Studying in French-speaking Belgium attracts everyone Year of thousands of international students, in particular Africans. But how much does it really cost? Between registration fees, housing, transport and daily life, here is a complete overview to properly prepare your budget.
Are you looking for a country where the quality of education meets a reasonable cost of living? French-speaking Belgium combines these two assets and much more. Its universities are recognized in Europe for their advanced training in science, law, economics or communication. The registration fees often vary between 800€ and €1,000 per year, an affordable rate compared to other western destinations.
In terms of student life, you benefit from a cosmopolitan environment: more than 20,000 internationals each year they live together in Louvain-la-Neuve, Brussels or Liège. Student associations are dynamic, with cultural, sports and artistic activities to make you feel at home as soon as you arrive.
French-speaking Belgium is also the gateway to Europe: by train, you can reach Paris, Amsterdam or Cologne in less than 3 hours. This central location facilitates ERASMUS internships and exchanges in more than 30 countries.
Finally, Belgium's cultural wealth — festivals, museums, gastronomy — complements your academic career. You benefit from a friendly living environment, a system of regional grants and a close-knit network of former students.
Ready to discover why French-speaking Belgium can be the ideal springboard for your study project?
Can you already imagine walking the corridors of a college or university in French-speaking Belgium? Before signing your lease, you need to prepare your registration budget. The amounts vary depending on your institution and your status.
European students (EEA) :
• University: around €835 per year (social rate)
• High school: around €770 per year
These fees include official registration fees and access to services (libraries, tutoring). Some specialized courses may require a small supplement (€20 to €50).
Students from outside the European Union:
• University: around €4,350 per year
• High school: nearly €4,150 per year
For these rates, you benefit from the same courses, the same supervision and access to social assistance (cultural discounts, university canteen). Remember that some institutions offer internal scholarships or partial exemptions depending on your file.
Before applying, always check the official website of your university or university: the amounts may vary slightly from one institution to another, and optional contributions (residential insurance, sports activities) may be added. Prepare your budget in advance to enjoy your student life in Belgium with peace of mind.
Between registration fees, rent and daily life, your budget can quickly explode. Fortunately, several devices are there to relieve you, even if you are not from Europe.
To get started, find out about academic scholarships:
• Belgian government grants : up to €7,000 per year if your program lasts at least 10 months and you come from a developing country (Master Mind, ARES grants).
• Studely grant : €1,000 endowment to reduce their installation costs, accessible by submitting an application via theStudely app(diploma, transcripts and motivation letter).
Then, the exemptions and discounts:
• Partial exemption from registration fees : ask the establishment to reduce your costs by 10 to 50% depending on income.
• TEC or SNCB social tariff : card with reduced rates on public transport, often accessible on simple student proof.
Finally, don't forget additional assistance:
• Mutual reduction : some funds offered by universities offer contributions at a discounted price.
• Housing assistance : CELI-housing allowance for scholarship students, up to €250/month.
By playing on these different levers, you can significantly reduce your grade and focus on your studies without financial stress.
Do you want to avoid unpleasant financial surprises at the start of the school year? Follow these 4 easy steps to simulate and pay your registration fees without stress:
1. List all expenditure items
2. Create your schedule
Open a spreadsheet or a dedicated app
3. Define your monthly budget
Spread your expenses over the academic year
4. Secure your transfers and withdrawals
Open a payment account dedicated to centralize your flows
With this action plan, you benefit from a clear vision and you avoid cash flow shortages as soon as you first start school.
Manage your budget and pay your expenses without stress with the Studely payment account
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