International Students on Individual Mobility

Applications can be submitted between February 16 and March 31.
Find all the information you need in the PowerPoint presentation from the conference exclusively for students from outside the European Union who are considering continuing their studies in Belgium.

The ULB International Welcome Desk informs ULB international students about the administrative steps to be undertaken before arrival and the various formalities to be completed once in Belgium. 

Please note that the International Welcome Desk can help you with questions relating to visas and residence permits. However, we are not in a position to speed up the application process with the Immigration Office or the town hall.

Before your arrival

Brussels and ULB

Brussels is a dynamic, multicultural, and welcoming European capital. The city offers a unique blend of Art Nouveau architecture, world-renowned museums, cultural events, green spaces, and a lively urban lifestyle. Thanks to its central location, it also provides easy access to Paris, Amsterdam, and London. To learn more about the city, visit the official Brussels website.

The Université libre de Bruxelles welcomes more than 38,000 students, a third of whom are international. Spread across several campuses (Solbosch, Plaine, Erasme, Usquare, Flagey, Charleroi, Gosselies), it is characterized by its commitment to free inquiry, the diversity of disciplines taught, and the quality of its infrastructure. An overview of the campuses, their locations, and how to get there is available on the ULB's official maps and access page.

Orientation and admission

The registration service web page provides a wealth of information on procedures, how to prepare your application, and more.
If you have any specific questions, you can contact the registration service at inscriptions@ulb.be or by filling out this OTRS - Support - ULB form.

The InfOR-Études service provides guidance on your career path and study plans throughout the year. Information, advice, personalized workshops, and events help you build your career path.
Feel free to contact them at: infor-etudes@ulb.be

Scholarships

You will find all the information you need about the application procedures and eligibility requirements for ULB scholarships via this link: International funding - ULB

Scholarships are also available from the Academy for Research and Higher Education (ARES) and Wallonia-Brussels International, depending on nationality, level of study, and project. You can find more information here: International training scholarships | ARES

Erasmus and exchanges

At ULB, all matters relating to exchanges, the Erasmus+ program, and outgoing and incoming mobility are handled by the Student Mobility Service (SME), which supports students throughout the process.
All practical information is available on their webpage.

For specific contacts by faculty, please consult the “useful addresses for exchange students” page in our guide at the bottom of the page.

Visa, documents, and checklist

Students from outside the European Union must obtain a student visa before departure.

This procedure is based mainly on:

• The letter of admission
• Proof of means of subsistence
• A passport with at least 12 months' remaining validity
• The completed and signed visa application form
• Proof of health insurance (see the “Insurance” tab)
• A medical certificate
• A criminal record extract
• Proof of payment of the fee
• The standard form (attached to your letter of admission available via “MonULB”).

⚠️If you do not obtain your visa before September 1, it is essential to send your letter of registration to the embassy, as your letter of admission will no longer be valid.

Once admitted, it is important to apply for a visa quickly at the Belgian embassy or consulate in your country.
The status of the application can then be checked online via the Immigration Office.
For more information, visit: The website of the FPS Foreign Affairs and the Immigration Office.

Accommodation

Finding accommodation in Brussels is an important step in getting your stay off to a good start. Most students live in studios, student rooms, or shared apartments, often located in neighborhoods close to the Solbosch, Plaine, and Erasmus campuses. Rents vary depending on the type of accommodation and the neighborhood, but it is advisable to start looking as early as possible, as demand is very high around the start of the academic year.

The ULB has a Housing Office that assists students in their search and offers useful advice on the Brussels rental market. You will also find links to reliable listings and information on private and university residences. All resources are available on the dedicated page. 
⚠️Applications for housing for the 2026-2027 academic year will be open from March 1 to 31.

Several practical aspects must also be taken into account before signing a lease: the possibility of registering your address (essential for obtaining your residence permit), whether or not utilities are included in the rent, the amount of the rental deposit, the condition of the property when you move in, and home insurance. These factors vary from one property to another, so it is essential to read your contract carefully and ask all the necessary questions before committing yourself. 
Finally, please note that Brussels has a strict waste sorting system and that access to waste collection depends on your municipality. Practical information on waste management and the collection schedule is available on the Bruxelles Propreté website.

