WELCOME GUIDE FOR EXCHANGE STUDENTS · 2026-2027 Have a Liègendary exchange!
2 International Office Place du 20-Août, 7 4000 Liège Belgium www.uliege.be www.international.uliege.be/en/erasmus-in uliege_international Oriana Bertucci Director of the International Office +32 4 366 56 34 - oriana.bertucci@uliege.be Pauline Antoine Incoming student mobility +32 4 366 41 66 - pauline.antoine@uliege.be Marta Kucharska Incoming student mobility +32 4 366 55 47 - marta.kucharska@uliege.be Isabelle Noirot Erasmus Mundus +32 4 366 21 36 - isabelle.noirot@uliege.be Christine Reynders Erasmus Mundus and International Credit Mobility +32 4 366 46 09 - christine.reynders@uliege.be Anne-Laure Villeminot Internships, doctoral stays and International Credit Mobility +32 4 366 58 59 - anne-laure.villeminot@uliege.be Éd. resp. : Oriana Bertucci, Relations internationales · Place du 20-Août, 7, B-4000 Liège · 04 366 55 47 | Photos © Sandrine Seyen, Frédéric Serré, Geoffrey Meuli, Barbara Brixhe, ULiège Sports, Christophe Castronovo, Office du Tourisme de la Ville de Liège, Ville de Liège, ULiège - M. Houet, Rea Antoniu | Illustration 48fm © Jo Dessin un peu | Graphisme : Service Communication, S. Minon | Mai 2026
WELCOME TO THE UNIVERSITY OF LIÈGE! Welcome to the University of Liège! Whether you are here to take classes and study or for a internship, it is our hope that your stay at ULiège will be a success, both on the academic and personal level. This guide provides useful information to prepare your stay and to help you with the practical formalities during your time at ULiège (administrative formalities, accommodation, transport, etc.). We are pleased to welcome you to ULiège, a European university of almost 30,000 students, divided into 11 faculties and 4 campuses, including 25% international students. With a history of more than 200 years that goes back to the Middle Ages, ULiège offers knowledge transmission and development to ensure that it is internationally open and regionally engaged. Ideally located in the heart of Europe, our university is active in the University of the Greater Region network with its partners in the cross-border area, and in a European University Alliance, called UNIC. It also participates in 10 different Erasmus Mundus Masters programs with international partners in various fields of studies and has been taking part in the International Credit Mobility program, which supports partnerships with different institutions outside the European Union. We are available for anything you may need to ensure you have great stay. We hope you enjoy your time here at ULiège. International Relations Office
4 IMPORTANT DATES Application deadline for 1st term and for whole year 31st May 2026 Teaching activities from 14th September to 19th December 2026 Welcome Days 9th and 11th September 2026 1st TERM French level tests for non-French speaking students attending French-taught courses from 15th to 17th September 2026 Preparatory French course from 31st August to 8th September 2026 Intercultural seminar 10th September 2026 French courses S1 (evening) from 28th September 2026 to 15th January 2027 Holidays from 26th to 31st October 2026 Holidays from 21st December 2026 to 2nd January 2027 Exam period from 4th to 23rd January 2027 Application deadline for 2nd term 15th November 2026
5 2nd TERM 3rd TERM www.enseignement.uliege.be/en/academic-calendar Teaching activities from 1st February to 15th May 2027 Welcome Day 29th January 2027 French level tests for non-French speaking students attending French-taught courses 2nd and 3rd février 2027 French courses S2 (evening) from 15th February to 28th May 2027 Holidays from 19th April to 1st May 2027 Study period (“block”) from 17th to 22th May 2027 Exam period from 24th May to 30th June 2027 Holidays from 1st July to 14th August 2027 Exam period (retake exams) from 16th August to 11th September 2027
6 CONTENTS WELCOME 3 IMPORTANT DATES 4 1 | BELGIUM IN A NUTSHELL 9 2 | THE UNIVERSITY OF LIÈGE 13 1. The University of Liège 14 2. 1 University, 3 cities, 4 campuses 16 3. Study programmes 18 - Bilingual or “full English” study programmes 18 - A balanced European university curriculum 18 - Examinations 18 4. Academic calendar 19 3 | ULIÈGE: HOST UNIVERSITY FOR EXCHANGE STUDENTS 21 1. The ECTS system 22 2. Administrative formalities 22 - Preparing your departure 23 - Upon arrival at the University of Liège 24 - Enrolment – International Office 24 - Contacting your departmental coordinator 25 - Administrative formalities 26 - Welcome Days 29 - At the end of your stay 31 4 | LANGUAGE TRAINING 33 1. French courses 34 2. Other Language courses 37 5 | HEALTH INSURANCE AND HEALTH CARE 39 6 | RESOURCES AND INTEGRATION 43 1. Support services 44 2. Buddy program 46 3. myULiège, internet and email access 46 4. Libraries at ULiège 47 5. Students’ associations 48 6. 48 FM – the students’ radio 49
7 7. Bank account 50 8. Mobile phones 50 9. Transportation 51 7 | PRACTICAL TIPS 53 1. Liège 54 - The city of Liège 54 - Getting around Liège 55 - Accommodation 56 - University restaurants 58 - Presses Universitaires de Liège 59 - Computer rooms 59 - Health care 60 - Sports and cultural activities 62 2. Gembloux 64 - The city of Gembloux 64 - Getting around Gembloux 64 - Accommodation 64 - University restaurants 64 - Health care 64 - Computer rooms 65 - Sports and cultural activities 65 - Student’s associations 65 3. Arlon 66 - The city of Arlon 66 - Getting around Arlon 66 - Accommodation 66 - Catering 66 - Student’s associations 66 - Health care 67 SOME USEFUL NUMBERS 68
BELGIUM IN A NUTSHELL 1
Oostende Brugge Gent Tournai Mons Charleroi Namur Dinant Bastogne Gembloux Arlon Antwerpen Hasselt Leuven Brussels LIÈGE LUIK Paris Amsterdam NETHERLANDS GERMANY FRANCE Köln Luxembourg Lille • DUTCH-SPEAKING REGION • FRENCH-SPEAKING REGION • GERMAN-SPEAKING REGION • BRUSSELS-CAPITAL REGION (BILINGUAL FRENCH AND DUTCH) 1 | BELGIUM IN A NUTSHELL 10
