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Universities in Belgium

Free University of Brussels

country rank  6
world rank  372

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Overview

Vrije Universiteit Brussel (Free University of Brussels) is a non-profit private higher education institution located in the urban setting of the metropolis of Brussels, Belgium. Founded in 1970, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) is a coeducational institution officially recognized by the Vlaams Ministerie van Onderwijs en Vorming, België. VUB provides courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees, including bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study. For an overview of the available degree levels and areas of study, see the uniRank table below or search the institution's website with the search engine below. This 56-year-old Belgian higher education institution has a selective admission policy based on students' past academic records and grades. The acceptance rate is 20-29%. This places it among a very selective. International students are welcome to apply. VUB also offers several academic and non-academic facilities and services, including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aid and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, and administrative services.

Snapshot

Control

Free University of Brussels's Control Typeprivate

Entity

Free University of Brussels's Entity Typenon-profit

Size

Free University of Brussels' Size by Total Enrollmentlarge-sized

Selectivity

Free University of Brussels's Selectivity by Acceptance Ratevery selective

Identity

Name (English) Free University of Brussels
Name
Name (Non Latin)
Acronym VUB
Founded 1970 Origins date back to 1834. Established from a split of Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), that existed since 1834, into a Dutch speaking (VUB) university and French speaking (ULB) University.
Motto Scientia Vincere Tenebras
Conquering darkness through science
Colours Blue, orange and white
Mascot Fox

Do you work for this university?

CLAIM / UPDATE UNIVERSITY

Location

Address Pleinlaan 2
Brussels
1050 Brussels
Belgium
Free University of Brussels's location map, satellite view and street view Location Map
Satellite View
Street View
Free University of Brussels Phone Number (2) 629 2111
Free University of Brussels Fax Number
Other locations

Video Presentation

Website

Search Engine

for programs, courses, degrees, tuition fees, admission policy and requirements, acceptance rate, accreditation, facilities, services, affiliations or any other information you want to find and learn about Free University of Brussels. Our search engine is powered by Google.
Free University of Brussels's Recognition or Accreditation

Recognition and Accreditation

Institutional Recognition or Accreditation

Free University of Brussels is legally chartered, licensed and/or institutionally accredited by: Vlaams Ministerie van Onderwijs en Vorming, België

Year of first Recognition or Accreditation

1970


Specialized or Programmatic Accreditations

uniRank publishes the following list of the most important Vrije Universiteit Brussel's programmatic accreditations; feel free to submit any relevant missing specialized accreditations.

  • Nederlands-Vlaamse Accreditatieorganisatie (NVAO)


Tip: search for Free University of Brussels's accreditations with the uniRank Search Engine


Related Guide Articles

There are different types of legal recognition and quality assessment of higher education institutions around the world, depending on the country and its legal and higher education system... read our article about university accreditation and recognition to learn more.

Important: the above section is intended to include only those reputable organizations (e.g. Ministries or Departments of Higher Education) that have the legal authority to officially charter, license, register or more generally recognize Free University of Brussels as a whole (institutional legal recognition), accredit the institution as a whole (institutional accreditation) or accredit its specific programs or courses (programmatic accreditation).

Fields of Study and Degree Levels

Free University of Brussels Fields of Study and Degree Levels

The following Fields of Study/Degree Levels Matrix of Free University of Brussels is divided into 6 main fields of study and 4 levels of degrees, from the lowest undergraduate degree to the highest postgraduate degree. This matrix aims to help quickly identify Free University of Brussels's academic range and degree level offering.



Vrije Universiteit Brussel: Fields of Study/Degree Levels Matrix
Undergraduate Postgraduate
PreBach
degrees 		Bachelor
degrees 		Master
degrees 		Doctoral
degrees
Yes Yes Yes
A&H Yes Yes Yes
L&C Yes Yes Yes
B&S Yes Yes Yes
M&H Yes Yes Yes
S&T Yes Yes Yes
Eng Yes Yes Yes

Related Guide Articles

What is the difference between comprehensive/generalist and specialized universities in terms of the range of fields of study they offer, degree levels available and academic and carreer paths pros and cons? Read our guide article about generalist and specialized universities to learn more.


