Studying in Antwerp

Academic calender & public holidays

Staying up to date with your academic calendar helps you make the most of your time studying and living in Antwerp. Check your institution’s academic calendar to stay informed about public holidays, exam periods, graduation ceremonies and semester breaks.

Dates may vary between institutions, and on some days classes or campus services might be closed, so plan your studies and activities accordingly.

See below for an overview of public holidays and semester breaks in Belgium.

1st semester

1 November 2025 All Saints’ Day
11 November 2025 Armstice Day
20 December 2025 – 4 January 2026 Christmas Holidays
25 December 2025 Christmas Day
1 January 2026 New Year’s Day

2nd semester

4 – 19 April 2026 Easter break
5 April 2026 Easter Sunday
6 April 2026 Easter Monday
1 May 2026 Labour Day
14 May 2026 Ascension Day
24 May 2026 Whit Sunday
25 May 2026 Whit Monday

Study places

If you don’t feel like studying at home and you want to find an aesthetical or motivating space for your next studie sesh, here is a list of great study places:

The libraries of each AUHA institution
Permeke library
Cuperus
Study360

More information

Photo © Stad Antwerpen

Learn Dutch

Most people in Antwerp speak and understand English, but if you would like to live like a local and learn Dutch, Linguapolis is the place to be. They offer Dutch as a foreign language classes for different levels online or on campus.

Cost:
45 hours: €405 (UAntwerp students) – €535 (standard rate)
90 hours: €645 (UAntwerp students) – €725 (standard rate)
Frequency:
1x/week, 2x/week or 4x/week
Winter school/summer school: fulltime

If you want to follow a Dutch-taught programme in Antwerp, you should check out their Dutch Prepatory One-Year Programme

courses and enrolment

Photo © Stad Antwerpen

Photo © Stad Antwerpen

Physical health

When you’re in need of a doctor during your stay in Antwerp, you should check studentarts-net. It is a network of doctors for students. You can book an appointment by phone or on the doctor’s website. You’ll pay during the consultation, and your health insurance will refund part of the cost later if you provide proof of payment. Don’t forget to mention that you’re a student when booking an appointment!

participating practices

Mental health

Sometimes, the adventure of studying abroad can become a bit overwhelming. Don’t worry, it’s perfectly normal.
Ìf you’re experiencing stress or any other mental health issues, it’s important to look for the right solution. The website of psy-net contains all the information you need about how to look for psychological help in Antwerp.
Moodspace is a website filled with tips and tricks for students on how to overcome your fears and worries. Some important emergency hot lines are also listed here.

These are the specific webpages about mental health for each institution: