Tuition fees at public universities: Generally, for non-EU/EEA students, the annual tuition fees can range from €800 to €4,500 depending on the university and the program of study. This is significantly higher compared to fees for EU/EEA students, which are usually around €900 per year.

Tuition fees at private universities: Private institutions in Belgium have higher tuition rates that can range between €3,000 to €20,000 per academic year. These institutions often offer specialized programs in areas like Business, Management, and Arts.

Postgraduate studies: For masters and doctoral programs, the tuition fees can vary widely. Non-EU/EEA students should expect to pay between €1,500 to €5,000 annually for master’s programs at public universities. PhD programs may have different funding structures, often offering positions as research assistants with waived tuition fees.

Living Costs in Belgium

Besides tuition, living costs are an essential factor to consider when studying in Belgium. The total living expenses can vary based on the city and your lifestyle.

Accommodation: Housing is the most significant monthly expense. Students can choose from university dormitories, shared apartments, or private rentals. Costs can range from €200 to €500 per month.

Food and Groceries: Monthly expenses for food may range from €150 to €300, depending on whether you eat out frequently or cook at home.

Transportation: Belgium has an efficient public transport system. A monthly public transport pass typically costs around €50. Many students prefer cycling, which is an economical and practical option in cities like Ghent and Leuven.

Health Insurance: Health insurance is mandatory in Belgium. Students from the EU can use the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), while non-EU students will need to purchase local health insurance, costing approximately €20 to €30 per month.

Other expenses: Books, leisure, and personal expenses can add another €100 to €200 to your monthly budget.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

To mitigate the cost of studying, international students can apply for various scholarships and financial aids offered by the Belgian government, universities, and other international organizations.

Government scholarships: The Belgian Development Agency offers scholarships for students from developing countries. Similarly, Wallonie-Bruxelles International (WBI) provides scholarships for international students to promote cultural and scientific exchanges.

University scholarships: Many Belgian universities offer scholarships based on merit and financial need. These can cover a part or all of the tuition fees and sometimes include a monthly allowance.

Erasmus+: Belgium actively participates in the Erasmus+ program, which provides grants for international students to study at European universities for one or two semesters.

Part-time Work Opportunities

Working part-time is a great way to support your studies and gain international work experience.

Work regulations: Non-EU/EEA students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time, provided it does not interfere with their studies. Full-time work is permitted during holidays.

Types of jobs: Common part-time jobs include roles in hospitality, retail, tutoring, and internships related to the student’s field of study.

Expected earnings: The minimum wage in Belgium for students is typically around €10 per hour, providing a reasonable supplement to help cover living costs.

Conclusion

Studying in Belgium offers a rich cultural experience and a high standard of education. However, it is important for prospective international students to be fully aware of the costs involved. Proper budgeting that includes tuition, living expenses, and other personal costs, combined with exploring financial aid options, can make studying in Belgium a feasible and enriching option.