For many Moroccan students, pursuing studies abroad is often synonymous with France via the Campus France procedure. However, once the deadlines have passed or in the case of a refusal, many believe their dreams are shattering.
If you are in this situation, know one thing: All is not lost! France is not the only high-quality option available.
There is a nearby, French-speaking alternative offering an excellent quality of life: Belgium .
In this article, we explain why Belgium is the ideal choice to save your academic year and how to successfully enroll.
Why Choose Belgium as an Alternative?
Belgium is not just about chocolate and waffles. It is home to world-class universities and colleges. Here is why it’s an excellent choice:
- The Language: In Wallonia and Brussels, education is conducted in French. You won't need to pass complex language tests if your previous curriculum was in French.
- The Degree: Belgian degrees are recognized worldwide and open the same doors as French degrees.
- Direct Admission: Unlike the centralized and sometimes opaque "Campus France" procedure, in Belgium, you often deal directly with the institution. It is much more transparent.
What Should You Do Now? (Key Steps)
To study in Belgium, the procedure differs from France. You must focus immediately on 3 pillars:
- A. Diploma Equivalence (The Critical Step):
- This is the most important document. Without it, registration is impossible (especially for the Bachelor's cycle). You must send your diploma (Baccalaureate) to the Equivalence Service in Brussels to have it recognized.
- Warning: This process takes time (between 4 and 8 weeks). Even if the deadline is often July 15th, it is imperative to send your file right now to avoid stress.
- B. School Admission:
- Start exploring the websites of Universities (ULB, ULiège, UCLouvain...) or "Hautes Écoles" (University Colleges). Registrations usually open between February and April. Each school has its own dates, so stay vigilant!
- C. The Financial Guarantor (Sponsorship):
- Unlike France, which often requires a blocked bank account, Belgium favors the "Guarantor" system (Annex 32). You need a person (in Belgium, Morocco, or elsewhere, under conditions) capable of proving they can finance your studies.
Is Tuition Free?
Studies in Belgium remain affordable compared to Anglo-Saxon countries. However, for non-European Union students, there is a "Minerval" (tuition fee) which can be higher. Fortunately, some schools offer reductions or partial scholarships to students with good records.
If you missed the train for France, don't let the Belgian one pass you by. It is a golden opportunity to obtain a prestigious European degree.
The Visa procedure (Visa D) requires rigor, but it is entirely accessible if you start on time.
Prepare your equivalence, choose your school, and go for it... Second chances rarely come twice!
One Last Tip?
Do you have questions about the documents or the equivalence procedure? Leave us a comment below and we will guide you step by step!
