BELGIUM · BRUSSELS
Vrije Universiteit Brussel
public · Founded 1970 · Languages: en, nl
In short
Vrije Universiteit Brussel is a public research university in Brussels, Belgium, offering a diverse, international student experience with competitive tuition fees. Its prime location in the European capital provides excellent career prospects and access to EU institutions.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1970
- Students
- 21,000
- International students
- 5,250
- Acceptance rate
- 60%
- Tuition (intl)
- €2–8k/yr
- Languages
- EN, NL
- Location
- Brussels, Belgium
Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) is a public research university in Brussels, Belgium, founded in 1970 on the principles of free inquiry, critical thinking, and humanist engagement. Ranked among Europe's top 300 universities by QS, VUB is particularly strong in photonics, biomedical engineering, law, and social sciences. Its location in the heart of the European capital gives students unique access to EU institutions, international organisations, and one of the world's most diverse job markets. Around 25% of its 21,000 students come from outside Belgium.
Why study here
- Located in Brussels — the de facto capital of the European Union — providing unmatched internship and career opportunities in EU institutions, NGOs, and multinationals.
- Strong research output with close links to imec, a global leader in microelectronics and nanoelectronics research.
- Growing portfolio of English-medium master's programmes, with instruction in both Dutch and English across most faculties.
- Affordable tuition for EEA students (from approx. EUR 1,000/year) and competitive fees for non-EEA students compared to Western European peers.
- Diverse and international student community: ~25% of students from abroad, with dedicated international support services and an active exchange programme.
Student life
VUB's main Etterbeek campus provides on-campus student housing, restaurants, sports halls, and a lively student association scene. The university celebrates an active International Student Day and hosts joint European projects through the EUTOPIA alliance. Brussels itself is one of the world's most multicultural cities, with exceptional public transport, a vibrant cultural scene, world-famous gastronomy, and easy access to other European capitals. Student well-being is a stated institutional priority, and VUB offers counselling, peer mentoring, and a dedicated international student service centre.
Fees
InternationalNon-EEA students pay approximately EUR 2,000–8,000 per year depending on programme and credit load; some nationality categories may qualify for EEA rates.
HomeEEA and Belgian students pay the Flemish statutory tuition fee, typically EUR 960–1,200 per year for most bachelor's and master's programmes.
LivingBrussels living costs are approximately EUR 1,100–1,600 per month covering rent, food, transport, and personal expenses. On-campus housing is available at the Etterbeek campus.
Tuition at VUB is credit-based: a fixed enrolment fee plus a per-credit charge. Flemish Government scholarships can significantly reduce costs for eligible students.
Admissions
Undergraduate entryRecognised secondary school leaving certificate or equivalent; Belgian or international diploma with subject-specific prerequisites depending on faculty
Master's entryBachelor's degree in a relevant field; some programmes require a specific academic background or additional entrance assessment
Language requirementsProof of Dutch or English proficiency depending on programme language of instruction
Document legalisationNon-EU applicants must submit legalised and translated transcripts; Chinese applicants need APS certification
IELTS Academic6.5 overall (English-medium master's programmes)
TOEFL iBT90
Cambridge C1 AdvancedGrade C or above
Rankings
QS World University Rankings 2025295
Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025301
QS Belgium Rankings3
ARWU Academic Ranking of World Universities401
University scholarships
Flemish Government Scholarship (beurs Vlaamse Gemeenschap)Means-tested; can cover full or partial tuition
VUB Doctoral Assistantship (AAP)Full salary + tuition waiver for PhD researchers
FWO Research FellowshipEUR 25,000–30,000/year for doctoral and postdoctoral researchers
VUB Exchange Grant (EUTOPIA/Erasmus+)EUR 200–400/month for outgoing exchange students
Accreditation
VUB is accredited by the Flemish Accreditation Organisation (VLUHR-QA). It is a member of the League of European Research Universities (LERU), the EUTOPIA European University Alliance, and Universitas 21. Medical and health programmes hold relevant Belgian professional accreditations.
Programs
a selectionVrije Universiteit Brussel · Belgium
Bachelor and Master of Science in Physical Education and Movement Sciences / Rehabilitation Sciences and Physiotherapy
The Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) offers Bachelor and Master programs in Physical Education and Movement Sciences, and Rehabilitation Sciences and Physiotherapy. These programs are designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for careers in sports, health, and rehabilitation. The curriculum balances theoretical learning with practical application, preparing graduates for diverse professional roles. The university emphasizes an individual study path approach, allowing students to tailor their education to their specific interests and career goals. Support services are available to assist students in navigating their academic journey and making informed decisions about their course selection.
Bachelor's
Level
€5k
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
Vrije Universiteit Brussel · Belgium
Bachelor of Criminology at Vrije Universiteit Brussel
Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) offers a Bachelor of Criminology program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of crime, criminal behavior, and the justice system. This program equips students with analytical skills and theoretical knowledge necessary to critically examine societal issues related to crime and its prevention. The curriculum focuses on interdisciplinary perspectives, drawing from sociology, psychology, law, and other relevant fields. Students will learn about the causes of crime, the functioning of police, courts, and correctional institutions, as well as contemporary challenges in criminology and criminal justice. The program aims to foster critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, preparing graduates for diverse roles within the field.
