Education Belgium

Choosing an Educational Institution

In Belgium, parents have the freedom to choose a school or kindergarten, but there are certain registration priorities, such as having siblings already attending the institution or being school staff. You can choose a school near your home or prefer another institution, such as one with a special educational focus.

 

Registration and Enrollment

The registration process may begin at different times depending on the educational institution. Usually, registration for kindergarten or primary school takes place a year before the start of the academic year. In some regions, initial registration at the chosen school is needed, followed by enrollment confirmation. If there are not enough places at the selected school, the child may be placed on a waiting list.

 

Documents and Admission Criteria

To enroll, you'll need documents proving the child's identity and evidence of residence in the relevant area, if required. An important condition for admission is the parents' agreement with the school's educational project and rules.

 

Specific Requirements

In some regions, such as the German-speaking community in Belgium, schools are required to accept all children residing in the municipality if it is the nearest school. If the child or parents do not speak the local language, many schools offer support programs, such as Dutch or French language courses for newcomers.

 

The Process During the Academic Year

If you need to enroll a child in school or kindergarten during the academic year, it's important to check the availability of places in advance. In some cases, schools must follow a chronological order of applications.

 

International and Private Schools

If you prefer an international or private school, pay attention to the different approaches to education and the level of fees. Enrollment processes in such schools may differ, and it's important to clarify all conditions in advance.

 

Permission to Refuse

In rare cases, a school may refuse to admit a child, for example, if it is overcrowded or if the child does not meet the criteria for admission to the chosen class. In such cases, parents have the right to appeal.

 

Most schools and municipalities provide detailed registration information on their websites and are ready to assist if necessary.

 

For additional information, please refer to the official sources of the region where you plan to reside: Flanders (https://www.vlaanderen.be), Wallonia (https://portail-wallonie.valid.wallonie.be), Brussels (https://www.brussel.be), German-speaking Community (https://www.ostbelgienbildung.be).

Mandatory Health Insurance

   - Basic Coverage: In Belgium, all residents are required to register with one of the recognized mutual health funds that administer mandatory health insurance. These funds operate on a non-profit basis and cover most medical expenses, including doctor visits, hospitalization, laboratory tests, and partly medication purchases.

   - Mandatory Contributions: Contributions for mandatory health insurance are automatically deducted from salaries or income, totaling around 13.07% of earnings (shared between employee and employer). These contributions provide basic coverage for most medical services.

 

Supplementary Health Insurance

   - Expanded Coverage: In addition to mandatory health insurance, many Belgians purchase supplementary health insurance, which covers expenses not included in basic insurance. This can include services such as dentistry, orthodontics, physiotherapy, improved hospital conditions, as well as alternative treatment methods.

   - Private Insurers: Supplementary insurance is offered by both mutual funds and private insurance companies. Policies can be tailored to individual needs and vary in cost and scope of coverage.

 

Hospitalization Insurance

   - Hospitalization Policies: This is a separate type of supplementary insurance that covers hospitalization expenses, including hospital stay costs, surgeries, and other related expenses. Hospitalization insurance can be included in corporate packages for employees or purchased individually.

 

Social Benefits and Contribution Exemption

   - Contribution Exemption: Certain categories of citizens, such as those with low incomes or chronic illnesses, are eligible for exemption from mandatory health insurance contributions or significant reductions. This allows these populations to access necessary medical care without financial barriers.

   - Access to Preferential Programs: The government also provides preferential programs that cover additional expenses for low-income populations, including children, retirees, and people with disabilities.

 

Popular insurance companies: AG Insurance, AXA Belgium, Ethias, DKV Belgium, Allianz Belgium.

In Belgium, there are many kindergartens and schools offering instruction in foreign languages, making the country attractive for international families. These educational institutions are most often represented as international schools that offer instruction in English, French, German, and other languages.

 

International Schools and Kindergartens

 

English-Language Schools: In Brussels and other major cities in Belgium, there are schools following the British education system or the International Baccalaureate program. These schools, such as the British School of Brussels and St. John’s International School, offer full immersion in English from an early age, starting from kindergarten to senior classes.

