Studying at the University of Ghent International Students

Thinking about studying in Belgium? One name that will keep popping up is the University of Ghent (UGent). Known for its history, research, and lively student life, UGent is one of the top universities in Europe and a dream destination for many international students.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about studying at UGent — from its history and academic programs to admission requirements, scholarships, and what life in Ghent is really like.

A Quick Look at UGent’s History and Mission

Founded back in 1817, the University of Ghent has played a big role in shaping education and research in Belgium. What started as a Dutch-speaking university has now grown into a world-class institution offering both Dutch and English-taught programs.

UGent stands for:

●Academic freedom – encouraging students to think independently.

●Innovation and research – pushing the boundaries of knowledge.

●Global collaboration – welcoming students and researchers from all over the world.

In short, the university is all about preparing students to tackle real-world challenges while building strong global connections.

Academic Reputation and Rankings

If rankings matter to you (and let’s be honest, they usually do), you’ll be glad to know that UGent is consistently placed among the top 200 universities worldwide.

It shines particularly in:

●Life Sciences

●Engineering

●Environmental Science

With strong international partnerships and a reputation for high-quality research, UGent has built a name that’s respected across industries and academic circles.

Faculties and Academic Programs at UGent

UGent is home to 11 faculties, each with its own focus areas. Here’s a snapshot of what you can study:

●Faculty of Arts and Philosophy – Explore languages, literature, history, and cultural studies. Perfect if you’re into critical thinking, writing, or media.

●Faculty of Sciences – Dive into biology, chemistry, physics, or mathematics. Students often get involved in exciting research projects early on.

●Faculty of Engineering and Architecture – Known for cutting-edge work in renewable energy, robotics, civil engineering, and industrial design.

●Other Faculties include Medicine and Health Sciences, Law, Economics and Business Administration, Psychology, and Veterinary Medicine.

The good news for international students? Many programs are taught in English, especially at the master’s and PhD levels.

Research Strengths and Opportunities

One of UGent’s biggest attractions is its research culture. The university is heavily involved in solving global challenges, and students get plenty of chances to be part of it.

Some standout research areas include:

●Sustainability and Climate Change – from renewable energy to environmental protection.

●Life Sciences and Medicine – with breakthroughs in cancer research, microbiology, and immunology.

●Engineering and Technology – including robotics and advanced manufacturing.

If you’re someone who wants to combine learning with real-world impact, UGent is an amazing place to grow.

Strong Industry Connections

UGent has close ties with local and international industries. This means:

●Internship opportunities during your studies.

●Work placements with big companies.

●Collaborative research projects that can give you industry experience even before you graduate.

Being in Ghent — a hub of innovation in Belgium — makes networking with companies in tech, life sciences, and engineering even easier.

Admission Requirements for International Students

So, what do you need to apply?

For Undergraduate Programs:

●A secondary school diploma equivalent to the Belgian high school certificate.

●High school transcripts.

●A motivation letter.

●Proof of language proficiency (English or Dutch, depending on your program).

For Master’s Programs:

●A relevant bachelor’s degree.

●Additional requirements depending on your chosen course.

Language Proficiency:

●English programs: TOEFL iBT (80+), IELTS (6.5+), or Cambridge exams.

●Dutch programs: Proof of Dutch proficiency is required.

Visa and Residence Permit:

●Non-EU/EEA students: You’ll need a student visa, proof of enrollment, financial means, and health insurance.

●EU/EEA students: No visa needed, but you must register with local authorities after arrival.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Studying abroad can be expensive, but UGent offers several scholarships for international students:

●UGent International Scholarship – For non-EU students with excellent academic performance.

●VLIR-UOS Scholarships – For students from developing countries, especially in master’s programs.

●Erasmus Mundus Scholarships – For selected international joint master’s programs.

On top of that, part-time jobs and student assistant roles can help cover living costs.

Life at UGent: More Than Just Studies

Studying abroad isn’t only about lectures and exams — it’s about the experience. Here’s what student life at UGent looks like:

Student Organizations and Clubs

With over 150 student associations, you’ll find a community for almost anything — whether it’s academics, sports, culture, or social activities.

Sports and Recreation

Love staying active? UGent offers gyms, swimming pools, and fitness classes. You can join football, basketball, or even yoga sessions.

Culture and Events

Ghent is alive with music festivals, film screenings, and art exhibitions. As a student, you’ll always find something happening around campus or in the city.

Living in Ghent: A Student-Friendly City

Ghent itself is a big part of the attraction. It’s a city that blends medieval charm with modern student energy. Imagine studying in a place where historic castles and cathedrals sit alongside trendy cafes and tech start-ups.

Cost of Living

●Housing: €300–€600 per month.

●Total monthly expenses: €800–€1,200 (affordable compared to many other European cities).

Accommodation

●UGent offers on-campus housing.

●Private rentals are also available, with many students choosing to share apartments.

Transport

Ghent is bike-friendly, and public transport is reliable. You can also walk to most places since the city isn’t too large.

What Students Say About UGent

Sometimes the best way to understand a university is through its students:

Lena, Master’s in Environmental Science
“UGent’s focus on sustainability research was a big draw for me. The professors are approachable, and I’ve had chances to work on projects that really matter.”

Mohammed, Bachelor’s in Engineering
“Ghent is an amazing city. The university’s industry connections helped me land an internship I never thought possible.”

Sarah, PhD Candidate in Life Sciences
“The international research collaborations here are incredible. UGent gave me opportunities I wouldn’t have found anywhere else.”

Final Thoughts: Why Choose UGent?

The University of Ghent isn’t just a place to study — it’s a place to grow, explore, and prepare for a future full of opportunities. With its academic reputation, research culture, and vibrant city life, UGent stands out as one of the best choices for international students in Europe.

So, if you’re thinking about studying in Belgium, UGent should definitely be on your list. Whether you’re into arts, sciences, engineering, or medicine, this university has the right mix of academic excellence and student life to make your journey unforgettable.

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