Do I need to know French or Dutch to study in Belgium?
Belgium is one of Europe’s most welcoming and multilingual countries — known for its diverse culture, quality education, and international universities.
If you’re planning to study there, you might wonder:
“Do I need to know French or Dutch to study in Belgium?”
The short answer is: Not necessarily.
Many universities in Belgium offer English-taught programs, especially at the Master’s and postgraduate levels. However, learning some French or Dutch can make your daily life easier and help you integrate better into Belgian society.
This article explains when you need to know French or Dutch, when English is enough, and why learning a local language can still be beneficial for your student life and career.
Languages Spoken in Belgium
Belgium has three official languages:
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Dutch (Flemish) – Spoken in Flanders (northern region)
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French – Spoken in Wallonia (southern region)
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German – Spoken in a small eastern region
English is widely spoken across major cities like Brussels, Leuven, Ghent, and Antwerp, making it easy for international students to communicate in daily life.
Your language requirements depend on where you study and the language of your program.
Studying in English in Belgium
If you choose an English-taught program, you do not need to know French or Dutch to study in Belgium.
Most international students enroll in English-medium courses, especially at top universities like:
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KU Leuven
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Ghent University
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Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain)
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Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB)
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University of Antwerp
These institutions offer a wide range of Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs in English — particularly in fields such as:
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Business and Management
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Engineering and Technology
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Economics and International Relations
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Computer Science and Data Analysis
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Environmental and Social Sciences
Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent) is usually required for admission.
When You Need French or Dutch
You’ll need to know French or Dutch if you’re enrolling in a program taught in either language.
For French-taught Programs:
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Required in Wallonia or Brussels (e.g., Université Libre de Bruxelles, UCLouvain).
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Minimum level: B2 or C1 (intermediate to advanced).
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Accepted tests: DELF/DALF, TCF, or Alliance Française certificates.
For Dutch-taught Programs:
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Required in Flanders (e.g., KU Leuven or University of Antwerp for Dutch-track programs).
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Minimum level: B2.
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Accepted tests: CNaVT (Certificaat Nederlands als Vreemde Taal) or university language tests.
Even if your program is in English, basic knowledge of the local language can help you with internships, part-time jobs, and daily interactions.
Advantages of Learning French or Dutch
Even though many universities and workplaces in Belgium operate in English, knowing some French or Dutch offers clear benefits:
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Easier communication with locals, classmates, and professors
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Better job opportunities during and after studies
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More internship options in Belgian companies
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Smoother daily life — from shopping to using public services
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Cultural immersion — you’ll feel more connected and confident living abroad
Many universities offer free or discounted language courses for international students during the academic year.
Do I Need to Know French or Dutch for Daily Life?
In most large cities (like Brussels or Ghent), you can easily live in English — most people understand it well.
However, in smaller towns or rural areas, basic French or Dutch phrases can be very useful.
Learning simple greetings, directions, or shopping vocabulary will make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Language Support at Belgian Universities
Universities in Belgium support international students through:
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Language orientation courses during the first semester
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Free beginner classes in French or Dutch
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Buddy programs pairing local and foreign students
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Multilingual administrative support
So, even if you arrive with no knowledge of local languages, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to learn and adapt.
FAQs
1. Can I study in Belgium without knowing French or Dutch?
Yes. Many universities offer English-taught programs, especially at the master’s level, so local language skills aren’t required for admission.
2. What level of English do I need to study in Belgium?
You’ll typically need B2 or higher on the IELTS (6.0–6.5) or TOEFL (80+) for most English-taught programs.
3. Can I learn French or Dutch after I arrive in Belgium?
Yes. Most universities offer language courses for international students to help you adapt easily.
4. Will knowing French or Dutch help me find a job in Belgium?
Absolutely. Many employers prefer bilingual candidates, especially for positions in customer service, tourism, and administration.
5. Is English enough for everyday life in Belgium?
Yes, especially in big cities. However, learning basic phrases in the local language is highly recommended for smoother communication.
Conclusion
You don’t need to know French or Dutch to study in Belgium — English is widely used in academic programs and daily life.
However, learning the local language can help you make the most of your experience, improve job prospects, and connect with the community.
At EuropeStudy.eu, we help you find English-taught programs, guide you through language requirements, and support you throughout your admission and visa process.
Start your study journey today at EuropeStudy.eu — your trusted guide to higher education in Europe.
