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. For international students, the convenience of travel is enhanced by Antwerp’s well-connected port and its proximity to major European cities such as London and Paris. This makes transitioning from your home country to Antwerp a smooth experience. With its vibrant urban lifestyle, Antwerp presents a compelling destination for international students.
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. It has established a significant partnership with the Songdo Global University Campus in Incheon, South Korea, where it delivers specialised courses in areas such as molecular biotechnology and environmental technology.
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.
Below is a list of the top Antwerp universities in 2025, according to QS world rankings and Times Higher Education:
| University | QS World Ranking 2025 | Times Higher Education Ranking 2025 |
| University of Antwerp | =267 | =168 |
For international students from outside the EU/EEA, tuition fees at Antwerp’s top universities start at around 4,900 US Dollars, reaching up to 8,000 US Dollars annually, depending on your chosen degree. EU/EEA students can expect lower fees, generally between 800 and 1,000 US Dollars per year. Graduate programs offer even more favourable rates, starting at around 500 US Dollars annually for EU/EEA students.
Living in Antwerp, the Erasmus Foundation suggests budgeting 1,000 to 1,200 US Dollars monthly for expenses. This estimate includes 650 to 800 US Dollars for shared housing, 150 to 200 US Dollars for food, 100 to 120 US Dollars for utilities, and 50 to 60 US Dollars for public transportation.
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.
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).
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.
See all universities in Belgium.
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