medical education in belgium

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Studying medicine in Belgium

Belgium is not only known for its beautiful cities and delicious waffles, but also as an attractive destination for a holiday. Studying medicine abroad . Especially for those who do not have a perfect A-level average, it is worth taking a look at the medical universities in our beautiful neighbouring country.

Are you interested in studying medicine abroad? We are happy to advise you free of charge about the possibility of studying medicine abroad. futuredoctor supports you in obtaining a place to study medicine at over 19 universities in 9 countries.

The advantages of studying medicine in Belgium

If you speak French and/or Dutch, or at least have an affinity for the language and would like to learn it, then you can fulfil your dream of studying medicine in our neighbouring country. Three decisive factors that speak in favour of studying medicine in Belgium:

NC-free study programme in Belgium

In Germany, you can almost write off a medical degree programme if your A-level average is not excellent. This is not the case in Belgium! Here you can take a selection test for your Medical study place qualify and study abroad.

Studying medicine in Belgium: High quality education

Belgian universities and colleges are highly regarded throughout Europe. The university education of the students is of very high quality and at the cutting edge of medical research.

Low tuition fees

Belgium's public universities do not charge tuition fees for a place at university, not even for foreign students. Only semester fees are charged, but these are very low compared to other European countries and the waiting time is short.

Study medicine abroad with futuredoctor

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Advantages at a glance:

EU-wide recognised qualifications
Study in English or German
> 95% Success rate
> 1,000 study places allocated

From the selection of universities and support in the application process to orientation and finding accommodation - we are at your side.

At which universities can you study medicine in Belgium?

The Belgian medical universities offer medical studies in French or Dutch for the winter semester. Here you can find some information about the most popular medical universities:

Katholieke Universiteit Leuven (KU Leuven)

At the Katholieke University in Leuven, the Bachelor's and Master's degree programmes in Medicine are offered in Dutch. Here, particular emphasis is placed on ensuring that students build up a solid theoretical foundation but can also put their knowledge into practice. This initially takes place in small course groups and is then continued in co-operating teaching hospitals.

The medieval city of Leuven is located around 25 kilometres east of Brussels and offers a lively student scene thanks to its numerous bars, restaurants and cafés.

University of Antwerp, Belgium

The medical degree programme at the University of Antwerp is offered in Dutch. Parts of the programme are also taught in English. The medical faculty is particularly characterised by its highly qualified teaching staff. The professors often work in hospitals themselves or have their own practices. Teaching takes place in modern lecture theatres on the green campus in the Flanders region.

Vrije Universiteit Brussel (Université Libre de Bruxelles Faculté de Médecine)

At the Université Libre de Bruxelles, the human medicine programme is offered in French. One of the special features is the practice-orientated training. Numerous laboratories and cooperating hospitals are available to students for this purpose.

Socialising is very important on the medical campus. With numerous green spaces, meeting places, sports facilities, a student house and a modern library, you have the opportunity to quickly connect with your fellow students.

Université de Liège Faculté de Médecine, Liège (Belgium)

The University of Liège offers a 3-year Bachelor's degree programme in Medicine. The language of instruction is French. Well-trained teaching staff will teach you the basics of medicine in modern teaching facilities.

The university also offers a wide range of cultural, sports and leisure activities. Whether climbing, rowing, dancing or ball sports - there are numerous opportunities to burn off energy and socialise after lectures.

What are the requirements for studying medicine in Belgium?

The admission requirements differ slightly between the individual universities, especially between French and Dutch-speaking universities. However, all universities require a high school diploma and grades play a subordinate role.

If you only have a vocational baccalaureate, you don't have to give up your dream: In some countries, you can Study medicine with a vocational baccalaureate .

For admission to a medical university that teaches in Dutch, you must take an entrance exam. This is also known as the "toelatingexamen arts and tandarts" and takes place twice a year. The content of the test consists of around 120 questions in Dutch relating to the natural sciences and general knowledge. Logical skills are also tested with an IQ test and interpersonal skills with a psychological assessment.

At French-speaking universities, very good French language skills are required for the Medicine degree programme. You should be able to prove this for your degree programme by means of a language certificate. These include, for example, DELF, DALF or the TCF.

How is the medical degree programme in Belgium structured?