Cost of living

The cost of living in Brussels is comparable to that of many European capitals, but it can vary significantly depending on your lifestyle and the type of accommodation you choose. Students should budget for around €14,000 per year, including rent, food, transportation, health insurance, and daily expenses. Housing generally represents the largest expense, especially in neighborhoods close to campuses, while other expenses—such as food, utilities, and phone or internet subscriptions—can be anticipated fairly easily.

To get a more accurate idea of prices in Brussels or compare the cost of living with other cities, you can consult up-to-date databases such as Numbeo.

At ULB

Belgian education system

Studies at ULB follow the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS), which measures the workload of each course. A full year corresponds to 60 credits, divided between different teaching units. Each teaching unit represents a certain number of hours of lectures, reading, personal work, or projects, and credits are awarded when the teaching unit is successfully completed.
⚠️To renew your residence permit and continue your studies, there are certain criteria that must be met.

The academic year begins in mid-September and is divided into two semesters, each followed by an exam session. Vacation periods, breaks, and exam sessions are listed in the University's official calendar.

Assessments take various forms depending on the program: written exams, oral exams, practical work, reports, or projects. The final grade is out of 20, and a minimum grade of 10 is required to pass a course. Before the exam sessions, students have a preparation period, often called blocus, during which no classes are held so that students can devote themselves entirely to studying.

Registration with the municipality

Short stay (less than 3 months)
If you are staying in a hotel, you do not need to register with the local authorities: the hotel will do this for you.

• EU nationals: if you are not staying in a hotel, it is advisable to go to the local authority (with a valid passport or identity card) within 10 days of your arrival in Belgium to obtain a declaration of presence, valid for the duration of your stay (maximum 3 months).
• Non-EU nationals: if you are not staying in a hotel, you must make an appointment with the local authorities within 3 days of your arrival in Belgium to obtain a declaration of arrival, valid for the duration of your stay (maximum 3 months). You must bring your passport and an ID photo. The procedure is free of charge.

Long-term stay (more than 3 months)
If you are staying in Belgium for more than 3 months, you must register with the municipality where you live in Belgium and apply for a residence permit. The residence permit is mandatory, even for EU citizens (registration certificate), and you must carry it with you at all times. For non-EU citizens, it replaces the entry visa; it allows them to travel throughout the Schengen area and re-enter it (for example, if you are spending your vacation in your country of origin).
⚠️Note for non-EU students who have started their studies in France: all students with a French residence permit must obtain a residence permit valid for the entire duration of their stay in Belgium before arriving in the country. Please note that the receipt for a French residence permit application is not considered valid proof by the Belgian Immigration Office.

Obtaining a residence permit (long stay: more than 3 months)
If you are staying in Belgium for more than three months, you must register with the municipality where you live in order to obtain your residence permit. Even if the visa mentions a deadline of eight days, it is often difficult to meet this deadline due to appointments and the search for permanent accommodation. You can therefore exceed this deadline, but you must be registered within three months of your arrival. The registration procedure varies from one municipality to another, so it is advisable to consult your municipality's website before going there.
Registration is only possible with a permanent address: hotels and temporary accommodation do not allow domiciliation. When you visit the municipality, you will need to present your passport (or identity card) and your ULB registration certificate. A police officer will then come to check that you do indeed live at the address provided, which requires your name to be displayed on the mailbox or doorbell.
Once this has been verified, the local authority will contact you with a list of documents to bring to your second appointment: ID, passport photos, and payment for your card (between €20 and €25 depending on the local authority). You will then receive an Annex 15, a temporary document that is valid until you receive your residence card. Please note that this annex does not allow you to travel outside Belgium: only your official residence permit allows you to do so.

Bank account

Opening a bank account in Belgium makes it easier to pay for your accommodation, subscriptions, and daily expenses. As soon as you arrive, you can go to the branch of your chosen bank or open an account online. To do so, you will need your passport or ID card, your ULB registration certificate, your lease and, in most cases, your proof of registration with the local authorities (Appendix 15) as soon as you receive it. 

If you have not yet finalized your registration with the local authorities, you can start with a neo-bank such as Revolut, Wise, or Nickel, which allows you to quickly open an account in euros and carry out your first transactions while waiting for your residence card.

Transportation

Brussels has a dense and efficient public transport network, combining metro, tram, bus, and train services. Most students use the STIB services, which provide easy access to campuses and different areas of the city. Single tickets are available, but students under the age of 25 can benefit from a particularly advantageous reduced-rate annual pass. The network operates from early morning until late evening, with an additional Noctis night bus service on Friday and Saturday nights.