Notice: please contact or visit the university website for detailed information on Free University of Brussels's areas of study and degree levels currently offered.

Programs and Courses

Free University of Brussels Academic Programs/Courses

Click here to explore a list of , or if they are not available yet, search for them with our powered by Google. We are constantly adding university courses and programs worldwide with the cooperation of university representatives.


Related Guides

You can also explore our Guide to University Programs and Courses to learn more about study outlines and typical duration, tuition ranges, career prospects and salary expectations for careers associated with more than 8,100 programs and courses.


Tuition Fees

Free University of Brussels Tuition Fees Range Matrix

This Tuition Fees Range Matrix of Free University of Brussels categorizes tuition fees by student type (local or international) and degree level (undergraduate or postgraduate). It aims to help students get an approximate idea of the estimated yearly tuition fees at Free University of Brussels.



Free University of Brussels: Tuition Fees Range Matrix
Undergraduate Postgraduate
Local
students		 1,000-2,499 US$ (910-2,280 Euro) 1,000-2,499 US$ (910-2,280 Euro)
International
students		 2,500-4,999 US$ (2,280-4,555 Euro) 2,500-4,999 US$ (2,280-4,555 Euro)

Tip: search for Free University of Brussels's tuition fees with the uniRank Search Engine


Related Guide Articles

Yearly tuition fees refers to the amount of money that a student is charged by a University for one academic year of full-time study. Read our guide article about tuition fees and financial aid options to learn more.


Important: tuition fee ranges are indicative. Final tuition fees can vary by degree program, citizenship, residency status, study load and enrollment mode. Contact Free University of Brussels Admissions for exact pricing applicable to your circumstances. Data sources: these figures are compiled from direct institutional submissions to uniRank, official Free University of Brussels website data and publicly available government education sources.

Admissions

Free University of Brussels Admission Info


Free University of Brussels's Gender Admission Policy Gender Admission

Free University of Brussels is a coeducational institution, admitting both men and women to its programs and degrees.


Free University of Brussels's Admission Selection Admission Selection

Free University of Brussels has a selective admission policy based on students' past academic records and grades.


Acceptance Rate Admission Rate

Free University of Brussels's acceptance rate ranges from 20 to 29%, making it a very selective higher education institution.


Minority Serving Minority Serving

This institution does not have a special focus on promoting education or research among a specific minority or ethnic group.


Admission Requirements Admission Requirements

Not reported


Free University of Brussels's International Students Admission International Students

Yes
Vrije Universiteit Brussel has more than 3200 international students.


Free University of Brussels's Admission Office Admission Office

Pleinlaan 2
Brussels 1050



Tip: search for Free University of Brussels's admission policy with the uniRank Search Engine


Related Guide Articles

Applying for admission is the first step towards achieving students' academic and career goals and accessing the many opportunities and resources that a university has to offer. Read our Introduction to University Admissions article to learn more.

Notice: admission policy and acceptance rate may vary by the areas of study, degree level, student's nationality or residence and other criteria. Please contact Free University of Brussels's Admission Office for detailed information on their admission selection policy and acceptance rate.

Size and Profile

Free University of Brussels Size and Profile


Free University of Brussels's Total Student Enrollment Student Enrollment

Free University of Brussels has a student enrollment ranging from 20,000 to 24,999, making it a large-sized institution.


Free University of Brussels's Total Faculty/Academic staff Academic Staff

Free University of Brussels's academic staff ranges from 1,000 to 1,499 members.


Free University of Brussels's Control Type Control Type

Free University of Brussels is a private higher education institution, meaning it is funded and managed independently rather than by the government, and relies on tuition fees and private contributions for its operations.


Free University of Brussels's Entity Type Entity Type

Free University of Brussels is a non-profit higher education institution, relying on government subsidies and reinvesting all revenue into programs, research and student services rather than distributing profits to owners or shareholders.


Free University of Brussels's Campus Setting Campus Setting

Free University of Brussels's main campus is located in an urban setting, meaning it is situated within a city.


