Application strategy
Most bachelor's programmes are taught in Dutch — non-Dutch-speakers should target English-taught master's programmes, where international intake is concentrated. UGent recognises IB and A-Levels for entry; AP alone is generally insufficient. Life-science, bioengineering, veterinary and biotech tracks are the standout draws; PhD/research applicants should look for VIB-affiliated groups. Check Flemish scholarship schemes (incl. VLIR-UOS and faculty/Master's grants) and the non-EU tuition tier early, as fees and deadlines vary by programme.
Who fits
- Master's/PhD students in life sciences, bioengineering, plant/food science or biotechnology
- Aspiring veterinarians seeking a top-10 by-subject European programme
- EU/EEA students wanting a top research university at very low tuition
- Dutch-speaking undergraduates (incl. from the Netherlands) wanting a strong, affordable degree
- Researchers wanting proximity to the VIB biotech cluster and EU funding networks
Who should think twice
- International undergraduates who cannot study in Dutch
- Applicants prioritising a globally famous brand name or top-50 world rank
- Students wanting a US-style large-campus or heavily English-taught undergraduate experience
- Those needing extensive English-medium bachelor's options
- Applicants seeking a private, high-touch, small-cohort liberal-arts model
Visa and application system in Belgium
- Student visa / post-study work: Student residence permit; 12-month 'search year' (zoekjaar / année de recherche) post-study job-seeking permit for non-EU graduates
- Application system: Direct to each university; Dutch-medium (Flanders) or French-medium (Wallonia/Brussels) bachelor's, with English-taught master's the main international route