11.8 million inhabitants 30 688 km2 surface area Brussels Capital 21 July National Day Constitutional Monarchy Federal State French, Dutch and German are 3 official languages. The South of Belgium is French-speaking, the North is Dutch-speaking and the Germanspeaking community is along the German border. Brussels is a bilingual entity (FrenchDutch), with a majority of French speakers. 700€ to 1,000€ per month is an estimated cost of living in Liège for students except for the first month when expenses might be higher. To this amount you should add study-related costs (books, etc.). A warm welcome and new traditions to discover! Belgium has many unique sociocultural activities to discover. We encourage you to join one of the many ULiège and ESN events organised throughout the year! In order to ensure your stay goes smoothly, we encourage you to start preparing your stay as early as possible. Review customs requirements at focusonbelgium.be 1 | BELGIUM IN A NUTSHELL 11
THE UNIVERSITY OF LIÈGE 2
1. THE UNIVERSITY OF LIÈGE UNIVERSITY OF LIÈGE: A DYNAMIC COMMUNITY The University of Liège brings together nearly 30,000 students—25% of whom are international—and 5,000 staff members dedicated to teaching, research and service to society. Drawing on its history and strong network, the University of Liège supports each individual in shaping their future. A COMPREHENSIVE AND EVOLVING RANGE OF PROGRAMS With 39 bachelor’s degrees, 174 master’s degrees, 62 masters with specialisation—73 of which are bilingual or taught entirely in English—38 MOOCs and 193 certificates, ULiège covers all fields of knowledge. Its programs, many of which are internationally recognised, are updated each year to offer increasingly personalised study paths. STATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITIES AND RESEARCH The university boasts outstanding facilities, including university clinics, world-renowned research centres (Cyclotron, Centre for Protein Engineering, Liège Space Centre, GIGA, TERRA, etc.), as well as one of the most extensive library collections in Europe. It also benefits from exceptional scientific facilities abroad (telescopes in Chile, India and Morocco, an oceanographic and submarine research station in Corsica, and a climate station in the Swiss Alps). Drawing on these resources, it develops cutting-edge research that is closely linked to teaching. A VIBRANT STUDENT ENVIRONMENT Studying at ULiège also means enjoying a wide range of cultural, sports (nearly 70 disciplines) and student-led activities, which foster personal development and student engagement. SUPPORT THROUGHOUT YOUR STUDIES Students benefit from academic guidance before, during and after their studies to support their success and guide their plans. AN INTERNATIONAL OUTLOOK Choosing ULiège means joining an international university, open to the world and located at the heart of Europe. ULiège offers its students over 1,500 opportunities for international mobility and welcomes over 900 exchange students each year. It also offers programs taught in English or bilingually, numerous joint degrees and programs developed through international partnership: 4 bachelor’s programs, nearly 70 joint master’s degrees and 10 Erasmus Mundus master’s programs. As a holder of the Erasmus+ Charter 2021‑2027, it also 2 | THE UNIVERSITY OF LIÈGE 14
benefits from over 60 years of expertise in development cooperation. Additionally, it is a member of the UNIC European Alliance, where it promotes inclusion and mobility within the specific context of super‑diversity that characterises the cities involved in this project. A COMMITMENT TO SUSTAINABILITY The university integrates sustainability issues into its courses and supports concrete initiatives through the Green Office, involving the entire university community in the ecological and social transition. The Green Office carries out a wide range of activities, all with the same goal: to raise awareness and support the ULiège community in adopting more sustainable lifestyles. It also runs challenges on the UNI for Change mobile app to help us improve our everyday habits. Checklist to make your stay ‘greener’ ○ Get involved in Green Office initiatives: - Take part in UNI for Change challenges - Take "sustainability-focused" courses - Calculate your carbon footprint with the Green Office www.green-office.uliege.be ○ Rethink travels - Choose more environmentally friendly means of transport to Belgium, where possible - Visit nearby towns and countries by train ○ Use reusable items: Erasmus tote bag, Erasmus water bottle, eco-cup, reusable containers for hot drinks (available in the cafeterias) ○ Give items a second life - Buy second-hand clothes, accessories and furniture - Use donation boxes to give away items or pick up second-hand ones - Take part in the flea markets organised by the University or in the city - Make visiting the ULiège Repair Café part of your habits ○ Buy local/seasonal products and reduce your consumption of certain goods - Take part in the "Nourrir les Campus" Festival - Reduce your consumption of meat/fish ○ Improve your waste management - Reduce waste - Sort your waste at home and on campus - Reduce your gas/electricity consumption - Spend less time in the shower ○ Reduce your digital footprint - Clean up your inbox - Lower the streaming quality of films and videos you watch 2 | THE UNIVERSITY OF LIÈGE 15
2. 1 UNIVERSITY, 3 CITIES, 4 CAMPUSES Established in Belgium in three Walloon cities – Liège, Gembloux and Arlon -, the 11 faculties of the University of Liège are spread over 4 welcoming and cosmopolitan campuses mixing the dynamism of urban life with the charm of a pleasant green environment. LOCATION-DOT Map of Liège city centre www.campus.uliege.be/acces/plans LIÈGE CITY CENTER: HISTORIC CAMPUS Faculty of Philosophy and Letters: www.facphl.uliege.be Faculty of Architecture: www.archi.uliege.be HEC Liège - Management School: www.hec.uliege.be • Central Administration • International Office • Point Info Conseil GEMBLOUX CAMPUS In the Province of Namur, 80 km west from Liège, the faculty of Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech is committed to teaching and research in agricultural sciences, bioengineering and in landscape architecture. Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech : www.gembloux.uliege.be 2 | THE UNIVERSITY OF LIÈGE 16