 

Bilingual Schools: These schools offer instruction in two languages, usually English and French. For example, at the British School of Brussels, there is a program where instruction alternates between these languages. Other schools, such as Tutti Frutti School, also offer bilingual education with an emphasis on active teaching methods.

 

French-Language Schools: In Brussels, there are also schools, such as Lycée Français Jean Monnet, that follow the French national education system and provide instruction in French with enhanced English study.

 

Schools with Other Foreign Programs: Some international schools offer instruction in their countries' languages, such as German, Japanese, or Spanish. For instance, there is a Japanese school in Brussels that follows the Japanese education system.

 

Advantages of International Schools

 

Choosing an international school allows children to immerse themselves in a multicultural environment and learn several languages, which is especially important for families planning relocations or aiming to provide their children with an international education. In such schools, in addition to language skills, great attention is paid to cultural adaptation and preparation for studying in universities worldwide.

 

For more detailed information about specific schools and programs, you can refer to the websites of these educational institutions or use directories such as International Schools in Brussels.

Public Educational Institutions

 

Availability and Cost: Education in public schools and kindergartens in Belgium is free, making them accessible to all families. However, additional expenses may arise for educational materials, excursions, and school uniforms.

 

Curriculum: Public schools follow the official programs approved by regional educational departments and offer education in the language of the respective community (French, Dutch, or German). Schools emphasize studying the second state language from an early age.

 

Social Integration: Since public schools serve the local population, attending such schools promotes the social and cultural integration of children. This is especially beneficial for immigrants who want their children to be well-integrated into the local community.

 

Disadvantages: Disadvantages of public schools include possible funding issues, which may limit the number of extracurricular activities and the availability of additional services for children with special educational needs. There is also high competition for spots in popular schools, which can lead to long waiting lists.

 

Private and International Schools

 

Cost: Private schools, including international ones, charge tuition fees, and the cost can vary significantly depending on the school and program. In some cases, the fee may be partially or fully covered by the employer, especially for expatriate children.

 

Curriculum and Language of Instruction: International schools offer a variety of curricula, such as British, American, French, and International Baccalaureate. Education is usually conducted in English; however, many schools offer bilingual education (for example, English and French).

 

Flexibility and Choice: Private schools often provide a more flexible approach to education, with a greater selection of electives and additional programs. This may include more creative and innovative teaching methods, such as Montessori and Steiner approaches.

 

Diploma Recognition: It's important to consider that diplomas obtained at international schools are generally recognized worldwide, which can be advantageous for children whose families frequently move from one country to another.

 

Social Environment: International schools often serve children from various cultures and countries, creating a multinational and multicultural environment. This can be beneficial for children who will continue to study or work in an international setting.

 

Some examples of popular public and private schools among locals and expatriates in Belgium:

 

Popular Public Schools

 

Athénée Royal d'Ixelles (Brussels): The school offers quality education in French; known for its academic achievements and diverse extracurricular programs.

 

Koninklijk Atheneum Antwerpen (Antwerp): One of the leading schools in Antwerp, offers education in Dutch; provides a wide range of academic and cultural programs, making it popular among students.

 

Collège Saint-Michel (Brussels): Located in the Etterbeek district, the school offers primary and secondary education programs in French; known for its strong academic focus and active community involvement.

 

Popular Private and International Schools

 

British School of Brussels (BSB): An international school located near Brussels, offers education based on the British system from kindergarten to high school; known for its high standards of education and excellent sports and cultural programs.

 

St. John’s International School (Waterloo): Founded in 1964, the school offers education through the International Baccalaureate program and is one of the most prestigious international schools in Belgium.

 

European School of Brussels (Uccle): One of several European schools in Brussels, offering programs in multiple languages, including English, French, Dutch, and German; specializes in multilingual education and is aimed at children of European institutions' employees.

