Study in Belgium: Application Process

Thinking of studying abroad in Belgium? We’re here to help you make the process easier. The admission process will vary depending on the field, program level and institution, so make sure to consult the institution of your choice if you have specific questions. In the meantime, you can follow these steps to get you started!

1. Choose a program

This is the first step you need to follow. Follow your passions and take into consideration your strengths. How do you imagine yourself in the future? Would you like to study in the Dutch or the French-speaking region of Belgium?

Keep in mind that for both cases you will need to prove your linguistic competency in either Dutch or French if you are looking for undergraduate studies. Decide the level of your studies as well, meaning picking between a Bachelor’s, Master’s or Doctorate degree and conduct research on the options you have in Belgian universities.

2. Check the admission requirements 

Every program, depending on the level of education and location has different entry requirements. For some of them you will need to prove you speak French or Dutch at a higher level, while others will only need English language skills. Since different rules apply in educational institutions in different regions in Belgium, contact the program coordinators of the universities of your choice directly to get to know more about the admission requirements.

3. Prepare the necessary documents

After you decide what programs you want to apply for and also the region of studies, it is time to start gathering the necessary documents for your application. It would be good to contact your nearest Belgian Embassy or Consulate first, as they can guide you in your first steps and offer you translation services in either Dutch or French. The application process includes documents such as:

• Proof of identification either with a personal ID or passport. 
• Upper secondary certificate if you apply for a Bachelor’s degree.
• A copy of your Bachelor’s if you apply for a Master’s degree.
• A copy of your Master’s degree if you apply for a Doctorate degree.
• A filled-in application form downloaded from each university’s official website.
• TOEFL or IELTS examination results if you intend to study in an English-taught program.
• French (DELF or DALF) and Dutch (Dutch NT2-II) language competency test results if you plan to study in French or Dutch-taught programs respectively.
• Proof of application fee, if applicable. 
• Motivation letter explaining why you want to study in Belgium. 
• Letters of recommendation, if applicable.

4. Submit your application

Well done, the difficult part of gathering all the documents is now over! Now it is time for you to send your application. In Belgium you apply directly to the university of your choice electronically through their online application systems. However, in some instances you might be asked to send the original documents by post in order to prove their authenticity.

The original documents must be signed and stamped by the official authorities. After you submit your application, the university will evaluate it and let you know whether you need to pass an admission or aptitude test or not. 

5. Apply for a student visa

Congratulations! You have passed the admission test or met the admission’s criteria for higher education studies at a Belgian university. Next step is to apply for your student visa/residence permit as soon as possible. Contact your closest Belgian Embassy or Consulate for additional queries.

6. Arrive in Belgium

You have already gained your admission and your student visa. The only thing that is left to do is to book your tickets to Belgium and start searching for accommodation options. Decide whether you want to live in a student dormitory or with other students. Join online student forums or student groups on social media to get to know more about student life in the country and freshen up your foreign language skills. Pack your bags and get ready to study in Belgium!