Language requirements

The two working languages of the College are English and French.

Applicants should usually have a minimum level of B2 for one language and a minimum level B1 for the other.

From the academic year 2018-2019 onwards, the College of Europe Politics and Governance programme will in the framework of its Access to French Track also accept a limited number of students with basic/low level French language skills (A2) under the following circumstances:

• students have a C1 level in English;

• students have an excellent (academic) background;

• students have a high motivation to improve their French language skills, so as to reach a level B2/B1 during their stay at the College.

The admissions of candidates with a limited level of French (A2) at the time of the interview is conditional on the attendance of:

• an intensive French course before arriving in Bruges;

• the introductory course that begins two weeks prior to the start of the academic year;

• a weekly French course throughout the academic year.

Language skills should be indicated on the online application form. French and English language levels are monitored during selection interviews and candidates should, when possible, supply internationally recognised certificates or recommendation letters from language teachers showing language levels in relation to the Common European Framework for Reference (CEFR). 

Students wishing to improve their French before entering the College can find more information on the College Language Service pages.

We prefer students to obtain external language certificates. All international language certificates are accepted as long as they indicate the Council of Europe's levels. Students may also supply a university certificate or a recommendation letter written by a language professor or teacher referring to the applicant's language levels in relation to the Council of Europe levels.

Circumstances where language certificates are not required

For further information about the language requirements candidates should e-mail info.admissions [at] coleurope.eu.