If you want to study mechanical engineering in Belgium, you can usually choose between a bachelor's and a master's degree. Belgium has strong engineering schools, and some programmes are taught in English, especially at master's level. The exact rules depend on the university, the language of study, and whether you are applying as an EU or non-EU student.
What mechanical engineering studies look like
Mechanical engineering is about machines, energy, materials, design, manufacturing, and how things move. In Belgium, you will usually find it inside an engineering faculty or school.
- Bachelor's degree - usually 3 years full-time.
- Master's degree - usually 1 to 2 years after a relevant bachelor's.
- Research path - after a master's, some students continue to a PhD.
Not every university offers a full bachelor's in English. Master's programmes are more often available in English. Always check the programme page on the university website.
Typical admission requirements
For a bachelor's, you usually need a secondary school diploma that gives access to university in your country. For a master's, you usually need a bachelor's in mechanical engineering or a closely related field.
- Academic records - transcripts and diploma.
- Math and science background - especially mathematics, physics, and sometimes chemistry.
- Language proof - English for English-taught programmes, or French or Dutch for programmes in those languages.
- Motivation letter - often asked for master's applications.
- CV - common for master's and scholarship applications.
Some universities may ask for extra documents, an entrance test, or a review of your previous courses. If your diploma is from outside Belgium, the university will check whether it is accepted for the level you want.
English-taught options and language
Belgium has three main language regions: Dutch-speaking Flanders, French-speaking Wallonia, and a small German-speaking area. Many engineering programmes are taught in Dutch or French, but English-taught master's programmes are common, especially at larger universities.
- Bachelor's in English - less common.
- Master's in English - more common.
- Language test - IELTS, TOEFL, or another accepted test, depending on the university.
If you want to study in English, check the programme language before you apply. If you choose a Dutch- or French-taught programme, you may need proof of that language before enrolment.
Tuition fees and other costs
Tuition in Belgium is often more affordable than in some other countries, but the price depends on the institution, your nationality, and the programme type. Do not expect one fixed fee for the whole country.
- EU students - tuition is often in a lower range, but exact fees vary by university and region.
- Non-EU students - tuition is often higher, especially for some master's programmes.
- Extra charges - registration fees, student services, or lab-related costs may apply.
For living costs, plan for rent, food, transport, insurance, books, and personal expenses. In many Belgian cities, students often budget roughly a few hundred euros per month for housing and more for larger cities. The best source is the university's cost-of-living page and the city or student housing office.
If you need a visa or residence permit, you may also need to show enough money for living costs. Check the Belgian immigration authority and your local Belgian consulate for the current proof-of-funds rules.
Application timeline and how to start
Start early. Many students begin preparing 6 to 12 months before the programme starts. Some deadlines are earlier for non-EU applicants because of visa time.
- Choose the university and programme.
- Check entry rules, language rules, and the application deadline.
- Collect transcripts, diploma, passport, CV, motivation letter, and language test results.
- Apply online on the university admissions portal.
- If accepted, follow the enrolment steps and, if needed, the visa process.
For visa and residence questions, always use the official national immigration authority and the Belgian embassy or consulate in your country. For academic rules, use the university admissions page.
How universities find candidates
Belgian universities do not only wait for applications. Many admissions offices also search student profiles, especially when they want international students for specific programmes.
- They look for your study field, grades, and language level.
- They may contact students whose profile fits a programme.
- They may use university platforms, fairs, or student databases.
This is why a clear profile can help. If your background matches mechanical engineering, it can make it easier for admissions staff to notice you and contact you first.
Common questions
Can I study mechanical engineering in Belgium in English?
Yes, especially at master's level. Bachelor options in English are less common, so check the programme page carefully.
Do I need to know Dutch or French?
Only if the programme is taught in that language. English-taught programmes usually ask for English proof instead.
How much money should I plan for?
Plan for tuition plus monthly living costs. Exact numbers vary by city, housing type, and university, so check the university's cost page and the official immigration source for visa-related financial proof.
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.
You stay in control, and you do not need to apply for every university one by one before you are visible.
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.