Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB)

Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) is a university in Brussels. International students should budget around US$21,200 a year in total, covering roughly US$7,700 in tuition and US$13,500 in living costs. The fee schedule below breaks that down across 2 published items. Entry requirements are listed by level, with the English score each one needs. It is one of 5 institutions we list in Belgium.

Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Brussels, Belgium

Tuition: US$7,700/yr
Living: US$13,500/yr
Total: US$21,200/yr
Type: University
Location: Brussels

Why students choose Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB)

Leading research quality: the university stands out in artificial intelligence, data science, biotechnology, health sciences, engineering, environmental science and European policy. VUB is also a research partner to many international organisations and major technology companies.
Affordable: Belgian higher education is heavily state-supported, giving access to world-class programmes at far lower cost than in English-speaking countries.
Comprehensive facilities: a modern library system, a sustainable student restaurant, a sports complex including a swimming pool, and full medical and psychological support on campus.
Strong job prospects: Brussels is one of Europe's largest international employment hubs, offering internships and part-time work in international business, technology, media, international relations and public policy
A prime location: Brussels is among the most international cities in the world, home to thousands of businesses, NGOs and international institutions. VUB students benefit from a learning environment tied closely to practice, and from wide career opportunities.
An international learning environment and network: VUB has a large international student body spanning more than 140 nationalities, ideal for building intercultural communication skills and a global network. VUB is a core member of the EUTOPIA alliance, a network of ten respected European universities that makes cross-border exchange, study and research straightforward.

Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) fees for international students

As published by the institution. Confirm current fees directly before paying a deposit.

Fee schedule for Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB)
Item	Amount
Bachelor's and master's tuition	EUR 5,000–6,500/year
Average living costs	EUR 12,000–13,200/year, including EUR 400–700 for accommodation

Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) entry requirements

Set by the institution and grouped by level. English scores are minimums.

Bachelor's

A high school diploma recognised as equivalent to the Belgian qualification
English proficiency
IELTS Academic: 6.0–6.5
TOEFL iBT: 80–90
An equivalent Cambridge certificate

Master's

English proficiency:
IELTS Academic: 6.5 or above
TOEFL iBT: 90 or above
Some subjects require a reference letter or work experience.
Some programmes set higher requirements. Specialist subjects such as Medicine and Art may require an entrance examination or aptitude test.

Frequently asked

How much does it cost to study at Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB)?

Budget roughly US$21,200 a year in total — about US$7,700 in tuition and US$13,500 in living costs. Fees vary by programme; the schedule on this page lists what the institution publishes.

What are the entry requirements for Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB)?

Requirements are set by level and listed in full on this page. A high school diploma recognised as equivalent to the Belgian qualification

Where is Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB)?

Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) is in Brussels, at Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Brussels, Belgium.

Can international students work while studying at Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB)?

Work rights are set nationally, not by the institution. In Belgium the current allowance is 20 hours/week during term; 600-hour allowance, and the post-study route is orientation year.