ARLON CAMPUS ENVIRONNEMENT In the South of Belgium, 100 km from Liège, and a few kilometres from the border with France and Luxembourg, the Arlon campus of the Faculty of Sciences is committed to teaching and research in science and environmental management. Departement of Sciences and Environmental science and management (Faculty of Sciences) : www.facsc.uliege.be www.campusarlon.uliege.be LIÈGE SART TILMAN: GREEN CAMPUS On a hillside above the city of Liège, the Sart Tilman campus is home to a number of research facilities, a university hospital centre (CHU), a veterinary clinic (CVU), a psychological and speech therapy clinic (CPLU) and major sports facilities, as well as most of ULiège's faculties: Medicine: www.facmed.uliege.be Veterinary Medicine: www.fmv.uliege.be Sciences: www.facsc.uliege.be Applied Sciences: www.facsa.uliege.be Law, Political Science and Criminology: www.droit.uliege.be Psychology, Speech and Language Therapy, and Education: www.fapse.uliege.be Social Sciences: www.fass.uliege.be Liège Gembloux Arlon Bruxelles 2 | THE UNIVERSITY OF LIÈGE 17
3. STUDY PROGRAMMES Course programmes can be consulted at: www.programmes.uliege.be BILINGUAL OR "FULL ENGLISH" STUDY PROGRAMMES Language learning, just like student mobility, is a priority at the University of Liège. While all courses (teaching units) involve language courses, some courses are bilingual (French/ English, French/German…) or are taught entirely in English. www.enseignement.uliege.be/international-programmes THE TRADITIONAL UNIVERSITY CAREER In Belgium, university studies are in line with the European model. They are organised into three cycles: bachelor’s, master’s and doctorate. The average academic studies are carried out in 2 cycles, generally in over a 5 year period (3 year bac + 2 year Master). www.enseignement.uliege.be/etudes EXAMINATIONS Within the same academic year students can take two examinations on the same teaching unit (course). Exams are organised by the Faculties during three periods decided by the Board of Directors (see the academic calendar). The 1st and 2nd periods are called "the 1st session" (January and June). The 3rd period is called the 2nd session (August-September). By way of derogation, Faculties can decide on special examination modalities for exchange students. In this case the exchange student must get in touch with the involved professors and the departmental coordinator at the beginning of term. The result of each assessment is indicated by a figure between 0 and 20, with 10 out of 20 being the pass threshold for each teaching unit. Teaching activities September-December 1st exam period January Teaching activities February-May 2nd exam period June 3rd exam period August-September 1st term 2nd term 3rd term 1st exam session 2nd exam session "retake exams" 2 | THE UNIVERSITY OF LIÈGE 18
Marks received at ULiège are transferred to your home university by your ULiège departmental coordinator. The grade distribution table is sent with your transcript of records. You will find the general table for ULiège on our webpage. www.international.uliege.be/en/erasmus-in-exams We wish to remind you that, although your results will be validated in your home university, while in Liège, you are subject to the university's regulations governing study and examination. Your departmental coordinator can answer specific questions relating to examinations. We strongly encourage that you read the information about plagiarism that should be quite useful when you write papers. www.enseignement.uliege.be/etudiant/plagiat (internal webpage only available after your registration at ULiège and accessible with your ULiège ID and your password). 4. ACADEMIC CALENDAR The university year is divided into three terms, with the exception of certain assessments, work placements, projects or professional integration activities. Teaching and learning activities occur during (one of) the first two terms. They are followed by assessment periods. The third term includes assessment periods, personal research and production of essays, as well as professional insertion activities. The academic calendar for 2026-2027 is available on www.enseignement.uliege.be/calendrier-academique ⚠ It’s very important to be present for the start of classes at the beginning of each term. ERASMUS MUNDUS SEE YOUR VADE-MECUM 2 | THE UNIVERSITY OF LIÈGE 19
ULIÈGE: HOST UNIVERSITY FOR EXCHANGE STUDENTS 3
1. THE ECTS SYSTEM The University of Liège uses ECTS system (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System), which facilitates the recognition of your academic credits during your stay. Usually, a term is equivalent to 30 ECTS and a full year to 60 ECTS. www.international.uliege.be/en/erasmus-in-ECTS 2. ADMINISTRATIVE FORMALITIES www.international.uliege.be/en/erasmus-in Here is an overview of the main formalities related to your stay at the University of Liège. CHECKLIST BEFORE YOUR ARRIVAL p.23 Online registration Acceptance Letter from ULiège I dentity documents in order of validity (ID card and/or passport, visa if necessary) H ealth insurance B uddy Program Accommodation research WHEN YOU ARRIVE AT ULIÈGE p.24 R egistration at the University (International Office) A pproval of your course programme (see departmental coordinator) A dministrative formalities at the Foreign Affairs – City Hall (depending on your profile) Registration for health cover (called “mutuelle” in Belgium) BEFORE GOING BACK HOME p.31 E nd-of-stay certificate (International Office) A dministrative formalities at the Foreign Affairs - City Hall (depending on your profile) N otify your coordinator about your departure and check that all the formalities are in order 3 | ULIÈGE: HOST UNIVERSITY FOR EXCHANGE STUDENTS 22
PREPARING YOUR DEPARTURE 1. Discuss the courses you intend to take at ULiège with your coordinator in your home university. 2. If you need a visa to enter in Belgium, take the necessary steps with the Belgian embassy in your home country (with the ULiège acceptance letter) before arriving in Belgium. 3. Start your research of accommodation (more info p.56) www.campus.uliege.be/en/accommodation 4. If you wish to meet a local student and be involved in the Buddy Program, register at wwww.international.uliege.be/en/erasmus-in-buddy-request 5. European students: ask your health insurance fund for an european health insurance card. Non-European students: if possible, subscribe to a health insurance in your home country. ERASMUS MUNDUS STUDENTS PLEASE CONSULT YOUR VADE-MECUM 3 | ULIÈGE: HOST UNIVERSITY FOR EXCHANGE STUDENTS 23
