Vrije Universiteit Brussel
Brussels, Belgium • Founded 1970 • World Rank #520
Updated May 2026
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
Location pin, postal address, phone, email, website, and social profiles for Vrije Universiteit Brussel. Always verify channels through the official domain to avoid third-party impersonators.
Academic Details
Vrije Universiteit Brussel's student-to-faculty composition and recognition standing are listed below. Student support staff (advisers, counsellors) are typically separate from academic staff and often uncounted here.
Academic Structures
Vrije Universiteit Brussel's teaching organisation from faculties down to institutes. Faculty websites typically list their own programme catalogue, faculty bios, and contact information separately from the central site.
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
The programmes available at Vrije Universiteit Brussel are organised by level. Most institutions cluster intake decisions by faculty, so application timelines often run in waves through the year.
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
A short guide to applying to Vrije Universiteit Brussel — five steps covering the path from programme selection to confirmation of receipt.
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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
Concise answers to the most-searched questions about Vrije Universiteit Brussel, useful as a quick orientation before exploring the rest of the profile.
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 #520 globally and #5 in Belgium.
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.
Members of European University Association (EUA)
Below: European University Association (EUA) member institutions alongside Vrije Universiteit Brussel, useful for shortlists weighted toward partnerships. Partnership-driven shortlisting works well when post-graduate mobility is part of your plan.
Faculties at nearby universities
Cost of living varies meaningfully across cities and towns hosting the universities below. Even within a single region, accommodation and transit costs can differ by 30–50%.
Where Else to Study Medicine
Industry partnership exclusives on Medicine programmes vary — some Belgium institutions hold sponsored chairs, others run rotating industry guest-teaching arrangements.
Universities Compared with Vrije Universiteit Brussel
International branch campuses are common among universities at Vrije Universiteit Brussel's tier. Peer institutions often operate in similar geographies, signalling comparable global ambition.
Studying in Belgium: guides and resources
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