AI & Machine Learning Programs Abroad — 2026 Guide
A breakdown of the strongest AI/ML Master's programs abroad and what admissions committees are actually looking for this cycle.
Sukhada's Study Destination Guide
Study In Belgium
Everything you need to know about tuition, cost of living, post-study work rights and top universities in Belgium — backed by Sukhada's counselling team.
Belgium at a Glance
Partner Universities
11+
Region
Europe
Cost Tier
Moderate
Post-Study Work
12 months (orientation year)
Why Study in Belgium?
Belgium sits at the heart of the EU, with Brussels hosting major European institutions. Its universities offer moderate fees and strong programmes in law, politics and engineering.
- Home to EU institutions
- Moderate tuition fees
- Central location for European travel
Quick Facts
Europe
Moderate cost tier
Not specified
PSW 12 months (orientation year)
Talk to a Counsellor
Key Numbers
11+
Partner Universities
Moderate
Cost Tier
Europe
Region
12 months (orientation year)
Post-Study Work
37
Programmes
11
Universities with Scholarships
What Are the Most Popular Courses in Belgium?
Our partner universities in Belgium offer 37 programmes. The largest subject areas are Natural Sciences, Business & Management, Engineering.
Natural Sciences
19 programmes
Business & Management
11 programmes
Engineering
9 programmes
Data Science & AI
6 programmes
Computer Science & IT
5 programmes
Health & Medicine
3 programmes
Arts & Design
3 programmes
Law
3 programmes
Social Sciences
1 programmes
Humanities
1 programmes
A programme can appear in more than one subject area.
Belgium at a Glance
Official Name
Kingdom of Belgium
Capital
Brussels
Population
11.8M
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Official Language(s)
Dutch, French, German
Also Spoken
English
Calling Code
+32
Region
Europe
Economy
Developed
English Proficiency
High
How Does the Education System Work in Belgium?
A bachelor's degree in Belgium usually takes 3 years and a master's takes 1–2 years. The main intakes are September, February.
Bachelor's
3 years
Master's
1–2 years
MBA
1 year
PhD
4 years
Academic Year Starts
September
Intakes
September, February
Grading system
0–20 scale; 10 is a pass
Accepted tests
IELTS/TOEFL; Dutch or French for local-language programmes
What Is the Application Timeline for Belgium?
Most students start 10–12 months before their intake. Exact deadlines vary by university and programme.
- ResearchShortlist universities in Belgium that match your budget, course and career goals.
- ShortlistNarrow down to 4–6 programmes and note each deadline for your intake.
- TestsBook the tests your universities ask for: IELTS/TOEFL; Dutch or French for local-language programmes.
- ApplySubmit applications with transcripts, SOP, LORs and test scores.
- OfferAccept your offer and receive the Admission letter.
- VisaApply for the Long-stay Visa (Type D) for Studies as soon as your documents are ready.
- AccommodationBook on-campus or private housing before you travel.
- TravelArrange flights, forex and insurance, and carry original documents.
- EnrolComplete orientation, local registration and course enrolment.
How Much Does It Cost to Study in Belgium?
Typical bachelor's tuition in Belgium: EUR 4,000–9,000/yr. Master's tuition: EUR 4,000–12,000/yr. Living costs, covering rent, food and transport: EUR 900–1,200/month.
Bachelor's Tuition
EUR 4,000–9,000/yr
Master's Tuition
EUR 4,000–12,000/yr
Living Cost
EUR 900–1,200/month
Proof of Funds
Monthly amount set yearly by the Belgian government
Monthly budget breakdown (Brussels)
Rent (shared)
EUR 500/month
Food & groceries
EUR 250/month
Local transport
EUR 50/month
Utilities & phone
EUR 100/month
Personal & leisure
EUR 80/month
Estimated Total
EUR 980/month (approx.)
Accommodation options
On-campus housing
EUR 400/month
Shared apartment
EUR 450/month
Private studio
EUR 800/month
Homestay
EUR 550/month
Figures are indicative ranges for international students and change every year. Your counsellor will confirm exact fees for your shortlisted courses.
