Have you completed the application process and been accepted to start as a full-time Master's student at the Faculty of Business and Economics? Congratulations, an exciting time in Antwerp awaits. On 21 September 2026, we'll kick-off the academic year of 2026-2027.

Below is an overview of everything you can expect in your first weeks, but make sure to also check our 'Life in Antwerp' pages, where you'll find everything you need to know as a future international student. 

The programme

1. ​Welcome week (14 - 18 September 2026)
   
2. ​Faculty Day (17 September 2026)
3. ​Start of the academic year (21 September 2026)
4. ​International Student Mixer(1 October 2026)

Before you actually come to Antwerp, there are still a number of practicalities you will need to take care of, from find accommodation to health care, visa and residence permits.

It can be a lot, and that's why the faculty and the International Student Office are here to help. You can sign up to one of our pre-arrival webinars to find out more about these steps on:

• ​Wednesday, 24 June 2026​
• ​Friday, 17 July 2026​​

The last week before the official start of the academic year, we organise a Welcome Week for international students. This year, it takes place from Monday, 14 September to Friday, 18 September 2026. 

During this week, you will get to know Antwerp, the university and your fellow-students through several formal and informal events. Attendance is highly recommended. Please note that this event is for full-time master's students, for exchange students we organise a separate orientation day. 

On Thursday during the Welcome Week we organize the Faculty Day (17 September 2026): a casual onboarding event specifically for international students of the Master's programs at the Faculty of Business and Economics. 

We start the afternoon with an information session about our faculty, our approach and tips to get through the next year(s) of your studies. Afterwards, we discover the Antwerp city center through our interactive city game. We end the day with a dinner at a local restaurant with your fellow classmates.

Please note that this event is for full-time master's students, for exchange students we organise a separate orientation day. Registrations will open soon.

Schedule

• 1:00 – 2:00 PM:  information session FBE
• 2:00 – 5:30 PM: interactive city game
• 6 - .. PM: dinner

On Monday 21 September, the academic year officially kicks off. The programme directors invite you for a presentation about the upcoming year. You will receive important information about your study programme, upcoming information sessions, etc. We conclude with a drink at Agora Caffee and a campus tour where we cover all important spots.

This session is mandatory; we expect all enrolled international students on Monday 21 September at 9 am. 

We know that living and studying in a whole new country can be daunting. To make sure you can integrate easily and make friends from all over the world, we invite all degree and exchange students to take part in our International Student Mixer on 1 October 2026. On this day, we are happy to invite you for some introductions and networking, after which you can share some typical Belgian food and drinks. Our Belgian buddy's will also be present, to help you further integrate with local students. 

Programme

• 6:15 PM: welcome and registration
• 6:u45 PM: speech by Dean prof. Ann De Schepper, introduction of the student associations and group picture
• 7:00 PM: opening of the reception with Belgian drinks and bites
• 8:30 PM: closing time

Integrating into a new city and student population can be challenging. What does a typical day at the UAntwerp look like? Where can you find the best coffee (very important)? How do people in Antwerp usually spend their weekends? To help you familiarize with our education system, our culture and student life, the faculty can find you an enthusiastic buddy who can help you find your way.

Upon arrival, our buddies welcome you during your first days and introduce you to the Belgian way of life. You keep in touch throughout the semester or academic year at your own pace. You will receive more info at the start of the academic year.