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Vrije Universiteit Brussel Admissions 2025: Application Deadline, Requirements & Costs

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Dark Clock Icon Last updated on 30 Sep '25

Vrije Universiteit Brussel Admissions
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Some of the common Vrije University Brussels application deadlines for international students are given below:

  • Undergraduate courses: Apr 1, 2025(tentative)
  • Postgraduate courses: Apr 1, 2025(tentative)
  • Doctoral/PhD courses: No deadline

Vrije Universiteit Brussel Admission Overview 2026

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Vrije Universiteit Brussel Courses: Eligibility and Fees 2025

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Vrije Universiteit Brussel Admission Process 2026

Vrije Universiteit Brussel MS Admissions 2026

18 courses 1 year - 2 years
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1L - 5.2L

iconEligibility Criteria

  • Undergraduate Degree with 70% aggregate
  • Accepting Exams: IELTS, TOEFL, GRE

Vrije Universiteit Brussel Application Process 2026

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Vrije Universiteit Brussel
Students Ratings & Reviews

4.7/5
Verified Icon5 Verified ReviewsInfo Icon
Student Views (Based on Reviews)
  • 80% students never faced discrimination in this university
Vibe of Campus
Academically oriented
Multi-dimensional
Friendly
Liberal
Internships5
Part time work4
Post study jobs4.6
Quality of faculty4.8
Student Life4.8
Value for money5
Public transportation5
Safety4.8
Indian Food4.8
Permanent Immigration4.2
A
AnonymousVerified Icon
Master of Science in Communication Studies: Journalism and Media in Europe - Batch of 2020
4.8
Good experience. I was able to secure job with post study visa.
Tips: Everything is good, but learning the local language is very important for job prospects. Also, an internship during study time would help a lot. The quality of education is very high. Lots of indian students on campus. Good experience. Would recommend.
Total Monthly ExpenseEuro 700
Prepping time for classes15 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryEuro 35075
Reviewed on 30 Sep 2025Read more
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K
Komal Yadav Verified Icon
Master of Science in Molecular Biology - Batch of 2022
4.9
Excellent student facilities and opportunities to grow.
Tips: I absolutely loved the student culture in Brussels, which allows you to be independent, self-reliant and responsible in a conducive environment, fostering individual growth and encouraging merit-based opportunities. Anyone hoping to make a career in life sciences should sincerely consider this beautiful option. I am quite satisfied with the beautiful education that Belgium offered me at the VUB. Our professors put in serious efforts to make our classes productive and infuse research-based learning from their own works, too. It's a rigorous curriculum. It will always be special.
Likes (Student Life): The classes used to take up most of the time. On some days, the classes would start at 7:30 and would continue until 6 in the evening, in practical sessions. There are orientation events for new students joining the campus with fun activities. There are also various student groups/ volunteer groups that you may join.
Dislikes (Part time work): Part-time work opportunities are available, and your student visa allows for 20 hours per week. However, the course curriculum is extensive, so you barely have time for regular part-time jobs. There are student jobs, odd jobs, nanny jobs, etc., which pay 10 to 20 euros per hour.
Total Monthly ExpenseEuro 750
Prepping time for classes20 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryEuro 33000
Reviewed on 15 Sep 2025Read more
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P
PLABITA BHUYAN Verified Icon
Master of Science in Geography - Batch of 2026
4.8
A globally enriching and career-ready experience at VUB.
Tips: Before joining Vrije Universiteit Brussel, students should know that while courses are taught in English, the main spoken languages here are Dutch and French. Learning the basics of either can be very helpful, especially when looking for part-time jobs, as opportunities may be limited for those who only speak English. I didn't experience a major cultural shift after arriving. In fact, I truly enjoyed embracing the local celebrations and multicultural atmosphere. I was fortunate to receive a merit-based scholarship of 10,000 euros annually for my master's in geography, awarded based on my graduation CGPA and academic performance. The programme offers in-depth knowledge and practical insight into geography, which is a strong foundation for future career growth. The professors are supportive, and the learning environment is research-oriented and intellectually stimulating. One of the aspects I appreciate most about living in Brussels is its excellent public transportation system. It's efficient and well-connected, not just within the city but also to many neighbouring countries, making travel easy and convenient. Academically, I am very satisfied with my university and course.
Likes (Post study jobs): There are many companies in Belgium that offer post-study job opportunities and sponsor visas for international graduates. The job roles and salary packages vary depending on the chosen field. For example, geography students may find roles in GIS, environmental consulting, urban planning, or climate research. Starting salaries generally range from 2500-4000 per month. The job market is especially promising for those with specialised or in-demand skills.
Dislikes (Part time work): While many job opportunities prefer Dutch or French speakers, there are also off-campus opportunities for English speakers. On-campus jobs are available too, but English-only roles are fewer. Part-time work is manageable with studies, as students typically work up to 3 hours per day on weekdays and weekends, and most stores are closed on Sundays. The average pay ranges from 13 to 15 euros per hour.
Total Monthly ExpenseEuro 150
Prepping time for classes36 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryEuro 65500
Reviewed on 23 Apr 2025Read more
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P
Prashant Kadam Verified Icon
Master of Science (MSc) in Management - Batch of 2019
4.3
From small town to global vision.
Tips: I found the cultural difference between India and Belgium is quite striking, especially coming from a small town in India. However, enrolling in a Dutch language class helped in smooth integration and also meeting other international students helps as well. Experienced a steep learning curve at the start while adapting to new weather conditions, food, and communication style. Learning to cook and doing everything by myself while taking on a challenging academic pursuit changed me completely. I secured "ICAR-International Fellowship", which is 1800 euros per month, which was quite generous, covering all of my expenses. It's a competitive fellowship offered by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, New Delhi. While applying, you need to have secured a promoter/advisor from the University abroad and a tentative 3-year research plan. Then comes an interview round. You need to present your research plan, methods, collaborations, impact, and timeline in 30 to 40 minutes, including questions and answers. I am extremely satisfied with the VUB, as there is freedom of expression, novelty in research, and it helped me build not just my career, but overall personality and life. Brussels, being in the heart of Europe, gave me exposure to many countries, cultures, and complexities. It truly helped me build my worldview.
Likes (Internships): Internships are a great way to get hands-on experience and a better understanding of the theoretical knowledge you gain at university. They're also a great way to network and impress potential employers, which can boost your chances of getting your next job or another opportunity.
Dislikes (Permanent Immigration): Permanent immigration/settlement option is getting difficult every passing year due to a rise in political fiction. As a non-European citizen, there is a 5 year rule in place in Belgium. During these 5 years, applicants should show language proficiency such as Dutch, French, or German level up to B1 level (it was A2 until March/April 2025). Moreover, social integration course and economic contribution through paying taxes (40% taxes in Belgium). However, as a student one does not pay taxes, therefore the authority consider the time spent as a student as a half, while accounting it towards a 5-year rule. For example, it takes 5 years to complete a Ph.D, thus, the authority took it as 2.5 years, and you have to work for another 2.5 years before you can be eligible to apply for permanent residence. It is definitely possible, but very challenging.
Total Monthly ExpenseEuro 1950
Prepping time for classes15 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryEuro 65750
Reviewed on 18 Apr 2025Read more
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A
AnonymousVerified Icon
Master of Science in Photonics Engineering - Batch of 2022
4.7
Vrije Universiteit Brussel has many on-campus part-time opportunities for students.
Tips: There are on-campus jobs available in the library, faculty, restaurant, and bar. You are limited to 20 hours per week. The rate of pay depends on which job you have. If you get a degree in engineering, you can look for opportunities in Flanders and Brussels. There, companies are willing to sponsor visas for qualified professionals, and they will pay industry-standard salaries. If you like any course, feel free to apply. I received a scholarship from the Department of Photonics Engineering. It was 10,000 per year. Overall, I am very satisfied with the university, the course and the country.
Total Monthly ExpenseEuro 1500
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryEuro 26400
Reviewed on 24 Feb 2025Read more
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Vrije Universiteit Brussel Admission FAQs