How to Get a Belgium Student Visa
Indian students apply for the Long-stay Visa (Type D) for Studies after receiving the Admission letter. Visa fee: About EUR 180 + admin fee. Typical processing time: 4–8 weeks.
Visa Type
Long-stay Visa (Type D) for Studies
Visa Fee
About EUR 180 + admin fee
Processing Time
4–8 weeks
Interview
Possible
Step-by-step visa process
- Secure your admission Apply to your chosen university and accept the offer. You will receive your Admission letter, which your visa application depends on.
- Arrange proof of funds Monthly amount set yearly by the Belgian government. Keep recent bank statements, loan sanction letters or sponsor documents ready.
- Prepare your documents Collect your passport, academic records, English test scores, Medical certificate, Police clearance certificate.
- Submit the visa application Apply for the Long-stay Visa (Type D) for Studies and pay the fee: About EUR 180 + admin fee.
- Biometrics and interview Give biometrics if requested. Visa interview: Possible.
- Get your decision and travel Typical processing time: 4–8 weeks. Once approved, book your travel and complete any local registration after arrival.
Can You Work in Belgium During and After Studies?
Part-time Work
Up to 20 hrs/week during term
Work During Breaks
Unlimited in holidays
Post-Study Work
Search year of up to 12 months
After a Bachelor's
12 months
After a Master's
12 months
PR Pathway
Single permit, then permanent residence after 5 years
Typical PR Timeline
5 years
Immigration rules change often — always confirm on the official government website before you apply.
Documents You'll Typically Need
Exact document requirements vary by university and visa category. This is a general checklist — we'll confirm the precise list for your course.
Checklist
Academic transcripts & certificates
Valid passport
English proficiency score (IELTS / TOEFL / PTE / DET)
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
Proof of funds / financial statements
Resume / CV (for PG programs)
Offer letter (once admitted)
Medical certificate
Police clearance certificate
What Is the Weather Like in Belgium?
Mild and often rainy. Summers: Mild, 18–24°C. Winters: Cool, 1–6°C.
Average temperatures in Brussels
January
1°C to 6°C
April
5°C to 15°C
July
13°C to 23°C
October
7°C to 15°C
How Do Students Open a Bank Account in Belgium?
Open an account with your residence card or registration receipt.
Popular banks for students
BNP Paribas Fortis
KBC
ING Belgium
Belfius
Documents usually needed
Passport
Residence permit
Proof of address
University enrolment letter
Is Belgium Safe for International Students?
Safety: High. Healthcare: Excellent.
Health Insurance
Yes
Typical Insurance Cost
EUR 100–300/yr (mutuality)
Common insurance options
Mutualités (health funds)
Private student plans
Safety tips
- Register at the commune within 8 days
- Learn basic French or Dutch
- Save local emergency numbers on your phone
- Keep digital copies of your passport, visa and admission letter
What Is the Job Market Like in Belgium?
Graduate job demand in Belgium is moderate. Entry-level salaries are roughly EUR 33,000–40,000/yr, rising to about EUR 45,000–60,000/yr with experience.
Top hiring sectors
EU institutions
Medium demand
Pharma
High demand
Logistics
Medium demand
Skills in demand
Pharma and biotech
Law and policy
Logistics
Salary figures are indicative gross annual ranges and vary by city, role and employer.
What Is Student Life Like in Belgium?
Multilingual and relaxed, famous for chocolate, waffles and comics.
Student life
- Erasmus events
- Historic towns
- Easy travel to Paris, London, Amsterdam
Major religions
Christianity (Catholic)
Islam
Indian community
Community Size
About 30,000 people of Indian origin
Indian Food & Groceries
Available in Brussels and Antwerp
Which Scholarships Can Indian Students Get for Belgium?
Well-known options for Belgium include Master Mind Scholarships (Flanders), VLIR-UOS scholarships, University scholarships. Eligibility and deadlines change every year, so check the official page before applying.