UPON ARRIVAL AT THE UNIVERSITY OF LIÈGE 1. REGISTRATION AT THE INTERNATIONAL OFFICE The International Office is available to accompany you throughout your stay in Liege and assist you with your academic and social integration into the community. Please visit the office in person to complete your official enrollment where you will receive your student card and your student number and internet access and important institutional certificates. Any change that may occur during your stay (change of address, telephone number, etc.) must be entered via the myULiège portal (My profile). Check your uliege email inbox regularly as it is the official means of communication by the university to share important and useful information with students. Our door is always open! Do not hesitate to contact us, we are here to support your stay. LOCATION-DOT IN LIÈGE Place du 20-Août, 7 (Bâtiment A1) 4000 Liège mobil.in@uliege.be +32 4 366 41 66 +32 4 366 55 47 +32 4 366 58 59 LOCATION-DOT Map of Liège city centre ➊ During registration periods the office is open from Monday to Friday, from 9 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. and from 1.30 p.m. to 4 p.m. www.international.uliege.be/en/ erasmus-in LOCATION-DOT IN GEMBLOUX Registration is done at the International Office of Gembloux, not in Liège. Relations Internationales Bureau pédagogique (registration) Entrance 5 - building 9 Passage des Déportés, 2 5030 Gembloux erasmus.gembloux@uliege.be +32 81 62 21 08 www.gembloux.uliege.be/ international LOCATION-DOT IN ARLON Register at the International Office in Liège or remotely. mobil.in@uliege.be 3 | ULIÈGE: HOST UNIVERSITY FOR EXCHANGE STUDENTS 24
2. CONTACT YOUR DEPARTMENTAL COORDINATOR The departmental coordinator will validate your Learning Agreement and explain how the courses are organised and what methods of evaluation are used. You will be informed about how to contact them in your official letter of acceptance. No change in the Learning Agreement will be accepted unless it is signed by your departmental coordinator. ERASMUS MUNDUS STUDENTS PLEASE CONSULT YOUR VADE-MECUM 3 | ULIÈGE: HOST UNIVERSITY FOR EXCHANGE STUDENTS 25
3. ADMINISTRATIVE FORMALITIES All students ⚠ Any foreigner staying in Belgium for more than three consecutive months must notify the municipal authorities of the city in which they are residing. LOCATION-DOT IN LIÈGE Cité administrative (City Hall), 1st floor Ville de Liège - Service des étrangers Potiérue, 5 4000 Liège +32 4 221 82 29 service.etrangers-etudiants@liege.be LOCATION-DOT Map of Liège city centre ➊ LOCATION-DOT IN GEMBLOUX Parc d’Épinal, 2 5030 Gembloux +32 81 62 63 31 population@gembloux.be LOCATION-DOT IN ARLON Hôtel de ville (étage B1) Service des étrangers Rue Paul Reuter, 8 6700 Arlon +32 63 24 56 73 service_etrangers@arlon.be Students residing in a border country (annex 33) For students who are citizens or have a residence permit from France, Germany, Luxembourg and the Netherlands, the following documents are required: ○ valid identity document (passport or identity card) or residence permit delivered by the border country ○ certificate of registration from the International Office at ULiège ○ lease or landlord's certificate ○ 1 recent passport-size photo ○ 36,40€* * see rates in force on the registration date 3 | ULIÈGE: HOST UNIVERSITY FOR EXCHANGE STUDENTS 26
European students (EU) For students from EEE countries (EU + Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway), the following documents are required: EU students can move from one EU country to another with a national ID or passport; no visa is required. European student - as part of a mobility/exchange programme (study in Belgium for min 3 months and max 6 months) For students from EEE countries (EU + Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway), the following documents are required: ○ valid passport or identity card ○ certificate of registration from the International Office at ULiège ○ proof of health insurance cover (European card or private insurance) ○ address in Liège (if in a students’ residence, a residence statement) ○ 1 recent passport-size photo ○ 31,20€ + 40,90€ for the residence card* ○ valid passport or identity card ○ certificate of registration from the International Office at ULiège ○ 15,60€ 3 | ULIÈGE: HOST UNIVERSITY FOR EXCHANGE STUDENTS 27
Students from a country outside the EU Non-EU students must report their arrival at the city hall on arrival (after registration at ULiège) to get a residence permit. For students from a country outside the EU, the following documents are required: Students from outside the EU who stay in Belgium and wish to travel outside the country should have a valid visa and annex 15 issued by the municipal authorities. To travel outside the Schengen area, consult the diplomatic mission of the country you wish to visit, as to whether a visa is required. Non-european students may be required to open a Belgian bank account (see p.50). ○ passport with a D visa ○ certificate of registration from the International Office at ULiège ○ proof of means of financial support ○ address in Liège (if in a students’ residence, a residence statement) ○ 1 passport-size photo ○ 31,20€ + 24,10€* ERASMUS MUNDUS STUDENTS PLEASE CONSULT YOUR VADE-MECUM 3 | ULIÈGE: HOST UNIVERSITY FOR EXCHANGE STUDENTS 28
4. WELCOME DAYS In collaboration with the Erasmus Student Network (ESN ULiège) and the ULiège communication department, the International Office organises Welcome Days for exchange students. We strongly encourage you to check out these fun and informative days as a way to learn about your new university, the city of Liege and make new friends! Welcome Days 2026-2027: • for stays during the 1st term and the whole year, Wednesday 9th and Friday 11th September 2026 • for stays during the 2nd term, Friday 29th January 2027 ULiege is part of the "Pole Liège Luxembourg", a network of university and colleges in the region. An intercultural seminar will be organised on 10th September 2026 "How to survive in the Belgian culture?" and "Belgian political landscape". All are invited to attend! A detailed programme of these Welcome days will be sent to you via your ULiège email address. www.international.uliege.be/en/erasmus-in-welcome-days For exchange students from the Gembloux campus, Welcome Days are also organised by the “Pôle Namur” www.poledenamur.be/etudiant/mobilite-internationale Student from Gembloux can also take part to the Welcome Days in Liège. A Festival of Cultures will be organised on Thursday 26th November 2026 to celebrate the different cultures and diversity at ULiège. Students are invited to participate and share about their home country, culture and experiences. 3 | ULIÈGE: HOST UNIVERSITY FOR EXCHANGE STUDENTS 29
