Expected prior knowledge

• For mathematics, it is best to have a thorough prior knowledge.
• Regarding the languages: For English and French, students with a Belgian diploma of secondary education build on the knowledge they acquired in secondary education. International students must comply with the language requirements, so a certain level of knowledge of English is expected from them too. For French level B1 is recommended. For German and Spanish, no prior knowledge is needed.
•  For social sciences and economics, you basically start from scratch.
• Do you have a basic knowledge of software such as Word, PowerPoint or Excel? Then that is sufficient.
  

For mathematics, a good basis is required (preferably 4 hours of mathematics a week in secondary education). Analytical and abstract thinking skills are necessary throughout the entire programme. In subjects such as accountancy, economics, statistics and introduction to financial markets, your mathematical knowledge comes in handy. 

Did you have less hours mathematics in secondary education? Then know that a successful study does not only depend on which subjects you have studied before, but also on your commitment, energy and sense of organisation. Every year a few students with limited mathematical prior knowledge succeed: the facts prove that it is possible. Nevertheless, we would like to warn that this is not te be taken for granted. Someone who already scores poorly for mathematics in secondary education will find it extremely difficult within this programme. 

It is important that you can prepare independently: Via the online learning platform 'Get started', you can train yourself in mathematics. This self-study course reviews all the essential components. Furthermore, a preparatory course Mathematics will be organised in September.

In addition, you know from the start of the academic year that mathematics is a subject that requires commitment. So you can pay extra attention to it. Moreover, you are supported by the exercises in the practical sessions, the group sessions and the individual sessions (by appointment with the assistants).

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All the classes are in English, so good English language skills are recommended. Students with a Belgian diploma of secondary education build on the knowledge they acquired in secondary education (Level Third Grade General Secondary Education ("ASO")). International students must comply with the language requirements, so a certain level of knowledge of English is expected from them too. Prepare yourself for the classes in English by following the English self-study course on the online platform 'Get started' or the Academic English preparatory course.

Besides academic English, we offer you a choice out of 3 languages: French, German and Spanish. For French level B1 (or Level Third Grade Belgian General Secondary Education ("ASO")) is recommended. For German and Spanish, no prior knowledge is needed. You'll choose a language that you will learn for two academic years. In the lectures and language sessions, you learn to communicate fluently and correctly, orally and in writing. You expand your economic vocabulary. You learn to communicate fluently in a national and international context.

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Social sciences play an important role in the social-economic sciences programme. However, it is not necessary to have prior knwoledge in social sciences. Courses such as 'Sociology' start from scratch. Most important is to have a broad interest in the functioning of society, regardless of your previous education.

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You have not yet studied economics or accounting? No problem! For all these courses (Economics, Financial Markets, Accountancy, ...) you don't need any prior knowledge. Making an effort is of course necessary, and you will also be supported: exercises in the practical sessions, group sessions and individual guidance on request. Every year, dozens of students are introduced to economics and accounting for the first time and succeed: the facts prove that it is possible.

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For certain tasks and assignments, a limited basic knowledge of Excel, PowerPoint and Word is required. The knowledge you acquired in secondary education is normally sufficient. When more complex applications of Excel are used in courses such as 'Accountancy', these are explained to you during the classes.

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