Bachelor's Degrees in Belgium

Study in Belgium

Known as the heart of Europe, Belgium is a hub of international cooperation and networking, offering an enriching educational experience. According to the European Union’s Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions, Belgium is one of the countries with the highest quality of life in the European Union.

The country consists of three major regions, organized under a federal government: the French side (Wallonia-Brussels), the Dutch side (Flemish community) and the German community. This multicultural environment offers a lesson in tolerance, openness and determination.

International programmes

Belgium is situated at the crossroads of Europe, close to major capitals such as Paris, Amsterdam, London or Berlin. The country has three official languages: Dutch, French and German. English is also widely spoken, especially in Brussels.

As the centre of European politics and global business, Brussels is an ideal location to get an international internship or enrol in a business study programme. Universities in Brussels offer internationally recognized degree programmes centred on European studies in a variety of subjects. International guest speakers, focused on international cooperation, teach many of these courses.

20% of students (40% at doctorate level) enrolled in universities in Wallonia-Brussels are foreign students.

Student benefits

Belgium offers an excellent healthcare system that supports students. The Belgian authorities cover a high percentage of the cost of higher education.

Universities provide options that enable students to switch between fields of study or include training courses in their study programmes. This provides more flexibility and control over future career paths.

General application requirements

Depending on the location of the university, candidates must hold a high-school certificate that is recognised as equivalent in Wallonia-Brussels or Flanders in order to be admitted to bachelor studies. Students who hold a foreign high-school certificate must submit an application to obtain a recognition of equivalence.

Courses in Medicine and Dentistry, Engineering and Management Sciences usually require a written exam in addition to the high-school diploma. Candidates for studies in Arts usually have to take a practical skills exam.

To be admitted to a Master’s degree programme, foreign student must generally hold an undergraduate degree in the same field. In some cases, the Admissions Panel of the institution may take into consideration previous professional experience.

Admission to doctorate studies is reserved to students who hold a graduate degree or equivalent.

Make sure to ask for admission information at the university you plan to attend. Some universities may include specific additional enrolment requirements.

For more information regarding studies in Wallonia-Brussels visit: http://www.studyinbelgium.be/en/how-apply?quicktabs_9=0#quicktabs-9

For more information regarding studies in Flanders visit: http://www.studyinflanders.be/en/education-system/admission-requirements/

International recognition

According to the ranking of the Swiss Economic Institute, Belgium is the most globalised country in the world. The Programme for International Student Assessment ranks Belgium's education as the 19th best in the world.

As part of the Bologna Process, the Accreditation Organisation of the Netherlands and Flanders (NVAO) certifies study programmes in the Flemish region.

Languages of instruction

The three national languages are Dutch, French, and German. In general, the language of instruction at Belgian universities is dependent on the language of the local community where the institution is located.

Especially higher education institutions in the region of Brussels, offer a wide range of English-taught programmes or bilingual programmes. There are some Master’s and Advanced Master’s degree courses taught entirely in English. If you want to study abroad in Belgium, you can find English-taught programmes in law, economics, social and political sciences, management, arts, applied science, health science and more. Research-based programmes are also usually offered in English. Most universities offer course materials in the language of your choice, providing great opportunities to study abroad in Belgium,.

The majority of courses in Belgium are taught in French. It is usually necessary to pass a French language proficiency examination to enrol in a French-taught study programme. During the school holidays or throughout the academic year, higher education institutions organise French language courses targeting students coming from abroad. The majority of universities have a language centre, which organise courses in English or French as a foreign language.

To find and compare French, German or English language courses visit: www.languagelearningportal.com

Visa information

Nationals of the Member States of the European Union (EU) and of the European Economic Area do not need a visa to reside and study in Wallonia-Brussels.

Non-EEA citizens need a visa or an authorisation to enter Belgium. Non-EEA students should apply for an Authorisation for Provisional Stay or Visa Type D, allowing them to stay in Belgium for a period longer than three months. For non-EEA students, the Authorisation for Provisional Stay is also commonly known as student visa. As a rule you must apply for this visa at the Belgian Consulate or Embassy in your country.