 

Lycée Français Jean Monnet (Brussels): A French international school, offering education through the French national program with an emphasis on foreign language study; popular among the French community and other expatriates living in Brussels.

 

These schools represent just a small part of the educational institutions available in Belgium, but they are among the most well-known and respected by both locals and international families. The choice between public and private schools depends on family preferences, language preferences, and educational goals.

In Belgium, the education system offers several options for supporting children with special needs, aiming to provide them with access to quality education and social inclusion.

 

Main forms of support:

 

Special schools: Belgium has a developed network of special schools for children with special educational needs. These schools offer individualized education taking into account the physical, mental, and behavioral characteristics of children. Depending on the child's needs, parents can choose between integrated learning in a regular school with support or a specialized school better suited to their needs.

 

Integrated education (Inclusive education): Within the framework of inclusive education, children with special needs can study in ordinary schools with additional support. In this case, the school and specialized centers develop an individual educational program and provide necessary services, including specialized education, therapy, and other types of support.

 

M-decree (Flanders): In Flanders, there is the so-called M-decree, which aims to integrate children with special needs into regular schools. This law ensures access to additional resources and support so that children can participate in the learning process on par with other students. However, this process can be complex and depends on diagnosis and agreement with parents.

 

Consultation centers: These centers play a key role in supporting children with special needs. They assist in diagnosis, development of individual educational plans, and coordination between schools and families.

 

Overall, the Belgian education system offers numerous options for supporting children with special needs, but it is important to consider regional differences and available resources when choosing the right educational path for your child.

Integration programs for children

 

Classes for newly arrived children

   In Flanders and Brussels, there are special integration classes for children who do not speak Dutch. These classes are intended for children aged 12 to 18 and focus on rapid language acquisition so that children can integrate into regular classes as soon as possible. Similar programs are available in other regions of the country in French and German languages.

 

Dutch, French, and German language courses

   In different parts of Belgium, language learning courses are available for children and adults. In Brussels and Flanders, Dutch language courses are offered by such institutions as Huis van het Nederlands in Brussels and Agentschap Integratie en Inburgering in Flanders. In Wallonia, French language courses are offered by local integration centers.

 

Social orientation and cultural integration

   As part of integration programs, a social orientation course is also conducted, where newly arrived children and their parents learn about life in Belgium, the education system, rights and responsibilities, as well as the culture and traditions of the country. These courses are often conducted in multiple languages to facilitate understanding of the material.

After-school groups

 

Most Belgian schools have after-school groups designed for children to stay at school after classes until their parents arrive. These groups offer a variety of activities such as games, reading, and creative tasks.

 

Clubs and societies

 

Various clubs and societies are available for children where they can engage in sports, music, arts, languages, and other activities. For example, the Culture Kids platform offers a wide range of programs, including music lessons, cooking workshops, and outdoor activities. These activities help children develop their talents and interests in an engaging way.

 

Camps

 

During school holidays in Belgium, various children's camps are organized. These camps can be sports, creative, language, or science-oriented. For example, in Brussels and other cities, camps are organized by local municipalities and associations. They offer a wide choice of programs that help children discover new hobbies and make friends.

 

Sports camps and sections

 

For children interested in sports, various sports camps and sections are offered, conducted both during the school year and holidays. These camps are often organized by sports clubs or universities. Here, children can engage in different sports, from football to gymnastics.

 

Organization and accessibility

 

Registration for clubs and camps can occur through schools as well as municipal or private organizations. Many events are subsidized by the government, making them accessible to a wide range of families. Participation in some programs may require pre-registration, especially if it involves popular clubs or camps.

The grading system in Belgium varies depending on the level of education and region, but there are some common characteristics throughout the country.

 

School education

In schools, a ten-point or twenty-point grading scale is generally used. In most cases, a pass mark is 10/20. Grades below 10 are considered unsatisfactory and may mean the need to retake the course or year.

 

Primary and secondary education:

   - Twenty-point grading scale: In Belgian primary and secondary schools, grades are usually given on a scale from 0 to 20. A grade of 10/20 is the minimum pass mark.

