Study Abroad in Brussels
College Study Abroad
Explore Brussels with CIEE
Experience life at the heart of Europe when you study abroad in Brussels, Belgium’s vibrant capital and a global center for politics, culture, and innovation. Start your day with a fresh waffle or café au lait in a lively square, stroll past historic guildhalls in the Grand Place on your way to class, or unwind in one of the city’s many parks after lectures. Spend afternoons exploring renowned museums, discovering comic art murals, or sampling world-famous chocolate and cuisine in eclectic neighborhoods. On weekends, visit iconic landmarks like the Atomium, explore nearby medieval towns, or travel easily to other European capitals just a train ride away. With its multilingual culture, international energy, and rich history, Brussels study abroad offers an experience that’s both academically enriching and globally inspiring.
While abroad, you may complete a part-time internship in Brussels, gaining real-world international work experience and developing valuable professional skills. Internships are available across diverse industries, including finance, human services, marketing, public administration, and more, providing a well-rounded perspective of today's global job market and enriching the overall study abroad experience.
Top Activities in Brussels with CIEE
Every CIEE Brussels study abroad and international internship program includes frequent cultural excursions uniquely designed to complement the program’s academics and enhance students’ cultural immersion. In Brussels, excursions may include:
- Day trips to nearby historic destinations such as Bruges or Ghent to explore medieval architecture, canals, and well-preserved city centers that highlight Belgium’s rich heritage
- Visits to key European institutions like the European Parliament or related EU visitor centers to gain insight into European politics, policymaking, and international relations
- Exploring Belgium’s renowned culinary traditions with experiences at local chocolate makers, waffle shops, and artisanal bakeries, where students can learn about production methods and sample iconic Belgian specialties
Academics in Brussels
CIEE Brussels
Study in a globally connected European capital where historic charm meets modern influence. Engage in immersive academics alongside opportunities to experience international politics, art, cuisine, and the multicultural energy that defines everyday life in Brussels.
Arizona State University (ASU)
Brought to you by CIEE in partnership with ASU, enhance your international coursework with online classes that align with your degree requirements. ASU offers thousands of online courses in asynchronous 7.5-week sessions that fit within the CIEE academic calendar.
Internships in Brussels
Depending on your program of study and availability, you may be able to participate in an international internship while studying abroad in Brussels. As a global center for diplomacy and policy, Brussels’ dynamic work scene is shaped by international relations, business, communications, and public administration. Home to major institutions like the European Union and NATO, the city offers a uniquely global professional environment where decisions with worldwide impact are made. Its multilingual and multicultural atmosphere encourages collaboration, adaptability, and strong professional networking, helping you gain hands-on experience while building connections across international sectors. You may find opportunities in industries such as:
- Finance
- Human Services
- Government + Public Administration
- Marketing, Sales + Service
- Transportation, Distribution + Logistics
Community Impact Initiative in Brussels
CIEE's Community Impact Iniative invites you to connect more deeply with your host city by becoming an active member of its community. You’ll work alongside local organizations on projects that reflect real, on-the-ground needs, building meaningful relationships, gaining cultural insight, and contributing to efforts that create lasting, positive change. Through these immersive, hands-on experiences, you’ll engage with your surroundings while supporting initiatives that matter most to your host community.
While in Brussels, your service work will align with broader initiatives focused on:
- Food Security
- Community Development + Public Health
- Youth Development + Education Initiatives
Study Abroad Programs in Brussels
- Brussels, Belgium
- Study Program
...for 1, 2, or 3 term blocks!
- Brussels, Belgium
- Study Program
New Programs Coming in 2027
- Arts + Sciences at Brussels School of Governance
- Business + Culture
- Semester in Brussels
- Summer in Brussels
Pocket Guide to Brussels
Currency
Euro
Spoken Languages
French, Dutch, English
Available Transportation
Metro, tram, buses, trains, taxis, bike-sharing services
Famous Local
Audrey Hepburn – an internationally celebrated actress and style icon known for films such as Breakfast at Tiffany’s
Climate
Temperate oceanic climate with mild summers, cool winters, and frequent rainfall throughout the year
Local Attraction
Grand Place – a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ornate guildhalls, stunning architecture, and lively atmosphere
Did you know?