How long does it take to study medicine in Belgium? The medical degree programme in Belgium is divided into a Bachelor's and a Master's degree programme. It therefore differs slightly from the structure in Germany. As a rule, the degree programme lasts six years. In Germany this would be 12 semesters, but in Belgium one academic year is divided into 3 quadrimestres. Normally, the first quadrimestre begins in mid-September, while the second quadrimestre lasts from February to the end of June. The third quadrimestre corresponds to the German semester break and runs from July to mid-September.

During your Bachelor's degree programme, you will be introduced to the structure and function of the body. This part of the degree programme is dominated by scientific subjects such as biochemistry and physics.

The subsequent Master's programme consists of modules that cover the individual specialist areas of medicine. These include, for example Surgery , orthopaedics, Gynaecology or anaesthesia. You will learn how to recognise and treat the various diseases in these areas. Parallel to the lectures, there are always practical exercises and bedside tests. After each module, there are several final module examinations to test your knowledge.

The third year of the Master's programme is the "stagejaar", comparable to the practical year in Germany. During this year, you support the medical team on various hospital wards or in doctors' surgeries to gain important practical skills that you cannot learn on the degree programmes.

At the end of your degree programme, you must write a Master's thesis in an area of your choice. The final grade of your degree will determine which subject area you can specialise in afterwards.

However, this should not restrict your plans too much, as you can also do your specialist training in Germany. Medical studies in Belgium are recognised both in Germany and in other EU countries.

How much does it cost to study medicine in Belgium?

To give you your Financing medical studies abroad In order to be able to make this decision, it is necessary to carefully consider the costs involved. The costs of studying medicine are relatively favourable compared to other European countries. Universities only charge semester fees of between 400 and 800 euros. You should allow 40 euros for the entrance test.

The cost of living in Belgium varies according to lifestyle and place of residence, but is generally comparable to the costs in Germany. This means that you can budget between 500 and 800 euros for monthly rent and just under 200 to 300 euros for food. Other expenses include leisure activities, transport and study materials, so you should expect to spend between 800 and 1,500 euros. Financing options would be, for example, a student job or a Scholarship for studying medicine abroad.

Country and people: What you didn't know about Belgium

Medieval Belgium: Belgium's historic cities are among the best preserved in Europe. Cities such as Bruges and Ghent are also known as "living museums" and their beautiful architecture attracts countless tourists every year.

Capital of the EU Belgium is a founding member of the EU and also serves as its headquarters. Brussels is home to all the important institutions of the European Union, such as the seat of the European Parliament and the European Court of Justice.

Small country with many languages Although Belgium is a comparatively small country, it has three different language communities. The official languages in Belgium are Dutch, French and German. The languages are distributed regionally, with Dutch being spoken mainly in the north (Flanders), French in the south (Wallonia) and German in the east (East Belgium). Many of Belgium's inhabitants are therefore multilingual.

What should I bear in mind when applying to study medicine in Belgium?

Medical studies in Belgium usually begin in the winter semester. You should therefore start preparing your documents in good time. In addition to your school-leaving certificate, this includes a language certificate or the result of your entrance test, for example. You then submit these documents within the Application deadlines to your chosen Belgian university. futuredoctor will be happy to support you in this process.

Are you ready to realise your dream of studying medicine in Belgium? Contact us today and start your journey with futuredoctor. We look forward to accompanying you on your journey and working with you to realise your dream of a career in medicine.

Do you live in the west of Germany and don't want to commute long distances? Then take a look at the following neighbouring countries: Medical studies France , Medical studies Netherlands , Medical studies Luxembourg .

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Frequently asked questions

FAQs about studying medicine in Belgium

What are the advantages of studying medicine in belgium.

The advantages include an NC-free degree programme, high-quality education at renowned universities and low tuition fees.

Which universities in Belgium offer a medical degree programme?

Well-known universities include the Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Universiteit Antwerpen, Vrije Universiteit Brussel and Université de Liège.

What requirements do I have to fulfil to study medicine in Belgium?

A high school diploma is required, although grades are less important. Language skills in French or Dutch as well as passing entrance examinations are also necessary.

How is the medical degree programme structured in Belgium?

The course is divided into a six-year Bachelor's and Master's programme, with a combination of theoretical teaching and practical experience.

Tuition fees are between 400 and 800 euros per semester, plus living costs and other expenses.

How do I apply to study medicine in Belgium?

Applications must be submitted with a school-leaving certificate, language certificate and results of the entrance test within the deadlines set by the respective university.

