Study in Belgium: International Students’ Views

International students report that Belgium provides quality higher education in Europe. Their comments on the world’s largest database of international student experiences, STeXX.eu, were part of the StudyPortals International Student Satisfaction Awards 2014. Out of more than 7,000 students who shared reviews about European higher education, 256 students commented on their experience of what it was like to study in Belgium, giving the country an overall score of 8.6 out of 10.

Seven universities in Belgium received an award of international student satisfaction. Five were considered “excellent”, receiving a rating of 9 out of 10, while two other universities in Belgium were rated “very good”.  AP Hogeschool Antwerpen was ranked highest, followed by the Institute of Tropical Medicine Antwerp and Université Catholique de Louvain.

What are the benefits of studying in Belgium?

Most student reviews of studying in Belgium focus on the topic of city life and culture in the country, which is seen as very positive. The quality of city life is more appreciated by international students in Belgium than in many other European destinations. The social life and international atmosphere supported by the three national languages (French, Dutch and German) as well as English play a very important role in terms of student satisfaction.

The accepting, tolerant population is one of the main reasons large numbers of international students recommend the option to study in Belgium. Belgian cities provide many cultural attractions, as well as places of entertainment and a vibrant nightlife. Students find it easy to travel around the country or reach other important European cities.

“The city is the greatest place for Erasmus students! It's small enough to go around by bike and big enough to find everything you need. You have lots of culture there: The Plantin Moretus Museum, the Rubenshuis, the Mayer van de Bergh Museum, Fashion Museum, the MAS Photo Museum, and so on. In summer, you have the summer of Antwerp with open-air cinemas, concerts, readings, summer bars and festivals! You can go shopping there – it's a fashion city with all the big names! Enough to do. I was never bored in the eight months I stayed there. They also have many pubs and so much excellent beer and chocolate. It's amazing!” – student from Austria

“It is an interesting city, with cultural activities, nice monuments, nice nightlife, and easy transportation. Lots of activities by ESN, nice residences only for Erasmus students.” – student from Portugal

“I think it's a very international city where you can improve both your French and English. Besides, it is in the center of Europe, so there are a lot of wonderful places to visit such as Bruges, Amsterdam, Paris, London and so on. The university is quite good, with a good academic level, not too overcrowded and providing great sports activities.” – Student from Spain

A significant number of those reviewing the experience of studying in Belgium are also satisfied with the diverse international study programs offered at Belgian universities, and the quality of courses is rated around the European average. Students mention that the open attitudes of the teachers, as well as excellent facilities and courses, have helped their personal and professional development.

“As a student I have all the necessary circumstances (open-minded and helpful professors, huge libraries, student discounts, great student organizations) to do my best and became a professional in my study area.” – student from Hungary

“Quality of lectures and professors are very high, classes interesting, loads of useful information.” – student from Lithuania

Reasons not to recommend studying in Belgium

The biggest complaints recorded about studying in Belgium are related to poor university services and excessive bureaucracy. On the other hand, confusing organization from the university’s side may offer students an opportunity to develop a responsible attitude and organization skills. The highly international atmosphere may also prove confusing to some students who are not accustomed to such a diverse and international environment.

For more information about the Student Satisfaction Awards and universities in Belgium, visit the StudyPortals’ country profile. Students who plan to study in Belgium can also choose from almost 400 master’s programs in English, French or Dutch and other diverse bachelor’s programs.