Foreign candidates dominate medical exam applications in Belgium, accounting for nearly half of the total
Increase in Non-Belgian Candidates Applying to French-Speaking Belgian Medical Schools
A significant surge in the number of non-Belgian candidates applying for medical school entrance exams in French-speaking Belgium has been observed in recent years. This trend can be attributed primarily to the attractiveness of Belgian medical education programs, combined with the impact of recent reforms in French universities and evolving admission regulations.
Affordability and Quality
Belgium offers a competitive edge with affordable tuition fees, ranging from around $1500 to $4000 per year, and well-regarded medical programs taught in French at universities like the Université Catholique de Louvain.
Easier Admissions
While Belgian medical schools typically require passing entrance exams, some programs or pathways do not, which attracts candidates from abroad seeking easier admissions.
Language and Accessibility
The allure of French-speaking Belgium extends to French-speaking international students, as medical courses are offered in French, complemented by growing availability of preparatory resources for non-Belgians to learn French and pass language proficiency tests like DELF or TCF.
Impact on Belgian Universities
This influx of non-Belgian students has led to higher competition for medical school seats, particularly in popular institutions like UCLouvain. It has also increased diversity in the student population, enriching the academic community. However, it has also put pressure on housing and local services due to the growing number of non-Belgian students.
Policy Adjustments
In response to this trend, Belgian authorities may consider regulatory measures to manage foreign admissions, ensuring quality and fairness while maintaining the international appeal of Belgian universities.
French University Reforms
The increase in non-Belgian candidates can also be linked to the recent reforms in French universities, which aim to control the number of medical students nationally. These reforms have increased pressure on French applicants, driving some candidates toward neighboring French-speaking Belgium where there might be more opportunities.
Recent Developments
In June 2021, French Prime Minister Jean Castex announced a new plan to adjust the reform, recognizing the need for changes in the selection process. The number of candidates in 2021 increased by 37% compared to 2020, with over 5,500 candidates taking the medical school entrance exam in various Belgian cities.
In conclusion, the combination of Belgium’s attractive medical education system and the tightening of access due to French reforms has contributed to the increase in non-Belgian candidates applying to French-speaking Belgian medical schools, impacting local competition and leading to wider internationalization of these universities.
[1] Université Catholique de Louvain website. (n.d.). Medical Programmes. Retrieved from https://www.uclouvain.be/en/faculties/medicine/education/programmes [2] La Libre Belgique. (2021, July 14). Plus de 5 500 candidats pour les épreuves d'entrée à l'UCLouvain. Retrieved from https://www.lalibre.be/info/sciences/plus-de-5-500-candidats-pour-les-epreuves-d-entr-e-a-l-uclouvain-1522210 [3] Université de Liège. (n.d.). Programmes de formation. Retrieved from https://www.uliege.be/fr/facultes-et-centres/facultes/medecine/formation [4] Centre international d'études pédagogiques. (n.d.). DELF et TCF. Retrieved from https://www.ciep.fr/fr/examens/delf-et-tcf
Science plays a vital role in the increasing number of non-Belgian candidates pursuing medical education in French-speaking Belgium. The competitive edge of affordable tuition fees, combined with the well-regarded medical programs at institutions like the Université Catholique de Louvain, attracts international students from health-and-wellness aspirants to education-and-self-development enthusiasts.
