Belgium is a top destination for international students passionate about high-quality education and research. Known for its prestigious institutions and welcoming academic environment, this European nation invites students worldwide to explore its enriching educational landscape. The best part? Many scholarships in Belgium eliminate the need for IELTS, removing barriers for a broader range of students and making Belgium a more accessible study destination.
Offering a diverse range of fully and partially funded scholarships, Belgian universities support talented students through various programs, from merit-based awards to financial aid initiatives. The flexibility on language requirements, especially the IELTS exemption for numerous scholarships, makes Belgium an inclusive academic hub for students from all backgrounds. These scholarships aim to nurture talents while freeing students from financial burdens, enabling them to focus on personal and academic growth.
Students seeking to study in Europe cost-effectively will find Belgium a rewarding choice with robust scholarship opportunities. With its supportive scholarship structure and rich academic offerings, Belgium promises a vibrant, globally connected educational experience for students who wish to make their mark on the world.
List of Belgium Universities:
- KU Leuven – Katholieke Universiteit Leuven
- Ghent University
- Université catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain)
- University of Antwerp
- Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB)
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB)
- Université de Liège (ULiège)
- Hasselt University
- University of Mons
- Saint-Louis University, Brussels
Alternative English Tests to Study in Belgium without IELTS 2025:
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
- Widely accepted across Belgian universities, TOEFL is a recognized alternative to IELTS.
- Test Format: Internet-based (TOEFL iBT) and paper-based formats.
- Accepted Score Range: Universities typically require scores between 80 and 100 on the TOEFL iBT.
PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English)
- PTE Academic is another common alternative to IELTS for many Belgian institutions.
- Test Format: Computer-based, focusing on real-life English skills.
- Accepted Score Range: Generally, Belgian universities accept scores ranging from 58 to 73.
Cambridge English Exams (C1 Advanced, C2 Proficiency)
- Cambridge exams are highly regarded and accepted by universities for proof of English proficiency.
- Test Format: Both computer and paper-based options are available.
- Accepted Score Range: C1 Advanced (Grade B or above) or C2 Proficiency (Grade C or above) is typically required.
Duolingo English Test
- Increasingly accepted by some universities, the Duolingo English Test offers a convenient and cost-effective option.
- Test Format: Online, can be taken from home, with quick results.
- Accepted Score Range: Many universities accept scores around 105 to 120.
University-Based Language Assessments
- Some universities in Belgium offer their own language proficiency tests, which may be taken instead of IELTS.
- Test Format: Varies by institution, often conducted online or on campus.
- Accepted Score Range: Universities set their own passing criteria.
Scholarships in Belgium for International Students:
1. ARES Scholarships 2025-26 in Belgium
- Type: Fully Funded
- Host Country: Belgium
- Host University: ARES partner institutions in Belgium
- Scholarship Coverage: Tuition fees, travel costs, housing, insurance, monthly stipend
- Program Level: Advanced Bachelor’s, Master’s, and training courses
- For more details visit ARES Scholarships 2025-26 in Belgium
2. Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships 2025
- Type: Fully Funded
- Host Country: Belgium
- Host University: Ghent University
- Scholarship Coverage: Tuition fees, travel costs, insurance, monthly stipend
- Program Level: PhD programs
For more details visit Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships 2025
3. KU Leuven Scholarship 2025 in Belgium
- Type: Fully Funded or Partially Funded (varies by program)
- Host Country: Belgium
- Host University: KU Leuven
- Scholarship Coverage: Tuition fees, health insurance, living expenses (dependent on specific scholarship program)
- Program Level: Master’s and PhD programs
- For more details visit KU Leuven Scholarship 2025 in Belgium
4. Master Mind Scholarships 2025 in Belgium
- Type: Partially Funded
- Host Country: Belgium
- Host Universities: Participating Flemish institutions
- Scholarship Coverage: €8,400 per year and a tuition fee waiver
- Program Level: Master’s programs
- For more details visit Master Mind Scholarships In Belgium
How to Study in Belgium Without IELTS?
- Research Language Alternatives: Look for universities with no IELTS requirement, or those accepting other tests like TOEFL or conducting in-house assessments.
- Prior Academic Instruction: If your previous education was in English, some universities may waive the language requirement.
- Pre-Sessional Language Courses: Certain universities offer language prep courses, which can exempt you from IELTS upon completion.
- Demonstrate Language Proficiency: Highlight language skills in motivation letters or interviews, as some universities assess proficiency this way.
- Direct Communication: Contact university admissions to clarify requirements and explore alternative pathways.
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