   - Moving to the next grade: Students undergo regular checks and exams to determine if they can move to the next grade. Grade repetition is allowed, and it does not carry a social stigma.

 

Intermediate and final grades:

   - Intermediate grades are issued based on work throughout the school year, and final grades are based on exam results. Depending on the school and region, class participation and homework completion may also be graded.

   - Exams and tests: These grades are considered when determining the final grade for the year.

 

Higher education

In universities and higher education institutions, the grading system is also based on a scale from 0 to 20. Key points:

- Pass mark: Usually, a minimum of 10 out of 20 points is required for a course to be considered passed.

- Distinction levels: For high results, there is a recognition system with distinction, where 15-16 points indicate "Magna cum laude" and 17-18 points indicate "Summa cum laude".

- Grade conversion: In some cases, grades may be converted to the ECTS system, which is used for student grading in Europe.

 

Regional differences

Depending on the region (Flanders, Wallonia, Brussels), there may be some differences in grading approaches, but the main principles remain similar.

To enter a university in Belgium, foreign students must meet a number of requirements, which may vary slightly depending on the university and study program.

 

Academic documents

For admission to bachelor's programs, it is necessary to provide a secondary education certificate recognized as equivalent to the Belgian certificate. For master's programs, a bachelor's degree recognized in Belgium is required. Foreign diplomas must be legalized and, if necessary, translated into one of the official languages of Belgium (French, Dutch, German) or into English.

 

Language Requirements

Depending on the chosen program and the language of instruction, students may need to provide proof of proficiency in the relevant language. For example, for programs in English, an IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent certificate is usually required. For programs in French, Dutch, or German, appropriate language certificates may be required.

 

Application Process

Applications are usually submitted online through university systems. The required documents include academic certificates, language certificates, a copy of the passport, and possibly additional documents such as motivation letters or recommendations. The application must be submitted by the established deadline, which may vary depending on the program and the student's citizenship (e.g., for students from countries outside the EEA, the deadline may be earlier).

 

Additional Requirements

Some programs, especially in the field of business or engineering, may require additional exams such as the GRE or GMAT, particularly for students from outside the European Economic Area (EEA).

 

Admission and Visa Issues

After successful admission, the student receives a letter of admission, which is necessary for applying for a student visa. This letter may also be needed to obtain scholarships and find housing.

 

Depending on the university and program, there may be additional specific requirements, so it is important to familiarize yourself with the information on the official university websites.

 

 

Popular Majors

In recent years, there has been an increase in the popularity of several majors in Belgian universities, reflecting global labor market trends, technological developments, and the changing needs of society: Information Technology and Computer Science; Engineering Sciences; Business and Economics; Medicine and Related Fields; Environmental and Sustainable Technologies; Psychology. These areas reflect both global trends and local labor market needs in Belgium, making them attractive for students looking for a successful career and opportunities for professional growth.

 

Belgium has several universities recognized internationally and ranked among the top educational institutions in the world.

 

Katholieke Universiteit Leuven: One of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Europe; it ranks high in international rankings, especially in the fields of humanities, engineering, and medicine.

 

Université Catholique de Louvain: The university is known for its programs in the fields of social sciences, economics, and medicine.

 

Universiteit Gent: Ranked in the top 150 universities in the world and renowned for its research in science and engineering.

 

Université Libre de Bruxelles: One of the leading universities in Brussels, known for its strong programs in law, political science, and economics.

 

Vrije Universiteit Brussel: An English-speaking university located in Brussels; it is marked by its programs in engineering, business, and communications.

 

Université de Liège: The university is known for its programs in natural sciences and medicine.

 

Université de Namur: The university offers quality programs in humanities, law, and economics.

 

Université de Mons: Mons University is known for its engineering programs and research in materials science.

 

Hasselt University: A relatively young university but holds a high reputation due to its programs in medicine, science, and management.