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AT THE END OF YOUR STAY Before going back home, here are 3 steps you must follow to end your stay: 1 | Complete the online end-of-stay survey This online survey is very important to get your feedback for improvement purposes! 2 | Get your "Attendance Certificate": • Either come to the International Office. If you have a document from your university, we will sign it. If you don't have one, we will give you the departure form of ULiège. • Or contact us by email: mobil.in@uliege.be 3 | Students registered at the City Hall must notify the end of their stay to the local administration to be deregistered. - For students in Liège: • either go to the local municipal office with your national ID, the document received at the city hall (EU or A card), address in your home country and 15,60€ • or connect on the e-platform of the City Hall of Liège in order to notify your departure (called « radiation »): https://www.liege.be/fr/vie-communale/services-communaux/etat-civil-etpopulation/domicile/demarches/radiation-pour-letranger ⚠ Students who will have to return to Belgium as part of their mobility program must report in person to the City Hall. The temporary absence procedure cannot be done online. - Students on the Gembloux or Arlon campuses must report to the respective local administrations in their host city. www.international.uliege.be/en/erasmus-in-depart ERASMUS MUNDUS STUDENTS PLEASE CONSULT YOUR VADE-MECUM 3 | ULIÈGE: HOST UNIVERSITY FOR EXCHANGE STUDENTS 31
LANGUAGE TRAINING 4
1. FRENCH COURSES LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS At the University of Liège most courses are taught in French. Exchange students therefore need to have sufficient language proficiency, both written and oral, to understand courses and to effectively take part in seminars and tutorials. Students who plan to take a course in French, must include proof of language proficiency to their university application. The minimal required level is B1 (B2 for HEC Liège and for Law department) according to the Common European Framework of Reference. Upon arrival and in addition to a language proficiency certificate, non French-speaking students who take courses in French have to take a compulsory online test in French to attest their proficiency. The results are sent to departmental coordinators. Dates for the online French tests: • for the 1st term: from 15th to 17th September 2026 • for the 2nd term: 2nd and 3rd February 2027 For courses taught in English a B1 certificate is required (B2 for HEC Liège and for Law department). LOCATION-DOT IN LIÈGE In Liège, French preparatory courses (before the beginning of the 1st term) and French courses (during the academic year) are organised by the “Département de français de l’Institut supérieur des Langues Vivantes (ISLV)”. 1 | Preparatory course 1st term preparatory course: from 31st August to 8th September 2026 (no ECTS) 120€ fee for exchange students. 2 | Courses during the year For students who would like to follow a French course during their exchange in Liège, the compulsory test will be used to evaluate their level in order to create the groups for the courses. • S1 = 1st term evening classes: from 28th September 2026 to 15th January 2027 • S2 = 2nd term evening classes: from 15th February to 28th May 2027 60 hours of class : 2 x 2 hours per week and online module. • S1 or S2 = 5 ECTS • S1 + S2 = 10 ECTS If satisfactory result at the end of the semester ⚠ Levels: from A1 to B2+. C1 level is only organised in the second term. ERASMUS MUNDUS STUDENTS PLEASE CONSULT YOUR VADE-MECUM 4 | LANGUAGE TRAINING 34
Fees • Free for ULiège exchange students who have the French language course in their Learning Agreement. • 120€/term for other students. 3 | Fully online courses : FRAnçais Tout En Ligne (FRATEL) 100% online course with experienced French teachers, are available for the following levels: Elementary (A1-A2) and intermediate (B1-B2) levels. • 1st term: from 6th October to 17th December 2026 • 2nd term: from 9th March to 27th May 2027 30 course hours: 2 hours per week via Zoom + Declic module (no ECTS) Fee: 60€ per term For further information about courses and registration, contact: ISLV Rue de Pitteurs 20, Bâtiment L3 - 4020 Liège +32 4 366 57 57 (secretariat) islvfr@uliege.be www.islv.uliege.be LOCATION-DOT Map of Liège city centre ● LOCATION-DOT IN GEMBLOUX A French course for non-native speakers is organised during the year in Namur (10 minutes by train from Gembloux train station) and credited with 3 ECTS. At the first meeting the respective level of each student is assessed so that groups can be organised. More information: erasmus.gembloux@uliege.be Two weeks of French classes and introduction to the culture and belgian heritage are organised by the Namur Academic Centre (Pôle Académique) at the begining of the academic year. Registration is open until the end of June. www.poledenamur.be/etudiant/mobilite-internationale/iw LOCATION-DOT IN ARLON www.campusarlon.uliege.be/en/learn-french-english ERASMUS MUNDUS STUDENTS PLEASE CONSULT YOUR VADE-MECUM 4 | LANGUAGE TRAINING 35
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2. OTHER LANGUAGE COURSES LOCATION-DOT IN LIÈGE In addition to language courses, the ISLV also offers foreign language courses. 1 | Evening courses One evening (6 to 8 p.m.) a week during the academic year, in the city center: German, English, Arabic, Spanish, Italian, Dutch, Portuguese and Russian (beginner, intermediate and advanced levels) are available. Two evenings (6 to 8 p.m.) a week during the semester, in the city centre: German, English, Dutch (beginner and intermediate levels) are available. For more information and registration: +32 4 366 55 17 islvle@uliege.be www.islv.uliege.be 2 | Supervised online training • @LTER: German, English, Spanish, Italian, Dutch (beginner and intermediate levels). • CONVERS@TIONS : German, English, Spanish, Italian, Dutch (from B1 intermediate level upon request). 3 | Conversation tables Conversation tables are organized by the International Office during the evening in Liège: French-German, French-Dutch, French-Italian, French-Japanese. www.international.uliege.be/erasmus-in-tables-de-conversation LOCATION-DOT IN ARLON English courses www.campusarlon.uliege.be/apprendre-fr-en 4 | LANGUAGE TRAINING 37
HEALTH INSURANCE AND HEALTH CARE 5
