Universities in Belgium

Vrije Universiteit Brussel

Rankings, Programs/Courses, Tuition & Admissions

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

Vrije Universiteit Brussel's Control Typeprivate

Entity

Vrije Universiteit Brussel's Entity Typenon-profit

Size

Vrije Universiteit Brussel' Size by Total Enrollmentlarge-sized

Selectivity

Vrije Universiteit Brussel's Selectivity by Acceptance Ratevery selective

Identity

Name
Name (English) Free University of Brussels
Name (Non Latin) n.a.
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

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Location

Address Pleinlaan 2
Brussels
1050 Brussels
Belgium
Vrije Universiteit Brussel's location map and satellite view Location Map
Satellite View
Street View
Vrije Universiteit Brussel Phone Number (2) 629 2111
Vrije Universiteit Brussel 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

Vrije Universiteit Brussel 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 Vrije Universiteit Brussel'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 Vrije Universiteit Brussel 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

Vrije Universiteit Brussel Fields of Study and Degree Levels

The following Fields of Study/Degree Levels Matrix of Vrije Universiteit Brussel 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 Vrije Universiteit Brussel'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 Vrije Universiteit Brussel's areas of study and degree levels currently offered.

Programs and Courses

Vrije Universiteit Brussel 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

Vrije Universiteit Brussel Tuition Fees Range Matrix

This Tuition Fees Range Matrix of Vrije Universiteit Brussel 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 Vrije Universiteit Brussel.



Vrije Universiteit Brussel: 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 Vrije Universiteit Brussel'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 Vrije Universiteit Brussel Admissions for exact pricing applicable to your circumstances. Data sources: these figures are compiled from direct institutional submissions to uniRank, official Vrije Universiteit Brussel website data and publicly available government education sources.

Admissions

Vrije Universiteit Brussel Admission Info


Vrije Universiteit Brussel's Gender Admission Policy Gender Admission

Vrije Universiteit Brussel is a coeducational institution, admitting both men and women to its programs and degrees.


Vrije Universiteit Brussel's Admission Selection Admission Selection

Vrije Universiteit Brussel has a selective admission policy based on students' past academic records and grades.


Acceptance Rate Admission Rate

Vrije Universiteit Brussel'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


Vrije Universiteit Brussel's International Students Admission International Students

Yes
Vrije Universiteit Brussel has more than 3200 international students.


Vrije Universiteit Brussel's Admission Office Admission Office

Pleinlaan 2
Brussels 1050



Tip: search for Vrije Universiteit Brussel'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 Vrije Universiteit Brussel's Admission Office for detailed information on their admission selection policy and acceptance rate.

Size and Profile

Vrije Universiteit Brussel Size and Profile


Vrije Universiteit Brussel's Total Student Enrollment Student Enrollment

Vrije Universiteit Brussel has a student enrollment ranging from 20,000 to 24,999, making it a large-sized institution.


Vrije Universiteit Brussel's Total Faculty/Academic staff Academic Staff

Vrije Universiteit Brussel's academic staff ranges from 1,000 to 1,499 members.


Vrije Universiteit Brussel's Control Type Control Type

Vrije Universiteit Brussel 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.


Vrije Universiteit Brussel's Entity Type Entity Type

Vrije Universiteit Brussel 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.


Vrije Universiteit Brussel's Campus Setting Campus Setting

Vrije Universiteit Brussel's main campus is located in an urban setting, meaning it is situated within a city.


Vrije Universiteit Brussel's Academic Calendar Academic Calendar

Vrije Universiteit Brussel 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.


Vrije Universiteit Brussel's Disabled Students Friendliness Disabled Students %

Not reported


Vrije Universiteit Brussel 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

Vrije Universiteit Brussel Facilities


Vrije Universiteit Brussel's Library University Library

Yes Visit Vrije Universiteit Brussel'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.


Vrije Universiteit Brussel'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.


Vrije Universiteit Brussel'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.


Vrije Universiteit Brussel's Institutional Hospital Institutional Hospital

Yes

Vrije Universiteit Brussel Services


Vrije Universiteit Brussel'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


Vrije Universiteit Brussel'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


Vrije Universiteit Brussel's Distance Learning Distance Learning

Not reported


Vrije Universiteit Brussel's Academic Counseling Academic Counseling

Yes


Vrije Universiteit Brussel'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 Vrije Universiteit Brussel's facilities and services.

Academic Structure

Vrije Universiteit Brussel 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

Vrije Universiteit Brussel 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 Vrije Universiteit Brussel public or private?

Vrije Universiteit Brussel 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 Vrije Universiteit Brussel profit or non-profit?

Vrije Universiteit Brussel 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 Vrije Universiteit Brussel in terms of enrollment?

Vrije Universiteit Brussel has a student enrollment ranging from 20,000 to 24,999, making it a large-sized institution.

What is the size of Vrije Universiteit Brussel in terms of academic staff?

Vrije Universiteit Brussel's academic staff ranges from 1,000 to 1,499 members.

Is Vrije Universiteit Brussel a coeducational institution?

Vrije Universiteit Brussel is a coeducational institution, admitting both men and women to its programs and degrees.

What academic calendar does Vrije Universiteit Brussel use?

Vrije Universiteit Brussel 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 Vrije Universiteit Brussel affiliated with?

None.

Does Vrije Universiteit Brussel admit international students?

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

What is Vrije Universiteit Brussel's acceptance rate and admission policy?

Vrije Universiteit Brussel'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 Vrije Universiteit Brussel 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 Vrije Universiteit Brussel VUB located?

Vrije Universiteit Brussel is located in Brussels, Brussels, Belgium. Address: Pleinlaan 2.

Is Vrije Universiteit Brussel VUB accredited and legally recognised?

Yes, Vrije Universiteit Brussel is accredited by Vlaams Ministerie van Onderwijs en Vorming, België (since 1970).

Does Vrije Universiteit Brussel 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 Vrije Universiteit Brussel 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 Vrije Universiteit Brussel 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 Vrije Universiteit Brussel 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 Vrije Universiteit Brussel 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 Vrije Universiteit Brussel offer academic counseling?

Yes

Does Vrije Universiteit Brussel offer career services?

Yes

Does Vrije Universiteit Brussel offer distance learning?

Not reported

Does Vrije Universiteit Brussel have an institutional hospital?

Yes

Related Resources