In short
The University of Antwerp is a major public research university in Belgium, recognized globally and within Flanders, offering a broad range of programmes and research opportunities in a vibrant European city.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 2003
- Students
- 20,000
- International students
- 3,500
- Acceptance rate
- 60%
- Tuition (intl)
- €17–18k/yr
- Languages
- EN, NL
- Location
- Belgium
The University of Antwerp (UAntwerp) is a major public research university in Antwerp, Belgium, established in 2003 through the merger of three historic institutions. It is the third-largest university in Flanders, enrolling around 20,000 students across a broad range of faculties including arts, science, law, medicine, and applied economics. UAntwerp is internationally recognized for research in development policy, vaccines, and social sciences, and holds strong rankings within QS World University Rankings at approximately 280th globally.
Why study here
- World-class research university in one of Europe's most dynamic cities — Antwerp's heritage as a global diamond hub, fashion capital, and major port provides unmatched cultural richness.
- Home to internationally recognized research institutes such as the Institute of Development Policy and the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Institute.
- Strong European research funding and participation in EU-backed projects gives students access to cutting-edge facilities and networks.
- EEA students pay Belgian tuition rates, making it among the most affordable quality research universities in Europe.
- Member of UNICA (Network of Universities from the Capitals of Europe) and partner with over 600 universities worldwide through Erasmus+ exchanges.
Student life
The University of Antwerp encourages a rich student life, offering various facilities and opportunities for leisure, culture, and sports. Students can access resources for housing, catering, computers and ICT, and health insurance. The city of Antwerp itself provides a vibrant backdrop for student activities, with numerous cultural events, museums, and social venues. The university also supports artistic research and fosters collaboration with Antwerp's Schools of Arts, enriching the overall student experience.
Fees
InternationalTuition fees for international students from outside the European Economic Area are higher than for EEA students and vary by programme.
HomeStudents with a nationality of a member state of the European Economic Area, recognized refugees, or those with a permanent residence permit pay the same tuition fees as Belgian students.
LivingEstimated living costs for an individual student in Antwerp are approximately €1,461 per month, totaling around €17,483 per year. This includes rent (avg. €545/month), groceries (€258/month), and transport (€139/month).
PhD students generally pay tuition fees only for the first enrolment and for the thesis defense. Budget for initial costs like a rent deposit.
Admissions
Bachelor AdmissionSecondary school leaving certificate equivalent to Belgian secondary education; programme-specific requirements apply.
Master AdmissionRelevant bachelor's degree or equivalent; programme-specific academic requirements apply.
PhD AdmissionA Master's degree or equivalent is generally required, along with a research topic, one or more supervisors, and research funding.
IELTS6.5 overall (for English-taught programmes)
TOEFL iBT90+
Cambridge C1 AdvancedPass
Rankings
QS World University Rankings 2025280
National Ranking (Flanders)3rd largest in Flanders
University scholarships
High Potential Incentive ScholarshipVaries — merit-based for select international students
FWO Research ScholarshipsVaries — for PhD researchers
BOF Operational Expenses Grant€3,000 (one-off for ARIA PhD students)
Educational Credit for PhD Students€1,500 for research activities
Accreditation
The University of Antwerp is part of the Flemish Community's officially recognized higher education system. It is accredited by the Flemish Accreditation Organisation (VLUHR QA).
Programs
a selectionUniversity of Antwerp · Belgium
Master Computer Science: Software Engineering
The Master Computer Science: Software Engineering program at the University of Antwerp offers a challenging, creative, and dynamic learning environment with a multi-disciplinary approach. You will gain hands-on experience and contribute to international projects. This program aims to equip you with deep knowledge and flexibility in computer science, making graduates highly sought after in both industry and academia. You will be prepared to adopt new technological developments, apply them in professional contexts, and potentially contribute to the advancement of the field.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
University of Antwerp · Belgium
Master of Epidemiology
The Master of Epidemiology is a one-year programme designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand and address public health challenges. The programme focuses on the principles and methods of epidemiology, including study design, data analysis, and interpretation of results. Graduates will be prepared for careers in public health research, policy, and practice, contributing to the improvement of health outcomes at local and global levels.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
12 mo
Duration
University of Antwerp · Belgium
Master of Science in Electronics and ICT Engineering Technology
This one-year Master of Science program focuses on Electronics and ICT Engineering Technology, offering you the opportunity to specialize in areas like Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), or Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS). Located in the historic city of Antwerp, you'll gain advanced knowledge and practical skills to design and research new technologies by integrating informatics, communication, and electronics with modern machine learning methodologies. The program combines theoretical learning with practical application, preparing you to tackle real-world challenges in a city known for innovation.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
12 mo
Duration
Scholarships
for Belgium
partial fundingKU Leuven
KU Leuven ASEAN Scholarship
For students from ASEAN member countries applying for an eligible master's programme at KU Leuven, with an excellent academic record. The scholarship is merit-based; you apply for it in connection with your master's admission to KU Leuven, by the relevant deadline.
