KU Leuven

KU Leuven. Inspiring the Outstanding

KU Leuven is Europe’s most innovative university. Located in Belgium, it is dedicated to research, education, and service to society. KU Leuven is a founding member of the League of European Research Universities (LERU) and has a strong European and international orientation. Our scientists conduct basic and applied research in a comprehensive range of disciplines. University Hospitals Leuven, our network of research hospitals, provides high-quality healthcare and develops new therapeutic and diagnostic insights with an emphasis on translational research. The university welcomes more than 50,000 students from over 140 countries. The KU Leuven Doctoral Schools train approximately 5,000 PhD students.

KU Leuven consistently performs well in the international rankings. It is currently ranked 42nd in the Times Higher Education World Ranking and 70th in the QS World University Ranking.

For certain programs, eligible candidates can apply for an Erasmus+ or VLIR-UOS scholarship. The EU-funded Erasmus+ program aims to enhance quality in higher education through scholarships and academic cooperation. VLIR-UOS, the Flemish Interuniversity Council for Development Cooperation, awards scholarships to students from developing countries to follow one of the International Course Programs (ICPs) offered at KU Leuven. For general information on scholarship opportunities, visit the KU Leuven website

A Highly Ranked University

According to international rankings, KU Leuven is among the best 100 universities in the world. Moreover, KU Leuven was ranked as most innovative university of Europe by Reuters four years in a row (2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019). All of KU Leuven’s disciplines proudly belong to the top 100 of their field. Scholars and researchers, teachers and visionaries, thinkers and makers all have their place in KU Leuven’s fertile intellectual habitat.

Most Innovative University in Europe

KU Leuven has been identified as Europe’s most innovative university for four years in a row by Reuters. By developing the most important drug against HIV, a new type of solar panel that converts oxygen into hydrogen and uncovering the secrets of Sagalassos, KU Leuven researchers have a profound impact on our everyday lives in nearly all fields of research. That innovative character is deeply embedded in the way we teach our students, by integrating relevant guest lectures, taking an Interdisciplinary approach and opening the most advanced research and education facilities.

A Comprehensive University

As a comprehensive university, KU Leuven offers a wide range of disciplines organized by 15 faculties. Each of these disciplines is ranked in the top 100 of its field according to the THE World University Rankings by subject. Half of the university’s faculties are even in the top 50 within their fields of study.

KU Leuven offers degree programs at various campuses in 10 Belgian cities, including Brussels. Five of these campuses offer programs in English. The city of Leuven has been the focal point of the university’s educational mission for almost 600 years.

Whether as a student or researcher, you’ll discover in Belgium a country full of surprising contrasts. A country rich in art, history, and architecture. You’ll be treated to its local specialties in a friendly atmosphere. Belgian cities have so much to offer to students: a cosmopolitan lifestyle, great sport facilities, libraries, bookshops, restaurants, cafés, and a dynamic cultural scene

As an international guest, you might find Belgians initially reserved – an impression that will only last until you share a round of beers at an outdoor café or make your first visit to a Belgian home, where you will be warmly welcomed and well fed. Belgium is also an ideal base for exploring the rest of Europe. London, Paris, Cologne, and Amsterdam are all a proverbial stone’s throw away. It is the headquarters of many international organisations and companies and the beating heart of the European Union.

Leuven offers housing opportunities at reasonable prices. Most students choose to rent a room (‘kot’ in Dutch) in a privately-owned student house with shared common spaces and facilities. If you need any help with this, the KU Leuven Housing Service can offer assistance. The university owns and manages a number of student residences. A limited number of rooms in these residences is reserved for international students. You can also browse the Housing Service’s online database. Will you be studying at one of our campuses? There are databases for housing in each of the KU Leuven campus cities. Visit the institution’s webpage for more information.