If you are looking to boost your career and gain new skills, earning a master’s degree abroad could be the perfect step. And when it comes to choosing where to study, Belgium is an excellent option. The country is home to top-ranked universities that offer a wide range of master’s programs, from engineering, and business to the arts. You will also have access to cutting-edge facilities and plenty of opportunities to connect with industry professionals, making it a great place for academic and career growth.
In this article, we will walk you through everything you need to know about applying for a master’s degree in Belgium, including the requirements, application process, and useful tips to help you get started. Be sure to read this article till the end for all the details.
Master’s Degree Admission Requirements
Universities in Belgium would typically ask you to submit some important documents or information before you can be considered for admission. These admission requirements are not the same for every school. However, here are some common requirements that you may be asked to provide.
ADMISSION
REQUIREMENTS |
DOCUMENT DETAILS |
| Bachelor’s Degree |
A bachelor’s degree is proof that you completed an undergraduate degree. It should also be related to the master’s program you want to apply for. |
| Language Proficiency |
Language test scores such as IELTS, TOEFL for English, NT2, CNaVT for Dutch, or DELF/DALF for French may be required to show you can understand the language used in the program. For instance, the University of Antwerp requires students to submit TOEFL or IELTS if they are applying for master’s programs taught in English. |
| Recommendation Letters |
Recommendation Letters describe your skills, character, and why you are a strong fit for the program. You may need 1 or 2 letters from teachers, professors, or employers who can confidently vouch for your abilities and potential. |
| CV/Resume |
This document summarizes your educational background, work experience, achievements, and skills. |
| Academic Transcripts |
Academic Transcripts show the list of the courses you took and the grades you received during your previous studies. It basically shows your academic history. |
| Proof of Financial Means |
Most universities like the University of Antwerp will require evidence such as a bank statement which must show that you have enough money to pay for your studies and cover the costs of living in Belgium. |
Language Proficiency Tests Needed for Graduate Studies
International students might be required to provide proof of language proficiency to show that they understand the language their program will be taught in.
| MEDIUM OF INSTRUCTION |
LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY EXAMS ACCEPTED |
| Dutch-taught Programs |
NT2
CNaVT |
| French-taught Programs |
DELF/DALF
TCF |
| English-taught Programs |
IELTS
TOEFL iBT
Cambridge English |
To get a better understanding of the language requirements for universities in Belgium, look at the table below.
| NAME OF INSTITUTION |
MINIMUM SCORES REQUIRED |
| University of Antwerp |
Dutch-taught Programs:
B2 (ITNA), NT2: Passed, CVNaT: B2
English-taught Programs:
80 (TOEFL iBT), 6.5 (IELTS), B2 (ITACE), B2 (Cambridge English) |
| University of Liège |
French-taught Programs:
C1, or B2 for HEC Liège
English-taught Programs:
72 (TOEFL iBT), 5.5 (IELTS), 160 (Cambridge FCE), 180 (Cambridge CAE) |
| Ghent University |
Dutch-taught Programs:
B2 (ITNA), B2 (CnaVT), C1 (PAT)
English-taught Programs:
94 (TOEFL iBT), 6.0 (IELTS), B2 (Cambridge FCE), B2 (Cambridge CAE), 59 (PTE Academic) |
Master’s Degree Application Process
Applying for a master’s program at a Belgian university can feel overwhelming, but following these simple steps will make the process smooth and stress-free.
Step 1: Pick a Program
You want to start your application process by choosing a master’s program that fits your interests and career goals. Thankfully there are several Belgian universities such as Hasselt University and the University of Namur that offer various options in fields like business, engineering, arts, and sciences. You can also check out popular choices at KU Leuven or Ghent University.
Step 2: Get Your Documents Ready
Then prepare all the required documents. These usually include your academic transcripts, CV, motivation letter, letters of recommendation, proof of language skills, like IELTS or TOEFL, and a copy of your passport.
Step 3: Check Application Deadlines
It is also important to look up the application deadlines on the university’s website to help you remain on track and not end up being late to submit your application. Also, note that deadlines may be different for EU and non-EU students. For example, the University of Mons often has early deadlines in April for non-EU applicants.
Step 4: Check If You Qualify
Make sure you meet the eligibility requirements for the program. This might include having a related bachelor’s degree, specific grades, and language proficiency test scores. It is important to do this to increase the chances of being admitted, especially if you are applying to a school like the Free University of Brussels.
Step 5: Apply Online
The next step is to fill out the application form on the university’s website. During this process, you will be asked to fill out your personal and academic details and also upload all the required documents. Ensure you double-check that your details are correct before submitting.
Step 6: Pay the Fees
After you get accepted, you will likely need to pay a deposit to secure your place. The amount varies depending on the program and university. For instance, Ghent University’s fees for international students range from €2,250 to €6,930 per year.
FAQs: Master’s Application Process in Belgium
Is it Expensive to Study Master’s in Belgium?
Master’s programs in Belgium are cheaper than many universities in other European countries, with fees ranging between €835 and €9,000 per year. However, the fees vary and also depend on the school and course. For example, Ghent University charges between €2,250 to €6,930 per year, while the Free University of Brussels costs about €835 to €2,505 per academic year.
How Long Does it Typically Take to Prepare for Applying to a University in Belgium?
Preparing to apply to a university in Belgium might take between three to six months. You will need time to get all the necessary documents like transcripts, a CV, a motivation letter, and proof of language skills. Deadlines also vary by university; for example, the University of Mons has an early deadline in April for non-EU students, while EU students are offered a later deadline in August. Just make sure you start early to ensure you meet all requirements so you can adequately prepare if you are admitted.
Are there Scholarship Opportunities for International Graduate Students in Belgium?
Yes, international graduate students can get scholarships in Belgium. Hasselt University offers support to top students from other countries, helping with tuition and living costs. The University of Antwerp also gives scholarships to talented international students, making it easier for them to study and do research.
Belgium is an excellent choice for pursuing a master’s degree. Students not only gain valuable knowledge to achieve their academic goals but also access various career opportunities after graduation. However, to ensure a smooth admission process, make sure to meet all the requirements and submit a complete, error-free application on time.
We hope that this article on how to study Master’s in Belgium was helpful! Make sure to also check out the Study in Belgium and Available Programs for International Students!