 

Antwerp Management School: This business school affiliated with the University of Antwerp ranks high in international business school rankings and offers MBA, Master's, and Doctoral programs.

To enroll in a university in Belgium with a foreign diploma or certificate, it is necessary to undergo a validation (equivalence) procedure for these documents. This process ensures that your education obtained outside Belgium is recognized as equivalent to local Belgian education.

 

Stages of Foreign Diploma Recognition:

 

1. Diploma Equivalence 

   - Brussels-Wallonia Federation: If you plan to study in French in Wallonia or Brussels, you need to contact the equivalence service of the Brussels-Wallonia Federation. They will determine whether your foreign diploma meets the Belgian standard of secondary education. The application for equivalence must be submitted by a specific date, which may vary depending on the chosen program.

   - Flanders: For admission to universities in Flanders (Dutch-language programs), the diploma equivalence process is handled by NARIC-Vlaanderen. This service is responsible for recognizing foreign educational qualifications and issuing the corresponding certificates.

 

Required Documents

   - Legalized diploma: You will need to provide a legalized diploma and its translation into one of the official languages of Belgium (French, Dutch, German) or English. The translation must be done by a certified translator.

   - Academic transcripts: It is important to provide official academic transcripts indicating all the courses taken during studies and their grades. These documents must also be legalized and translated.

   - Additional documents: Depending on the university or program, additional documents may be required, such as a motivation letter, recommendations, or language test results (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS for English-language programs).

 

Submission Procedure

   - Documents are submitted online through the university system. Once the document package is sent, the review process will begin. This process can take several months, so it's important to start preparing in advance.

   - Application deadlines: Each educational institution sets its deadlines for applications. For students from countries outside the European Economic Area, deadlines may be earlier than for students from EEA countries.

 

Outcome and Enrollment

   - After successfully completing the equivalence and application process, the university issues an admission letter. This letter is required to obtain a student visa and final admission to the university.

 

The diploma recognition process is an important step for admission to a university in Belgium and requires a careful approach to collecting and submitting documents.

 

Useful Links:

- Brussels-Wallonia Federation Equivalence Service (https://www.equivalences.cfwb.be) (in French).

- NARIC-Vlaanderen (https://www.naricvlaanderen.be) for diploma equivalence in Flanders (in Dutch).

In Belgium, the adult education system offers a wide range of additional courses and programs aimed at improving professional skills, language learning, and personal development. These programs are available for both locals and immigrants, providing an opportunity to expand knowledge and increase qualifications.

Language Courses

   - Flemish Community (Flanders): In Flanders, there are numerous Dutch language courses for adults, such as those offered by Huis van het Nederlands in Brussels and other major cities. These courses are intended for immigrants who wish to integrate into the local community and improve their language skills for work and communication.

   - French-speaking Community (Wallonia and Brussels): In Wallonia and Brussels, French language courses are organized by Forem and Bruxelles Formation. These courses include both basic and advanced levels, as well as specialized programs such as business French.

Professional Training

   - Professional courses and retraining programs: In Belgium, there are many vocational training centers, such as VDAB in Flanders and Forem in Wallonia. These centers offer courses in various fields, such as IT, engineering, healthcare, management, marketing, and many others. Courses can be either short-term or long-term, with the possibility of obtaining certificates recognized in the labor market.

   - Alternative learning (distance learning and evening courses): Many educational institutions offer evening courses and distance learning, allowing adults to combine work with education. This can include both general educational programs and specialized courses for skill enhancement.

 

Personal Development Programs

   - Soft Skills Development Courses: As part of adult programs, courses for developing soft skills are also offered, such as time management, leadership, communication skills, and teamwork. These courses are popular among those who wish to improve their professional competencies and personal qualities.

   - Lifelong Learning: In Belgium, the concept of lifelong learning is actively promoted, reflected in the availability of numerous courses and seminars for adults who wish to develop in new areas and keep their knowledge up-to-date.

How to Enroll in Courses

You can enroll in courses through the websites of relevant organizations or through universities and other educational institutions offering programs for adults.