How to enroll in higher education in Belgium?

You want Studying in Belgium but you don't know where to start? Follow this clear and practical guide: university research, admission procedures, admission procedures, degree equivalency, registration, visa application and housing advice — everything you need to move forward with peace of mind.

1. Choosing your institution and program of study

First of all, you need to determine the type of establishment that corresponds to your project:
Les universities : for academic and theoretical studies (UCLouvain, ULB, ULB, etc.)
Les Colleges of higher education : more focused on practice and concrete jobs (HelHa, HEPL, Henallux, etc.)
Les artistic or specialized schools : for courses in arts, music, design or communication.

Always check the language of instruction (French, Dutch or English) and the admission requirements specific to each program.

2. Check the admission requirements

Admission criteria vary according to your country of origin:

• European students : direct access with a diploma equivalent to the Belgian CESS.
• Non-European students : some courses are limited (medicine, physiotherapy, engineering, etc.) and require a diploma equivalent or an admission test.

Documents generally requested:

• Copy of the high school diploma
  

• Transcripts
  

• Passport copy
  

• Motivation letter
  

• Proof of language level (DELF, IELTS, TOEFL depending on the program)

3. Request the equivalency of your diploma

If your diploma was obtained abroad, it must be recognized by Belgium.The application for equivalence is made to the

, generally

.This step is mandatory to access most courses in French, and it is recommended to do it as soon as possible.

4. Submit your registration form

Each institution has its own online registration platform.You will have to submit your complete application before the deadline, which is often set between March and June for the start of the school year in September.Prepare your application in advance: the procedures can be long and some courses are in high demand.

5. Apply for your student visa

Once your admission is confirmed, you can start applying for a long-stay visa (type D) for studies at the Belgian embassy or consulate.The documents to be provided include:
• La Admission letter Official
• La Proof of financial resources (Studely blocked account, for example)
• One health insurance
• One medical certificate and a criminal record extract

Visa processing can take several weeks, so it is advisable to do so as soon as you receive admission.

6. Finding student housing

Before you arrive, book your accommodation: university residence, shared apartment or studio.
You can go through Studely, or Apartment for rent to find a solution adapted to your budget.

7. Register with the municipality and finalize your installation

As soon as you arrive in Belgium, you will have to go to the town where you live in The eight days in order to get your student residence card.
Also remember to open A Belgian bank account, subscribe a health insurance and inform you about local transport and daily life.

In summary: the main steps

StepDetailRecommended periodChoose your programUniversity/Haute ÉcoleDecember — MarchRequest equivalenceEquivalency ServiceFebruary — JulySubmit your application on the institution's websiteMarch — JuneGet your visaAfter admissionJune — AugustSettle in BelgiumAccommodation, insurance, residence cardAugust — September