Belgium
Hallo! Bonjour!
Belgium is a vibrant country characterised by its cultural and linguistic diversity, primarily divided into two distinct regions:
Flanders: Located in the northern part of Belgium, Flanders is predominantly Dutch-speaking. This region is known for its dynamic cities like Antwerp, Ghent, and Bruges, each offering rich histories, medieval architecture, and a thriving arts scene. Flanders is also famous for its culinary delights, including chocolates and waffles.
Wallonia: To the south, Wallonia is primarily French-speaking, with a small German-speaking community near the border with Germany. The region’s rolling hills, dense forests, and beautiful rivers are ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling. Wallonia is steeped in history, with medieval towns, castles, fortresses, and the historic battlefields of Waterloo.
Each region not only differs linguistically and culturally but also offers unique experiences for exchange students that reflect Belgium’s rich heritage and diversity.
Programs differ slightly for each region – please contact us for details.
Language RequirementS
Students should start learning basic Dutch before going on exchange to Belgium Flanders.
For Belgium Wallonia students must have been studying French for at least 2 years and are required to take a French language test.
School
Belgium offers a well-rounded and diverse educational system that caters to a wide range of academic and vocational interests. Belgian schools are known for high educational standards. The Belgian school year typically starts in September and ends in June, with holidays around Christmas, Easter, and a long summer break. Schools generally offer a range of extracurricular activities which provide great opportunities to make friends, learn new skills, and integrate into the local community.
Belgian schools also strongly support language learning due to the country’s multilingual environment. Depending on the region, instruction might be offered in Dutch, French, or German.
Family
Your Belgian family will be a very important part of your exchange experience. All members of the family usually participate in household chores. Belgian families, on the whole, are quite close knit and value education, family life and active participation in community events. Meals, especially dinner, are an important part of the Belgian culture and are usually eaten together.
Teenagers enjoy a vibrant social life, and after school activities such as sports, music and art are popular.
Specialised Programs
YFU Belgium offers Specialised Programs in the following areas:
- Visual Arts
- Fashion
- Sports
- Dance
- Music
Please contact us for prices, departure dates and more information.
Belgium Flanders Programs
Belgium Wallonia Programs
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