Free University of Brussels's Academic Calendar Academic Calendar

Free University of Brussels adopts a semesters academic calendar, a scheduling system where the academic year is divided into two main terms, or semesters, each typically lasting about 15 to 18 weeks, separated by a long break, usually a winter or summer vacation.


Free University of Brussels's Disabled Students Friendliness Disabled Students %

Not reported


Free University of Brussels is None Religious Affiliation

None.



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University size and profile can be important factors to consider when choosing a university. Here are some potential reasons why University size and profile can affect students when choosing a university.

Facilities and Services

Free University of Brussels Facilities


Free University of Brussels's Library University Library

Yes Visit Free University of Brussels's Library

The Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) University Library comprises two departments: the Central Library located in Etterbeek and the Medical Library in Jette. It offers a diverse array of resources to cater to the academic needs of its users, which include:

  • Extensive Collection: the library provides access to an extensive collection of databases, newspapers, printed and electronic journals, and a wide selection of books, ensuring that students and researchers have a wealth of information at their disposal.
  • Wifi Access: students and faculty members can enjoy convenient Wifi access with their VUB account, enabling them to seamlessly connect and utilize online resources while on campus.
  • Reading Rooms: the library boasts comfortable and well-equipped reading rooms that offer a peaceful and conducive environment for focused studying and research.
  • Copying, Printing, and Scanning Facilities: in line with modern requirements, the library offers convenient copying, printing, and scanning facilities, making it easier for users to reproduce and work with physical materials as needed.
  • Study Spaces: recognizing the importance of collaborative and individual study, the library provides dedicated study spaces that cater to different study preferences, fostering an environment conducive to academic success.


Free University of Brussels's Housing University Housing

Yes

Vrije Universiteit Brussel's housing offerings include:

  • 1,540 student rooms
  • 1,452 single rooms
  • 35 two-person flats
  • 12 studios
  • 6 rooms for students with a wheelchair

These accommodations are located in and around the campuses in Etterbeek and Jette. The student rooms at VUB are highly attractive due to their low rent, excellent locations, high-quality facilities, and fantastic atmosphere. Students interested in these housing options are encouraged to secure their place promptly.


Free University of Brussels's Sport Facilities/Activities Sport Facilities/Activities

Yes

Vrije Universiteit Brussel offers a wide range of sports facilities, providing over 10,000 m² of indoor and outdoor infrastructure. The available sports facilities include, based on what reported to uniRank:

  • Athletics track
  • Rugby and football pitches
  • An outdoor five-a-side pitch
  • Three outdoor tennis courts
  • A 25-meter pool
  • A 12-meter pool with a movable floor
  • Basic Fit gyms in Elsene and Jette
  • An exercise bench in Jette
  • A Fit-O-Meter in Elsene
  • Two sports halls in Elsene
  • One sports hall in Jette
  • A combat sports hall in both Elsene and Jette

These facilities offer a plethora of opportunities for individual or group exercises. For more information, please visit their website at https://www.vub.be/en/services-vub-campuses-in-etterbeek-and-jette/sports-vub.


Free University of Brussels's Institutional Hospital Institutional Hospital

Yes

Free University of Brussels Services


Free University of Brussels's Financial Aid Financial Aid

Yes

Vrije Universiteit Brussel financial aids include:

  • Scholarship from the Flemish Government
  • Advance on the scholarship from the Flemish Government
  • Reduced tuition fee
  • Rent allowance
  • Interest-free study loan
  • External grants
  • Social allowance & Caroline Pauwels Relief Fund
  • Exchange grant
  • BusinessClub VUB Grants

For more information, visit the official page on financial support at Vrije Universiteit Brussel: https://www.vub.be/en/studying-vub/practical-info-for-students/how-much-does-studying-cost/financial-support


Free University of Brussels's Study Abroad Study Abroad

Yes

Vrije Universiteit Brussel offers the following exchange programs and study abroad opportunities:

  • The VUB has close links with many international higher education institutions and companies.
  • Students can go abroad for a few months to study or do an internship and return as a student of the world.

For more information, visit: https://www.vub.be/en/studying-vub/all-study-programmes-vub/personal-development-during-your-studies/studying-abroad


Free University of Brussels's Distance Learning Distance Learning

Not reported

Free University of Brussels's Academic Counseling Academic Counseling

Yes


Free University of Brussels's Career Services Career Services

Yes


Related Guide Articles

What are the most common University facilities and services? Read our two guide articles about University Facilities and University Services to learn more.

