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Diploma equivalence with the relevant Belgian authorities.

Without recognition (équivalence) from the Wallonia-Brussels Federation, a foreign diploma does not grant access to Belgian higher education: a poorly assembled file or a missed deadline can cost a full year. We build and submit your application correctly, all the way to the decision.

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Diploma equivalence with the relevant Belgian authorities

What you need to know

An equivalence is the official recognition of a foreign diploma by the Wallonia-Brussels Federation: it confirms that your qualification matches a Belgian study level and governs access to higher education. The application is filed with the Equivalence Service in Brussels, together with official administrative fees payable before the file is reviewed. Submission opens within an annual window whose deadline is set each year (around mid-July for the following intake), and processing time varies: it can run over several months during periods of high demand. The file rests on a complete diploma and transcripts, their legalization and, where needed, their translation.

The key elements of your application

  • A school-leaving diploma and transcripts, as originals or certified true copies
  • Legalization of the documents according to the requirements specific to your country of origin
  • Translation by a sworn translator when documents are not in an accepted language
  • Submission within the annual window and payment of the official administrative fees before the deadline

What you get with Studacy.

  • A compliant file on the first submissionWe gather and check every document against the Equivalence Service's requirements, to avoid a file ruled incomplete and the loss of a session.
  • Legalization and translations managedWe identify the legalization chain specific to your country and direct sworn translations to the right contacts.
  • The right equivalence level targetedWe aim for the recognition that fits your background and the Belgian programme you are after, so the equivalence truly opens the door you want.
  • On-time submission and active follow-upWe file your application within the annual window, handle the fee payment and track progress through to the decision.
  • Coordination with your enrolmentWe align the equivalence with your admission application so both procedures move forward together, with no dead time.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Do I really need an equivalence to study in Belgium?
In most cases, yes: accessing higher education in the Wallonia-Brussels Federation with a diploma earned abroad requires an equivalence. We review your situation and tell you exactly which type of equivalence to request.
How much does the equivalence cost?
The Equivalence Service charges official administrative fees, the amount of which depends on your situation and is set each year. Legalization and translation costs come on top of this. Our support is quoted separately, based on your specific file.
When do I need to submit my file?
Submission takes place within an annual window, with a deadline set each year for the intake that follows. We always work toward that deadline with a comfortable margin, since a late or incomplete file can be pushed to the next session.
How long does processing take?
The timeframe varies and can run over several months, especially in periods of high demand. That is why we submit a complete file as early as possible and follow its progress to keep you informed.
What happens if my documents are not in French?
They generally need to be translated by a sworn translator and, depending on your country, legalized. We identify exactly what is required for your file and guide you through the correct steps, in the right order.

How much does it cost?

See our detailed fees, service by service.

Ready to get started?

First conversation free, with no commitment. We assess your situation and propose a clear roadmap.

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