Is Ghent University, a renowned institution in Belgium, a suitable option? According to QS ranking data, this leading European university holds significant influence in the global academic sphere, embodying a core emphasis on critical thinking within its educational framework. Considering the complexity of the application process for international students and the rigorous requirements for document preparation, Grove Education will analyse Ghent University's QS world ranking and provide detailed information on how Hong Kong students can apply, including entry requirements and the application procedure, to assist in planning their overseas studies.
Introduction to Ghent University
Founded in 1817, Ghent University (Universiteit Gent) is the largest and most research-intensive comprehensive university in Belgium, prioritising diversity and social engagement. It currently accommodates approximately 50,000 students, including around 7,600 international students. [1]
Ghent University is a member of both the European University Association (EUA) and the European University Networks (ENLIGHT) [2][3], collaborating closely with several other top European universities to promote innovation in education and research. Additionally, Ghent University has exchange programmes in place with City University of Hong Kong and Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, providing Hong Kong students with enhanced opportunities for international learning and research experience. [4][5]
Source: Ghent University
Ghent University's QS World Ranking
Ghent University consistently performs well in international rankings, standing as one of Belgium's top universities. According to the latest QS World Rankings for 2026, Ghent University ranks 162nd globally and 2nd in Belgium, trailing only KU Leuven. [6]
Beyond its overall performance, numerous faculties at Ghent University rank among the world's best. For instance, the Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry ranks 8th globally, while Veterinary Science ranks 25th. Other disciplines, including Classics and Ancient History, Environmental Sciences, Biological Sciences, Chemical Engineering, and Pharmacy and Pharmacology, all feature within the top 100, demonstrating strong capabilities across various fields. [7]
Academic Standards at Ghent University
In addition to its excellent QS ranking, Ghent University has maintained a position within the top 150 in other prestigious global rankings, such as the Times Higher Education World University Rankings (THE) and the Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU). Since its inception, Ghent University has nurtured multiple distinguished alumni, including Nobel laureates such as Maurice Maeterlinck, Corneille Heymans, and Robert Cailliau, one of the co-founders of the World Wide Web (WWW), showcasing its teaching and research impact. [8]
Regarding teaching quality, Ghent University employs internal improvement mechanisms that integrate feedback from both faculty and students, alongside external reviews by internationally recognised bodies, ensuring that its teaching standards meet globally accepted levels and that quality continues to improve. [9] By combining research, diverse perspectives, and innovative pedagogical techniques, students acquire critical thinking skills, professional research capabilities, and significant employability and intercultural competencies.
Overview of Faculties at Ghent University
Ghent University comprises 11 faculties, encompassing 85 departments across multiple disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, sciences, medicine, and engineering. Below are six of the top-ranked faculties and their primary disciplines:
- Faculty of Bioscience Engineering: Agriculture and Applied Biological Sciences, Environmental and Life System Engineering, Food Science, Biotechnology, Chemical and Materials Science.
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences: Medicine, Dentistry, Biomedical Sciences, Rehabilitation Sciences and Physiotherapy, Sports Science, Public Health.
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine: Veterinary Sciences.
- Faculty of Sciences: Mathematics, Computer Science and Statistics, Physics and Astronomy, Chemistry, Biology, Geography, Geology, Biochemistry and Microbiology.
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences: Pharmacy, Pharmacology, Bioanalysis.
- Faculty of Engineering and Architecture: Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electronics and Information Technology, Materials Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Applied Physics, Architecture. [10]
Source: Ghent University
Application Requirements for Ghent University
Many students in Hong Kong may wonder about the accessibility of admission to Ghent University. According to its application guidelines, only certain Belgian diplomas and specific qualifications can be directly submitted for admission. Most overseas qualifications (including the Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education) do not automatically equate to local diplomas, thus disqualifying direct entry into undergraduate programmes. [11]
Students with overseas qualifications must undergo a separate assessment process. Ghent University will evaluate the applicant's diploma and grades to determine whether they meet the entry requirements for the chosen programme.
Undergraduate Application Requirements
Equivalent Qualification Requirements
Due to the HKDSE not being equivalent to direct entry diplomas in Belgium, students from Hong Kong typically need to furnish one of the following documents as alternative proof of their capacity for university-level study:
- Admission letter or proof of enrolment from a local university (e.g., an admission letter from The University of Hong Kong).
- Transcript showing completed first-year university studies (demonstrating successful completion of foundational university coursework).
