Education
The Kingdom of Belgium is a small Western European country located in the heart of Europe. Belgium is bordered by Germany, France, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands. Thanks to its location, studying there will allow you to explore not only Belgian cities but also many other European cities. Belgium is also one of the safest and peaceful countries globally, which is a number one priority for many students. The education system in Belgium is compulsory for students between six and eighteen years old. Belgium has three separate linguistic communities: Dutch, French, and German. Compulsory education is divided into primary (6-12 years) and secondary (12-18 years). Higher education in Belgium is excellent for not only their natives but also internationals. Studying abroad in Belgium translates into a high-quality trilingual education system with affordable tuition fees and diverse research programs. It offers Bachelor’s, Masters and Doctorate degrees.
Over 40,000 international students have already chosen Belgium as their favorite study location, as Belgian institutions are recognized among the world’s best. Many universities offer free or relatively cheap Dutch or French classes that you can participate in while studying. On the other hand, you can find many English-taught programs, mainly on a Master’s and Doctorate level.
Belgian universities play an essential role in Europe’s educational system, integrating contemporary technology with centuries-old traditions. The fact that eight Belgian universities compete with the top institutions globally in worldwide rankings refers to the quality and popularity of Belgian education. Each of them is a significant educational center with a developed scientific community and a network of international partnerships. If you want to study in Belgium, you can choose from 65 universities and 1,146 study programs.
Belgian culture includes the features shared by all Belgians regardless of their language and the differences between the central cultural communities: the Flemish community and the French-speaking Belgians. Education is an integral part of the Belgian culture. From a very young age, children are taught the importance of education and good manners. More specifically, the different provinces of Belgium have different core values. Most Belgians view their culture as an integral part of European culture. Due to its strategic position in the heart of Europe, Belgium has been at the origin of many European artistic and cultural movements.
Famous elements of the Belgian culture include gastronomy (Belgian beers, fries, chocolate, waffles), painting, architecture, folklore, and surrealism (in art and in the attitude of most Belgians).
The Kingdom of Belgium gained its independence in 1830. This country is a representative democracy supervised by a hereditary constitutional monarch. It is divided into three regions Flanders, Wallonia, and the Brussels-Capital Region. Another important event of Belgian history is that it became one of the founding members of the European Economic Community, established in 1957. The latter has now become the European Union. Belgium hosts prominent administrations and institutions, including the European Commission, the Council of the European Union, and the committee sessions of the European Parliament. Despite being an essential part of the EU, Belgium is also famous for its travel destinations. Among the very best are Menin Gate, Waterloo Battlefield, and Het Steen. There are other major cultural landmarks to see, including the Trench of Death, the Church of Our Lady in Bruges, and the Bastogne War Museum, one of the best-known museums in Belgium.
Many foreigners easily find work in Belgium. The prospects of getting jobs in Belgium‘s main cities, especially employment in Brussels, are increased by the extensive international business scene and European Union (EU) presence. With many EU institutions, NATO, and many other major international organizations and multi-national companies based in Brussels, there are many jobs in Belgium for foreigners.
Nevertheless, in a country with three official languages, you will have the best chance of finding work in Belgium only after having solid language abilities. You’ll also be competing with locals who are typically bilingual or multilingual, including an adequate level of English proficiency, meaning there can be more competition for jobs in Belgium for English speakers.