Individual health insurance is compulsory in Belgium. If you are not registered with a health care insurance provider in your home country which covers your stay in Belgium, you must subscribe to a health insurance provider in Belgium. LOCATION-DOT Map of Liège city centre ➋➌➍➎➏➐ • If you are from an EEA country (EU + Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway) and if you are insured through your own national health service, before leaving your home country, you should ask for the European health insurance card. This covers you in case of illness abroad. The period of validity may differ from one country to another and is a maximum of two years. However, if you need to see a doctor in Belgium, it will be more convenient to register with a Belgian health insurance provider so as to get about 75% of the medical costs paid back to you. The balance could be paid by your health insurance in your home country. • If you are from a non-EEA country, you must have coverage to stay in Belgium, either through comprehensive insurance policy taken out in your country of origin, or in Belgium. In addition, through registration at ULiège, all university students get civil liability and physical insurance coverage for any accident related to their university activities, at home and abroad. If you want to subscribe to a health insurance (mutuelle) in Belgium, you will have to do it after your arrival in Liège, it is not possible to do it before. You will receive the necessary information in your Welcome Pack. See also "health care" • In Liège, p.60 • In Gembloux, p.64 • In Arlon, p.67 5 | HEALTH INSURANCE AND HEALTH CARE 40
5 | HEALTH INSURANCE AND HEALTH CARE 41
RESOURCES AND INTEGRATION 6
1. SUPPORT SERVICES The University of Liège has several support services available to assist students. LOCATION-DOT Map of Liège city centre ➋ STUDENT AFFAIRS The Student Affairs Office is dedicated to supporting the quality of life of each student, allowing them to carry out their academic studies under the best conditions possible. +32 4 366 53 61 affaires.etudiantes@uliege.be www.uliege.be/affairesetudiantes COUNSELLING AND PSYCHOLOGICAL SUPPORT SERVICES Counselling and psychological support is available for students feeling unwell, having personal difficulties with integration, student or professor dynamics, anxiety, loss of motivation, etc. This office provides a listening ear and if necessary refers individuals to specialized contacts. +32 4 366 55 61 - +32 4 366 20 82 soutienpsy@uliege.be www.student.uliege.be/student/ecoute-soutien STUDY GUIDANCE Academic study guidance is available for students needing assistance in their new study environment and managing the work load. +32 4 366 53 61 guidance.etude@uliege.be www.uliege.be/guidance SUPPORT FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES Support services are available for students with a temporary disability (at least 3 months) or a long-term disability such as sensory or motor impairment, disabling illness, accident, psychological difficulties, etc. +32 4 366 53 61 ash@uliege.be www.enseignement.uliege.be/etudiants/handicap 6 | FACILITIES AND INTEGRATION 44
INFORMATION ON FUTURE STUDIES Do you want to enroll in a full degree at the University of Liège after your Erasmus? The "Point Info Conseil" offers drop-in sessions to answer your questions, in French and in English. +32 4 366 56 74 info.etudes@uliege.be www.enseignement.uliege.be/futur-etudiant/contacts SIPS SIPS is a family planning centre specifically for young people. All students can consult a lawyer, psychologists/therapists, doctors and social workers. The team offers free services and answers questions about relationships, emotional and sexual life: sexually transmitted infections, contraception, pregnancy, violence, LGBTQIA+, etc. +32 4 223 62 82 sips@sips.be www.sips.be LOCATION-DOT Map of Liège city centre ➏ MAISON ARC-EN-CIEL (RAINBOW HOUSE) This is the largest LGBTQIA+ association in Wallonia, based in the very heart of the city of Liège. It advocates for the rights of lesbian (L), gay (G), bisexual (B), transgender (T), queer (Q), intersex (I), and asexual (A) people, as well as all those who do not identify with these labels (+). Offering welcoming spaces, opportunities to meet, listening support, and activities of all kinds for all audiences, the association provides a wide range of services to help LGBTQIA+ people feel at home and thrive. +32 4 223 65 89 courrier@macliege.be www.macliege.be LOCATION-DOT Map of Liège city centre ➐ 6 | FACILITIES AND INTEGRATION 45
2. BUDDY PROGRAM The first days in a new environment are always difficult. You have to find your bearings, meet new students, locate rooms and complete important documents. This necessary adaptation process takes time and energy. ULiège has set up a Buddy Program in which local students offer their help and support to newcomers – show them the city, the university, and contribute to their smooth integration into the local life. The International Office can provide the names and contacts of local students involved in this programme. Please complete the registration form if you are interested in participating in the programme: www.international.uliege.be/en/erasmus-in-buddy-request 3. myULIÈGE, INTERNET AND EMAIL ACCESS myULIÈGE myULiège is a must-have tool for ULiège students as it is the main access to online resources. A lot of information is available: course materials, important news such as information about the courses but also about leisure, sports, cultural activities, discussion forums among and between students and teaching staff and classified ads. Once registered as exchange student, you can update your data (address, phone number). Once your course programme has been validate by your departmental coordinator, you can: • access to your timetable and classrooms • access the course material (ppt, course's notes, infos...) • check you examination results • select examinations to resit ACCESS Access can be obtained through the ULiège ID number and password received after you registration at the International Office. INTERNET AND EMAIL ADDRESS Once your myULiège account is activated, you can browse the Internet and check your email from a computer, smartphone or tablet. After the activation of myULiège, you will get an email address similar to: Firstname.LastName@student.uliege.be 6 | FACILITIES AND INTEGRATION 46
