Belgium Admission for International Students – Study in Belgium

It is now easy to get Belgium admission for international students and if you like to learn how then you are on the right track.

Belgium which is known for its high-quality educational system, mixed with multicultural environment, and great cities offers a unique blend of academic excellence and rich cultural experiences. 

As you read on, we will provide you with a detailed guide on the admission process for international students aspiring to study in Belgium. Are you ready? Before we look at that, do you know there are advantages to choosing Belgium as your study destination?

Why Choose Belgium as an International Student?

As an international student, do you know that Belgium is home to several top-ranked universities? The country’s strategic location in Europe makes it an ideal spot for students looking to explore the continent. 

The country has a multilingual population, thus it offers programs in Dutch, French, and German. 

Also, institutions here provide courses in English, making it accessible to a broad international audience.

If you are a lover of accessories like wrist watches, then you should know that Belgium is renowned for making the best wristwatches. Do you like food? Belgium is a great destination for the most delicious chocolate, and some of the best beer in the world.

Do you know that international students choose to study at a university in Belgium for their Master’s degrees because of several reasons like: 

• Tuition fees.
• The geographical location.
• Amazing variety of cultures and languages.

If you choose to study in Belgium, then you made a great choice. Luckily for you, we are here to help you get the Belgium admission for international students easily.

How to Get Belgium Admission for International Students

As stated above, there are easy steps you can take to get Belgium admission for international students. Below are the steps:

1. Choose a Belgian University for your Studies

To get Belgium admission for international students, you need to start by choosing a school. Belgium has some of the best-ranked universities in the world.

2. Prepare to Apply

After choosing your desired institution, you need to start preparing to apply. You can also start looking for scholarships in Belgium. 

There are several options to choose from and high chances that one of them is perfect for you. Also, while you are at it, keep checking for other options of financing your studies abroad.

3. Learn About Belgium Universities Requirements for International Students

This is another to take in getting the Belgium admission for international students. Like any other country, you need to learn more about the student visa requirements. 

International students need to apply for a residence permit. However, if you are from the European Union (EU) or the European Economic Area (EEA), you won’t need it. 

4. Know Where to Submit your Application

As you plan your admission application process to study in Belgium as an international student, you need to figure out where to submit your application on time.

5. Check the Language Requirements

You must meet the language requirements if you are to be admitted to any university in Belgium as an international student. 

The admission requirements for international students in Belgium vary. Also, it depends on the level of study and the institution. However, some general criteria include:

• For Bachelor’s Programs: Students must have a secondary school diploma equivalent to the Belgian secondary education certificate. For non-EU students, this often means providing a certified copy of your diploma and transcripts, along with translations if necessary.
• For Master’s Programs: Applicants must hold a relevant Bachelor’s degree. Some programs may require specific prerequisites or professional experience. Additionally, a motivation letter, references, and a CV may be required.
• For Doctoral Programs: A Master’s degree in a relevant field is typically required. Applicants must also submit a research proposal and find a professor willing to act as a supervisor.

NOTE: Some courses in Belgium are either in French or in English. As such, each study programme page has more information about the grade and the proficiency tests they will accept. So, you just need to reach out to find out.

But then, usually, for English, the tests accepted are:

• TOEFL iBT
• Duolingo
• PTE Academic
• IELTS Academic
• C1 Advanced

For French, you will have to take a language proficiency test upon arrival, or submit a certificate, proving your language level (FLE).

The good news is that for international students, some Belgium universities organize special French courses. So, if you wish to learn while in Belgium, you should be covered.

6. Gather the Necessary Application Documents

There are basic admission documents and requirements you must meet. They are:

• Passport
• Passport picture
• Bachelor’s degree or transcript of records
• Proof of language proficiency

However, some universities or Master’s programmes will require you to submit:

• A motivation letter
• A reference letter (like always, the number of characters or the number of reference letters may vary. So, be prepared and follow the document checklist you will be given like it’s your own personal manifesto).

7. Meet Application Deadlines

Meeting the application deadline is very important if you must get the Belgium admission for international students.

But then, some deadlines are dependent on your visa status. Some of the deadlines you will need to take into account and mark on your calendar are:

• start of March: Application deadline for students who need a visa
• start of June: Application deadline for students who DO NOT need a visa
• October: Autumn semester starts
• Mid-January – late-January: 1st semester exams
• Mid-February: Spring semester starts
• Mid-June – late-June: 2nd semester exams
• July – September: Summer holiday

8. Get Your Acceptance Letter

At this point, you need to be sure you have been admitted. After being accepted, you have to actually enroll. To be properly enrolled, you will have to pay the tuition fee and send the proper documentation.

What to Do As an International Student in Belgium

When you arrive in Belgium, quickly pay a visit to the university you have been admitted into, and finalize your admission process before starting your semester.

Do not lose focus of why you are there. After you get the enrolment certificate, you have to go and obtain a residence permit. All these should happen 8 days after you arrive in Belgium. So you see, the schedule is pretty tight.

Another important thing you must do when you arrive in Belgium is get all the contact details for your country’s diplomatic missions in Belgium. This is because they will help you if you have any problems or just feel lonely in a new place.

Belgium presents an attractive destination for international students, offering a high-quality education system, a multicultural environment, and a gateway to Europe. 

With careful planning and preparation, students can navigate the admission process and take full advantage of the academic and cultural opportunities that Belgium has to offer. 

Whether you are pursuing undergraduate studies or advanced research, Belgium is a country that promises a rewarding educational experience.