Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB)
Independent inquiry, global impact, in the heart of Europe.
📍 Brussels, Belgium 🇧🇪
🏆 #4 in Belgium · QS World #227 · THE World #201 · ARWU #101
Quick Facts about Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB)
- Tuition: $1,000 – $7,000/year
- Intakes: Fall
About Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB)
Academics
ULB hosts 12 faculties that cover a vast range of disciplines including medicine, engineering, social sciences, and the humanities. The university is particularly noted for its excellence in research, boasting several Nobel Prizes and Fields Medals among its faculty and alumni. While the primary language of instruction is French, the university offers an increasing number of multidisciplinary Master’s and PhD programs taught entirely in English. The teaching approach emphasizes "free inquiry," which encourages students to challenge conventional wisdom and participate in active scientific research.
International Students
International students make up approximately 33 percent of the total student population, creating one of the most diverse academic communities in Belgium. The International Relations Office provides dedicated support services including assistance with housing, administrative procedures, and integration workshops. Students can join numerous organizations like the Erasmus Student Network to participate in cultural excursions and social events. Additionally, the university offers French language courses to help non-francophone students adapt to their new environment and enhance their employability.
Campus & Location
The university is spread across three main campuses in Brussels, with the Solbosch and Plaine campuses situated near the beautiful Bois de la Cambre park. Brussels serves as a living laboratory for students, offering unparalleled access to European Union institutions and international organizations. The city features an efficient public transportation network of trams, buses, and metros that connect the university to historic landmarks and vibrant nightlife. Living in Brussels allows students to experience a unique blend of Belgian culture and international diplomacy in a truly cosmopolitan setting.
Career Outcomes
ULB maintains strong ties with the European business community and international NGOs, providing students with significant networking opportunities. The ULB Career Centre offers personalized guidance, internship placements, and regular job fairs to connect graduates with top-tier employers. Many alumni find success in the European Commission, multinational corporations, and the thriving Brussels startup ecosystem. The university’s reputation for academic rigor ensures that graduates are highly sought after in both the Belgian and international labor markets.
Information for International Students at Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB)
Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) in Brussels, Belgium welcomes international students.
- No visa support offered
- No on-campus work
- Student housing available
Admissions Requirements for Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB)
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB):
- Selectivity: Open (60%+)
Programs at Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) (20 programs)
Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) offers 20 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (7)
- Bachelor of Arts in Political Science (BA) — 36 months · French
Students in this program analyze political systems, theories, and international relations, developing critical thinking and analytical skills essential for understanding global governance and public policy.
Field: Political Science
Career outcomes: Policy Analyst, Diplomat, Journalist, Political Consultant - Bachelor of Science in Engineering: Civil Engineering (BSc) — 36 months · French · STEM
This program provides a strong foundation in civil engineering principles, covering structural analysis, hydraulics, geotechnics, and construction management, preparing students for diverse infrastructure projects.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Civil Engineer, Structural Engineer, Project Manager, Consultant - Bachelor of Science in Physics (BSc) — 36 months · French · STEM
Students explore fundamental physical laws, from classical mechanics to quantum physics, developing strong analytical and problem-solving skills applicable to scientific research and technology.
Field: Physics
Career outcomes: Physicist, Researcher, Data Analyst, Engineer - Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and Physics (BSc) — 36 months · French · STEM
This joint program offers a dual specialization in chemistry and physics, providing a broad scientific foundation and preparing students for interdisciplinary research or advanced studies.
Field: Chemistry and Physics
Career outcomes: Chemist, Physicist, Materials Scientist, Researcher - Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy (BA) — 36 months · French
Students engage with fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, values, reason, mind, and language, developing rigorous analytical and argumentative skills.
Field: Philosophy
Career outcomes: Philosopher, Writer, Journalist, Ethicist - Bachelor of Science in Biology (BSc) — 36 months · French · STEM
This program covers fundamental biological concepts, from molecular and cellular biology to ecology and evolution, providing a broad understanding of living systems.
Field: Biology
Career outcomes: Biologist, Lab Technician, Environmental Scientist, Research Assistant - Bachelor of Arts in Information and Communication Sciences (BA) — 36 months · French
This program explores the theories and practices of information, communication, and media, preparing students for careers in journalism, public relations, and digital communication.
Field: Communication
Career outcomes: Journalist, Communication Specialist, PR Manager, Content Creator
Master Programs (7)
- Master of Science in Computer Science (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This master's program offers advanced specialization in areas like artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity, and software engineering, fostering research and development skills.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Developer, Data Scientist, AI Engineer, Cybersecurity Analyst - Master of Science in Business Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · French · STEM
This program combines engineering rigor with business acumen, preparing students to manage complex projects, optimize operations, and lead innovation in technology-driven industries.