Is studying medicine in Belgium internationally recognised?

Yes, the Belgian medical degree is recognised in Germany and other EU countries.

Can I start my medical studies in Belgium with a specialised baccalaureate?

Yes, in some cases it is possible to study medicine with a vocational baccalaureate, but the exact conditions vary depending on the university.

What language skills do I need for the degree programme?

A good knowledge of French or Dutch is required, depending on the language of instruction at the respective university. A language certificate can serve as proof.

30 countries for your medical studies

Czech republic.

Pilsen, Brno, Prague, Olomouc

Medical studies in the Czech Republic

Budapest, Pecs, Szeged

Bratislava, Martin, Kashaw

Medical studies Slovakia

Medical studies Croatia

Studying medicine in Latvia

Poznan, Krakow, Szczecin, Wroclaw, Lodz, Lublin, Bialystok

Timisoara, Cluj

Medical studies in Romania

Leuven, Antwerp, Brussels

Marseille, Bordeaux, Paris, Montpellier, Lyon, Grenoble

Great Britain

Oxford, Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Cambridge, Manchester

The Netherlands

Groningen, Maastricht, Amsterdam, Leiden, Utrecht, Rotterdam

Switzerland

Basel, Fribourg, Berne, Geneva, Zurich, Neuchâtel, Lausanne

Vienna, Graz, Linz, Innsbruck, Salzburg, Krems

Bologna, Turin, Rome, Milan, Bari, Naples, Padua, Pavia

Ioannina, Patras, Volos, Komotini

Lund, Uppsala, Örebro, Stockholm, Gothenburg, Umea

Istanbul, Izmir, Ankara

Bergen, Oslo, Tromso

Studying medicine in Norway

Galway, Dublin, Cork, Limerick

Helsinki, Turku, Tampere, Oulu, Kuopio

Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia

Lisbon, Porto, Coimbra, Faro, Braga

Victoria, Msida, Gzira

Copenhagen, Aalborg, Odense, Aarhus

Bosnia-Herzegovina

Sarajevo, Mostar

Varna, Sofia, Pleven, Plovdiv

Studying medicine in Bulgaria

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Home » Study Medical » Study medicine in Belgium in English

Earn Your Medical Degree in English at a Belgian University

Belgium, with its rich cultural heritage and high standards of education, has become an attractive destination for international students pursuing a medical degree. One of the unique advantages of choosing to study medicine in Belgium is the availability of programs taught in English. This makes it an appealing option for students from various parts of the world who seek a top-tier medical education without the language barrier.

Several prestigious universities in Belgium offer medical programs in English, including the University of Ghent, the Catholic University of Leuven (KU Leuven), and the University of Liège. These institutions are renowned for their rigorous academic standards, cutting-edge research, and comprehensive clinical training. By opting to study medicine in Belgium, students benefit from an education system that emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for their medical careers.

Studying medicine in Belgium also provides students with access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources. Belgian universities are equipped with modern laboratories, advanced medical technology, and extensive research opportunities. The integration of practical experience into the curriculum is a key feature of Belgian medical education, allowing students to gain hands-on experience and develop clinical competencies early in their training.

Moreover, Belgium’s strategic location in the heart of Europe offers students the chance to experience a multicultural environment. The country’s diverse population and international outlook enrich the educational experience, providing students with a broader perspective on global healthcare practices. By choosing to study medicine in Belgium, students immerse themselves in a vibrant and dynamic society, fostering both personal and professional growth.

How Much Does It Cost to Study Medicine in Belgium?

When considering studying medicine abroad, understanding the cost is a critical factor for prospective students and their families. The cost to study medicine in Belgium is relatively moderate compared to other Western European countries, making it an attractive option for those seeking high-quality education without exorbitant expenses.

Tuition fees for medical programs in Belgium vary depending on the university and the student’s nationality. For EU/EEA students, the annual tuition fees are generally lower due to subsidies provided by the Belgian government. On average, EU/EEA students can expect to pay between €800 and €4,000 per year for a medical program. This affordability makes studying medicine in Belgium an accessible option for students from these regions.

For non-EU/EEA students, the tuition fees are higher but still competitive compared to other top medical schools worldwide. Non-EU/EEA students can expect to pay between €4,000 and €9,000 per year, depending on the university and the specific medical program. For instance, the University of Ghent charges approximately €5,500 per year for its medical program for non-EU/EEA students.

