KU Leuven is a research-intensive university headquartered in Leuven, Belgium. Founded on 9 December 1425 by papal bull, it is one of Europe’s oldest universities and the oldest in the Low Countries and among universities still operating, the oldest Catholic university in the world.26 Its main campus is in Leuven, about 30 kilometres from Brussels, and it operates campuses in other Flemish cities, including Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent and Bruges.6
The university’s work combines education and research across a broad range of disciplines. Its 15 faculties offer hundreds of degree programmes, while research is organised through departments and research groups; the institution describes research as central to its teaching.13 KU Leuven also offers doctoral education and undertakes research across both foundational and applied fields.1213 Its Leuven Research & Development office supports the transfer of university research into practical applications.11
KU Leuven’s community includes students and staff from outside Belgium, and its campuses and programmes give it a nationwide presence. Its international orientation is also reflected in participation in European and international university networks, including the League of European Research Universities, of which it is a founding member.13 In 2025, the university marked its 600th anniversary with public activities, exhibitions and events, according to the organisation’s website.2