Studying dentistry in Belgium is possible, but it is competitive and the rules depend on the region and university. Most programmes are in the local language, and entry often starts with a strong science background and a careful application process.
What dentistry studies look like in Belgium
In Belgium, dentistry is usually taught as a long university path that combines science, clinical work and supervised practice. You should expect a bachelor and master structure, followed by the steps needed for professional recognition if you want to work as a dentist.
- Bachelor level - usually the first study stage.
- Master level - where clinical training becomes more advanced.
- Professional practice - may require extra registration rules after graduation.
The exact structure can differ between universities. Always check the programme page of the university you want to apply to.
Language and study options
Most dentistry programmes in Belgium are taught in Dutch or French. English-taught full dentistry programmes are rare, so do not assume you can study the whole degree in English.
If you are an international student, the language requirement is one of the first things to check. Universities usually ask for proof of the programme language, such as a recognised test or previous study in that language.
- Check whether the programme is in Dutch, French or another language.
- Look for the minimum language level on the admissions page.
- Ask whether preparatory language courses are available.
Typical admission requirements
Admission is usually based on your secondary school diploma, your science background and, in some cases, an entrance exam or selection process. Dentistry is a demanding field, so universities often expect strong grades in biology, chemistry and sometimes physics or maths.
If you studied outside Belgium, your diploma may need to be recognised. The process depends on the region and institution, so check the university admissions page and the official recognition authority for foreign qualifications.
- Secondary school diploma that gives access to university study.
- Strong marks in science subjects.
- Language proof for the teaching language.
- Possible entrance test or selection rules.
- Certified translations or legalised documents, if requested.
Some applicants also need to meet nationality or residency rules for certain programmes. These rules can change, so always read the current admissions information carefully.
Tuition and other costs
Tuition in Belgium is usually lower than in many other Western European countries, but the exact amount depends on your status, the university and the programme. EU and EEA students often pay a lower fee than non-EU students, but the difference is not the same everywhere.
Rather than guessing a number, check the programme page for the current tuition fee. Universities usually publish separate rates for home, EU and non-EU students, and some fees are charged per academic year or per credit.
You should also plan for other costs:
- Books and study materials.
- Health insurance.
- Residence permit or visa costs, if you need one.
- Lab or clinical fees, if listed by the university.
Living costs in Belgium
Your living costs depend on the city, housing type and your lifestyle. Brussels, Leuven, Ghent, Antwerp and other student cities can all be different.
A realistic student budget often includes rent, food, transport, phone costs and personal expenses. Many students need to budget carefully for housing, because this is often the biggest monthly cost.
- Shared room or student housing is often cheaper than a studio.
- Public transport can reduce daily travel costs.
- Health insurance may be required depending on your situation.
For a current estimate, check the university housing page and the Belgian official information for international students and immigration.
How to apply and when to start
Start early. For a competitive programme like dentistry, you should begin at least 8 to 12 months before the intake you want. That gives you time to check language rules, prepare documents and handle diploma recognition if needed.
A simple timeline looks like this:
- 12 months before - check entry rules and language requirements.
- 9 to 10 months before - prepare transcripts, diploma copies and translations.
- 6 to 8 months before - submit the application if the university is open for it.
- Later - arrange housing, visa or residence steps if needed.
Deadlines vary by university and by applicant type. Never rely on old forum posts or social media. Use the university admissions page and the national immigration authority for visa or residence rules.
After admission: what to check next
Once you receive an offer, read the next steps carefully. You may need to confirm your place, pay an enrolment fee, show original documents and complete visa or residence procedures if you are from outside the EU.
If your goal is to practise dentistry later, also check the rules for degree recognition and professional registration in Belgium. These can be separate from university admission.
- Confirm your enrolment on time.
- Check visa or residence permit steps with the official immigration authority.
- Keep copies of all academic and identity documents.
- Ask the university about clinical placement rules.
Common questions
Can I study dentistry in Belgium in English?
Usually not as a full degree. Most dentistry programmes are in Dutch or French. Check the official programme page for the teaching language and any language test requirement.
Do I need an entrance exam?
Sometimes yes, depending on the university and the region. Dentistry can have extra selection or access rules. The university admissions page is the best place to check the current process.
How much should I budget?
Plan for tuition plus living costs, not only tuition. Fees can differ for EU and non-EU students, and rent can be a major cost. Use the university fee page and student housing page for a current estimate.
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 you time if you want universities to contact you about programmes that match your background.
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.