Belgium gained its independence from the Netherlands in 1830 and is now one of the most popular study abroad locations in Europe. If you want to encounter a European country that’s full of century-old traditions, modern-day festivities, friendly people and tasty food – choose Belgium as your destination.
Where to Study in Belgium
You can find top rated universities in places like Brussels, Antwerp, Gent and Liège. Choose between Bachelor degree, PhD’s, Masters and student exchanges
Best Universities in Belgium for International Students
Although Belgium has been known to have linguistic and political conflicts in the past, its education institutions focus on developing Belgium’s presence in the world. Many of the universities offer study abroad programs to engage students in global education.
Business students interested in a business program should consider the Solvay Brussels School of Economics and Management. This university is one of the largest of its kind for the French-speaking community in Belgium, and one of its main goals is for every student to be scientifically curious.
Liberal arts students can take advantage of a study abroad program from Vesalius College in Brussels. Although it’s a smaller program, with no more than 25 students to a class, over 300 international students travel to Belgium to attend this culturally diverse college. Undergraduate study abroad students can take classes in business, communications and international affairs.
These universities are also highly rated:
• KU Leuven
• Universiteit Antwerpen
• Universiteit Gent
• Universiteit Hasselt
• Vrije Universiteit Brussel
• Université Catholique de Louvain
• Université Saint-Louis, Bruxelles
• Université de Namur
• Université libre de Bruxelles
• Université de Mons
• Université de Liège
• Vrije Universiteit Brussels
• University of Kent in Brussels
Tips & Guide to Studying in Belgium
Passport
If you are applying from overseas, you must have a passport valid for the duration of your stay abroad. The processing of a passport application can take 12 weeks or more. If you don’t already have one, apply now!
Visas
A visa is official permission, granted by the authorities of a country where you will study or visit, which allows you to enter and remain in that country for period of time. To study in the Belgium during the fall or spring terms, US students will need a visa. This visa cannot be applied for until 90 days before the start of the program. US citizens do not need a visa for the summer, but international students will need to apply for a Tourist Schengen Visa for the summer term.
Safety
As always, no matter what country you travel in, always follow online health and safety guidelines to ensure that you stay safe. This country is very peaceful, but in certain areas there are issues to be aware of. You should always keep a list of important numbers with you in case of an emergency. Also, be sure to check with your school or program for any additional information you might need
Money
Belgium currency used to be known as the franc, but it converted to the euro in 2002.
Here’s what you need to know about the currency:
Coins = 1, 5, 10, 20 and 50
Bills = 100, 200, 500, 1000 and 2000
Places to Visit in Belgium
Belgium has many historical attractions and architectural wonders for you to see, so make sure that you have some extra time in between classes to see what this country has to offer.
You can’t study in Belgium without stopping by its capital city Brussels. While there you can visit the Royal Museum of Fine Art or stop by the amazing Grote Markt (also known as Town Square). This market is literally located in the heart of the city and is surrounded by dazzling Renaissance style architecture buildings.
If you’re into the fashion scene then the city of Antwerp is the place to visit. Although it’s the second largest port in Belgium, it’s also home to the Royal Academy of Fine Arts, one of the most popular fashion academies in Europe.
Bruges was immortalised in the film In Bruges, this enchanting Belgian city is somewhere most people wouldn’t think to visit study abroad, but if you’re looking for something a little different than it’s worth considering this location. Drifting down the canal surrounded by the city’s fairytale architecture really does feel like stepping back in time, while beer halls such as the legendary Brugs Beertje are great for letting your hair down and having fun.
If you like music you could go to the I Love Techno festival in Ghent, which showcases international dj’s from around the world. You can also admire the city’s beautiful medieval buildings and churches.
History buffs can visit the forest-covered mountains and hills of the Ardennes, which stretch all the way into France. This is where the famous 1944 Battle of the Bulge took place during World War II. There is also the municipality of Waterloo where the 1815 Battle of Waterloo occurred.
No matter what city you visit in Belgium, you will discover its remarkable European roots mixed with a touch of modern-day class. There are also easy transport connections to nearby countries like France, Germany and the Netherlands.
Belgium is a popular European destination to study with affordable courses and a great quality of living. Plan your trip today!