Brussels also has a common fare system called BRUPASS, which allows you to use the services of several operators (STIB, TEC, De Lijn, and SNCB) in the region with a single ticket. This is convenient for quickly switching from the metro to a tram, or from a bus to a train, especially if you live near a small SNCB station.

The city also encourages cycling with numerous bike paths and dedicated routes. Car-sharing services such as Cambio and Zipcar are also available, with discounts for members of the ULB community. Finally, Brussels has several taxi companies, as well as a nighttime shared taxi system, Collecto, which can be booked at a fixed rate.

Health and insurance

In Belgium, health insurance is mandatory for all students. If you come from a European Union country, you must present your European Health Insurance Card to the health insurance provider of your choice, which will cover you for any necessary medical care during your stay. Non-EU students must provide health insurance covering the first three months (or proof of future coverage from a Belgian health insurance provider), which is a prerequisite for obtaining their visa, before joining a Belgian health insurance provider, some of which charge fees but offer more comprehensive coverage. Belgian mutual insurance companies cover a large part of medical, dental, and paramedical expenses, as well as other situations such as maternity or paternity leave. For more information on mutual insurance companies, please contact us at welcome@ulb.be. 
The ULB also provides several health services accessible to students: general medicine, sports medicine, specialized or paramedical consultations. For psychological well-being, structures such as Psycampus, the Mental Health Service, or the CCUP offer confidential support. The family planning service “Aimer à l'ULB” offers medical, psychological, and legal support. These services provide quick access to help, whether it be medical care, stress related to studies, or a need for referral to more specialized services.
In addition, most landlords require home insurance to cover damage to the property. Family insurance can also be useful, as it covers damage you may cause to third parties in your daily life.

Student life and integration

Student life at ULB is punctuated by numerous cultural, sporting, and social activities. On the Solbosch campus, ULB Culture regularly organizes film clubs, exhibitions, and concerts, while Brussels' museums, theaters, and cultural venues are easily accessible from all campuses. Students can also enjoy a wide range of sporting activities, accessible thanks to an annual pass at a discounted rate, valid at several of the University's sports facilities.

Student associations also play an important role in campus life. Among them, ESN ULB Brussels is part of the international and European Erasmus Student Network and aims to welcome, support, and represent international students at ULB by offering activities related to various causes supported by ESN, namely the environment, education, social inclusion, well-being, sports, and culture. Learn more

On campus

The ULB campuses offer a comprehensive environment for studying, working, and everyday life. Thanks to the various libraries on each site, you can consult books, find a quiet place to work, or ask the S&SAME teams for help. They can guide you through the University's digital services, help you connect to Wi-Fi, access your email, or find a class schedule. Their mission is to support students in all practical matters related to campus life. 

The campuses also have many places to eat: university restaurants, cafeterias, and cafés around the lecture halls. At Solbosch, a market offering local and seasonal products is held every Tuesday in the late afternoon. On site, you will also find various services essential to student life, such as computer rooms, help desks, student associations, and spaces dedicated to academic and extracurricular activities. 

The various sites, Solbosch, Plaine, Erasme, and Charleroi, are well connected to public transportation, each with its own infrastructure, study areas, and atmosphere. Whether you come to attend a class, work in the library, meet other students, or take advantage of the services offered, the campuses have been designed to provide you with a functional and accessible environment throughout your time at ULB.

Language classes

As ULB is a French-speaking university, most courses are taught in French, although a growing number of master's programs are offered entirely or partially in English. To help international students adapt, the University offers free French courses throughout the year, which are accessible after a level test organized by ULB Langues. Intensive courses are also available during the summer, allowing students to quickly improve their language skills before the start of classes. 

Outside the ULB, numerous French courses are offered in various municipalities in Brussels, including courses funded by local authorities and available in several languages. The Maison de la Francité centralizes a large part of these offerings, while schools such as EPFC and ASBL F9 offer affordable courses for students and researchers. 

Finally, for students who wish to learn or improve their Dutch, several institutions in Brussels offer courses adapted to all levels, notably via Huis van het Nederlands. These resources make it easier to integrate into everyday life in Brussels and strengthen language skills throughout the year.

