The last week before the official start of the academic year, we organise a Welcome Week for international degree students. This year, it takes place from Monday, 15 September to Friday, 19 September 2025. 

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. 

Right before the start of each semester, all exchange students are welcomed during the Orientation Day. Make sure you don’t miss it!

Dates​:

• First semester AY 25/26 (autumn): Thursday 18 September 2025
• Second semester AY 25/26 (spring): Thursday 5 February 2026

During the Orientation Day, we will familiarise you with the university and with living and studying in Antwerp.

You will also receive your student card (and a welcome gift :-) )

The University of Antwerp organises a Welcome Week for international students at the start of each academic year, one week before lessons start. 

The 2025 edition will take place from Monday 15 till Friday 19 September 2025 (the week before the official start of the academic year). A variety of orientation activities will be organised to facilitate your academic, administrative and social integration. Attending the Welcome Week is highly recommended. For more information about the Welcome Week, please check the webpages about the Welcome Week.

During one specific day of the Welcome Week, the Faculty of Science organizes a Faculty Day on Wednesday 17 September 2025. On this day you will have the opportunity to meet some people from the faculty and other international students who are currently enrolled in our courses.​ We will also explore the campus together. Provisional programme: 

• 09:30 am: coffee & tea
• 09:50 am: welcome
• 10:00 am: introduction to the faculty and student administration
• 10:40 am: introduction of master programmes 
• 12:00 pm: lunch
• 01:00 pm: guided tour of Campus Drie Eiken
• 02:00 pm: social activity on Campus Drie Eiken 
• 04:00 pm: end of Faculty Day

The Faculty Day takes place on Campus Drie Eiken (Building O). Have a look at the campus plan to find your way, or take a virtual tour of our campus in advance! 

You need to register separately for the Welcome Week and for the Faculty Day. Being registered for the Welcome Week does not automatically mean you are registered for the Faculty Day!

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.

If you have questions about the start of the academic year, please contact study.science@uantwerpen.be