How to Get Admission in KU Leuven

About KU Leuven

KU Leuven (Katholieke Universiteit Leuven) is a public university in Belgium, with its main campus in the city of Leuven and additional campuses across Flanders. It offers a broad range of programmes, including many master's programmes taught fully in English.

This guide explains the official structure of the application process. Programme requirements, deadlines, and fees are set by the university each year and can change, so confirm the current details on the official KU Leuven application pages before you apply.

Check the application route for your background

KU Leuven's application process depends on the type of qualification you hold. Applicants with a non-Belgian (non-Flemish) degree go through a formal application before they can register, while some applicants with local diplomas follow a different route.

Because the steps differ by background, start on the official application page, identify the route that matches your qualifications, and follow that route. This avoids submitting through the wrong process.

• Identify your applicant category (e.g. non-Flemish degree holder)
• Follow the matching application route on the official page
• Check the specific programme page for extra requirements

Select a programme and meet its entry requirements

Choose a specific KU Leuven programme, because each one states its own academic background, required documents, and any additional conditions. For a master's programme you generally need a relevant bachelor's degree, and some programmes expect particular prior subjects.

Some programmes are selective or have a limited intake. Read the requirements on the programme page itself and make sure your qualification matches before you apply.

Apply online and submit your documents

Applications are submitted through KU Leuven's official online application system. You create an account, complete the application form, and upload the required documents such as transcripts, your degree certificate, and any programme-specific items.

An application fee may apply for some applicants — the current amount and any exemptions are stated on the official site. Submit a complete application, because missing documents can delay or weaken your application.

Meet the language requirement

For English-taught programmes, KU Leuven requires proof of English proficiency, usually through an accepted test such as IELTS or TOEFL, unless you qualify for an exemption defined by the university. Dutch-taught programmes have their own language requirements.

The exact accepted certificates and exemptions are published officially. Verify them on the KU Leuven language-requirements page, and plan your test so results arrive before the deadline.

Deadlines, tuition, and scholarships

Application deadlines at KU Leuven often differ by programme and by applicant category, and applying earlier is generally safer. Tuition fees depend on your programme and citizenship category as defined by the relevant authorities.

KU Leuven and external bodies offer some scholarships, each with its own eligibility, amount, and deadline that change every year. Check the official deadline, tuition, and scholarship pages for the current details and apply early.