- Proof of an Associate Degree or Higher Diploma. [11]
Language Requirements
All bachelor's programmes at Ghent University are taught in Dutch (with the exception of the Social Sciences department, which is offered in English). Thus, applicants must possess at least a B2 level in Dutch proficiency, with the Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Language Studies requiring a C1 level for acceptance. [12]
| Required Level | Recognised Tests and Scores |
|---|---|
| B2 | B2 certificate from a Belgian or Dutch language centre / ITNA B2 certificate / STRT certificate / passed entrance exams in Dentistry, Medicine, or Veterinary Medicine / passed Staatsexamen NT2 Programma II |
| C1 | C1 certificate from a Belgian or Dutch language centre / ITNA C1 certificate / Educatief Professioneel certificate |
| C2 | C2 certificate from a Belgian or Dutch language centre. [11] |
Entrance Examinations
Applicants to Ghent University must also take entrance examinations, categorised into three types, with varying entry examination requirements for different programmes:
| Subject Area | Eamination Type | Purpose and Description |
|---|---|---|
| Medicine, Dentistry, and Veterinary Sciences | Entrance Examinations | Only students who excel in these exams can register for the courses. |
| Biomedical Sciences, Engineering Sciences, Biological Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Pharmacy, Physics and Astronomy, Industrial Sciences, Mathematics | Mandatory Positioning Tests | Participation in these exams is necessary for registration, but results do not affect entry qualifications; they merely assess academic foundations. Those who do not pass must undertake remedial courses. |
| Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Biology, Chemistry, Economics, Geography and Geographic Information Science, Geology, Business Engineering, Business Economics, Computer Science, Rehabilitation Sciences, and Physiotherapy | Optional Positioning Tests | These are not compulsory, but attendance is strongly recommended to assess academic readiness. [12] |
Master’s Degree Application Requirements
Ghent University offers two types of master’s programmes: ManaBa and ManaMa. Before applying, students should check the course list to confirm which programmes they are eligible for.
- Early-stage Master’s (ManaBa): Applicants must hold a relevant bachelor’s degree or higher from Belgium or abroad, lasting at least three years. However, under certain circumstances, completion of specific preparatory courses may be required before admission.
- Advanced Master’s (ManaMa): Applicants need either a relevant initial Master’s degree (ManaBa) from Belgium or a foreign master’s or advanced educational diploma. Most ManaMa programmes accept only those with a master's diploma; however, some may consider candidates who have completed at least four years of undergraduate studies. [12]
Language Requirements
Nearly 80 master's programmes at Ghent University are taught in English, requiring students to achieve at least a B2 level in English. Most programmes taught in Dutch require students to attain a B2 level, while education-related studies require a C1 level. [12] Detailed language requirements for each programme can be accessed through university announcements.
Application Procedure for Ghent University
Students must follow the steps and deadlines outlined below when submitting their applications:
- Confirm the Entry Requirements: Review the academic and language requirements of the intended course.
- Confirm the Application Deadline: Students needing a visa must submit their applications by 1 April, whereas those not requiring a visa must apply by 1 June. If applying for a Dutch-taught course, students must complete a preparatory Dutch course before the deadline. [13]
- Submit an Application via Ghent University's Online Application Platform Oasis: Required documents include:
- Copy of passport
- Graduation certificates and transcripts
- Academic supplementary documents (course outlines or academic transcripts listing hours or credits)
- Language proficiency proof
- Additional documents (related qualification certificates, motivation letters, etc.) [14]
If a student has not yet graduated before the application deadline, they must provide the expected graduation date and degree title, along with their latest academic transcript.
Source: Ghent University
Consult GROVE Education for Applying to Ghent University
Considering the aforementioned excellent teaching quality, international educational environment, and stable QS world ranking, studying at Ghent University offers significant benefits for academic and future development. If you wish to further understand whether applying to Ghent University is advisable, or if you have queries regarding its teaching modes, entry conditions, and processes, please do not hesitate to contact Grove Education. Our team of professional consultants can provide comprehensive guidance tailored to each student’s situation, ensuring that your application documents meet university standards and helping you embark on your study journey in Belgium.
References:
1. Ghent University - About Ghent University
2. Ghent University - Ghent University: member of key European networking organisations
3. Ghent University - ENLIGHT
4. City University of Hong Kong - CityUHK forges a new partnership with Ghent University
5. The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology - HKUST Forges New Bonds with Belgian Partners
6. QS Top Universities - QS World University Rankings 2026: Top global universities
7. QS Top Universities - Ghent University: Rankings, Fees & Courses Details
8. LORCENIS - Ghent University
9. Ghent University - Opt for Quality
10. Ghent University - Faculties and faculty departments
11. Ghent University - Admission to bachelor programme
12. Ghent University - Language Requirements
13. Ghent University - Levels language proficiency
14. Ghent University - Positioning tests and entrance examinations
15. Ghent University - Deadlines
16. Ghent University - How to submit an application for admission?