Story perspectives

Belgium Increases Credits, Tightens Visas; Non-Recognized Schools Hit

6/4/2026

Summary

Story summary

Belgium will raise credit thresholds to at least 60 credits after two years and 40 credits thereafter.
The government will tighten residence-permit rules for non-EU students, limit programme changes, extend stays, and cap the length of master’s, advanced master’s, certificate and doctorate programmes.
Visa approvals for non-recognised music and business schools fell to 51 % last year versus 82 % for recognised schools, prompting Van Bossuyt to warn they offer fewer guarantees.

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Story summary

Belgium will raise credit thresholds to at least 60 credits after two years and 40 credits thereafter.
The government will tighten residence-permit rules for non-EU students, limit programme changes, extend stays, and cap the length of master’s, advanced master’s, certificate and doctorate programmes.
Visa approvals for non-recognised music and business schools fell to 51 % last year versus 82 % for recognised schools, prompting Van Bossuyt to warn they offer fewer guarantees.