Belgium is a good place to study economics if you want a solid degree in Europe, many English-taught options, and a country with strong links to business and public policy. You can study at bachelor’s or master’s level, but entry rules, language needs, and fees depend on the university and the programme. Always check the university admissions page and, for visa rules, the Belgian immigration authority.
Which economics degrees you can study
Most universities in Belgium offer economics in two main levels:
- Bachelor’s degree - usually 3 years. This is the first full university degree.
- Master’s degree - usually 1 or 2 years. This is for students who already have a bachelor’s degree in economics or a related field.
Some universities also offer related programmes, such as business economics, applied economics, econometrics, or economics and policy. The exact title matters, because entry requirements can be different.
In Belgium, programmes may be taught in Dutch, French, English, or a mix. English-taught options are more common at master’s level, but you can also find some English-taught bachelor’s tracks. Check the programme page before you apply.
Typical entry requirements
Admission depends on the level and the university. You usually need to meet both academic and language requirements.
For a bachelor’s degree, universities often ask for:
- a secondary school diploma that gives access to university in your home country
- good grades in math, because economics uses statistics and quantitative analysis
- proof of English, Dutch, or French, depending on the language of instruction
For a master’s degree, universities often ask for:
- a relevant bachelor’s degree, often in economics, business, management, or a related field
- transcripts showing your courses and grades
- a CV, motivation letter, and sometimes references
- proof of language level
Some programmes may ask for extra subjects, like calculus, statistics, or microeconomics. Others may ask you to take a preparatory or bridging programme if your previous studies do not match closely enough. The admissions office decides this case by case.
Language and English-taught options
If you want to study in English, look for “English-taught” or “taught in English” on the programme page. Many master’s programmes in economics are available in English, especially at larger universities.
You may need to show one of the usual English tests, such as IELTS or TOEFL. Some universities accept other proof, like previous study in English, but this is not automatic. Each university sets its own rules, so do not assume your school diploma is enough.
If you choose a Dutch- or French-taught programme, you may need to prove that you can study in that language. In some cases, universities offer language support or preparatory courses, but you should not count on this unless it is clearly written on the admissions page.
Tuition fees and living costs
Tuition in Belgium is often moderate compared with some other Western European countries, but it still varies a lot by institution, study level, and student status.
As a broad guide:
- EU or EEA students usually pay lower tuition, often in the low hundreds to a few thousand euros per year, depending on the institution and programme.
- Non-EU students often pay more, and the amount can range from a few thousand euros to much higher fees at some universities and special programmes.
Do not use one national number for all universities. Check the programme page and the university’s official fee page for the exact amount.
Living costs also matter. In many Belgian cities, you should plan for rent, food, transport, insurance, books, and personal expenses. A realistic budget is often around a monthly student range that can change by city and housing type. Brussels, Leuven, Ghent, Antwerp, and Liège can all differ. Always use the university’s cost of living guide and local housing page for current estimates.
Application timeline and documents
Most students should start early. A practical timeline is:
- 9 to 12 months before study start - check programmes, language rules, and entry requirements
- 6 to 9 months before - prepare documents and apply
- 3 to 6 months before - wait for a decision, handle housing, and begin visa steps if needed
Common documents include:
- passport or ID
- secondary school diploma or bachelor’s degree
- official transcripts
- language test result, if required
- CV and motivation letter
- sometimes a copy of your course descriptions, references, or a portfolio of extra documents
If you are a non-EU student, you may also need a student visa or residence permit. The rules come from the Belgian immigration authority and the Belgian embassy or consulate in your country. Do not rely on old advice from forums, because visa rules and document checks can change.
How universities find good candidates
Universities do not only wait for random applications. Admissions offices and programme teams also search for students who fit the subject, language level, and degree type they need.
They may look for:
- students with economics, business, maths, statistics, or social science backgrounds
- candidates with a clear interest in data, policy, finance, or international business
- students who already meet the language and academic entry rules
This is why a clear profile matters. If you list your field of interest, current education, grades, language level, and documents in one place, the right university can find you faster. That does not mean admission is guaranteed. It only makes first contact and matching easier.
Common questions
Do I need strong maths for economics?
Usually yes. Many economics programmes include statistics, algebra, calculus, or data analysis. If your maths background is weak, check whether the university offers a preparatory year or bridging course.
Can I study economics in Belgium in English?
Yes, especially at master’s level. Some bachelor’s options also exist. Check the exact programme page because language options differ by university and faculty.
When should I contact the university?
As early as possible, ideally months before the deadline. If your grades, language proof, or previous degree are unusual, ask the admissions office early so you know if you are eligible.
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 opportunities without applying to every university one by one.
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.