partial
Funding
€30k
Max
Feb 1, 2027
Deadline
full fundingVLIR-UOS (Flemish Interuniversity Council – University Development Cooperation)
VLIR-UOS ICP Connect Scholarships
For students from a defined list of developing countries applying to one of the eligible International Course Programmes (ICP) master's at Flemish (Belgian) universities and university colleges. Applicants usually need relevant academic and/or professional background and apply directly to the chosen ICP programme.
full
Funding
€18k
Max
Feb 1, 2027
Deadline
partial fundingGhent University (funded by the Government of Flanders)
Ghent University Master Mind Scholarship
Open to incoming international master's students of all nationalities at Ghent University who hold a minimum CGPA of 3.5 out of 4.0 and can provide evidence of English language proficiency. A bank statement is not required for the visa application. The scholarship is funded by the Government of Flanders and is awarded to top international applicants enrolling in an English-taught master's programme.
partial
Funding
€10k
Max
Feb 28, 2027
Deadline
partial fundingKU Leuven — Faculty of Science
Science@Leuven Scholarship
For international students with a strong academic record who are admitted to a master's programme in the Faculty of Science at KU Leuven. The scholarship is awarded at several levels (full and partial) and is renewable for the second year only if the holder passes all credits and maintains the required academic results.
partial
Funding
€10k
Max
Feb 15, 2027
Deadline
full fundingFlemish Ministry of Education and Training
Master Mind Scholarships (Flanders, Belgium)
Open to international students of all nationalities applying to a Master's programme at a participating Flemish university or university college in Belgium. Applicants must hold a strong academic record, meet the English language requirement through IELTS, TOEFL, or a university exemption letter, and apply to the host institution before its internal deadline. The host university preselects candidates and submits the complete application through the Mobility-Online portal; late submissions are not accepted.
full
Funding
€10k
Max
Apr 27, 2027
Deadline
full fundingGovernment of Flanders (Flemish Ministry of Education and Training)
Government of Flanders Master Mind Scholarships
Open to international students of all nationalities except Russian nationals, who must apply through a participating Flemish host institution rather than directly. Candidates need strong academic performance (typically a GPA around 3.5 out of 4.0) and English proficiency of at least IELTS 7.0 or TOEFL 94 (lower for Schools of Arts). Previous degrees must be obtained outside Flanders, and each applicant can be nominated by only one Flemish institution.
full
Funding
€10k
Max
Apr 28, 2027
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What is the University of Antwerp's global ranking?
+
The University of Antwerp is ranked approximately 280th globally according to the QS World University Rankings 2025. It is also recognized as the 3rd largest university in Flanders.
What are the tuition fees for international students?
+
Tuition fees for international students from outside the European Economic Area are higher than for EEA students and vary by programme. Students from the EEA, recognized refugees, or those with permanent residence permits pay the same tuition fees as Belgian students.
What are the estimated living costs for students in Antwerp?
+
Estimated living costs for an individual student in Antwerp are approximately €1,461 per month, totaling around €17,483 per year. This includes rent, groceries, and transport.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
+
For English-taught programmes, students typically need an IELTS score of 6.5 overall, a TOEFL iBT score of 90+, or a Cambridge C1 Advanced certificate with a pass.
What are the admission requirements for master's programmes?
+
Admission to master's programmes requires a relevant bachelor's degree or equivalent. Programme-specific academic requirements also apply.
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