Belgium Introduces Stricter Rules for Foreign Students

The Belgian government introduced stricter rules for foreign students seeking to study in the country or renew their student residence permits, according to Belgian news agency Belga. Under the new regulations aimed at preventing potential system abuse, foreign students must demonstrate faster academic progress by earning at least 60 credits in their first two academic years and at least 40 credits each subsequent year. The maximum study duration has also been clearly defined for master’s degrees, advanced master’s programmes, certificates, and doctoral studies. Additionally, visa rules have been tightened for students enrolled in unaccredited institutions, including some unapproved art schools and private business schools.