You have the possibility to forward your ULiège email address to another email address of your choice. In your Welcome Pack which you will receive upon arrival, you will be given a document which explains how to use myULiège and the other platforms used for classes (ecampus, Lola, etc.). 4. LIBRARIES AT ULIÈGE ULiège Library offers a large range of services to students, teachers, researchers and staff in terms of documentation and scientific publications. All of ULiège's documentary resources, whether paper or electronic, are accessible via the single search interface lib.uliege.be. ULiège Library's 17 locations acorss the university campuses are open to the public and provide study and work spaces including more than 2,250 seats, evening opening until 10p.m. and Saturday opening for the three largest locations, opening on Sunday for the health library during preparation and exam periods, 23 collaborative work rooms, 2 individual soundproof booths and much more. ULiège Library offers a number of services to students, including training and tutorials (https://lib.uliege.be/fr/support/besoin-daide/formations) and a variety of remote channels for personalised help (https://lib.uliege.be/fr/contacts): telephone, email, chat, FAQs. Want to find out more? Need practical information (how to get there, opening times, etc.)? lib.uliege.be 6 | FACILITIES AND INTEGRATION 47
5. STUDENTS’ ASSOCIATIONS FÉDÉ The objectives of the “Fédération des étudiants” (Fédé) are to represent and inform students, and to defend their interests, to offer services, and to provide support in the students’ academic lives. They support various cultural initiatives, social and community projects and entertainment activities. Along the same lines the Fédé also supports students’ associations created for and by students developing unique initiatives based on collective interests. Each faculty also has several students’ associations. www.campus.uliege.be/vie-associative-et-folklore Ask fellow students or the Fédé: Maison de la Fédé +332 4 366 31 99 info@fede-uliege.be www.fede-uliege.be Fédé ULiège LOCATION-DOT Map of Liège city centre ERASMUS STUDENT NETWORK (ESN) ESN is an international network of students’ associations in over 40 countries in Europe. The ESN-ULiège is a dynamic team consisting of students from the various faculties of the University of Liège. This association makes it possible for Erasmus students to fit into local life through cultural and festive events organised all through the city. It also offers Erasmus students the possibility to visit several cities in Belgium and Europe at discounted rates. esn@uliege.be www.esnuliege.be ESN ULiège-Erasmus Student Network There is also the ESN HEC for Erasmus students at HEC Liège. ESN HEC Liège 6 | FACILITIES AND INTEGRATION 48
6. CREATE YOUR OWN COLUMN, PODCAST, OR RADIO SHOW “48 FM” is a student radio in the heart of the city. Broadcast on 100.1 FM, DAB+ and streaming, the radio station currently relies on a team of more than 100 volunteers (presenters, journalists, technicians, etc.). 48 FM is constantly welcoming new participants. Try your hand at audiovisual presentations, meet fellow students and share topics that inspire you. Don't speak French yet? No problem, foreign language content is welcome. You are also free to develop a project at your own pace. Consider joining the 48 FM team! New students' projects: bienvenue.48fm.com +32 4 366 36 66 info@48fm.com 48fm.com 48fm.radio LOCATION-DOT Map of Liège city centre 6 | FACILITIES AND INTEGRATION 49
7. B ANK ACCOUNT If you choose to open a bank account in Belgium this should be done as soon as possible upon your arrival. Banks usually require the following documents: • a passport or identity card • an address in Liège and in your home country (official document) • a certificate from the International Office of ULiège • residence certificate for students from countries outside the EU LOCATION-DOT Map of Liège city centre ➌➍➎ LOCATION-DOT Map of Sart Tilman You may be able to open an online bank account via online banks such as Nickel, Wise, Revolut, N26, etc. 8. MOBILE PHONES There are several competing networks for mobile phones in Belgium: • Orange : www.orange.be • Proximus : www.proximus.be • Base : www.base.be • Scarlet : www.scarlet.be • Mobile Vikings : www.mobilevikings.be • Hey : www.heytelecom.be Check which one is best for your needs. ERASMUS MUNDUS STUDENTS PLEASE CONSULT YOUR VADE-MECUM 6 | FACILITIES AND INTEGRATION 50
9. TRANSPORTATION All the information you need to get to and around the ULiège campuses is available on my.mobility.uliege.be (advice on walking and cycling routes, the best bus routes, the location of secure cycle parks, etc.). BUS AND TRAM TEC (Transports En Commun) is the name of the local bus and tram company. It offers an extended and modern network in Wallonia. The main bus lines to the Sart Tilman are 2, 3 and 8. The journey to the campus takes about 30 minutes. LOCATION-DOT Map of Liège city centre ➊➋ At the TEC offices, you can buy: • ticket: 3,50€ (on the bus) 2,60€ (via MOBIB card) • Daily ticket: 6€ • MOBIB card: 5€ • 6 journeys card: 13,40€ (via MOBIB card and 13,70€ without MOBIB card) • seasons tickets (via MOBIBcard ): 42€/month and 420€/year. For students under 25, the rate is 12€/year (+ MOBIB card) www.letec.be RAILWAY SNCB (the Belgian Railway Company) offers various cut-price formulas to travel in Belgium and Europe. You can find more information on their website or at the train station. There is a Train+ card (4€/month or 32€/year) which gives you access to discounted fares for your train travels. Fares vary depending on the day and whether it is peak or off-peak hours. Don't hesitate to check the website for the latest offers and fares. www.belgiantrain.be LOCATION-DOT Map of Liège city centre ON FOOT OR CYCLING Pedestrian maps with estimated journey times between ULiège sites are available. The cities of Liège and Gembloux offer long-term bicycle hire at reasonable prices. Secure parking and showers are available on most ULiège campuses. my.mobility.uliege 6 | FACILITIES AND INTEGRATION 51
PRACTICAL TIPS 7