Bachelor's
Level
€5k
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
Vrije Universiteit Brussel · Belgium
Bachelor of Psychology: Clinical Psychology Profile
The Bachelor of Psychology program at Vrije Universiteit Brussel offers a specialization in Clinical Psychology. This 3-year program provides a comprehensive understanding of human behavior, mental processes, and the factors influencing psychological well-being. Students will gain foundational knowledge in various subfields of psychology, with a specific focus on the principles and practices of clinical psychology.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
Vrije Universiteit Brussel · Belgium
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science program at Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) offers a comprehensive introduction to the field, equipping students with fundamental knowledge and practical skills. The curriculum is designed to provide a strong theoretical foundation while also emphasizing hands-on experience with modern computing technologies. Students will explore various aspects of computer science, preparing them for advanced studies or direct entry into the tech industry. This program focuses on developing analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities. You will learn to design, implement, and analyze software systems, gaining insights into algorithms, data structures, and computational theory. The university environment encourages personal development alongside academic learning, offering opportunities for extracurricular activities and personal growth.
Bachelor's
Level
€5k
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
Vrije Universiteit Brussel · Belgium
Bachelor of Science in Social Sciences
The Bachelor of Science in Social Sciences provides a foundational understanding of societal structures, human behavior, and social issues. This program equips students with the analytical skills to examine complex social phenomena, develop research methodologies, and contribute to addressing societal challenges. It offers a broad perspective across various social science disciplines.
Bachelor's
Level
€5k
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
Vrije Universiteit Brussel · Belgium
Bachelor of Social Sciences
The Bachelor of Social Sciences program at Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of societal structures, human behavior, and social issues. The program focuses on developing critical thinking and analytical skills to examine complex social phenomena from various perspectives. Students will engage with core concepts in sociology, political science, and anthropology, learning to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations. The curriculum emphasizes research methodologies and data analysis, equipping graduates with the tools to conduct independent social research. This program is ideal for students interested in understanding and contributing to positive social change.
Bachelor's
Level
€5k
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
Scholarships
for Belgium
partial fundingKU Leuven
KU Leuven ASEAN Scholarship
For students from ASEAN member countries applying for an eligible master's programme at KU Leuven, with an excellent academic record. The scholarship is merit-based; you apply for it in connection with your master's admission to KU Leuven, by the relevant deadline.
partial
Funding
€30k
Max
Feb 1, 2027
Deadline
full fundingVLIR-UOS (Flemish Interuniversity Council – University Development Cooperation)
VLIR-UOS ICP Connect Scholarships
For students from a defined list of developing countries applying to one of the eligible International Course Programmes (ICP) master's at Flemish (Belgian) universities and university colleges. Applicants usually need relevant academic and/or professional background and apply directly to the chosen ICP programme.
full
Funding
€18k
Max
Feb 1, 2027
Deadline
partial fundingGhent University (funded by the Government of Flanders)
Ghent University Master Mind Scholarship
Open to incoming international master's students of all nationalities at Ghent University who hold a minimum CGPA of 3.5 out of 4.0 and can provide evidence of English language proficiency. A bank statement is not required for the visa application. The scholarship is funded by the Government of Flanders and is awarded to top international applicants enrolling in an English-taught master's programme.
partial
Funding
€10k
Max
Feb 28, 2027
Deadline
partial fundingKU Leuven — Faculty of Science
Science@Leuven Scholarship
For international students with a strong academic record who are admitted to a master's programme in the Faculty of Science at KU Leuven. The scholarship is awarded at several levels (full and partial) and is renewable for the second year only if the holder passes all credits and maintains the required academic results.
partial
Funding
€10k
Max
Feb 15, 2027
Deadline
full fundingFlemish Ministry of Education and Training
Master Mind Scholarships (Flanders, Belgium)
Open to international students of all nationalities applying to a Master's programme at a participating Flemish university or university college in Belgium. Applicants must hold a strong academic record, meet the English language requirement through IELTS, TOEFL, or a university exemption letter, and apply to the host institution before its internal deadline. The host university preselects candidates and submits the complete application through the Mobility-Online portal; late submissions are not accepted.
full
Funding
€10k
Max
Apr 27, 2027
Deadline
full fundingGovernment of Flanders (Flemish Ministry of Education and Training)
Government of Flanders Master Mind Scholarships
Open to international students of all nationalities except Russian nationals, who must apply through a participating Flemish host institution rather than directly. Candidates need strong academic performance (typically a GPA around 3.5 out of 4.0) and English proficiency of at least IELTS 7.0 or TOEFL 94 (lower for Schools of Arts). Previous degrees must be obtained outside Flanders, and each applicant can be nominated by only one Flemish institution.
full
Funding
€10k
Max
Apr 28, 2027
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for international students at Vrije Universiteit Brussel?
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Non-EEA students can expect to pay approximately EUR 2,000–8,000 per year, depending on the specific program and the number of credits taken. EEA and Belgian students typically pay a lower statutory fee of EUR 960–1,200 annually.
What are the living costs for students in Brussels?
+
Estimated living costs in Brussels range from EUR 1,100 to EUR 1,600 per month. This estimate covers essential expenses such as rent, food, transportation, and personal expenditures.
What are Vrije Universiteit Brussel's rankings?
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Vrije Universiteit Brussel is ranked among Europe's top universities. It is listed at 295 by QS World University Rankings 2025 and 401 by ARWU Academic Ranking of World Universities.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for master's programs?
+
For admission to English-medium master's programmes, applicants typically need an IELTS Academic score of 6.5, a TOEFL iBT score of 90, or a Cambridge C1 Advanced with a grade of C or above.
What makes Vrije Universiteit Brussel unique for international students?
+
VUB's location in Brussels, the de facto capital of the EU, offers unparalleled internship and career opportunities. The university also boasts a strong research focus, especially in photonics and biomedical engineering, and a diverse student community.
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