When visiting the embassy or consulate you will need the following documents:

• Valid passport (with at least one year’s validity remaining).
• Permission to enrol at the higher education institution.
• Proof you can support yourself.
• Certificate of good conduct.
• Medical certificate.
• Recent passport pictures, signed on the back.
• Financial support declaration.

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Bachelor's Degrees in Israel

Study in Israel

With more than 2,000 years of history, Israel is at the crossroads of some of the world’s major cultures and religions, and a great place to get an international education.

Higher education plays a pivotal role in the economic and social development of Israel. In 2009-2010 some 280,000 students attended the country's institutions of higher learning. Of these, 38 percent attend universities and 41 percent are enrolled in colleges, while 21 percent participate in distance-learning courses.

Israel's institutions of higher education have full academic and administrative freedom and are open to all students who meet their academic standards.

Academic organization

Institutions of higher education operate under the authority of the Council for Higher Education, organized by the minister of education, and includes academics, community representatives and a student representative. The Council grants accreditation, authorizes the awarding of academic degrees, and advises the government on the development and financing of higher education and scientific research.

Public funds provide 70 percent of the budget for higher education, 20 percent derives from tuition, and the rest from various private sources. In recent years higher education study programmes in Israel have become more career-oriented, with larger numbers of students enrolled in the wide range of professional studies.

General application requirements

In most cases applications are submitted online. After the application deadline, all applications will be reviewed, and will be contacted with an admissions decision. In some cases, an interview will be required, which can be held either in person or via telephone or Skype.

Application documents include:

• Official transcripts from attended high school, including a copy of the graduation diploma;
• Personal essay;
• Letters of recommendation;
• CV/resume;
• Results from standardized university entrance exams in your country;
• Demonstrated Command of English;
• Heath Declaration Form;
• Medical Form.

Universities may have additional requirements. Make sure to ask for detailed information before applying to your chosen university in Israel.

For more details visit: http://www.masaisrael.org/programs/apply

Admission exam

Immigrants and students lacking the necessary qualifications may attend a special preparatory program, which enables them to apply for admission. A standardized test is used as a higher education admission exam. The test covers three areas: quantitative and verbal reasoning and English language proficiency. It is administered by the Israeli National Institute for Testing and Evaluation (NITE).

Study programmes

Israeli universities are among 100 of the top world universities in science and engineering-related subjects, according to the QS World University Rankings. Taught subjects include mathematics, physics, chemistry, computer science, engineering or life sciences.

Summer Programs are offered in general academic areas as well as language offerings in Yiddish, Hebrew and Arabic. Intensive Language Program are offered in Hebrew, Yiddish and Arabic. A wide range of Graduate Programs is also available in Israeli universities.

Opportunities are available for international students to spend a semester or year in an exchange programme experiencing another culture, volunteering, doing an internship, studying, or developing their Jewish identity. Jewish Studies programs are designed to deepen your connection to the Jewish traditions and identity.

Higher studies in Israel offer a broad selection of courses taught in English, along with courses in French, Spanish, Russian, and Hebrew delivered by experienced faculty.

To find and compare English, French and Spanish language courses visit: www.languagelearningportal.com

Internships and connections

Whether you are interested in hi-tech innovation, community building, art, scientific research, renewable energy, music, language, or archaeology, Israel has an array of cutting-edge companies, socially conscious organizations, top-notch educational institutions, and warm communities that will welcome you during your program. Students are encouraged to build lifelong connections with Israeli citizens.

Study visa

The higher education visa is valid for up to one year and for multiple entrances and exits. Recipients of this visa are not permitted to work in Israel.

The visa is granted to students who provide the following documents:

• Completed and signed application;
• Two passport pictures;
• Certification of acceptance for study at a recognized educational institution in Israel;
• Proof that the student has the financial means to pay for his studies and sustenance throughout his stay in Israel;
• A valid travel document;
• Payment of the fee.

