KU Leuven

KU Leuven, founded in 1425, stands as one of Europe’s most historic universities while remaining deeply future-oriented. As Belgium’s largest institution and the world’s largest Dutch‑language university, it hosts over 65,000 students, including a vibrant international cohort. Its research-intensive culture fuels global recognition, with strong rankings across QS, THE, and Shanghai indicators.

Located in Leuven with campuses across Flanders, the university blends academic excellence with advanced facilities such as UZ Leuven and specialized science hubs. This combination of heritage, scale, and interdisciplinary research positions KU Leuven as a leading European center of innovation and learning.

Graduates from KU Leuven benefit from an extensive professional ecosystem supported by global partnerships and a strong alumni community. Over 90% of master’s graduates secure employment within months, often entering sectors such as technology, healthcare, consulting, and advanced research thanks to the university’s close industry ties.

Students gain access to internships through leading organizations including imec and UZ Leuven, alongside opportunities generated by KU Leuven Research & Development’s 100+ spin‑offs. Career services, mentoring, and international alumni chapters ensure consistent support as students transition into global leadership roles.

KU Leuven appeals to ambitious students seeking a combination of academic prestige, innovative research, and global perspective. Ranked within the world’s top universities and recognized for strengths in engineering, biomedical sciences, and business, it offers an education grounded in research-driven excellence at accessible tuition levels.

Its multicultural community, strong employability outcomes, and extensive partnerships provide exceptional value and mobility. Students benefit from interdisciplinary learning, English-taught master’s programs, and a campus culture focused on well‑being, sustainability, and intellectual growth—making KU Leuven a powerful launchpad for impactful careers worldwide.

KU Leuven is a global research leader, driving advancements in disciplines such as clinical medicine, engineering, and biotechnology. Its contributions include managing the world’s largest banana genebank, powering breakthroughs in AI and nanotechnology through imec collaborations, and supporting world-class biomedical research via the Gasthuisberg campus.

With more than 540 European research projects, the university actively addresses societal challenges in health, climate, and sustainable development. Accelerators and incubators foster entrepreneurship, supporting over 100 spin‑offs that translate discoveries into real-world impact. This dynamic innovation ecosystem defines KU Leuven’s forward‑looking mission.

Do I need Dutch to study at KU Leuven?
English‑taught master’s programs require no Dutch, though basic knowledge helps daily life.

 How international is the community?
With students from 150+ countries, KU Leuven offers strong support services for visas, integration, and housing.

What is the teaching style like?
Students experience blended learning with lectures, seminars, and research projects emphasizing independence and academic rigor.

Admissions vary by program but generally require a relevant degree, transcripts, motivation letter, and proof of English proficiency such as TOEFL 92+ or IELTS 6.5. Prospective students apply online, with processing typically taking several weeks. Non‑EEA applicants should apply early due to visa timelines.

Tuition ranges from affordable EU fees to €3,100–€7,000 for many non‑EEA master’s. Students can access university housing, private rentals, and support services for arrival and integration. Campuses are connected through efficient cycling and public transport, ensuring convenient access to facilities and academic hubs.