Q:   How much is the application fee for Vrije Universiteit Brussel?
A: 

The application fee for Vrije University Brussels is € 50. The University has distinct application procedures for Undergraduates and postgraduates. Students must adhere to the specific application process and submit the corresponding fees accordingly. Following and checking the official website is very important to avoid last-minute confusion

Q:   What is the admission deadlines for international students at VUB?
A: 

The University has various different intakes depending on the level of study. Applicants must meet the deadline and requirements. Below are the Vrije University Brussels application deadline for international students for the 2025 intake: 

  • Undergraduate courses: October 

  • Postgraduate courses: September 

  • Doctoral/PhD courses: No Deadliine

  • Foreign Diploma: April 

Q:   How long does VUB take to send admission offers?
A: 

Vrije University Brussels starts screening the candidate application as soon as the applicants has correctly submitted their application (before the deadline), submitted all required documents and paid the application fee. The Student Administration at VUB will handles the academic screening of a candidate's application, along with other departments involved and this process can take up to 10 weeks. Candidates will be notified via e-mail as soon as the decision has been made. If the candidate's application is accepted, they will receive a conditional letter of acceptance and this can be used to start visa application by international applicants.

Q:   What are the VUB entry requirements for undergraduate courses?
A: 

Listed below are the VUB entry requirements for undergraduate courses:

  • Secondary School Diploma or Secondary School Credentials;
  • ID card (front and back) or passport;
  • Recent picture;
  • High school Diploma (if the candidate is in their final year, an enrolment certificate including the expected date of graduation and the official title of the Diploma they will obtain);
  • Transcript of records;
  • Proof of English language proficiency; and
  • Motivation letter (only applicable for students with a secondary degree).

 

Q:   What is the application process at Vrije University Brussels?
A: 

Below is the application process for Vrije University Brussels:

As the first step of the application process, you can apply through the official application portal. 