Every participant is required to visit his/her local Israeli Consulate or Embassy of Israel prior to his/her arrival, in order to obtain a student visa. Request additional information from your local Israel Embassy or Consulate.
For more information visit: http://www.mfa.gov.il/mfa/consularservices/pages/visas.aspx

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Bachelor's Degrees in Ireland

Study in Ireland

As far back as 500 AD, Ireland, and its monks and monasteries, were at the centre of learning in Europe, earning Ireland the title Land of Saints and Scholars. In 1592, Trinity College Dublin received its charter and university status. National University of Ireland Maynooth dates back to 1795, and the universities in Galway and Cork were both founded in 1845.

Ireland's history has engendered a deep appreciation and respect for learning, and, today, educational attainment rates are among the highest in the world. Over 85 per cent of young people complete secondary level education, and over two-thirds of those go on to higher level education. Ireland is ranked first in Europe in terms of graduates per 1,000 inhabitants.

Government investment in world class facilities build on a lengthy tradition of academic excellence. Today, there are seven universities, 14 Institutes of Technology and many other world-leading education and research centres, housed in state-of-the-art facilities on beautiful campuses

Irish research ranks within the top one per cent globally in 18 research fields, and all of the country's universities are in the top 3 per cent worldwide. Students from 160 countries study in Ireland and make up 12 per cent of the student population.

Why Study in Ireland?

• A friendly, safe countryAnd it is not just us saying it! Ireland was voted by Lonely Planet as the world's friendliest country in 2008 and 2010 and was ranked 12^th in the 2013 Global Peace Index. Our hospitable nature coupled with an unrivalled sense of fun ensures living in Ireland is an unforgettable experience.
• English-speaking countryIreland, an English-speaking country, has close cultural, economic and educational links with the English-speaking world, especially with the UK - our next door neighbour - and with the USA.
• Internationally recognised qualifications and extensive choiceIrish qualifications are recognised for excellence worldwide. Students can choose from an extensive range of programmes to meet their needs in highly respected business schools, centres of scientific and technology excellence as well as renowned language, humanities and arts faculties.
• Supportive learning environmentsDedicated international offices work closely with academic, administrative and specialist staff to fully support students throughout their time in Ireland. Through these support structures, students receive direct access to information, facilities, services and staff.
• Innovative and creative cultureIreland is a land rich in cultural heritage with a history of world-leading innovation. From the flamboyance of Oscar Wilde to mould-breaking James Joyce, from the pioneering quantum physics of John Bell to Nobel Laureate Ernest Walton, Ireland's unique innovative and creative culture is an integral part of the Irish experience. Europe's most enterpreneurial country is Ireland!
• Distinguished graduatesIreland's graduates are innovators in their fields, leaders in their communities and ambassadors for excellence all around the world. Qualifications earned and connections made in Ireland deliver a passport to success.
• Leading global companies in IrelandCompanies who require a skilled, educated and highly capable workforce to drive their success choose to locate in Ireland. Ireland has welcomed Google, Facebook, Pfizer, Apple, Intel to name just a few - all of whom chose Ireland as their European base.

Practical Information

Living in Ireland

The friendliness and hospitality for which the Irish people are renowned contributes to the ease with which overseas students adapt to the way of life and in particular, student life in Ireland.

Climate

Our climate can be summed up as being mild, moist and changeable with abundant rainfall and a lack of temperature extremes. You can experience all four seasons in the one day, if you're lucky!

Because the island is hugged all year round by the warm influence of the Gulf Stream, Ireland is much warmer than other countries that share its latitude. The Gulf Stream also ensures that the Irish coastline remains ice-free throughout winter.

Extreme winters are rare, and you're more likely to encounter a warm glow than a frosty reception, with average winter temperatures of between 40°F/5°C and 46°F/8°C.

Summer temperatures are generally between 60°F/15°C to 70°F/20°C. One thing that is more than probable is rain - so don?t forget to pack your rain gear!