1. LIÈGE THE CITY OF LIÈGE Liege is the largest city in the French-speaking part of Belgium. Located in the eastern region of the country, it sits on the Meuse river. This folkloric, historic and multifaced city invites you to discover one of its many neighbourhoods which are more like small villages. On Sunday morning, stroll through "La Batte", the longest running, open-air market in Europe, set up along the riverbanks. At the crossroads between The Netherlands, Germany and Flanders (the Dutch-speaking part of Belgium), Liege is easily accessible by all modes of transportation, including a high-speed rail station and an airport. Throughout the year, but particularly when the sun is shining, you can enjoy a variety of walks and hikes. In addition to a large network of paths and trails, exclusively dedicated to walkers and cyclists (RAVeL), you can explore over 5,000 km of signposted walks (see ravel.wallonie.be/home.html)! Many cultural events are also hosted each year, such as the International Festival of Crime Movie (Film Policier), and a number of music festivals. Popular gatherings include, Retrouvailles (with over 300 associations in all fields from sports to politics and from drama to healthcare presenting their activities), the “Fêtes de Wallonie”, and the funfair in October (“Foire d’octobre”). Night life is in itself an attraction, with dozens and dozens of cafés and restaurants, cinemas, concerts and performances that make Liège a very lively city. LOCATION-DOT Map of Liège city centre Some interesting websites: www.visitezliege.be www.liege.be www.escapades.be visitwallonia.be 7 | PRACTICAL TIPS 54
GETTING AROUND LIÈGE BY TRAIN Liège is accessible by train mainly from the Guillemins Railway Station or Saint-Lambert Railway Station, from where a regular bus and tram service takes you to the town centre and to the Sart Tilman campus. www.belgiantrain.be LOCATION-DOT Map of Liège city centre BY PLANE Brussels Airport (Zaventem) is located near Brussels, there is a direct train. www.brusselsairport.be From Brussels South Charleroi Airport you can take buses, coaches and trains leaving from Charleroi (the station is 7 km away from the airport and there is a shuttle). www.brussels-charleroi-airport.com 7 | PRACTICAL TIPS 55
Useful websites addresses for private accommodation www.kotaliege.be www.student.be www.skot.be/kot-liege www.appartager.be www.immovmi.be/fr www.kothouse.be www.vivastreet.be www.greatkot.be www.airbnb.be www.ikot.be ACCOMMODATION Before looking for accommodation, be sure to check where your faculty is located. There are 3 faculties in the city centre: the Faculty of Philosophy and Letters, HEC-École de Gestion and the Faculty of Architecture. The other faculties are located on the Sart Tilman campus which is accessible by bus (see map). ACCOMMODATION Frédéric CIABATTA +32 4 366 39 08 logement.ville@uliege.be www.campus.uliege.be/logement PRIVATE ACCOMMODATION In Liège, a student’s bedsit is called a “kot”. It’s an individual room, generally furnished and rented out by the landlord. Usually there are several kots in the same building. Students share facilities such as toilets, bathroom and kitchen. A room can also be located in a landlord’s house, with shared facilities. Students can also choose fully independent lodgings (studios, flats, or even houses). The price for a furnished kot is around 420€/ month, additional costs not included. A private accommodation database maintained by the University of Liège is available on www.campus.uliege.be/kot It is important to note that the price can be presented in two different ways: either it only includes the rent, or it includes rent and all or part of the utility charges. To ensure a good quality of accommodation and that you have time to compare prices, it is preferable to arrive in Liege one or two weeks before the start of the academic year. It's better to wait until you have arrived before making your choice. Please note! It's advisable not to pay for accommodation before you've seen it in person, to be sure you're not dealing with a scam. Be very careful, and read the rental agreement carefully, especially for duration of the rent. If you are planning to rent out your property on a sublet basis, make sure your lease allows for this. A jurist from “Consulex “can help and advise you for free. Contact the International Office for more information. LOCATION-DOT Map of Liège city centre ➐ 7 | PRACTICAL TIPS 56
ACCOMMODATION IN A PRIVATE RESIDENCE The University of Liège does not have a student residence, and students wishing this type of accommodation must look to private companies. One private residence is located on the Sart Tilman campus www.ukotliege.be YOUTH HOSTEL If you should arrive in Liège without accommodation, we advise you to spend the first few nights at the Youth Hostel of Liège. All students registering at ULiège are full right members (reduced rates -10%). Every year the Youth Hostel offers some free nights (minimum 2 months) to a few exchange students for a couple of hours work. If you are interested, please mention this when you write to them. Youth Hostel +32 4 344 56 89 liege@laj.be www.lesaubergesdejeunesse.be/liege @aubergedeliege LOCATION-DOT Map of Liège city centre ➊ The other residences are in the cicty centre: www.luniliege.be www.studenthouse-liege.be www.generation-campus.be www.studentstation.be www.studentstation.be www.chickandkot.be www.erasmust.eu www.te-cum.be 7 | PRACTICAL TIPS 57
UNIVERSITY RESTAURANTS The University of Liège offers its community members university restaurants and cafeterias on its various campuses. Feeding ULiège students and staff in a healthy and sustainable way, while maintaining affordable prices, are the two main thrusts of the institution's catering policy. Friendly, healthy, seasonal catering at democratic prices Since January 2026, ULiège has been directly managing its university restaurants. The aim is to accelerate the transition by offering local, fresh, seasonal, and organic products as often as possible. This in-house management allows us to serve more balanced, healthier, and environmentally friendly dishes, while maintaining affordable prices and improving service quality and working conditions. Attention is paid to food waste, recycling and waste reduction in university restaurants and cafeterias. All year long, benefit from discounts on some products if you use your own reusable cutlery or cup/tumbler! "Flash sales" (50% discount) aimed at combating food waste are also offered in ULiège cafeterias at the end of services to sell off the day's unsold items. www.campus.uliege.be/restaurants LOCATION-DOT Map of Liège city centre LOCATION-DOT Map of Sart Tilman 7 | PRACTICAL TIPS 58
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