Managing Your Student Finances in Belgium
Plan your budget effectively with this guide to tuition fees, living costs, scholarships, and financial requirements for studying in Belgium.
Belgium Student Money Plan
Non-EEA Master's Tuition a Year
EUR 7,800 to EUR 12,557.70
Money Topics
Open each guide for details.
Your Monthly Budget
Use these numbers from the universities to plan your money. Each number says what it pays for.
Essential Monthly Expenses
Rent in Brussels, a month.
Food, a month.
Transport, a year.
Power and heating, each month.
Phone and internet: EUR 30 to EUR 50 a month.
Clothes, fun and personal care, a month.
Banking
You can open a Belgian account after you arrive. KBC also lets you apply before you move.
- English-language website.
- Has a student adviser.
- You can apply before you move to Belgium.
- You can open it without a Belgian residence card.
Papers for the Bank
- Passport
- University letter (you are signed up)
- Proof of money
- Rent contract
- Residence card (some banks)
Money Transfer Options
Bank Wire Transfers
Traditional bank-to-bank transfers using SWIFT/BIC codes.
Money Transfer Services
Services like Wise, Remitly, Western Union, and MoneyGram.
Common Payment Methods
Cash
Keep some cash on hand for small purchases and emergency situations. ATMs are widely available.
Smart Financial Tips
Expert advice to help you manage your finances effectively while studying in belgium
Budgeting
Use the fee that your university lists for the year you start.
Add D visa costs (the long-stay visa for stays over 90 days). The handling fee is EUR 250 (from 1 July 2026). The contribution fee in 2026 is EUR 251 at a public school, or EUR 242 at a private one.
Saving
Rooms owned by the university are often the cheapest.
At Ghent University (UGent), renting for the whole year costs less each month than renting for a short time.
Banking
Bring your passport, your university letter that says you are signed up, and your rent contract. Some banks also ask for proof of money and your residence card.
Earning
Read the student job rules before you take a job.
Pro Tips for belgium
Currency Management
- • Monitor exchange rates and transfer money when rates are favorable
- • Use multi-currency cards to avoid conversion fees
- • Keep some local cash (€) for emergencies
Local Financial Culture
- • Learn about local tipping customs and practices
- • Understand tax obligations for international students
- • Explore local student financial support programs
Remember: Financial planning is key to a successful study abroad experience. Start planning early and don't hesitate to seek advice from financial advisors or your university's international student services.
Complete Guide to Belgium
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