In addition to tuition fees, students should also consider other costs such as living expenses, study materials, health insurance, and personal expenses. The cost of living in Belgium is moderate compared to other Western European countries. On average, students should budget between €800 and €1,200 per month to cover accommodation, food, transportation, and other daily expenses. Many Belgian universities also offer scholarships and financial aid to help international students manage these costs.

Despite these expenses, the overall cost of studying medicine in Belgium remains a sound investment. The high-quality education, excellent facilities, and strong support system provided by Belgian universities ensure that students receive a top-tier medical education, which is recognized and valued globally.

How Long Is Medical School in Belgium?

The pathway to becoming a doctor in Belgium is well-structured and comprehensive, designed to ensure that graduates are thoroughly prepared for medical practice. The duration to study medicine in Belgium and become a licensed doctor typically spans a minimum of six years, divided into three main phases: the Bachelor’s phase, the Master’s phase, and postgraduate training or residency.

The first phase is the Bachelor’s program, which lasts for three years. During this period, students focus on foundational medical sciences such as anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and pathology. The curriculum also includes courses on medical ethics, communication skills, and public health. By choosing to study medicine in Belgium, students engage in an education system that emphasizes a strong theoretical foundation combined with practical learning experiences.

The second phase is the Master’s program, which also spans three years. This phase is more clinically oriented, involving extensive practical training and internships in various medical specialties. Students spend significant time in hospitals and clinics, gaining hands-on experience under the supervision of experienced doctors. This practical training is crucial for developing the clinical skills and competence needed for medical practice. Belgian universities are known for their high standards in clinical training, ensuring that students are well-prepared for real-world medical scenarios.

After completing the six years of undergraduate and graduate medical education, students must pass a comprehensive examination to obtain their medical degree. However, becoming a fully licensed doctor requires additional postgraduate training. This phase, known as residency, typically lasts between three and six years, depending on the chosen specialty. During residency, doctors-in-training work in hospitals, gaining specialized knowledge and skills in their area of interest.

For example, specialties like general practice or internal medicine may require three to four years of residency training, while more specialized fields such as surgery or cardiology can take up to six years. By choosing to study medicine in Belgium, students commit to a rigorous and extensive training process that equips them with the expertise required to excel in their medical careers.

Is Belgium Good for International Students?

Belgium is an increasingly popular destination for international students, and for good reason. The country’s commitment to high-quality education, combined with its rich cultural diversity and strategic location, makes it an ideal choice for students from around the world. By choosing to study medicine in Belgium, international students benefit from a range of advantages that enhance both their academic and personal experiences.

One of the key factors that make Belgium an attractive destination for international students is the quality of education. Belgian universities are renowned for their rigorous academic standards, innovative teaching methods, and extensive research opportunities. By studying medicine in Belgium, students gain access to world-class education and training, preparing them for successful careers in the medical field.

Moreover, Belgium’s multicultural environment offers international students a unique opportunity to experience diverse cultures and perspectives. The country is home to three official languages—Dutch, French, and German—and its central location in Europe makes it a hub for international travel and exchange. This cultural richness is reflected in the university campuses, where students from different backgrounds come together to learn and share experiences.

Belgium is also known for its high quality of life, with a safe and welcoming environment for international students. The country’s efficient public transportation system, excellent healthcare services, and vibrant social scene contribute to a positive living experience. Many Belgian cities, such as Brussels, Antwerp, and Ghent, offer a dynamic mix of historical charm and modern amenities, providing students with plenty of opportunities for exploration and recreation.

In addition to academic and cultural advantages, Belgian universities offer strong support systems for international students. Many institutions have dedicated international offices that provide assistance with everything from visa applications to finding accommodation and adjusting to life in Belgium. Scholarships and financial aid programs are also available to help students manage the cost of studying abroad.

In conclusion, studying medicine in Belgium offers numerous benefits, including high-quality education, affordable tuition fees, and a multicultural environment. Whether you choose to study at the University of Ghent, KU Leuven, or another esteemed institution, you can be assured of a comprehensive and enriching educational experience. With its well-structured medical programs, strong emphasis on practical training, and supportive environment, Belgium provides an ideal setting for aspiring doctors to achieve their professional goals. By choosing to study medicine in Belgium, students embark on a journey that prepares them for a successful and fulfilling career in the medical field.

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