Notice: please contact or visit the university website for detailed information on Free University of Brussels's facilities and services.

Academic Structure

Free University of Brussels Organisational Structure

The academic structure of Vrije Universiteit Brussel consists of the following primary first-level divisions; feel free to submit any relevant missing division.

Vrije Universiteit Brussel
  • Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy
  • Faculty of Arts and Philosophy
  • Faculty of Social Sciences and Solvay Business School
  • Faculty of Law and Criminology
  • Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy
  • Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences
  • Faculty of Science and Bio-engineering Sciences
  • Faculty of Engineering

Related Guide Articles

Read our guide article "Understanding Academic Divisions in Universities - Colleges, Faculties, Schools" to learn more about academic divisions and typical university organizational structures.

Memberships and Affiliations

Free University of Brussels Affiliations and Memberships

uniRank publishes the following list of the most important Vrije Universiteit Brussel's affiliations and memberships; feel free to submit any relevant missing higher education-related organizations this university is affiliated with.

  • Network of Universities from the Capitals of Europe (UNICA)
  • European University Association (EUA)


Related Guide Articles

University memberships and affiliations to external organizations can be important for several reasons... read our article about university affiliations and memberships to learn more.

Social Media

Official Social Media Channels

Facebook Facebook

Vrije Universiteit Brussel's Facebook page review

X X (Twitter)

Vrije Universiteit Brussel's X page review

YouTube YouTube

Vrije Universiteit Brussel's Youtube page review

Instagram Instagram

Vrije Universiteit Brussel's Instagram page review

LinkedIn LinkedIn

Vrije Universiteit Brussel's official LinkedIn profile

TikTok TikTok

Vrije Universiteit Brussel's official TikTok channel


Related Guide Articles

Social media can be a powerful tool for Universities to communicate with current students, alumni, faculty, staff and the wider community. But how can social media be important for prospective students? Read our article about the importance of Social Media for universities and prospective students to learn more.

Do you work for this university?

CLAIM / UPDATE UNIVERSITY

Wikipedia

Wikipedia Article Wikipedia Article

Vrije Universiteit Brussel's Wikipedia article

Free Online Courses

Open Education Global Open Education Global

This higher education institution is not a member of the Open Education Global (OEGlobal) organization that is developing, implementing, and supporting free open education and free online courses. View a list of Open Education Global members by country.


Online Courses You Can Trust

Coursera Courses

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Free University of Brussels public or private?

Free University of Brussels is a private higher education institution, meaning it is funded and managed independently rather than by the government, and relies on tuition fees and private contributions for its operations.

Is Free University of Brussels profit or non-profit?

Free University of Brussels is a non-profit higher education institution, relying on government subsidies and reinvesting all revenue into programs, research and student services rather than distributing profits to owners or shareholders.

What is the size of Free University of Brussels in terms of enrollment?

Free University of Brussels has a student enrollment ranging from 20,000 to 24,999, making it a large-sized institution.

What is the size of Free University of Brussels in terms of academic staff?

Free University of Brussels's academic staff ranges from 1,000 to 1,499 members.

Is Free University of Brussels a coeducational institution?

Free University of Brussels is a coeducational institution, admitting both men and women to its programs and degrees.

What academic calendar does Free University of Brussels use?

Free University of Brussels adopts a semesters academic calendar, a scheduling system where the academic year is divided into two main terms, or semesters, each typically lasting about 15 to 18 weeks, separated by a long break, usually a winter or summer vacation.

What religion is Free University of Brussels affiliated with?

None.

Does Free University of Brussels admit international students?

Yes. Vrije Universiteit Brussel has more than 3200 international students.

What is Free University of Brussels's acceptance rate and admission policy?

Free University of Brussels's acceptance rate ranges from 20 to 29%, making it a very selective higher education institution. This university has a selective admission policy based on students' past academic records and grades.

How much does it cost to attend Free University of Brussels VUB?

