What does équivalence mean when applying to study in Belgium?

Équivalence is formal recognition of a foreign secondary school qualification as equivalent to the Belgian CESS, required for many undergraduate applicants in the French-speaking system. Translating your documents or receiving confirmation that you meet the language requirements is not enough. Recognition of your qualification and admission to a university are two separate processes. The standard […]

Szymon
Szymon
Article author
  • Published 2026-10-02
  • Reading time 1 min read

Équivalence is formal recognition of a foreign secondary school qualification as equivalent to the Belgian CESS, required for many undergraduate applicants in the French-speaking system. Translating your documents or receiving confirmation that you meet the language requirements is not enough. Recognition of your qualification and admission to a university are two separate processes. The standard deadline for the equivalence procedure is 15 July, with exceptions depending on factors such as the type of qualification and the circumstances in which it was awarded.

Looking for a tutor matched to this exact goal?

Tell us about your needs and we will recommend the most suitable tutor and cooperation form