Why Study in Belgium?
- World-Class Education: Home to top universities like KU Leuven and Ghent University.
- Affordable Tuition: Public universities charge €835–€4,175/year for non-EU students.
- Work Opportunities: 20 hours/week during studies, full-time during holidays.
- Post-Study Benefits: 12-month job search visa after graduation.
- Quality of Life: Safe, multicultural, and at the heart of Europe.
Student Visa Requirements (2025)
Visa Type
Type D Visa (Long Stay): Required for studies longer than 90 days.
Key Requirements
- Admission Letter from an accredited Belgian university.
- Proof of Financial Means:
- €10,800/year (€900/month) in a blocked Belgian bank account (or scholarship proof).
- Health Insurance: €100–€150/month (mandatory for non-EU students).
- Valid Passport (6+ months validity).
- Visa Fee: €180 (non-refundable).
Processing Time
4–10 weeks (apply at least 2 months before studies).
Tuition Fees & Living Costs (2025)
Tuition Fees
Institution Type |
Non-EU Students (per year) |
EU/EEA Students |
Public Universities |
€835 – €4,175 |
€835 – €2,500 |
Private Universities |
€5,000 – €20,000 |
Same as non-EU |
Estimated Monthly Living Costs
- Accommodation: €400–€800 (shared housing cheaper).
- Food: €200–€350.
- Transport: €30–€50 (student discounts available).
- Miscellaneous: €100–€200.
- Total: €700–€1,200/month.
Work Rights & Post-Study Opportunities
During Studies
- Part-time Work: 20 hours/week (minimum wage: €11.50/hour).
- Full-time Work: Allowed during semester breaks.
After Graduation
- 12-Month Job Seeker Visa: No sponsor needed.
- EU Blue Card: For jobs earning €4,500+/month (2025 threshold).
- PR Pathway: 5 years of continuous stay (study years count as half).
Scholarships (2025)
Scholarship |
Coverage |
Eligibility |
Belgian Government Scholarship |
€1,200/month |
Non-EU Master's/PhD students |
KU Leuven Scholarship |
50–100% tuition waiver |
Merit-based |
Erasmus+ |
€300–€500/month |
EU & partner country students |
Key Information
Affordable Education
Low tuition fees compared to other EU destinations.
Work Flexibility
20-hour work rights + full-time during breaks.
Post-Study Options
1-year job search visa post-graduation.
Long-Term Stay
PR possible after 5 years (50% study time counted).