Why Study in Belgium?

Why study in Belgium as an international student

The question you should really be asking is, why shouldn't you be studying in Belgium? Aside from its gorgeous historic monuments, castles, cobblestone architecture, beautiful art work, delectable food (including chocolate) and festivals, there are so many more draws to this European country.

Not only does Belgium have three native languages, but the people there are also quite fluent in English (making the transition easy for many people who speak English as a first or second language). Belgians are also known to be very friendly - which is always a huge plus when you are just arriving somewhere new! Fun facts set aside, Belgium is widely known as the heart of Europe and a hub for international networking. It is located in one of the most densely populated areas in the world, according to TopStudyBelgium.be. International students in Belgium will certainly be enriched with a well-rounded and cultured educational experience.

Higher Education System

The education system in the federal state of Belgium is unique in that the geographical boundaries are determined by linguistics. Belgium's educational structure consists of three regions including the Flemish (Dutch), French and German-speaking communities. Higher education, however, is organized by the French and Flemish communities.

Belgium operates under the Bologna System, which essentially improves the quality of education and creates an easier process for students when switching from European countries, according to CareerNews24.com. (Note: ECTS stands for European Credit Transfer System).

The site lists the following as a part of the Bologna system:

• A Bachelor's degree is earned in three years (180 ECTS credits) toward a professional or academic bachelor's degree. For example, an academic bachelor provides access to earning a Master's.
• A Master's degree is earned in one to two years (60 or 120 ECTS credits).

According to Angloinfo.com, students studying in Belgium who wish to study medicine, dentistry, arts or engineering sciences may face more firm entrance guidelines and exams than other areas of study. Additionally, there are six universities that offer a full range of subjects. For international students, Brussels is a popular city if you are considering where you in Belgium you’d like to study.

Student Life in Belgium/ Expected Costs

As international students in Belgium, not only will you be surrounded by a multicultural community, but you may even pick up a few languages while living there. However, to really get the most out of your Belgian experience, it is important to have an idea of what the costs will be so you can prepare before arriving. According to StudyInBelgium.be, a student's monthly budget will be about 850 Euros - which includes books, health care, transportation, food, accommodations and leisure. Though this is one estimate, it is important to realize that your cost of living will depend on the specific program you are associated with, what your standard of living is, and where you choose to study as big cities can be more expensive than smaller towns.

It’s important to contact your school about costs you can expect to pay. For example, many schools in Belgium have registration fees. European students pay about 800 Euros a year, according to CareerNews24.com. Additionally, the minimum accommodation costs range from 200 to 300 Euros each month. One of the great things about education in Belgium, however, is that the government contributes a generous amount financially.

For your reference, some of the most notable universities in Belgium are listed below (as indicated by Academic Ranking of World Universities):

• Gent University
• Catholic University of Leuven
• Catholic University of Louvain
• Université Libre Bruxelles
• University of Antwerp
• University of Liege
• Vrije University Brussel

We offer the following plans to international students studying in Belgium: