Study in Antwerp, international student city guide
Antwerp is a beautiful city in the north of Belgium, known for its rich cultural heritage, a diverse and extensive immigrant community, and highly regarded universities. The city is home to individuals from over 180 nations, offering a unique blend of European culture and history, paired with excellent educational facilities at its universities.
Dutch is the primary language spoken in Antwerp, but many undergraduate and postgraduate degree programs are available in English, catering to a wide international student body. It is easy for international students to feel at home in Antwerp, for a wide range of reasons, including good career opportunities and the thriving start-up scene, among others.
The city of Antwerp ranks 5th in the Happy City Index 2025. It also ranks 3rd on the latest Global Bicycle Cities Index. It is a flat and bike-friendly city offering many bike rental options. This, combined with over 2,000 bars and restaurants, along with some of the finest fashion districts in Europe, makes Antwerp ideal for international students.
All higher education institutions in Antwerp
- Artesis Plantijn Hogeschool Antwerpen
- Antwerp Business School (UIBS)
- Antwerp Maritime Academy
- Flanders Business School
- KdG University of Applied Sciences and Arts
- University of Antwerp
Top institutions in Antwerp
University of Antwerp
Founded over two centuries ago, the University of Antwerp stands as a beacon of research and innovation in Europe. It is home to approximately 40,000 students, with around 5,000 of those coming from countries outside Belgium.
The University of Antwerp is primarily located in the heart of the city but also has a satellite campus focused on innovation, fostering an environment for start-up ventures.
Renowned for its contribution to various fields of study, the University of Antwerp has been linked to numerous Nobel Prize laureates, which emphasises its impact on the global academic and research landscape. It actively participates in the Erasmus Student Exchange Program, welcoming a diverse group of international students each year.
While the primary language of instruction is Dutch, the University of Antwerp offers a range of postgraduate programs in English to cater to its international student body. Its robust connections with leading Belgian companies and organisations provide a smooth transition for students from academia to professional employment opportunities within Belgium.
KdG University of Applied Sciences and Arts
Established through the merger of several longstanding institutions, KdG University of Applied Sciences and Arts has developed into one of the leading universities of applied sciences in Belgium. It serves a student population of over 13,000, including a growing number of international learners drawn from across Europe and beyond.
KdG is based in Antwerp, with multiple campuses spread throughout the city, each specialising in areas such as business, technology, education, and the arts. This city-centre presence allows students to engage closely with Antwerp’s vibrant professional and cultural environment.
Known for its practical, career-oriented approach to education, KdG places strong emphasis on real-world experience through internships, industry projects, and partnerships. The university maintains close ties with regional businesses and organisations, helping students transition smoothly into the workforce after graduation.
While most undergraduate programmes are taught in Dutch, KdG offers an increasing selection of English-taught courses and exchange opportunities. It is an active participant in international mobility initiatives such as the Erasmus Programme, welcoming students from around the world and promoting a diverse academic community.
Articles related to studying in Belgium
Latest university rankings in Antwerp
Below is a list of the university rankings in Antwerp for 2026, according to QS world rankings and Times Higher Education. Only the University of Antwerp is included in this list as it is the only research university in the city.
There are other institutions, such as KdG University of Applied Sciences and Arts, that are located in Antwerp but are not included in the rankings by default because they are a university of applied science. We have a University vs. University of applied sciences article, which provides more information about the difference between the two types of institutions.
| University | QS World Ranking 2026 | Times Higher Education Ranking 2026 |
| University of Antwerp | 280 | =170 |
Other cities in Belgium
Tuition and living costs in Antwerp
For international students from outside the EU/EEA, tuition fees at Antwerp’s universities start at around 1,181 Euros (1,400 USD) annually, depending on your chosen degree and where you are from. If you are not from an EU/EEA country your tuition fees will be higher. PhD programs offer even more favourable rates, starting at around 590 Euros (670 USD) annually for EU/EEA students.
Living in Antwerp, KdG University of Applied Sciences suggests budgeting 1,200 to 1,400 Euros (around 1,400-1,600 USD) monthly for expenses. This estimate includes 500-700 Euros (600-850 USD) for shared housing, 250-300 Euros (300-350 USD) for food, 80 Euros (100 USD) for utilities, and 150 Euros (200 USD) for socialising.
International students at Antwerp universities can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. Many find part-time work or internships to help cover their costs. Belgian visa regulations allow graduates to remain for up to nine months post-graduation to seek employment.
Antwerp is large enough to offer real opportunities yet compact enough for individuals to be seen and heard, the city is the ideal environment for international students ready to shape their own future.
Life in Antwerp for international students
International students in Antwerp can immerse themselves in a vibrant city life, enriched with cultural heritage and modern entertainment. The city boasts iconic tourist attractions like the Cathedral of Our Lady and the historic Antwerp Central Station. Cultural aficionados will enjoy exploring the numerous museums, including the Plantin-Moretus Museum and the Museum aan de Stroom (MAS).
Though Antwerp might not be widely known internationally, it’s truly a hidden gem. The streets are lined with cozy coffee shops and lively bars, creating the perfect atmosphere for student life. – Christian, Economic Policy student
Antwerp’s nightlife offers a variety of options, from cosy cafes to lively bars in areas like the Grote Markt. For food enthusiasts, the city serves a plethora of dining experiences, ranging from traditional Belgian cuisine in quaint bistros to international dishes in contemporary restaurants, ensuring a fulfilling and diverse living experience for students.
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