Field: Business Engineering
Career outcomes: Business Analyst, Consultant, Project Manager, Entrepreneur - Master of Arts in European Studies (MA) — 24 months · English
This interdisciplinary program examines the political, economic, social, and cultural dimensions of European integration, providing a comprehensive understanding of the European Union.
Field: European Studies
Career outcomes: EU Official, Policy Advisor, Lobbyist, International Relations Specialist - Master of Science in Bioengineering: Biosystems Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This program applies engineering principles to biological systems, focusing on areas like biotechnology, environmental engineering, and biomedical devices, addressing complex biological challenges.
Field: Bioengineering
Career outcomes: Bioengineer, Biotech Scientist, Environmental Consultant, Medical Device Engineer - Master of Science in Chemistry (MSc) — 24 months · French · STEM
This program offers advanced study in various branches of chemistry, including organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry, with a strong emphasis on research methodologies.
Field: Chemistry
Career outcomes: Chemist, Researcher, Quality Control Specialist, Pharmaceutical Scientist - Master of Science in Data Science and Analytics (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This program equips students with advanced skills in data analysis, machine learning, and statistical modeling, preparing them to extract insights from complex datasets and drive data-driven decisions.
Field: Data Science
Career outcomes: Data Scientist, Data Analyst, Machine Learning Engineer, Business Intelligence Analyst - Master of Arts in Translation Studies (MA) — 24 months · French
This program trains students in advanced translation techniques, specialized terminology, and translation technologies, preparing them for professional translation careers in various fields.
Field: Translation
Career outcomes: Translator, Interpreter, Localisation Specialist, Language Consultant
PhD Programs (6)
- PhD in Biomedical Sciences (PhD) — 48 months · English · STEM
This doctoral program focuses on cutting-edge research in various biomedical fields, including molecular biology, immunology, neuroscience, and pharmacology, leading to significant scientific contributions.
Field: Biomedical Sciences
Career outcomes: Researcher, University Professor, Biotech Scientist, Medical Science Liaison - PhD in Law (PhD) — 48 months · French
This doctoral program offers advanced legal research opportunities across various specializations, including public law, private law, international law, and European law, contributing to legal scholarship.
Field: Law
Career outcomes: Legal Scholar, University Professor, Judge, High-level Legal Advisor - PhD in History (PhD) — 48 months · French
This doctoral program allows students to conduct in-depth historical research on specific periods, regions, or themes, contributing new perspectives and knowledge to the field of history.
Field: History
Career outcomes: Historian, University Professor, Archivist, Curator - PhD in Economics (PhD) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program trains students in advanced economic theory and econometrics, enabling them to conduct original research and contribute to economic policy and academic discourse.
Field: Economics
Career outcomes: Economist, Researcher, University Professor, Policy Advisor - PhD in Mathematics (PhD) — 48 months · English · STEM
This doctoral program provides advanced training in pure and applied mathematics, enabling students to conduct original research and contribute to theoretical and practical mathematical advancements.
Field: Mathematics
Career outcomes: Mathematician, University Professor, Quantitative Analyst, Data Scientist - PhD in Psychology (PhD) — 48 months · French
This doctoral program offers advanced research training in various psychological domains, including cognitive, developmental, social, and clinical psychology, contributing to psychological science.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: Psychologist, Researcher, University Professor, Therapist
Scholarships & Tuition at Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB)
Annual tuition for international students: $1,000 – $7,000/year
Visit the university's financial aid page for the latest scholarship information.
Rankings of Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB)
- National Ranking: #4 in Belgium
- QS World University Ranking: #227
- Times Higher Education (THE): #201
- Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #101
- Ranking tier: Top 250
Campus & Facilities at Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB)
- Student housing available
- No sports facilities
- No disability support info
Key Highlights
- Renowned for commitment to independent inquiry
- Leading French-speaking research intensive institution
- Multiple Nobel Prizes and Fields Medals
- One third international student population
- Located in the heart of Europe
- Emphasis on secularism and critical thinking
Fields of Study at Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB)
- Political Science
- Sociology
- Physics
- Mathematics
- History
Frequently Asked Questions about Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB)
What is Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB)?
Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) is a university located in Brussels, Belgium. .
How much does it cost to study at Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB)?
Tuition fees at Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) for international students range from $1,000 – $7,000/year.
What are the admission requirements for Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB)?
Selectivity: Open (60%+).
How many programs does Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) offer?
Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) offers 20 programs: 7 Bachelor's, 7 Master's, and 6 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) ranked?
#4 in Belgium · QS World #227 · THE World #201 · ARWU #101.
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