At a glance
12 mo
Duration
6.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
nl
Language
Master's
Level
- 60 studiepunten (ECTS)Study Load
- Focus on national, European, and international taxationScope
- Collaboration with 'Big Four' firms and leading law firmsIndustry Links
- Unique master's thesis formats (e.g., moot court, international paper)Innovative Assessment
- Flexible study options for working professionalsWork-Study Program
- Opportunity to attend exclusive tax seminarsAdditional Learning
The Master in de fiscaliteit (Master of Taxation) provides specialized knowledge in national, European, and international tax law. This program is designed for individuals seeking to deepen their expertise in taxation due to its growing complexity, its role as a political instrument, and its significant impact on businesses and private wealth. The curriculum integrates fiscal knowledge with related fields such as accountancy, company law, social security law, and criminal law, offering a comprehensive understanding of the tax landscape. The program emphasizes a blend of theory and practice, delivered by experienced professors and industry professionals from leading 'Big Four' advisory firms and law firms. Unique learning experiences include practical case studies, international moot court competitions, and the possibility to attend tax seminars. Students can also opt for a work-study program with flexible study arrangements, including web lectures and exam deferrals, to combine their studies with professional commitments.
Curriculum
The study program consists of 60 study points (ECTS). Students can choose from various electives and specialized courses. The program is structured to provide a deep dive into taxation, complemented by related legal and business subjects. A unique aspect is the master's thesis, which can take the form of pleading a tax case, writing a paper with international students, or participating in an international moot court competition.
- Master Year 1
- Crash Course (Weblectures)
- Specialized Tax Courses (National, European, International)
- Related subjects (e.g., Accountancy, Company Law)
- Master's Thesis (e.g., Moot Court, Research Paper)
Careers
Graduates are well-prepared for a wide range of roles within the fiscal domain and beyond. The program equips students with the necessary skills to excel in both public and private sectors, contributing to policy-making, advisory services, and legal practice.
- Tax Advisor
- Tax Lawyer
- Corporate Tax Specialist
- Tax Official/Civil Servant
- Policy Maker
- Academic Researcher
- Lecturer
- Tax Judge
Frequently asked questions
- What are the application deadlines for the Master in de fiscaliteit program?
- The application deadline for non-EEA citizens is March 1, 2026. For EEA citizens and non-EEA citizens holding a Belgian permit, the deadline is June 1, 2026. Recent KU Leuven graduates have a deadline of September 1, 2026.
- What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
- Applicants must achieve an IELTS Academic overall score of 6.5, a TOEFL iBT overall score of 79, or a C1 Advanced/C2 Proficiency from Cambridge English. An exemption is granted for those who completed a prior degree taught entirely in English from specific English-speaking countries.
- What academic qualifications are required for admission?
- You need a master's degree from an institution within the Flemish Community in Belgium. Relevant degrees include Master in de handelsingenieur, Master in de rechten, Master of Business Administration, or similar fields, though other master's degrees may also be considered.
- How much are the tuition fees?
- Tuition fees vary and are subject to annual indexing. You can find the specific amounts using KU Leuven's online tuition fee tool.
- What career opportunities are available after graduating from this program?
- Graduates can pursue roles such as Tax Advisor, Tax Lawyer, Corporate Tax Specialist, Tax Official, or Policy Maker. The program also prepares students for academic research and lecturing.
- Can I pursue a work-study program?
- Yes, the program offers a work-study option with flexible study arrangements, including web lectures and exam deferrals, allowing you to combine studies with professional commitments.
Entry requirements
Master's DegreeA master's degree obtained from an institution within the Flemish Community (Belgium) is required. Relevant prior degrees include Master in de handelsingenieur, Master in de rechten, Master of Business Administration, and similar fields. Other master's degrees may also be considered.
IELTS AcademicOverall score of 6.5 (IELTS One Skill Retake™ scores are not accepted)
TOEFL iBTOverall score of 79 (MyBest™ scores are not accepted)
Cambridge EnglishC1 Advanced (CAE) or C2 Proficiency (CPE)
ITACEC1 or C2 (Only available in Belgium)
Applicants must submit a motivation letter, CV, and academic transcripts for evaluation by the program director. Admission is subject to the program director's approval. An exemption from the English proficiency test is granted to applicants who have obtained a previous diploma in a program taught entirely in English in Australia, English-speaking Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, or the United States of America.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition fees vary and are subject to annual indexing. Specific amounts can be found using KU Leuven's tuition fee tool.
Tuition (home)Tuition fees vary and are subject to annual indexing. Specific amounts can be found using KU Leuven's tuition fee tool.
LivingEstimated living costs are not specified. Prospective students are advised to research typical living expenses in Leuven.
The tuition fee includes the cost of books and social activities. Payment is due two weeks after receiving the invoice; cash and credit card payments are not accepted.
How to apply
1. Check Admission RequirementsEnsure you meet the academic and English language proficiency requirements. Specific requirements for this program can be found on the KU Leuven website.
2. Prepare Application DocumentsGather necessary documents, including your motivation letter, CV, academic transcripts, and proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS or TOEFL scores).
3. Submit Application FileUpload your complete application file (motivation letter, CV, transcripts) via the designated online form. The program director will review your application.
4. Receive ApprovalYou will receive a response from the program director regarding your admission. Only after receiving approval can you proceed with the registration.
5. RegisterComplete your registration as a KU Leuven student. You will receive an invoice for tuition fees, which must be paid within two weeks.
Scholarships
KU Leuven ScholarshipsVaries
Accreditation
The Master in de fiscaliteit is part of the Faculty of Law and Criminology, and its education and research fall under the Institute for Tax Law.
Frequently asked questions
What are the application deadlines for the Master in de fiscaliteit program?
+
The application deadline for non-EEA citizens is March 1, 2026. For EEA citizens and non-EEA citizens holding a Belgian permit, the deadline is June 1, 2026. Recent KU Leuven graduates have a deadline of September 1, 2026.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
+
Applicants must achieve an IELTS Academic overall score of 6.5, a TOEFL iBT overall score of 79, or a C1 Advanced/C2 Proficiency from Cambridge English. An exemption is granted for those who completed a prior degree taught entirely in English from specific English-speaking countries.
What academic qualifications are required for admission?
+
You need a master's degree from an institution within the Flemish Community in Belgium. Relevant degrees include Master in de handelsingenieur, Master in de rechten, Master of Business Administration, or similar fields, though other master's degrees may also be considered.
How much are the tuition fees?
+
Tuition fees vary and are subject to annual indexing. You can find the specific amounts using KU Leuven's online tuition fee tool.
What career opportunities are available after graduating from this program?
+
Graduates can pursue roles such as Tax Advisor, Tax Lawyer, Corporate Tax Specialist, Tax Official, or Policy Maker. The program also prepares students for academic research and lecturing.
Can I pursue a work-study program?
+
Yes, the program offers a work-study option with flexible study arrangements, including web lectures and exam deferrals, allowing you to combine studies with professional commitments.