Master Mind Scholarships (Flanders)
Amounts vary; check the official page for current details
VLIR-UOS scholarships
Amounts vary; check the official page for current details
University scholarships
Amounts vary; check the official page for current details
Scholarships for Belgium
Our team tracks live scholarship listings across 150+ university and government portals. Here are the common categories students in Belgium typically qualify for — talk to a counsellor for current deadlines and amounts.
All Levels
Merit-Based
Merit Scholarships
Awarded by universities based on academic performance
UG / PG
Need-Based
Need-Based Financial Aid
Partial tuition waivers based on demonstrated financial need
PG / PhD
Government
Government & Institutional Grants
Country and institution-run funding programs for international students
All Levels
Sukhada
Sukhada Partner Discounts
Fee-waivers and priority processing through our university partnershipsPartner Universities in Belgium
We work directly with 11 verified universities across Belgium — browse the full list and filter by course, budget and intake.
Top-ranked universities in Belgium
Frequently Asked Questions
Typical tuition for international students in Belgium: EUR 4,000–9,000/yr for a bachelor's degree and EUR 4,000–12,000/yr for a master's. Living costs: EUR 900–1,200/month, depending on the city.
The visa you need is the Long-stay Visa (Type D) for Studies, and the application is based on the Admission letter. Visa fee: About EUR 180 + admin fee. Typical processing time: 4–8 weeks.
Monthly amount set yearly by the Belgian government. The exact amount is revised from time to time, so confirm it with the official immigration website before applying.
Student work rules in Belgium: Up to 20 hrs/week during term.
Post-study work in Belgium: Search year of up to 12 months. Long-term settlement route: Single permit, then permanent residence after 5 years.
Safety in Belgium: High. Healthcare: Excellent.
Yes. Typical cost: EUR 100–300/yr (mutuality).
Graduate job demand in Belgium is moderate, led by EU institutions, Pharma, Logistics. Entry-level salaries are roughly EUR 33,000–40,000/yr.
About 30,000 people of Indian origin. Indian food: Available in Brussels and Antwerp.
The main intakes in Belgium are September, February. A bachelor's degree usually takes 3 years and a master's takes 1–2 years.
IELTS/TOEFL; Dutch or French for local-language programmes. Minimum scores differ by university and course, so check each programme page.
We currently work directly with 11 verified universities in Belgium, spanning a range of budgets and course levels.
Ready to start your journey to Belgium?
Book a free session with a Sukhada counsellor — no obligation, no pressure, just a clear plan for Belgium.
Free Counselling
Zero Hidden Charges
94% Visa Success
12,000+ Students Guided
Handpicked For You
Top Universities Worldwide
A closer look at some of the institutions our students are applying to right now.
United States
Cambridge
- IntakesFall and Spring
- Visa SuccessNA
- Post-Study Work12 months OPT (STEM +24 months)
- Cost of LivingHigh
- Work While Study20 hrs/week
- LanguageEnglish
Annual Tuition
US$66,720 avg
Acceptance
NA
Placement Ratio
93%
Academic Reputation
100/100
#4
Employer Reputation
100/100
#2
Faculty / Student
100/100
#16
Citations / Faculty
100/100
#7
Intl. Faculty
100/100
#63
Intl. Students
91.6/100
#153
Intl. Student Diversity
92.3/100
#130
Intl. Research Network
94.1/100