Health Insurance

Under EU/EEA regulations, students from other member states who are attending a course of study are entitled to free hospital services provided they have Form E.109 with them. In order to be eligible you will be required to provide the Irish health authorities with documentation from your home country that validates your entitlement. You should therefore contact the Health Authority in your home country, well in advance of travelling to Ireland, to fulfil any registration requirements and to obtain the necessary forms that you will need. From 1st June 2004, the E111 and a number of other 'E' forms (i.e. E128) have been replaced by a new European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).Students from non-EU countries are not covered for any free medical attention off-campus and must therefore have their own private insurance. Please note that heavy levies are charged for all hospitalisation and it is advised to make provision for adequate medical insurance. Non-EU students are required to show proof of comprehensive medical insurance when registering with the Garda National Immigration Bureau. Proof of health insurance is also required when applying for a student visa. Students are strongly advised to arrange insurance for private medical care as this ensures choice of hospital, doctor and hospital accommodation in the event of illness.

Working in Ireland

International students engaged in full-time study of at least one year?s duration (on a course leading to a qualification which is recognised by the Irish Department of Education and Skills currently do not need a work permit to work in Ireland.

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Bachelor's Degrees in Iceland

Study in Iceland

The Icelandic higher educational system dates back to the first university founded in 1911. Over the last three decades, new institutions of higher education have emerged and are operating in Iceland.

In Iceland, the state or private parties with state support run most higher education institutions. Currently there are approximately 18,000 students enrolled in the higher education system, of which about 5% are international students.

International students either may attend Icelandic higher education institutions as exchange students or as degree-seeking students.

Academic organization

• Bachelor degrees (B.A., B.S., B.Ed.) are awarded to students who have satisfactorily completed three to four years of study in a Bachelor degree programme. Bachelor degrees do not usually confer professional certification, except for nursing (B.S.) and compulsory schoolteachers (B.Ed.). The bachelor degree constitutes a formal qualification for postgraduate study.
• Candidatus degrees qualify the holder for a specialized profession and usually take four to six years to complete.
• Postgraduate certificates are offered in some subjects after one year of postgraduate study.
• Masters degrees (M.A., M.S.) are awarded after the completion of two successful years of postgraduate study. Either a major thesis or research project must be completed as part of the programme.
• Doctorate degrees (Ph.D) are awarded to students who have successfully completed a doctorate programme and defended a doctoral thesis.
• Summer courses featuring topics such as the European integration process, marine biology and ecology and marine recourse policy and management, Modern Icelandic and more.

Admission Requirements

Students enrolling in a higher education institution in Iceland must have completed a matriculation examination or equivalent level of study. Higher education institutions accept students who possess an equivalent level of maturity and knowledge as assessed by the respective higher education institution.

When applying for higher education studies in Iceland you will need all or part of the following documents:

• Official university transcript/s - detailed records of your higher education up to the present, including grades achieved.
• English language test score certificate (non-native speakers only).
• Language test waiver
• The requirement to provide English proficiency scores may be waived, in cases where you have successfully completed a full-time degree-level course of a minimum of nine months at a recognized institution where courses are held in English.
• CV / résumé
• Scanned copy of passport
• Two academic references providing an informed view of your academic or professional ability

You may be requested for an interview; for students outside of Iceland we offer interviews by Skype or telephone. Admission requirements can differ between universities and faculties. Please contact the university in question for further information.

For more information visit: http://ask.rannis.is/page/AdmissionApplication

Assessment

Student assessment is generally based on written, oral or practical examinations, semester papers and assignments. Teachers are responsible for evaluation, but each university or college department provides the overall organisation of the examinations within the regulatory framework of the institution. Examinations are generally held at the end of each semester. Normally a programme of study comprises one major subject along with one or more minor subjects.

Study Visa

Citizens of countries outside the EU and EEA must obtain a visa before entering Iceland.

A student visa is granted to those planning to study full-time in Iceland. Full-time studies are 100% studies at university level, vocational training or other studies requiring an educational background equivalent to university admission requirements.

Once an application for a residence permit is approved, an applicant who needs to obtain a D-Visa prior to his/her arrival must contact the closest embassy issuing such visas on behalf of Iceland.

