Have you ever felt like life in your hometown was moving too fast, like a clock ticking relentlessly toward a future you didn’t quite choose? That’s exactly how I felt a few years ago, stuck in a cycle of high rent and unfulfilling routines. Then I stumbled upon a life-changing decision: moving to Belgium for a Master’s degree that cost less than a single semester back home. This isn’t just a story about saving money—it’s about finding a new rhythm in a place that feels like it was built for balance.
From California Chaos to Belgian Bliss
Back in 2020, I was a college freshman in California, navigating the upheaval of a global pandemic. Classes went virtual, and I found myself back in my childhood bedroom, wondering what was next. That’s when the idea of studying abroad first sparked. I spent six months in Copenhagen, soaking in a world where bikes ruled the streets and life felt… lighter. Returning to California was a shock—sky-high rent, crowded campuses, and a nagging sense that I wasn’t getting what I paid for. I knew I needed a change, something drastic yet practical.
Belgium wasn’t on my radar at first. I’d considered prestigious universities in the UK, but their price tags made my stomach churn. Then I discovered KU Leuven, a world-class university in a small Belgian city, offering a Master’s program for a fraction of the cost. At just €3,800 (around $4,610 USD at the time), it was a no-brainer. I packed two suitcases, a backpack, and a whole lot of courage, and moved to Leuven in 2023.
Why Belgium? The Case for Affordable Education
Let’s talk numbers for a second. Back in California, I was shelling out $1,340 a month for a shared apartment. My university tuition? A whopping $44,160 a year, even with financial aid. In contrast, my entire Master’s program in Belgium cost less than one semester back home. Affordable education isn’t just a buzzword here—it’s a reality. Most course materials were online, so I didn’t even need to budget for textbooks.
“Education shouldn’t bankrupt you. In Belgium, it feels like they actually want you to learn, not just pay.”
– A fellow international student
The financial freedom was a game-changer. I could focus on my studies without the constant stress of loans looming over me. Plus, the university’s search permit allowed me to work unrestricted during my studies, giving me flexibility to explore part-time jobs and internships. It’s the kind of system that makes you wonder why more countries don’t follow suit.
Leuven: A City Built for Students
Leuven is what urban planners call a “15-minute city,” where everything you need—grocery stores, cafes, even healthcare—is a short walk or bike ride away. Cars are banned in the city center, so I traded my car keys for a second-hand bike. There’s something liberating about pedaling through cobblestone streets, passing centuries-old buildings, and feeling like you’re part of a community designed for connection.
- Bike-friendly streets: No need for a car, saving hundreds each month.
- Affordable rent: My four-bedroom house share cost €500 ($544 USD) monthly, utilities included.
- Student-centric vibe: From study cafes to university events, Leuven caters to young academics.
I’ll admit, the first few weeks were tough. Arriving in a new country with no friends was daunting. I’d lie awake at night, wondering if I’d made the right choice. But Leuven’s tight-knit student community pulled me in. I joined study groups, attended local festivals, and slowly built a network of friends who felt like family.
Finding Balance: Work, Life, and Everything In Between
One of the biggest surprises about Belgium was the work-life balance. In the U.S., I felt like I was always racing against time—work, study, repeat. Here, life moves at a gentler pace. People linger over coffee, prioritize weekends with friends, and actually take vacations. It’s not just a cliché; it’s a way of life that I’ve come to cherish.
Take my weekends, for example. I’d hop on a train and be in Paris, Amsterdam, or Cologne within three hours. Belgium’s central location makes it a gateway to Europe, perfect for a student with a thirst for adventure. I’ve visited 20 countries since moving here, each trip adding a new layer to my understanding of the world.
“Living in Belgium taught me to slow down and savor the moment. It’s a gift I didn’t know I needed.”
Perhaps the most interesting aspect is how this slower pace has reshaped my relationships. Back home, I was too busy to nurture friendships or even think about dating. In Belgium, I’ve found time to connect deeply with others. Whether it’s sharing a meal with roommates or biking to a local pub with classmates, these moments have become the heartbeat of my life here.
Building a Community from Scratch
Moving to a new country solo is no small feat. I still remember the knot in my stomach when I landed in Brussels with just two bags and a dream. But necessity breeds creativity. I started small—joining a university cycling club, volunteering at local events, and even striking up conversations at the grocery store. Slowly, I built a community that felt like home.
One thing I’ve learned is that relationships abroad require effort but also openness. You have to be willing to step out of your comfort zone, whether it’s trying to speak a bit of Dutch or laughing off a cultural misunderstanding. These experiences have made me more empathetic and adaptable, qualities I didn’t know I needed until I was here.
| Life Aspect | California | Belgium |
| Rent | $1,340/month (shared) | $420-$544/month |
| Education Cost | $44,160/year | $4,610/year |
| Daily Commute | Car or bus | Bike or walk |
| Social Life | Rushed, work-focused | Relaxed, community-driven |
This table isn’t just about numbers—it’s a snapshot of how my priorities shifted. In Belgium, I’ve traded chaos for calm, debt for freedom, and isolation for connection. It’s not perfect, but it’s pretty darn close.
What’s Next? A Future in Belgium
After graduating from KU Leuven, I didn’t hesitate to enroll in another Master’s program at Vrije Universiteit Brussel. The cost? About €4,960 ($5,848 USD) for the year. I’ll be living on campus, paying roughly the same rent as before, and diving deeper into my passion for journalism. My goal is to work as a correspondent in Brussels, bridging the gap between American and European perspectives.
I’m not just chasing a career, though. I’m committed to building a life here, maybe even pursuing naturalization. Belgium has shown me that life doesn’t have to be a race to the finish line. I can take my time, explore, and grow without the pressure to “have it all figured out” by 25.
Lessons from Abroad: Relationships and Growth
Living in Belgium has taught me more than just academics. It’s reshaped how I approach relationships—both with others and myself. Here are a few lessons I’ve picked up along the way:
- Embrace vulnerability: Moving to a new country forced me to ask for help and connect with strangers, which built stronger bonds.
- Prioritize quality time: Whether it’s a coffee date or a bike ride, small moments matter more than grand gestures.
- Stay open to change: Cultural differences can be challenging, but they’re also opportunities to grow.
These lessons apply whether you’re navigating a new city or a new relationship. In my experience, the key is to stay curious and keep showing up, even when it feels scary. That’s what builds a life worth living.
Is Belgium for Everyone?
Let’s be real—moving abroad isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. It takes guts to leave behind the familiar, and not everyone thrives in a new culture. But for those willing to take the leap, Belgium offers a unique blend of affordability, community, and opportunity. It’s a place where you can study without drowning in debt, build meaningful connections, and actually enjoy the journey.
I often think back to my 22-year-old self, stressed and unsure, making the bold choice to move across the world. I’m grateful for that decision every day. Belgium isn’t just a place to study—it’s a place to live fully, to slow down, and to find balance. Maybe it’s time you considered a similar leap. What’s holding you back?
In the end, this journey has been about more than a degree or a new address. It’s about discovering what makes life meaningful—connection, growth, and the courage to chase a different path. Belgium gave me the space to find that, and I’m not ready to leave anytime soon.
