Organization

If the history of Belgium is complicated, the organization of its education is as well. The thing to remember is that the diplomas and certificates of study are all recognized by the federal government. Education is multi-disciplinary. Diplomas are recognized on an international level.
Some private education is not recognized by the state and is often quite expensive.
The policies of higher education is worked out by the three communities (Flemish, French, and German):
For the Flemish community the responsibility for education is given to a public organization independent of the education ministry: the Autonomous Council of Community Education (ARGO).
In the French and German regions, it is the community government that organizes an educational network specific to the community.
There are three large networks of education that the government allows to confer diplomas: community education, free education, and officially subsidized education.
Higher education is composed of Universities and "Hautes Ecoles" - "Hogescholen" in the Flemish system.
For more information on higher education in French: http://www.agers.cfwb.be
For more information on higher education in Flemish: http://www.ond.vlaanderen.be
There are two types of higher education possible: a short cycle lasting three years, or a long cycle, divided into two segments, and lasting at least four years.
For Belgian students, entry into higher education follows graduation from secondary education.
For foreign students, admission is based on scholastic records, taking into account grades earned, the content of courses taken, etc.

Accreditation
Higher education in Belgium is accredited by the federal government.

Academic calendar
2 semesters: September to mid-January
mid-January to June