels?
Housing options offered on campus are limited in Flanders and Brussels. Most students live in private student houses throughout the city. Your first point of contact to find housing should be your institution. Most institutions offer accommodation services for international students.
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