Starting higher education in Flanders
Starting higher education in Flanders
I have been considering starting higher education studies in Belgium (mainly in Flanders) due to several factors such as low fees, its central position, the opportunity to speak English (nonetheless I want to study the local language), the fact that Flanders is a rich region, etc.
Is it a good move (I come from southern Europe), considering also the quality of life and job opportunities?
I have a similar background and went to Flanders for a Master's, and have been very satisfied.
There's several good universities, and most everybody speaks good English (even outside of the university environment) - to the degree that it can even be difficult to practice Dutch unless asking people deliberately to do so. Nevertheless, learning some Dutch helps with some everyday things like the supermarket, and should you aim for an intermediate+ level (think B1/2) it can give you an edge when looking for a job later.
Job opportunities are generally better than in most European countries, both in the industry and with all the organizations hosted in Brussels.
University fees are low compared to the UK (though similar to other European countries), but living costs are high. Expect to pay at least €400 rent for a small student room, and monthly expenses of another €400 if living in simple student conditions.
Public services are mostly good, with decent education, excellent healthcare and mostly reliable public transport (trains are alright, but buses can have issues from time to time). Most places are safe (besides the occasional bike theft), and police are actually nice.
I've grown to like the people here. Coming from southern Europe they can appear somewhat closed, and indeed tend to keep to themselves mostly. But if you show genuine interest in the country and it's ways, and even start learning some Dutch, it will be appreciated and you'll find people to hang out with and even become friends (of course, the alternative to just mingle with internationals is very common). In general they're polite, helpful and professional even when they don't know you, it's just that it takes a while to break this first "acquaintance" barrier. Sharing a dorm with them is usually a good way to get to know them better.
Quality of life depends on who you ask. The weather is pretty much what you'd get in England, and night life is limited to a few places and not too long either. But there's a lot of opportunities for activities, sports, culture etc., and the region has a rich heritage with beautiful cities (also some nice nature in Wallonia). Work-Life balance is excellent which coming from the South is a very welcome change (Belgians will work well and efficiently until their shift is done, and then not touch work again until the next day).
If you have any specific questions, I'm happy to answer them :)
Thank you for sharing your experience!
Thank you so much. I tried to educate myself by looking on websites such as studyinflanders.be and many other social media, your opinion, and experience are very helpful to me. Regarding the QoL question, it was more about the work-life balance and life in general so you already helped me a lot.
thanks again
It always surprises me if people from the beautiful south want to study in Belgium. Nevertheless, if you found a university/high school in Ghent, I’m sure you’re going to have a good experience
Ahah, indeed I do believe southern Europe is of extreme beauty. Nonetheless, the work-life balance and the salaries might not be the best, and I think that going abroad is an experience to do and it would help me in many ways. Moreover, as I said the central position of Flanders allows me to go to many different countries and I would have the opportunity to learn about new cultures and lifestyles.
Sadly it’s not for nothing that we say the greatest export of Italy is of educated Italians.
They simply cannot find a job in Italy after completing their degree(s)