Cost of Studying and Living in Belgium for International Students

If you are considering studying abroad at one of the best Belgian universities, such as KU Leuven or UC Louvain, or if you have already received an acceptance letter from one of these schools, the cost of paying for college and living in Belgium will probably be a major factor to consider. As a European country with over 97% of its population living in urban areas, Belgium might initially seem like a pricey destination. However, to help you assess this, the article will present a full overview of the academic and living expenditures, including tuition fees, housing options, transportation costs, and other related factors, to help you make the most of every Euro you spend in Belgium!

Costs of Studying in Belgium

Academic Costs / Tuition Fees

With a wide variety of academic degrees and institutions spread across Belgium, tuition fees can vary significantly depending on the institution and program. These fees often cover more than just standard tuition—they can include laboratory, studio, or study resource fees.

Furthermore, a number of factors affect the total cost of tuition, one of which is the nationality of the student. Students from the EU and EEA often pay less in tuition in Belgium. For example, a 60-credit bachelor’s degree at the University of Antwerp costs about €1,100 for students from the EU and EEA, but over €3,000 is charged for students from other countries.

To provide a clearer picture, refer to the table below for an overview of tuition fees at five major Belgian universities.

Other Academic Costs

While a larger portion of academic costs is usually covered by tuition, there are several additional expenses that international students should be aware of. Application fees are one of the first costs encountered, ranging from €50 to €100 depending on the university. For example, KU Leuven charges a €90 application fee for all its prospective applications. Health insurance is another mandatory expense, costing between €100 and €300 annually, ensuring access to the country’s healthcare system.

Students should also consider on-campus fees, which include registration, library access, and facility usage. Universities typically charge €50 to €70 for these services, so it’s important to plan for these extra costs when estimating the overall financial commitment of studying in Belgium.

Costs of Living in Belgium

1. Brussels

• Recommended School/s: Université libre de Bruxelles | Vrije Universiteit Brussel | Royal Conservatory of Brussels

Brussels is Belgium’s capital and largest city, making it one of the more expensive places to live in the country. International students can expect to spend between €900 and €1,400 per month on accommodation, utilities, food, and miscellaneous expenses. However, despite being pricier compared to other Belgian cities, Brussels remains more affordable than other major European capitals like Berlin or London.

Here, living in student rental accommodation typically costs between €350 and €550 per month, while a two-bedroom apartment can range from €850 to €950. Utilities, including electricity, heating, and internet, can add about €100 to €200 per month. Additionally, Brussels is home to two of Belgium’s main universities—Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB) and Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB). ULB is known for its strong focus on social sciences, law, and political studies, while VUB is recognized for its research-driven programs in engineering, technology, and the natural sciences.

2. Antwerp

• Recommended School/s: University of Antwerp | Artesis Plantijn University of Applied Sciences and Arts

After the capital, Belgium’s port city Antwerp also has a lot to offer. Known for its rich history dating back to the Middle Ages, Antwerp is not only a cultural hub but also a center for its renowned diamond industry. The city is also filled with art, fashion, and gastronomy, making it an attractive destination for international students.

Living costs in Antwerp are relatively moderate compared to Brussels, with average monthly expenses around €1,000. This amount encompasses rent for student housing, utilities, food, health insurance, and other miscellaneous costs. One of the perks of living in Antwerp is the affordable unlimited train and bus travel pass, which costs just €60 per month, making it easy for students to explore the city and beyond.

3. Ghent

• Recommended School/s: Ghent University | Artevelde University of Applied Sciences

As the home city of the famous Ghent University, Ghent is quite popular for its stunning medieval architecture and an engaging atmosphere filled with cafes, bars, and cultural events that cater to the interests of its residents.

While Ghent’s status as a metropolitan hub does come with costs, living expenses here are comparable to Brussels, averaging around €1,000 to €1,200 per month for essentials like accommodation, utilities, food, and transportation. Despite the costs, the city offers plenty in return—students can enjoy numerous cultural festivals, historical landmarks, and the chance to study at some of Belgium’s finest universities, making Ghent a rewarding place to live and learn.

Ways to Minimize Academic and Living Costs in Belgium

Scholarships for International Students

The best way to reduce your academic costs in Belgium is through scholarships. These are offered primarily by Belgian universities, the Belgian government, and various external organizations. These scholarships can cover either a portion or, in some cases, the full amount of your tuition and academic expenses. Below are five Belgian universities and their key scholarship offerings:

Part-time Work for International Students

While scholarships can help reduce academic costs, international students in Belgium can also work part-time to manage living expenses. According to Belgian law, foreign students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year, with no limit during school breaks. This is permitted as long as students have a valid acceptance letter from their university and a resident permit.

Popular part-time jobs for students include working in cafes, retail stores, or administrative roles at universities. These jobs offer flexibility, making it easier to balance work and studies.

With this cost breakdown, living and studying in Belgium can seem manageable with the right planning. Belgian universities offer excellent scholarship opportunities, and combining these with part-time work and affordable living options can ease financial stress. So, whether it’s the University of Antwerp or Ghent University, applying to these institutions while managing your resources can help you save a lot!

We hope that this article on the Cost of Studying and Living in Belgium for International Students was helpful. Make sure to also check out the Belgium Study Guide and Available Programs in Europe!