Now, you should go to the website and select the course you are interested in.

Then, by going through the website, you should ensure that you meet all the Entry requirements (Such as Academic qualifications and English proficiency, etc.)

 Step 4: Once you decide on the course, submit the required documents such as SOP, Transcripts and personal statements.  

 Step 5: You can track the application's progress through the official   portal. 

Step 6: After you apply, if the applicants get selected, then the person will be offered the offer letter from Vrije Brussels University. 

Q:   What is the TOEFL requirement for Vrije Universiteit Brussel?
A: 

The University accepts various English requirements, and TOEFL is one of the accepted English tests. Below are the TOEFL requirements for Vrije University Brussels:

English Proficiency Exam

Minimum Score Requirement

TOEFL  (Test of English as a Foreign Language) Internet based

79 & Above






Q:   Does VUB offer scholarships for international students?
A: 

Yes, Vrije Universiteit Brussels provides several scholarship oppotunities to their students which offer grants at different levels of study, from Bachelor to Academic staff, and in various regions, for long and short stays. Some of the scholarships available for international students at VUB are:

1) Erasmus Mundus Scholarships 4Cities:

At VUB, approximately 20 Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJMD) scholarships are offered each year. All students who apply for 4CITIES are automatically considered for a scholarship. EMJMD scholarships are good for two years (maximum 24 months) and provide the following:

  • Full coverage of all participation fees:
    • 4500 EUR per year for Programme Country nationals
    • 9000 EUR per year for Partner Country nationals
  • Subsistence costs:
    • 1000 EUR per month for both Programme and Partner Country nationals
  • Travel & installation costs:
    • 2000 EUR per year plus one-time 1000 EUR for installation costs for Partner Country nationals whose main residence is less than 4000 km from the EMMC coordinating HEI (Brussels)
    • 3000 EUR per year plus one-time 1000 EUR for installation costs for Partner Country nationals whose main residence is located more than 4000 km from the EMMC coordinating HEI (Brussels)

2) Master Mind:

  • Fixed amount: €9.600 per academic year

  • Tuition fee waiver: Tuition fee is limited to amount paid by Flemish scholarship student.

  • Duration (in months or weeks): Duration of the Master programme (if 2-year Master: second year conditional).

3) Scholarship for Masters of Science in Photonics Engineering:

Each year Vrije University Brussels grants several? full scholarships of 10,000 EUR per academic year? for the Master of Science in Photonics Engineering programme based on? excellence, technical knowledge and motivation. Every international student applying at VUB is eligible for these scholarships? no separate procedure must? be followed. Each scholarship amounts to 10,000 EUR per academic year covering the cost of living and studying in Brussels.

4) REI Scholarships:

REI Scholarships are granted for stays of at least one month in one of the 37 partner countries in Africa, Latin America or Asia. Candidates can always submit an application during the current academic year.

5) Erasmus + Key Action 1:

The EU programme 'Erasmus+ Key Action 1' offers individual students the opportunity to study abroad for a period of 3-12 months for studies or 2-12 months for a traineeship. Students can undertake this mobility at Bachelor, Master and Doctoral level for a max. total of 12 months per study cycle. 

Q:   What are the requirements for a Master of Science in Chemical and Materials Engineering from Vrije University Brussels?
A: 

Below are the requirements for applicants wanting to register for Master of Science in Chemical and Materials Engineering Sciences:

  1. Applicants must have a Bachelor’s degree in engineering Sciences of at least three years, or consisting of at least 180 ECTS credits or equivalent (Such as 130 US credits or sem)

  2. Applicants must have an overall degree GPA of a minimum of 3 out of 4. 

  3. International students should have a minimum score of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale

  4. Applicants must also meet the following English Language Requirements:

English Language Test

Minimum score

TOEFL 

With a minimum level of 79

IELTS

With a minimum level of 6.5

Cambridge

170

Q:   What is the application fee for the Master of Science in Biology at Vrije University?
A: 

The application fee for Vrije Brussels is € 50 for it’s MS in Biology.  We highly recommend Students must adhere to the specific application process and submit the corresponding fees accordingly. Following and checking the official website is very important to avoid last-minute confusion. 

Q:   What are the requirements for a Master of Science in Biology at Vrije University?
A: 

Below are the requirements for a Master of Science in Biology at Vrije University:

1. Applicants must have a Bachelors degree in one of the following disciplines for a direct admission 

  • Bio engineering sciences
  • Biochemistry and biotechnology

  • Biology

  • Biomedical Sciences

  1. Applicants must know that the total application is based on the student's application file 

  2. Below are the English requirements for a Masters of Science in Biology at Vrije University:

English Language Test

Minimum score

TOEFL

With a minimum level of 79

IELTS

With a minimum level of 6.5

Cambridge

170

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Vrije Universiteit Brussel
Contact Information

Address

Pleinlaan 2 - 1050 Brussel - Belgium
Brussels ( Other - Belgium)

Email
prospective.students@vub.be

(For general query)

studentenadministratie@vub.be

(For admission query)

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