Vrije Universiteit Brussel
Brussels, Belgium • Founded 1970 • QS 2027 #295
Updated May 2026 · Source: vub.be · How we collect data
Overview
Established in 1970, the 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 (population range of 1,000,000-5,000,000 inhabitants).
Officially recognized by the Vlaams Ministerie van Onderwijs en Vorming, België (Flemish Ministry of Education and Training of Belgium), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) is a large-sized coeducational Belgian higher education institution. Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study.
This 54-year-old Belgian higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on students' past academic records and grades. The acceptance rate range is 20-29% making this Belgian higher education organization a very selective institution.
International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment.
VUB also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, as well as administrative services.
Location & Contact
Mailing address, phone, email, and social channels for Vrije Universiteit Brussel are listed below.
Academic Details
A snapshot of Vrije Universiteit Brussel's academic profile — enrolment, staffing, and recognition.
Academic Structures
Vrije Universiteit Brussel's faculties, schools, and constituent units are listed below.
Unit 8 items
- Faculty of Arts and Philosophy
- Faculty of Engineering
- Faculty of Law and Criminology
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy
- Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences
- Faculty of Science and Bio-engineering Sciences
- Faculty of Social Sciences and Solvay Business School
Programs Offered
Browse Vrije Universiteit Brussel's programmes by level, or filter by name.
232 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in Belgium
Bachelor's Degree 40 programmes
Showing 10 of 40.
Master's Degree 173 programmes
Showing 10 of 173.
Postgraduate Certificate 19 programmes
Showing 10 of 19.
How to apply to Vrije Universiteit Brussel
How to apply to Vrije Universiteit Brussel — a five-step structure.
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1
Identify the right programme
Vrije Universiteit Brussel's catalogue includes 232 programmes. Browse by level, identify candidates matching your prior qualifications, and note their entry requirements for the next step.
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2
Check entry requirements
Entry requirements vary by programme and degree level. Verify academic minimums, language tests (if international), and any additional documents required for Vrije Universiteit Brussel's admissions process.
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3
Prepare your application documents
Typical documents include academic transcripts, identity proof (passport or national ID), language proficiency test scores, a personal statement or motivation letter, and recommendation letters. International applicants should account for translation and notarisation time.
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4
Submit via the institution
Submit your completed application through Vrije Universiteit Brussel's official website at www.vub.be. Most institutions use an online portal — register an account, complete the application form, and upload your prepared documents. Keep copies of all submissions and confirmation receipts.
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5
Get in touch with admissions
Follow up to confirm your application was received and is being processed. Reach the institution by phone at +32 (2) 629 2111. Admissions teams may request interviews or additional documents — respond promptly to keep your application active.
Frequently Asked Questions about Vrije Universiteit Brussel
A short Q&A covering Vrije Universiteit Brussel's essentials — founding, location, and structure.
How old is Vrije Universiteit Brussel?
The institution opened in 1970 (approximately 56 years ago).
Where is Vrije Universiteit Brussel located?
Vrije Universiteit Brussel is located in Brussels, Belgium.
Is Vrije Universiteit Brussel a public or private institution?
Vrije Universiteit Brussel operates as a private institution.
What is the student enrolment at Vrije Universiteit Brussel?
Student enrolment at Vrije Universiteit Brussel is around 20,000-24,999.
Where does Vrije Universiteit Brussel stand in university rankings?
It ranks QS 2027 #295.
How is Vrije Universiteit Brussel organised academically?
The institution comprises 8 academic units.
Is Vrije Universiteit Brussel accredited?
Yes, Vrije Universiteit Brussel is recognised by Vlaams Ministerie van Onderwijs en Vorming, België.
Where can I learn more about Vrije Universiteit Brussel?
The institution's website is www.vub.be.
Top-Ranked Universities in Belgium
These are the most highly ranked universities in Belgium. Putting Vrije Universiteit Brussel alongside them gives a clearer picture of where it sits in the national academic landscape, especially when reputation matters for credential portability.
Members of European University Association (EUA)
These universities are also members of European University Association (EUA).
Faculties at nearby universities
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Below: other Belgium universities that offer Medicine programmes.
Universities Compared with Vrije Universiteit Brussel
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Studying in Belgium: guides and resources
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