KU LEUVEN · BELGIUM
Bachelor of Science in Bioscience Engineering
Bachelor's · Taught in nl
At a glance
36 mo
Duration
6.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
nl
Language
Bachelor's
Level
- Strong research focus integrated into Campus GeelResearch Integration
- Opportunities to practice innovation through projects with students, entrepreneurs, and companiesInnovation Hub
- Personalized study guidance and supportStudent Support
- Possibilities for study abroad and international internshipsInternational Opportunities
- Specializations in environmental, plant, animal, or food sciences in the final yearSpecializations
The Bachelor of Science in Bioscience Engineering focuses on biological processes and the mechanisms found in nature. You will explore plant and animal environments, and the production of high-quality, sustainable food within an ecological, green, and liveable world. This program equips you with scientific knowledge and a hands-on approach to make the world more sustainable, greener, and liveable. You will gain a broad scientific foundation in biology, engineering sciences (mathematics, chemistry, physics), and an understanding of societal aspects like sustainability and entrepreneurship.
Curriculum
The first two years of the bachelor's program provide a common foundation, building a broad scientific base. The third year allows for specialization through an elective module.
- Year 1 & 2
- Bioscience for Engineers
- Engineering Sciences (Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics)
- Engineer and the World (Sustainability, Economics, Ethics, Entrepreneurship)
- Engineering Experience (Practical assignments, projects, seminars)
- Year 3
- Elective Module: Applied Environmental Sciences
- Elective Module: Applied Plant Sciences
- Elective Module: Applied Animal Sciences
- Elective Module: Applied Food Sciences
Careers
A bachelor's degree provides a solid foundation but typically prepares you for further master's studies. Upon completing a master's, graduates are prepared for diverse roles in society and can advance into various functions.
- Roles in environmental management
- Roles in agriculture and horticulture
- Roles in food production and quality control
- Roles in animal welfare and management
- Research and development positions
- Technical and advisory roles in sustainable industries
Frequently asked questions
- What are the English language requirements for international students?
- You need a minimum IELTS Academic score of 6.5 overall, or a TOEFL iBT score of 79 overall. Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) with a C1 level or ITACE C1 are also accepted. Proficiency in English must be demonstrated unless your previous diploma was taught in English in specific countries.
- When can I apply for the Bachelor of Science in Bioscience Engineering?
- Applications for the 2026-2027 academic year open on October 16, 2025. The application deadline for non-EEA citizens is March 1, 2026, and for EEA citizens (and non-EEA with a Belgian permit) it is June 1, 2026.
- How much does the tuition cost?
- Tuition fees vary based on your contract type and the number of study points. You can find the exact amounts using the KU Leuven tuition fee tool on their website.
- What will I study in the first two years of the program?
- The first two years provide a common foundation in Bioscience for Engineers, Engineering Sciences (Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics), the Engineer and the World (Sustainability, Economics, Ethics, Entrepreneurship), and the Engineering Experience through practical assignments and projects.
- What are the career prospects after completing this program?
- A bachelor's degree provides a strong foundation, typically preparing you for further master's studies. Graduates can pursue roles in environmental management, agriculture, food production, animal welfare, research and development, and technical advisory positions in sustainable industries.
- Is there a mandatory entrance test?
- Yes, participation in the 'starttoets' (start test) is mandatory for registration. While not binding for admission, failing it requires mandatory remedial courses.
Entry requirements
Flemish secondary education diplomaA diploma with a 'doorstroomfinaliteit' or 'dubbele finaliteit' allows direct entry. Success depends on the alignment of your profile with the program's expectations.
IELTS Academic6.5 minimum overall
TOEFL iBT79 minimum overall
Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE)C1
Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE)C2
ITACE C1Accepted (can only be taken in Belgium)
ITACE C2Accepted (can only be taken in Belgium)
Applicants who have not obtained a previous diploma taught in English in Australia, English-speaking Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, the UK, or the USA must submit an English proficiency test. Specific programs may require higher scores or specific sub-scores. Consult the program's specific admission requirements. Participation in the 'starttoets' (start test) is mandatory for registration, though not binding. Failing the start test requires mandatory remedial courses.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please use the KU Leuven tuition fee tool for exact amounts: https://icts.kuleuven.be/apps/tuitionfees/
Tuition (home)Please use the KU Leuven tuition fee tool for exact amounts: https://icts.kuleuven.be/apps/tuitionfees/
LivingInformation on study and living costs is available at: http://www.kuleuven.be/stuvo/studiekosten/studie-enleefkosten
Tuition fees depend on the type of contract and the number of study points. Payment is by invoice (due within two weeks); cash or credit card payment is not possible.
How to apply
1. Check Admission RequirementsReview the specific admission requirements for the Bachelor of Science in Bioscience Engineering, including academic prerequisites and English language proficiency.
2. Prepare for the Start TestMandatory participation in the 'starttoets' is required. You can prepare with online courses and workshops if needed.
3. Gather Required DocumentsCollect all necessary documents, including academic transcripts, diplomas, and English language test results.
4. Submit ApplicationSubmit your application through the KU Leuven application portal. Note the deadlines for EEA and non-EEA citizens.
5. Await Admission DecisionThe admissions team will review your application.
6. RegistrationUpon acceptance, proceed with the registration process and payment of tuition fees.
Frequently asked questions
What are the English language requirements for international students?
+
You need a minimum IELTS Academic score of 6.5 overall, or a TOEFL iBT score of 79 overall. Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) with a C1 level or ITACE C1 are also accepted. Proficiency in English must be demonstrated unless your previous diploma was taught in English in specific countries.
When can I apply for the Bachelor of Science in Bioscience Engineering?
+
Applications for the 2026-2027 academic year open on October 16, 2025. The application deadline for non-EEA citizens is March 1, 2026, and for EEA citizens (and non-EEA with a Belgian permit) it is June 1, 2026.
How much does the tuition cost?
+
Tuition fees vary based on your contract type and the number of study points. You can find the exact amounts using the KU Leuven tuition fee tool on their website.
What will I study in the first two years of the program?
+
The first two years provide a common foundation in Bioscience for Engineers, Engineering Sciences (Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics), the Engineer and the World (Sustainability, Economics, Ethics, Entrepreneurship), and the Engineering Experience through practical assignments and projects.
What are the career prospects after completing this program?
+
A bachelor's degree provides a strong foundation, typically preparing you for further master's studies. Graduates can pursue roles in environmental management, agriculture, food production, animal welfare, research and development, and technical advisory positions in sustainable industries.
Is there a mandatory entrance test?
+
Yes, participation in the 'starttoets' (start test) is mandatory for registration. While not binding for admission, failing it requires mandatory remedial courses.