How do you qualify for a Masters in Belgium?

To qualify for a master's programme in Belgium, you must hold a recognised bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification. International students should ensure that their degree is recognised by Belgian authorities. Additionally, specific programmes may have additional requirements such as a minimum GPA, relevant work experience, or specific prerequisite courses. It's also important to check the application deadlines and prepare necessary documents such as transcripts, a statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation. For the most current information, visit the official university websites or the Mastersportal Belgium page.

What are the top universities in Belgium?

Belgium is home to several top-tier universities known for their high-quality education and research. Among the most prestigious are KU Leuven, Ghent University, and the Universite libre de Bruxelles. These institutions offer a wide range of affordable master's programmes across various fields. To explore these universities in detail, you can check the top universities in Belgium on Mastersportal. These universities not only provide budget-friendly programmes but also boast excellent facilities and a vibrant academic environment.

Why are master's degrees so affordable in Belgium?

Master's degrees in Belgium are notably affordable due to significant government funding and subsidies aimed at making higher education accessible. The Belgian government invests heavily in education, ensuring that tuition fees remain low, often under €2,500 per year for international students. This commitment to affordable education is complemented by the country's strong economy and the presence of world-class universities, making Belgium an attractive destination for budget-friendly, high-quality master's programmes.

What are the language requirements for cheap master's degrees in Belgium?

Language requirements for master's degrees in Belgium vary depending on the programme and the university. Many programmes are offered in English, especially those designed for international students, making it easier for non-native speakers to enrol. However, some programmes may require proficiency in Dutch or French, particularly those offered at universities located in Flemish or Walloon regions. Students should check the specific language requirements of their chosen programme and may need to provide proof of language proficiency through tests like IELTS or TOEFL for English, or equivalent tests for Dutch and French.

Can I study part-time while studying in Belgium?

Yes, international students in Belgium are allowed to work part-time while pursuing their studies. Non-EU students can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during university holidays. This provides an opportunity to gain work experience and help cover living expenses. However, it's important to balance work with academic responsibilities to ensure academic success. Students should also familiarise themselves with the specific work permit regulations and any restrictions that may apply.

Are there hidden costs beyond tuition for affordable programmes in Belgium?

While tuition fees for master's programmes in Belgium are remarkably low, students should be aware of additional costs that may arise. These include living expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, and health insurance. On average, students should budget approximately €800 to €1,200 per month for living costs in Belgium. Additionally, there may be costs associated with study materials, field trips, and personal expenses. It's advisable for students to create a comprehensive budget plan to manage these expenses effectively.

BelgiumAffordable

34 Affordable Master's degrees in Belgium

Belgium offers a variety of affordable programmes for international students, making it an attractive destination for higher education. The lower-end tuition fee for affordable programmes in Belgium is represented by the €835, which gives students an idea of the minimum cost they might expect. For those looking at more typical costs, the €928 serves as a benchmark for the average tuition fee across affordable programmes. On the higher end, the €2,500 provides insight into the maximum tuition fees that might be encountered, ensuring students are well-prepared financially. Additionally, Belgium has embraced online learning, with 9% of affordable programmes being offered online, providing flexibility for students who may prefer or require remote study options.

UCLouvain3,9(31)

Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium Top 2.5% in Worldwide

Master’s in Economics – Professional Focus - Two Years

The Professional Focus - Two Years programme from The Economics School of Louvain ESL which can be followed entirely in English is high quality programme designed to offer a training to pursue a high level professional career by integrating a large set of subjects in economics.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus

2 years$949/yr

Thomas More4,3(56)

Online

Esports Manager

Study alongside other highly motivated students with a passion for esports who want to hone their management skills for a career in the esports industry with Esports Manager at Thomas More.

Postgraduate Certificate Part-time Online

1 year$2,842/yr

UCLL University of Applied Sciences4,3(70)

Leuven, Belgium

CLIL (Content and Language Integrated Learning)

The CLIL (Content and Language Integrated Learning) post-graduate programme from UCLL University of Applied Sciences offers to aim a substantial and well-balanced programme for both individual teachers and teams who have recently started a CLIL programme or who are considering doing so in the near future.

Postgraduate Certificate Full-time +2 On-campus

1 year$1,160/yr

UCLL University of Applied Sciences4,3(70)

Leuven, Belgium

Global Citizenship and Development

The Global Citizenship and Development degree from UCLL University of Applied Sciences is a unique 1-year bachelor programme in Europe of 60 ECTS credits.