Undergraduate tuition range for local students: 1,000-2,499 US$ (910-2,280 Euro). International students: 2,500-4,999 US$ (2,280-4,555 Euro). Tuition costs may vary by program.

Where is Free University of Brussels VUB located?

Free University of Brussels is located in Brussels, Brussels, Belgium. Address: Pleinlaan 2.

Is Free University of Brussels VUB accredited and legally recognised?

Yes, Free University of Brussels is accredited by Vlaams Ministerie van Onderwijs en Vorming, België (since 1970).

Does Free University of Brussels offer financial aid?

Yes

Vrije Universiteit Brussel financial aids include:

  • Scholarship from the Flemish Government
  • Advance on the scholarship from the Flemish Government
  • Reduced tuition fee
  • Rent allowance
  • Interest-free study loan
  • External grants
  • Social allowance & Caroline Pauwels Relief Fund
  • Exchange grant
  • BusinessClub VUB Grants

For more information, visit the official page on financial support at Vrije Universiteit Brussel: https://www.vub.be/en/studying-vub/practical-info-for-students/how-much-does-studying-cost/financial-support

Does Free University of Brussels offer study abroad programs?

Yes

Vrije Universiteit Brussel offers the following exchange programs and study abroad opportunities:

  • The VUB has close links with many international higher education institutions and companies.
  • Students can go abroad for a few months to study or do an internship and return as a student of the world.

For more information, visit: https://www.vub.be/en/studying-vub/all-study-programmes-vub/personal-development-during-your-studies/studying-abroad

Does Free University of Brussels have a university library?

Yes

The Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) University Library comprises two departments: the Central Library located in Etterbeek and the Medical Library in Jette. It offers a diverse array of resources to cater to the academic needs of its users, which include:

  • Extensive Collection: the library provides access to an extensive collection of databases, newspapers, printed and electronic journals, and a wide selection of books, ensuring that students and researchers have a wealth of information at their disposal.
  • Wifi Access: students and faculty members can enjoy convenient Wifi access with their VUB account, enabling them to seamlessly connect and utilize online resources while on campus.
  • Reading Rooms: the library boasts comfortable and well-equipped reading rooms that offer a peaceful and conducive environment for focused studying and research.
  • Copying, Printing, and Scanning Facilities: in line with modern requirements, the library offers convenient copying, printing, and scanning facilities, making it easier for users to reproduce and work with physical materials as needed.
  • Study Spaces: recognizing the importance of collaborative and individual study, the library provides dedicated study spaces that cater to different study preferences, fostering an environment conducive to academic success.

Does Free University of Brussels provide student housing and accommodation?

Yes

Vrije Universiteit Brussel's housing offerings include:

  • 1,540 student rooms
  • 1,452 single rooms
  • 35 two-person flats
  • 12 studios
  • 6 rooms for students with a wheelchair

These accommodations are located in and around the campuses in Etterbeek and Jette. The student rooms at VUB are highly attractive due to their low rent, excellent locations, high-quality facilities, and fantastic atmosphere. Students interested in these housing options are encouraged to secure their place promptly.

Does Free University of Brussels have sports facilities or activities?

Yes

Vrije Universiteit Brussel offers a wide range of sports facilities, providing over 10,000 m² of indoor and outdoor infrastructure. The available sports facilities include, based on what reported to uniRank:

  • Athletics track
  • Rugby and football pitches
  • An outdoor five-a-side pitch
  • Three outdoor tennis courts
  • A 25-meter pool
  • A 12-meter pool with a movable floor
  • Basic Fit gyms in Elsene and Jette
  • An exercise bench in Jette
  • A Fit-O-Meter in Elsene
  • Two sports halls in Elsene
  • One sports hall in Jette
  • A combat sports hall in both Elsene and Jette

These facilities offer a plethora of opportunities for individual or group exercises. For more information, please visit their website at https://www.vub.be/en/services-vub-campuses-in-etterbeek-and-jette/sports-vub.

Does Free University of Brussels offer academic counseling?

Yes

Does Free University of Brussels offer career services?

Yes

Does Free University of Brussels offer distance learning?

Not reported

Does Free University of Brussels have an institutional hospital?

Yes

Related Resources

Related Resources

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