Submit the following documents:

• Application form, completed and signed by the applicant
• A passport size photograph
• Travel document, valid for at least three months beyond the proposed stay
• Proof of financial support.
• Documentation showing applicants ties to home country
• Medical Insurance. The insurance coverage must be at least 30.000 Euros
• Letter of invitation from the higher education institution in Iceland

If a residence permit is granted, upon arrival the applicants shall:

• register their domicile
• get a health check within the first two weeks of their stay in Iceland
• go to the Directorate of Immigration or to the District Magistrate/Police Authorities in the area where the applicant resides, with their passport or travel documents

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Bachelor's Degrees in Lebanon

 

Study in Lebanon

With more than 2,000 years of history, Lebanon is at the crossroads of some of the world’s major cultures and religions, and a great place to get an international education.
Higher education plays a pivotal role in the economic and social development of Israel. In 2009-2010 some 280,000 students attended the country's institutions of higher learning. Of these, 38 percent attend universities and 41 percent are enrolled in colleges, while 21 percent participate in distance-learning courses.
Israel's institutions of higher education have full academic and administrative freedom and are open to all students who meet their academic standards.
  
Academic organization

Institutions of higher education operate under the authority of the Council for Higher Education, organized by the minister of education, and includes academics, community representatives and a student representative. The Council grants accreditation, authorizes the awarding of academic degrees, and advises the government on the development and financing of higher education and scientific research.
Public funds provide 70 percent of the budget for higher education, 20 percent derives from tuition, and the rest from various private sources. In recent years higher education study programmes in Israel have become more career-oriented, with larger numbers of students enrolled in the wide range of professional studies.

General application requirements

In most cases applications are submitted online. After the application deadline, all applications will be reviewed, and will be contacted with an admissions decision. In some cases, an interview will be required, which can be held either in person or via telephone or Skype.
Application documents include:

• Official transcripts from attended high school, including a copy of the graduation diploma;
• Personal essay;
• Letters of recommendation;
• CV/resume;
• Results from standardized university entrance exams in your country;
• Demonstrated Command of English;
• Heath Declaration Form;
• Medical Form.

Universities may have additional requirements. Make sure to ask for detailed information before applying to your chosen university in Israel.
For more details visit: http://www.masaisrael.org/programs/apply

City Lebanon

Admission exam

Immigrants and students lacking the necessary qualifications may attend a special preparatory program, which enables them to apply for admission. A standardized test is used as a higher education admission exam. The test covers three areas: quantitative and verbal reasoning and English language proficiency. It is administered by the Israeli National Institute for Testing and Evaluation (NITE).

Study programmes

Israeli universities are among 100 of the top world universities in science and engineering-related subjects, according to the QS World University Rankings. Taught subjects include mathematics, physics, chemistry, computer science, engineering or life sciences.
Summer Programs are offered in general academic areas as well as language offerings in Yiddish, Hebrew and Arabic. Intensive Language Program are offered in Hebrew, Yiddish and Arabic. A wide range of Graduate Programs is also available in Israeli universities.
Opportunities are available for international students to spend a semester or year in an exchange programme experiencing another culture, volunteering, doing an internship, studying, or developing their Jewish identity. Jewish Studies programs are designed to deepen your connection to the Jewish traditions and identity.
Higher studies in Israel offer a broad selection of courses taught in English, along with courses in French, Spanish, Russian, and Hebrew delivered by experienced faculty.
To find and compare English, French and Spanish language courses visit: www.languagelearningportal.com

Internships and connections

Whether you are interested in hi-tech innovation, community building, art, scientific research, renewable energy, music, language, or archaeology, Israel has an array of cutting-edge companies, socially conscious organizations, top-notch educational institutions, and warm communities that will welcome you during your program. Students are encouraged to build lifelong connections with Israeli citizens.

Study visa

The higher education visa is valid for up to one year and for multiple entrances and exits. Recipients of this visa are not permitted to work in  Lebanon.
The visa is granted to students who provide the following documents:

• Completed and signed application;
• Two passport pictures;
• Certification of acceptance for study at a recognized educational institution in Israel;
• Proof that the student has the financial means to pay for his studies and sustenance throughout his stay in Israel;
• A valid travel document;
• Payment of the fee.

Every participant is required to visit his/her local Israeli Consulate or Embassy of Israel prior to his/her arrival, in order to obtain a student visa. Request additional information from your local Israel Embassy or Consulate.

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