Brussels is officially bilingual (French and Dutch) and serves as the de facto capital of the European Union, hosting many major international institutions
Airport
Brussels Airport (BRU)
Social Norms
Multilingualism is common, and switching between languages is normal in daily life
What to Pack
Layered clothing, umbrella, comfortable walking shoes, reusable water bottle
Frequently Asked Questions
Brussels study abroad is a good idea for countless reasons! For starters, being in Brussels situates you in the heart of Europe. As the capital of Belgium and home to major international institutions, the city is the ideal setting for students interested in politics, business, and global affairs.
Additionally, during study abroad programs in Brussels, you’ll experience a multicultural environment, explore historic architecture and vibrant neighborhoods, and can easily travel to nearby cities like Paris (in 90 minutes) and Amsterdam (in two hours) – all while earning credits toward your academic degree and gaining real-world, globally relevant experience.
Studying abroad in Brussels combines engaging academics with everyday cultural immersion. You’ll take courses alongside other students while living in a multilingual city where French, Dutch, and English are commonly spoken.
Outside the classroom, daily life might include exploring local cafés, visiting museums like Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, and exploring historic neighborhoods such as Le Sablon, home to luxury chocolatiers. As the capital of Belgium, Brussels also offers easy access to internships, important cultural sites, and weekend travel to nearby European destinations, making it both an exciting and enriching place to study abroad.
As a tourist in any city, you’ll want to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Research the areas of Brussels you’ll be going to, ask friendly locals for their opinions, and learn basic French and Dutch phrases in case of emergency. Stay in well-lit areas at night, avoid walking alone once it’s dark, and always use official transportation services.
In the event of an emergency, remember that CIEE staff are available 24/7 and can be reached at 1-800-40-STUDY (1-800-407-8839).
Read More: Student Safety Tips
The cost of studying abroad in Brussels varies depending on the program you choose and how long you plan to go abroad. For detailed cost information, we recommend researching each of the individual Brussels study abroad programs.
For costs not included in the outlined fees, you'll want to consider factors surrounding your journey while abroad.
Read More: How Much Does it Cost to Study Abroad?
Study Abroad Scholarships & Grants
Apply in 1,2,3!
You may be wondering if there are any scholarships for studying abroad in Brussels. CIEE offers scholarships and grants for study abroad programs in Brussels to students with demonstrated financial need, proven academic merit, and for specific CIEE programs. Students can apply for scholarships through 3 simple steps:
- Search for and apply to your dream program
- Review all available funding opportunities
- Complete the Scholarship & Grants portion of your application
Study Abroad Scholarships
NEED-BASED SCHOLARSHIPS
Based on students' Estimated Family Contribution (EFC) from their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and enrolled institution. Complete the Scholarships & Grants portion of your program application to be considered for all awards to which you are eligible.
MERIT SCHOLARSHIPS
Based on academic achievement. Complete the Scholarships & Grants portion of your program application, along with an essay, to be considered for all awards to which you are eligible.
OTHER SCHOLARSHIPS
Other scholarship awards are based on program or alumni status.
Brussels Study Abroad Blog
Eat, Drink, Explore: Brussels
Best Food to Eat in Brussels Brussels is a city that knows how to do food right – rich, flavorful, and perfect for both quick bites and long meals. From... keep reading
What It's Like to Study Abroad in Brussels
If you’re wondering what it’s like to study abroad in Brussels, picture this: Cobblestone streets, waffle stands on every corner, and a city that feels both effortlessly cool and deeply... keep reading
Brussels vs. Paris: Where Should You Study Abroad?
If you’re planning a study abroad experience in Europe, you’ve likely found yourself comparing Brussels vs. Paris – and for good reason. Both cities sit at the heart of Europe... keep reading