THE ESSENTIALS
Choosing a higher education institution in Brussels means opting for practical, career-oriented studies, with lots of hands-on experience and internships. Unlike university, which is more theoretical, a higher education institution prepares you directly for the world of work. Starting from the 2026-2027 academic year, registration fees are harmonized and calculated according to your financial situation, with amounts ranging from 0€ to 1,194€ for students from the European Union.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Higher education institutions in the Wallonia-Brussels Federation (FWB) offer studies in 13 major fields, such as information and communication, economic and management sciences, health sciences, or even engineering sciences and technology.
You’ll mainly find two types of bachelor’s degrees:
- The professionalizing bachelor’s degree: This is a 3-year program (sometimes 4 years for certain fields like nursing or midwifery), which gives you 180 to 240 ECTS credits. It’s super practice-oriented with lots of internships and prepares you directly for a profession.
- The transition bachelor’s degree: This also lasts 3 years and gives you 180 ECTS credits. It doesn’t train you directly for a profession, but it’s designed
Verified sources
- cfwb.be
- ephec.be
- student.be
- bruxelles-j.be
- monorientation.be
- studyinbelgium.be
Information verified on 31/08/2026. Amounts and rules may change: always check with the official body.