Specific measures

The ULB provides several services to support students throughout their stay. The Student Social Service (SSE) can help you if you encounter financial difficulties, if you have questions about tuition fees, possible financial aid, or finding a student job. The team will inform you about your rights, assist you in your dealings with external organizations, and may occasionally contribute to certain expenses related to your student life. The SSE also offers a procedure for transgender students who wish to have their preferred name recognized. 
The ULB also has a support system for students with special needs, whether due to disability, learning difficulties, a disabling illness, or for high-level athletes or artists. Depending on your situation, EBS status may be granted in order to put reasonable accommodations in place for classes and exams. Each faculty has advisors who can help you find the most suitable solutions.
If you feel uncomfortable, intimidated, or subjected to moral or sexual harassment, you can contact the Center for Assistance and Support in Cases of Harassment (CASHe). This service offers confidential listening, support, and personalized assistance to help you deal with these situations.
Finally, for emergencies, ULB has a Protection and Security service, available 24/7 from the various campuses, as well as all the relevant national emergency numbers in case of accident, assault, or medical emergency.

Information for families

If you are coming to study at ULB with your family, Brussels offers several childcare options for young children, but it is important to start looking early. Nurseries and daycare centers for children aged 3 months to 3 years are supervised by the Office de la Naissance et de l’Enfance (ONE) or Kind & Gezin, and places are in high demand. ULB has its own nurseries on the Solbosch and Erasme campuses, but you need to register in advance due to the limited number of places.

For school-age children, Belgian education starts at 2 and a half / 3 years old for nursery school, then continues in primary school (ages 6 to 12) and secondary school (ages 12 to 18). Local schools, which are French-speaking or Dutch-speaking depending on the municipality, are free, although some costs are still payable for extracurricular activities, meals, or outings. Waiting lists can be long, so it is advisable to register children as early as possible. There are also several international schools in Brussels, but they are fee-paying and in high demand.

If you receive a salary or grant from a Belgian organization, you may be eligible for family allowances, which are paid monthly for dependent children living with you. Certain childcare costs are also tax deductible if you file taxes in Belgium.

After ULB

Transition to professional life

If you plan to stay in Belgium after your studies to work, it is important to prepare well for this transition. Brussels offers many opportunities in the academic, cultural, associative, and international sectors, but the administrative procedures and entering the job market can sometimes seem complex for new foreign graduates.

To help you, the non-profit organization BON offers specialized support for people who have recently arrived in Belgium and wish to enter the workforce. BON advisors help you understand the job market, prepare your resume according to Belgian standards, identify useful training courses, promote your degree, and familiarize yourself with the administrative procedures related to work.

Leave Belgium

Before leaving Brussels, there are certain administrative steps you must take. First, you must notify your local municipality and return your residence permit, which will enable you to obtain a cancellation document called Form 8. You may be asked to present this document when you leave or at the border, and it officially marks the end of your stay in Belgium.

You must also remember to cancel your health insurance and notify your landlord within the time frame specified in your lease, which is usually three months before your departure. An exit inventory must be carried out and the contracts related to your accommodation (water, gas, electricity) must be transferred or terminated. It is also important to cancel or transfer your telephone and internet subscriptions.

You can choose to keep your bank account open temporarily after you leave. In this case, it is recommended that you provide your bank with an email address where they can contact you when you wish to close the account.

If you receive a tax form after you leave, you must return it along with a copy of your student ID card or proof of enrollment, as well as a letter stating that you were an international student, specifying your country of origin and the length of your stay.

Learning French

ULB is a French-speaking university. Even though many Master's courses are taught partly or entirely in English, French is still the main language used for teaching and in the students' everyday environment.
Studying at the Université Libre de Bruxelles is a fantastic opportunity to improve your knowledge of the French language while living in the highly cosmopolitan world of the capital of Europe.
To improve the language skills of ULB international students, the university offers a wide range of French courses, both before and during the academic year: French courses - ULB Langues

Student job

If you do not have a scholarship, you can take a student job to help make ends meet, but bear in mind that this will not be enough to finance your study stay, as there are legal restrictions on the number of hours students can work.

• If you come from a European Community country, registration with the local authority and your ULB student card are all you need to access student jobs.
• For non-European students, you will need to apply for a work permit to have the right to take a student job.

BON

Feel at Home in Brussels!
Are you a student living in Belgium for the first time? Would you like to focus on your studies and on enjoying your time in Brussels? The Bon integration programme can help you with: Practical information about life in Belgium, recognition of foreign diplomas, planning your future after graduation, including work opportunities, and getting started with Dutch. Learn more