Master Full-time On-campus

1 year$1,315/yr

UCLouvain3,9(31)

Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium Top 2.5% in Worldwide

Master’s in Economics – One year

The General Master - One Year programme from The Economics School of Louvain ESL aims to provide the students with an understanding of the drivers of business cycle fluctuations and the policy responses enacted by governments, central banks and regulators in response to these swings.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus

1 year$949/yr

UCLouvain3,9(31)

Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium Top 2.5% in Worldwide

Master’s in Economics – Econometrics Focus - Two Years

The Econometrics Focus - Two Years programme from The Economics School of Louvain ESL providing advanced training in microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics, together with applications to several specific fields.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus

2 years$949/yr

UCLouvain3,9(31)

Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium Top 2.5% in Worldwide

Master’s in Economics – Research Focus - Two Years

The Research Focus - Two Years programme from The Economics School of Louvain ESL providing advanced training in microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics, together with applications to several specific fields.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus

2 years$949/yr

Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB)4,1(91)

Brussels, Belgium Top 3.7% in Worldwide

Sustainable Land Management

With our master in Sustainable Land Management at Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), you can specialise in sustainable land and groundwater management and urban land problems and engineering. Become an expert by solving the many challenges ahead!

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus

2 years$1,344/yr

Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB)4,1(91)

Brussels, Belgium Top 3.7% in Worldwide

Biomedical Engineering

This Biomedical Engineering MSc program from Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) connects understanding body functions to finding solutions between fast-moving health technology and common health problems.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus

2 years$1,344/yr

Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB)4,1(91)

Brussels, Belgium Top 3.7% in Worldwide

Photonics Engineering

This Photonics Engineering MSc program from Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) combines core photonics, advanced photonics electives with interdisciplinary modules such as physics and materials, business engineering and modeling. Bridge physics, engineering & photonics!

The Master in Biochemistry and Molecular and Cell Biology at University of Namur focuses on both the normal and pathological functioning of everything from bacteria to man and from genes to systems.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus

2 years$949/yr

Frequently Asked Questions

To qualify for a master's programme in Belgium, you must hold a recognised bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification. International students should ensure that their degree is recognised by Belgian authorities. Additionally, specific programmes may have additional requirements such as a minimum GPA, relevant work experience, or specific prerequisite courses. It's also important to check the application deadlines and prepare necessary documents such as transcripts, a statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation. For the most current information, visit the official university websites or the Mastersportal Belgium page.
Belgium is home to several top-tier universities known for their high-quality education and research. Among the most prestigious are KU Leuven, Ghent University, and the Universite libre de Bruxelles. These institutions offer a wide range of affordable master's programmes across various fields. To explore these universities in detail, you can check the top universities in Belgium on Mastersportal. These universities not only provide budget-friendly programmes but also boast excellent facilities and a vibrant academic environment.
Master's degrees in Belgium are notably affordable due to significant government funding and subsidies aimed at making higher education accessible. The Belgian government invests heavily in education, ensuring that tuition fees remain low, often under €2,500 per year for international students. This commitment to affordable education is complemented by the country's strong economy and the presence of world-class universities, making Belgium an attractive destination for budget-friendly, high-quality master's programmes.
Language requirements for master's degrees in Belgium vary depending on the programme and the university. Many programmes are offered in English, especially those designed for international students, making it easier for non-native speakers to enrol. However, some programmes may require proficiency in Dutch or French, particularly those offered at universities located in Flemish or Walloon regions. Students should check the specific language requirements of their chosen programme and may need to provide proof of language proficiency through tests like IELTS or TOEFL for English, or equivalent tests for Dutch and French.
Yes, international students in Belgium are allowed to work part-time while pursuing their studies. Non-EU students can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during university holidays. This provides an opportunity to gain work experience and help cover living expenses. However, it's important to balance work with academic responsibilities to ensure academic success. Students should also familiarise themselves with the specific work permit regulations and any restrictions that may apply.
While tuition fees for master's programmes in Belgium are remarkably low, students should be aware of additional costs that may arise. These include living expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, and health insurance. On average, students should budget approximately €800 to €1,200 per month for living costs in Belgium. Additionally, there may be costs associated with study materials, field trips, and personal expenses. It's advisable for students to create a comprehensive budget plan to manage these expenses effectively.