Antwerp is one of Belgium's biggest student cities. It has a mix of universities, colleges and art schools, plus a busy city centre and a strong international feel. If you want to study there, it helps to know which schools are there, what English-taught options exist, and what daily life may cost.
Where to study in Antwerp
Antwerp has several higher education institutions. The best known are the University of Antwerp and AP University of Applied Sciences and Arts. You will also find arts-focused schools such as the Royal Academy of Fine Arts and the Royal Conservatoire, which are known for creative and performance study.
- University of Antwerp - strong in research and a wide range of academic subjects.
- AP University of Applied Sciences and Arts - practice-based study and many professional programmes.
- Arts schools - good for fine arts, design, music and theatre paths.
Each school has its own rules, entry needs and language options. Always check the official admissions page of the programme you want.
English-taught study
In Antwerp, many master's programmes are taught in English, and some bachelor paths or short programmes may also have English options. The exact offer changes by faculty and year, so do not assume a whole university teaches in English.
- Look for the programme page, not just the university home page.
- Check the language section carefully.
- If a course is partly in English and partly in Dutch, make sure you can handle both.
For bachelor study, Dutch is still very important in Belgium. For master study, English is more common, but requirements still vary.
Costs of living in Antwerp
Antwerp is usually not the cheapest place in Belgium, but it is often a bit more affordable than Brussels for some students. Your biggest cost is usually housing. Food, phone plans, books and social life also add up fast.
- Rent - student rooms are typically cheaper than private flats.
- Utilities - sometimes included, sometimes paid extra.
- Food and daily life - expect higher costs if you eat out often.
- Transport - manageable if you use student discounts and public transport.
Prices change every year, so check current student housing listings and the city or university cost guides before you decide.
Student housing in Antwerp
Most international students look for a student room, often called a kot in Belgium. You may rent from a private landlord, a student housing provider, or the university itself if it offers rooms.
- Start early, especially for September intake.
- Check what is included in the rent.
- Read the contract before you pay anything.
- Ask about deposit, notice period and registration rules.
Rooms near campus can go quickly. If you are still abroad, ask the housing office of the school you choose about trusted options and how to avoid scams.
Getting around and working part-time
Antwerp has a useful public transport network with buses, trams and trains. Many students also cycle, because the city is compact in many areas. If you live near campus, you may not need daily long trips.
- Check student travel discounts with the transport operator and your school.
- For longer trips in Belgium, trains are often practical.
- Always check the latest student fare rules on the official transport website.
International students may be able to work part-time, but the rules depend on your residence status and nationality. Check the Belgian immigration authority and your university's international office before you accept any job. Do not rely on old advice, because work limits and permit rules can change.
How to get noticed by admissions offices
Admissions teams often search for students who fit a programme well. You can make yourself easier to find by giving clear and complete information in your Eduuro profile and on any official application platform.
- Write your field of study clearly.
- List your current or latest education.
- Add your English level honestly.
- Upload key documents if the platform asks for them.
- Keep your contact details up to date.
Also follow each university's admissions page closely. Some programmes want extra tests, a portfolio, language proof or a motivation letter. Check the official programme page for the exact process and deadlines.
Common questions
Is Antwerp a good city for international students?
Yes, if you want a lively city with several study options, good transport and a strong student scene. It is also easy to compare different schools in one place.
Do I need Dutch to study in Antwerp?
Not always. Many master's programmes have English-taught options, but Dutch is still important for many bachelor programmes and for daily life. Check the programme language before you apply.
How do I know the real cost of studying there?
Use the university's cost page, the housing office information, and current student rental listings. For visa, work or residence questions, use the Belgian immigration authority and the school's international office.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level and documents, so schools can understand your background fast. Admissions offices that search for exactly that can find you and write first.
Rules, fees and deadlines change. Check the university's own admissions page and the official immigration site of the country before you act on anything here.