Moving to Belgium can be an exciting new chapter, a country famous for its cultural diversity, international institutions, and high standard of living. But for families, one of the biggest questions is often: “What about schools?”

Belgium’s education system is among the best in Europe, yet it’s also one of the most complex, divided by regions, languages, and school networks. This guide will help you understand how Belgian education works, what options you have as a new resident, and how to navigate cultural norms and higher education opportunities.

Understanding the Belgian School System

Belgium’s education system is unique because it’s managed separately by three language communities, each with its own structure and curriculum:

• Flemish Community (Dutch-speaking) – covers Flanders and Brussels.

• French Community (French-speaking) – covers Wallonia and parts of Brussels.

• German-speaking Community – small but autonomous region in eastern Belgium.

Despite differences, all three systems share the same philosophy: free, high-quality, and compulsory education for all children from ages 5 to 18.

The Structure of Schooling in Belgium

1. École Maternelle / Kleuterschool (Preschool): Ages 2½ to 6
   Preschool is not compulsory before age 5 but almost all children attend.

   • Focuses on play, early literacy, and social development.

   • Most preschools are free (publicly funded).

   • Instruction language depends on the region, Dutch, French, or German.

2. École Primaire / Lagere School (Primary School): Ages 6 to 12

   • Lasts six years (Grades 1–6).

   • Subjects include local language, math, science, geography, art, and physical education.

   • English or another foreign language (French, Dutch, or German, depending on region) is often introduced by Grade 3 or 4.

3. École Secondaire / Secundaire School (Secondary School): Ages 12 to 18
   Secondary education lasts six years and is divided into three cycles of two years each.
   Students choose among several tracks:

   • General Education (Général / Algemeen – ASO): Academic focus, prepares for university.

   • Technical Education (Technique / Technisch – TSO): Mix of academic and vocational subjects.

   • Vocational Education (Professionnel / Beroeps – BSO): Practical training leading directly to employment.

   • Artistic Education (Artistique / Kunst – KSO): Combines arts and general education.

At the end of secondary school, students earn a diploma that grants access to higher education, depending on the track they completed.

What Comes After Secondary School?

After completing secondary education, students can:

• Attend university – for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees.

• Join a university college (haute école / hogeschool) – offering applied sciences or technical programs.

• Pursue vocational or art academies – practical training in trades or creative fields.

Belgium follows the Bologna Process, meaning its degrees are internationally recognized across Europe.

School Types: Public, Private, or International?

Belgium has a wide range of schooling options, all high in quality but differing in language, curriculum, and philosophy.

Public Schools

• Run by regional governments or municipalities.

• Free of charge, except for small material or lunch fees.

• Follow the official curriculum of their language community.

• Ideal for families planning long-term residence and language integration.

Subsidized “Free” Schools (Écoles libres / Vrije scholen)

• Run by private organizations (often Catholic) but publicly funded.

• Most Belgian children attend these schools.

• Teach the same curriculum as public schools but may have religious or philosophical foundations.

Private and International Schools

• Offer alternative curricula, such as IB, British, American, French, or European systems.

• English-language education is common, especially in Brussels and Antwerp.

• Fees vary widely (€10,000–€35,000 per year), but many multinational companies and EU institutions provide education allowances.

Language and Integration

Belgium is officially trilingual (Dutch, French, German), but language use depends entirely on where you live.

• Flanders: Dutch (Flemish dialect) is the language of instruction.

• Wallonia: French is used in most schools.

• East Belgium: German is the main teaching language.

• Brussels: Officially bilingual (French and Dutch), though many schools operate primarily in one language.

English is increasingly taught as a second or third language across all regions.

If your child is new to the local language:

• Many schools offer language integration programs (classes passerelles / onthaalklassen).

• Alternatively, international or bilingual schools can help with a smoother transition.

Universities in Belgium

Belgium’s higher education system is world-renowned, attracting students from across Europe and beyond. Tuition fees are moderate compared to other Western countries, and degrees are globally recognized.

Top Universities Include:

• KU Leuven (Katholieke Universiteit Leuven) – Leading research university in Flanders.

• Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain) – Prestigious French-speaking university.

• Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) – Strong in political science, law, and humanities.

• Ghent University (UGent) – Known for engineering and science programs.

• University of Antwerp – Research-oriented, with growing English-language offerings.

• Université de Liège – French-speaking, known for medical and technical studies.

Academic Calendar: Mid-September to late June
Tuition Fees:

• EU/EEA students: €850–€1,000 per year

• Non-EU students: €2,500–€6,000 per year
  Language: Many bachelor’s programs are in French or Dutch; master’s programs increasingly offered in English.

Cultural School Norms in Belgium

Belgian school culture combines structure and independence, emphasizing personal responsibility and academic quality.

• Punctuality: Arriving on time is essential.

• Dress code: Casual and tidy; uniforms are rare outside private schools.

• Lunch: Many schools have canteens, though some students go home during long midday breaks.

• Parent involvement: Schools often organize parent-teacher meetings and cultural events.

• Exams: Students are regularly assessed, especially in secondary school.

• Multilingualism: Most Belgian students study at least two foreign languages by age 16.

• Inclusivity: Special-needs education and support programs are widely available.

Where to Begin Your Search

Here’s how to find the right school for your family:

1. Decide on a language: Choose between Dutch, French, or English instruction based on your child’s language skills and future plans.

2. Research your region: Each community has its own education website, start with your local municipality (commune / gemeente).

3. Visit schools: Schools are open to visitors, and many host information days (portes ouvertes / opendeurdagen).

4. Ask about integration: Inquire about support for non-native speakers.

5. Understand admissions timelines:

   • Public and subsidized schools: registration typically starts in spring for September.

   • International schools: rolling admissions or early application deadlines.

6. Connect with local parents: Expat groups (especially in Brussels, Antwerp, and Ghent) are great resources for firsthand recommendations.

Schools for Expat Families

Brussels (Capital Region)

• European School Brussels I–IV: EU-funded, multilingual, and IB-accredited.

• International School of Brussels (ISB): IB World School with English instruction.

• British School of Brussels (BSB): British curriculum and IB Diploma.

Antwerp

• Antwerp International School: IB curriculum; English instruction; diverse student body.

• École Internationale Montgomery: Bilingual French-English program.

Ghent

• International School Ghent: English-language instruction with global curriculum.

Liège

• International School of Liège: IB programs; English, French, and bilingual options.

Final Thoughts and Next Steps

Belgium’s education system is one of Europe’s finest, flexible, multilingual, and internationally connected. Whether your child attends a local public school in Dutch or French, or an international institution in English, they’ll receive an excellent, well-rounded education.

With its emphasis on critical thinking, multilingualism, and cultural awareness, Belgium offers students a powerful foundation for success in both Europe and beyond.

Start early, visit schools, and get to know your community, your child’s Belgian education journey awaits.