Master of Science in Biology
4.7 /5
- Public University
Faculty of Science and Bio-engineering Sciences
Talk to ExpertMaster of Science in Biology at Vrije Universiteit Brussel Overview
Master of Science in Biology
at Vrije Universiteit Brussel
The Vrije Universiteit Brussel provides an exceptional Master of Science in Biology program at the PG level, designed to be completed in 24 months. Recognized nationally as a leading course, the Vrije Universiteit Brussel's Master of Science in Biology program boasts a notable rank of #5 in the Shiksha Popularity Ranking 2025.
To gain admission to the program, students must meet the requirements for the course, which include having a valid score on tests like IELTS and TOEFL. One of the most important things that students have to keep in mind before applying is to know the number of seats available. This is to be done to have an idea about whether to apply early or not.
The Vrije Universiteit Brussel tuition fee for the first year of the Master of Science in Biology is EUR 4,000. Additionally, prospective students should budget for living expenses, which include accommodation (rent or hostel), food, books, and other essential utilities, averaging around EUR 4,899.
Duration | 24 months |
Tuition & Fees | ₹4.40 Lakh Get Fees details |
International Students Admission Website | Go to Website  |
Official Career Service Website | Go to Website |
Course Level | PG Degree |
Master of Science in Biology
Table of content
- Overview
- Fees
- Entry Requirements
- Application Process
- Rankings
- Placements
- Highlights
- Scholarships
Master of Science in Biology at Vrije Universiteit Brussel Fees
Master of Science in Biology
at Vrije Universiteit Brussel
To enrol in the Master of Science in Biology at Vrije Universiteit Brussel, students need to cover both tuition fees and living expenses. The fee structure varies depending on whether the student is domestic or international.
For international students, the tuition fee for the first year is EUR 4,000. In addition to this, students should budget for other living expenses, including housing, food, transportation, books, and personal expenses. These costs can differ based on lifestyle and personal choices.
According to the data available, the average Master of Science in Biology cost of living for international students is EUR 4,899. Students can plan their stay accordingly. Since the cost of living varies from student to student, it’s important to plan accordingly. For a detailed breakdown of the Vrije Universiteit Brussel Master of Science in Biology fees, refer to the table below.
1st year tuition fees | Fees components | Amount (for 1 year) |
|---|---|
| Tuition & fees | INR 4,39,740 |
Other expenses in 1st Year | Fees components | Amount (for 1 year) |
|---|---|
| Hostel & Meals | INR 5,12,925 |
| Transportation | INR 26,803 |
Calculated at the exchange rate of 1 Euro = INR 104.7 | Tuition & expenses were last updated on 25ᵗʰ February 2025Download exam sample paper
IELTS
IELTS
TOEFL
Master of Science in Biology at Vrije Universiteit Brussel Entry Requirements
Master of Science in Biology
at Vrije Universiteit Brussel
Requirements for 12th grade
- No specific cutoff mentioned
Graduation
- No specific cutoff mentioned
- Applicants should hold a Flemish Bachelor's degree in Biology can enroll directly in the Master of Biology
- Applicants should hold a non-Flemish academic bachelors in science, applied science, and life sciences will have to submit an online application
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GPA
Percentage
CGPA
Out of 10
TOEFL
- Marks - 79/120
-
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GPA
Percentage
CGPA
Out of 10
IELTS
- Marks - 6.5/9
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Master of Science in Biology at Vrije Universiteit Brussel Application Process
Master of Science in Biology
at Vrije Universiteit Brussel
Step one
Prepare documents for application
LOR
- At least 1 recommendation letter is required
Step two
Additional documents required
- All higher education degrees (official documents, both original and translations)
- All higher education transcripts of records (official documents, both original and translations)
- ID card / Passport copy
- Headshot picture
- Proof of English proficiency
- Secondary school results
- Letter of motivation: Please also upload a comprehensive motivation about why you want to study at the VUB and why you want to apply for a specific program. You could also describe your future plans, explaining the importance of the program in this regard
Step three
Start your online application
Step four
Application fees for this course
Euro 50 = INR 5.23 Thousand
Step five
Application deadline
Fall (Sept): 31st Mar
*The dates specified are tentative dates as per the previous year records. Our expert counselors can help with exact deadline date. Connect with the expert now!
Master of Science in Biology at Vrije Universiteit Brussel Rankings
Master of Science in Biology
at Vrije Universiteit Brussel
Course Ranking
University Ranking
| Rank | Rank Publisher |
|---|---|
| #201 | |
| #201 | |
| #301 |
Master of Science in Biology at Vrije Universiteit Brussel Placements
Master of Science in Biology
at Vrije Universiteit Brussel
| Particulars | Statistics (2022) |
|---|---|
| Internship Available | Yes, Students will have the option to take a professional internship |
Vrije Universiteit BrusselStudents Ratings & Reviews
4.7/5
5 Verified ReviewsStudent 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
Anonymous
Master of Science in Communication Studies: Journalism and Media in Europe - Batch of 2020
Offered by Vrije Universiteit Brussel
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
K
Komal Yadav
Master of Science in Molecular Biology - Batch of 2022
Offered by Vrije Universiteit Brussel
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
P
PLABITA BHUYAN
Master of Science in Geography - Batch of 2026
Offered by Vrije Universiteit Brussel
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
P
Prashant Kadam
Master of Science (MSc) in Management - Batch of 2019
Offered by Vrije Universiteit Brussel
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
A
Anonymous
Master of Science in Photonics Engineering - Batch of 2022
Offered by Vrije Universiteit Brussel
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
View All 5 Reviews
Master of Science in Biology at Vrije Universiteit Brussel Highlights
Master of Science in Biology
at Vrije Universiteit Brussel
- The master of Science in Biology at VUB includes three graduation options:
Ecology & Biodiversity
Molecular & Cellular Life Sciences
Erasmus Mundus Master's Course in Tropical Biodiversity & Ecosystems (TROPIMUNDO) - Graduation options share a number of course units to develop skills in indispensable aspects of scientific research:
Master’s Thesis in Biology
Project Writing
Professional Internship
Integrated Practical and/or Field Excursions - The strengths of this Biology master's program are:
Unique conception of the master thesis as a scientific paper, which facilitates publishing afterwards, plus an active role within the research team and VUB and Brussels provide a firm foundation for a scientific career thanks to the knowledge and skills acquired, and proximity to potential employers
Master of Science in Biology at Vrije Universiteit Brussel Scholarships
Master of Science in Biology
at Vrije Universiteit Brussel
Scholarship information is not available. You can apply to non-college specific scholarships available for
Belgium.
View all 33 scholarships
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About the author
Kanishk Aggarwal
Study Abroad Expert
Kanishk Aggarwal is a content writer at Shiksha.com, creating content for universities abroad. Having pursued an M.Sc. in Forensic Science from GD Goenka University, Gurugram, he has been creating content across diverse domains. When not guiding stud...Read Full Bio
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Master of Science in Biology at Vrije Universiteit Brussel Contact Information
Master of Science in Biology
at Vrije Universiteit Brussel
Address
Pleinlaan 2 - 1050 Brussel - Belgium
Brussels ( Other - Belgium)
Phone
Email
prospective.students@vub.be
(For general query)
studentenadministratie@vub.be
(For admission query)
Go to College Website ->