Erasmus Experience in Antwerp, Belgium by Mareen

Why did you choose to go to Antwerp, Belgium?

That honestly was my only option. I also liked the cultural benefits of Antwerp and that it was not too far from my home in Germany.

Source

How long is the scholarship? How much money do you receive to help you with living costs?

5 Monts.

What is the student lifestyle like in Antwerp?

It is very open, everyone is extremely kind and talkative. I felt at home very quickly.

Would you recommend the city and the University of Antwerp to other students?

Yes, the Thomas More University is very well organised with a high-quality education and helpful personnel. They also offer prayer rooms at the campus, which I think is very nice.

The city itself is an international student city and it is pleasant to meet so many new people from all over the world.

What is the food like?

International vegetarian and halal food was everywhere and quite good. But I mainly cooked at my kot.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Antwerp?

I spent a few months looking for accommodation but it was fine in the end.

Source

How much does it cost to live in Antwerp?

You should consider 350 to 450 Euros for the housing including internet, water, and heating but also around 100 to 150 euros for food every month. It is cheaper if you cook yourself than going out. The food at campus Sint-Andries costs around 5 Euros (4,80 Euros for a pasta box), which surprised me because I am used to paying less at my home university. Hence I cooked at home for less money.

Is the language easy to get to grips with? Are there language courses available at the University?

Yes, there are very pleasant language courses for Dutch to get acquainted with the local language. But everyone in Antwerp is able to speak English as well.

What's the easiest or most economical way to travel to Antwerp from your city?

By bus or train.

Where would you recommend to go on a night out in Antwerp?

I am not interested in that.

And for eating? Can you recommend some good restaurants in Antwerp?

Hawaiian Bowles.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Any museum or the opera.

Source

Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to Antwerp in the future?

If you are in Antwerp over the summer, you should definitely check out the Bejingenhof in the student quarters. It is a nice and quiet place to hang out with friends or read a book. If you are from warmer countries such as Portugal and stay over the winter semester, take a stable umbrella and really warm clothing (don't underestimate the wind and temperature drop).