Belgium is a strong place to study international relations if you want politics, diplomacy, EU affairs, and global studies in one place. You can usually find both bachelor's and master's options, including some English-taught programmes. The exact rules and costs depend on the university, the language of study, and your nationality.
What you can study
International relations is often offered as part of political science, European studies, international politics, or global affairs. Some schools offer a full degree in international relations, while others use a related title.
- Bachelor's level - more common in Dutch or French, with some English options or mixed programmes.
- Master's level - more common in English, especially in Brussels and other university cities.
- Specialisations - EU policy, diplomacy, security, conflict, development, and global governance.
Always check the programme page of each university. Programme names and language options can change from year to year.
Typical entry requirements
For a bachelor's, universities usually ask for a secondary school diploma that is accepted in Belgium. For a master's, you usually need a relevant bachelor's degree, often in political science, international relations, law, history, economics, or a similar field.
- Academic record - grades matter, especially for master's entry.
- Language proof - if the programme is in English, you may need IELTS, TOEFL, or another accepted test.
- Motivation letter - often required for master's study.
- CV - common for master's applications.
- Extra documents - passport copy, transcripts, diploma, and sometimes course descriptions.
If your previous education was not in the needed language, the university may ask for proof of Dutch, French, or English. Check the admissions page of the university and, if needed, the national recognition authority for diploma questions.
English-taught options and language
Many international students choose English-taught master's programmes in Belgium. Some bachelor's programmes also offer English tracks, but they are less common than master's options.
Even if your course is in English, daily life may be in Dutch, French, or both, depending on the region. Brussels is often the easiest place to find international environments, but each university has its own rules.
- Check whether the full programme is in English or only some courses.
- Look for the required English test score on the programme page.
- Ask whether internships or exchanges need extra language skills.
Tuition and living costs
Tuition in Belgium is usually moderate compared with some other study destinations, but the exact amount depends on the university, level, and your status. EU students often pay lower tuition than non-EU students, while some universities use the same fee for all students.
- EU students - tuition is often in a lower public-university range, but check the exact fee on the programme page.
- Non-EU students - tuition is often higher, sometimes clearly higher than the EU rate.
- Private or specialised schools - fees can be much higher than public universities.
For living costs, plan for rent, food, transport, insurance, books, and personal expenses. A realistic monthly budget in Belgian student cities is often in the mid-hundreds of euros and can be higher in Brussels or if you rent alone.
- Shared room or student housing is usually cheaper than a private studio.
- Food and transport can add a lot to your monthly budget.
- Health insurance and registration costs may also apply.
Use the university's cost page and city rental websites to make your own budget. For visa-related financial proof, check the Belgian immigration authority.
Timeline and application steps
Start early. For many programmes, you should begin 6 to 12 months before the start date, especially if you need a visa or diploma recognition.
- First step - choose the degree and check if it is bachelor's or master's.
- Second step - confirm the language, entry rules, and document list.
- Third step - prepare your diploma, transcripts, language test, passport, CV, and motivation letter.
- Fourth step - apply through the university's admissions system.
- Fifth step - after admission, follow the residence permit or visa steps with the Belgian authorities if you need them.
Deadlines can differ a lot. Some programmes close early, especially for non-EU applicants, scholarships, or competitive master's tracks. Check the university admissions page and the programme page for the current dates.
How universities find candidates
Universities do not only wait for direct applications. They also search student profiles, attend fairs, and use admissions networks to find suitable candidates.
- They look for students with the right field, grades, and language level.
- They often search by country, education level, and programme interest.
- They may contact students directly if their profile matches a programme.
This can help if you have a clear profile and documents ready. It does not replace an application, but it can help you get noticed sooner.
Common questions
Can I study international relations in Belgium in English?
Yes, often at master's level and sometimes in parts of bachelor's study. Check the university's programme page for the exact language of instruction.
Do I need a political science background?
Not always. Some master's programmes prefer related subjects, but others accept students from law, economics, history, or social sciences. The admissions page will say what they accept.
How do I know if my diploma is accepted?
Ask the university first, then check the Belgian recognition or immigration authority if needed. Do not guess, because accepted diplomas can depend on your country and the level of study.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level and documents, and admissions offices that search for exactly that can find you and write first.
This can save time and help you compare options before you apply.
Rules, fees and deadlines change. Check the university's own admissions page and the official immigration site of the country before you act on anything here.