Studying in Belgium

Application Steps

1. University AdmissionA Turkish high school diploma (12 years) is accepted directly in Belgium. Flemish region (KU Leuven, UGent, UAntwerpen): direct application to the university. French-speaking region (UCLouvain, ULB, ULiège): application through the Académie de Recherche channel. For some capped programmes (Medicine, Dentistry) the Aanmeldingsprocedure (Flemish) or Concours d'admission (French) exam is mandatory.
2. Proof of Financial MeansProof of €782 per month for living costs (€9,384 per year) via a bank account + sponsor letter. Some municipalities and universities may ask for additional proof. For parents: Belgium's position on the EU border (2-3 hours to the Netherlands, Germany and France) is a social security advantage.
3. Health InsuranceRegistration with the Belgian statutory health insurance (Mutualité or Ziekenfonds) is mandatory. Student rate of €15-50 per month (linked to social security). The Turkish SGK is not valid in Belgium. The EU EHIC card covers emergencies for up to 90 days.
4. Visa Application (Type D)Type D national visa through the Istanbul/Ankara Consulate or VFS Global. Fee €230 (high!). Documents: acceptance letter + proof of finances + insurance + language proficiency (Flemish C1 / French C1 / English IELTS 6.5+) + apostilled diploma + criminal record certificate. Processing time 4-8 weeks.
5. Residence Permit (Carte A)Registration at the municipality (commune) is mandatory within 8 days of arrival in Belgium. The municipality issues the Carte A student residence permit (annual fee of €25-100 depending on the municipality). It is renewed every year. The Carte A grants permission for part-time work of 20 hours per week (during term) + full-time (during holidays).