#98
Employment Outcomes
100/100
#7
Sustainability
93.8/100
#33
SG
Sukhada Expert
Response: < 2 mins
Premium Support
Free
Verified Mentor
REF SGE-C4CA
United Kingdom
London
- IntakesSeptember
- Visa SuccessNA
- Post-Study WorkUp to 2 years (Graduate visa)
- Cost of LivingHigh
- Work While Study20hrs/week
- LanguageEnglish
Annual Tuition
£42,700 – £58,600 avg
Acceptance
NA
Placement Ratio
94%
Academic Reputation
99.6/100
#22
Employer Reputation
100/100
#9
Faculty / Student
99.3/100
#42
Citations / Faculty
95/100
#69
Intl. Faculty
100/100
#74
Intl. Students
100/100
#35
Intl. Student Diversity
100/100
#22
Intl. Research Network
97.5/100
#28
Employment Outcomes
95.9/100
#68
Sustainability
98.3/100
#7
SG
Sukhada Expert
Response: < 2 mins
Premium Support
Free
Verified Mentor
REF SGE-C81E
United States
Stanford
- IntakesFall and Spring
- Visa Success82
- Post-Study Work12 months OPT (STEM +24 months)
- Cost of LivingHigh
- Work While Study20hrs/week
- LanguageEnglish
Annual Tuition
USD67,731 avg
Acceptance
NA
Placement Ratio
90%
Academic Reputation
100/100
#5
Employer Reputation
100/100
#3
Faculty / Student
100/100
#17
Citations / Faculty
99.7/100
#24
Intl. Faculty
94.2/100
#188
Intl. Students
73.5/100
#261
Intl. Student Diversity
76.1/100
#230
Intl. Research Network
96.5/100
#49
Employment Outcomes
100/100
#2
Sustainability
95.4/100
#19
SG
Sukhada Expert
Response: < 2 mins
Premium Support
Free
Verified Mentor
REF SGE-ECCB
United Kingdom
Oxford
- IntakesOctober (Michaelmas term)
- Visa SuccessNA
- Post-Study Work2 yrs; 18 months from Jan 2027
- Cost of LivingGBP 1,405-2,105 / month
- Work While Study20hrs/week
- LanguageEnglish
Annual Tuition
GBP 39,620-66,580 avg
Acceptance
NA
Placement Ratio
90%
Academic Reputation
100/100
#
Employer Reputation
100/100
#
Faculty / Student
100/100
#
Citations / Faculty
91/100
#
Intl. Faculty
98.8/100
#
Intl. Students
98.6/100
#
Intl. Research Network
100/100
#
Employment Outcomes
100/100
#
Sustainability
77.9/100
#
SG
Sukhada Expert
Response: < 2 mins
Premium Support
Free
Verified Mentor
REF SGE-A87F
United States
Cambridge
- IntakesFall
- Visa SuccessNA
- Post-Study Work12 months OPT (STEM +24 months)
- Cost of LivingHigh
- Work While Study20hrs/week
- LanguageEnglish
Annual Tuition
USD 62,226 avg
Acceptance
NA
Placement Ratio
87%
Academic Reputation
100/100
#1
Employer Reputation
100/100
#1
Faculty / Student
98.3/100
#50
Citations / Faculty
100/100
#1
Intl. Faculty
79.1/100
#300
Intl. Students
81.4/100
#217
Intl. Student Diversity
60.6/100
#335
Intl. Research Network
99.4/100
#8
Employment Outcomes
100/100
#1
Sustainability
77.8/100
#201
SG
Sukhada Expert
Response: < 2 mins
Premium Support
Free
Verified Mentor
REF SGE-E4DA
United Kingdom
Cambridge
- IntakesSeptember
- Visa Success95
- Post-Study WorkUp to 2 years (Graduate visa)
- Cost of LivingHigh
- Work While Study20hrs/week
- LanguageEnglish
Annual Tuition
£29,052 – £70,554 avg
Acceptance
NA
Placement Ratio
95%
Academic Reputation
100/100
#3
Employer Reputation
100/100
#5
Faculty / Student
100/100
#23
Citations / Faculty
88.6/100
#107
Intl. Faculty
100/100
#80
Intl. Students
93.1/100
#144
Intl. Student Diversity
93.6/100
#120
Intl. Research Network
99.2/100
#12
Employment Outcomes
100/100
#5
Sustainability
78.4/100
#194
SG
Sukhada Expert
Response: < 2 mins
Premium Support
Free
Verified Mentor
REF SGE-8F14
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Study in Belgium
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