Studying abroad is about much more than attending classes and earning a degree. It is also an opportunity to meet people from different countries, discover new industries and start building an international network that can support your future career.
Belgium is particularly well suited to internationally minded students. The country is located at the centre of Europe, is home to several respected universities and colleges, and has strong connections to European institutions, international businesses, research organisations and start-up communities.
Flanders and Brussels offer an especially interesting combination of academic opportunities, international events and vibrant student communities. Throughout the academic year, you can attend career fairs, conferences, workshops, networking drinks, start-up competitions, cultural events and gatherings organised by international student associations.
Choosing the right city can therefore have a major impact on both your student experience and your professional development.
In this guide, we explore five of the best student cities in Flanders and Brussels for international networking and events: Antwerp, Brussels, Ghent, Kortrijk and Leuven. We also explain why choosing the right student accommodation can make it easier to participate in everything your city has to offer.
Why study in Flanders or Brussels?
Belgium may be relatively small, but its location makes it one of the most internationally connected countries in Europe.
From most major Belgian student cities, you can travel quickly to other parts of the country by train. International destinations such as Paris, Amsterdam, Luxembourg and Cologne are also within relatively easy reach.
For students, this creates several advantages.
You can study in a manageable and welcoming city while still having access to multinational companies, European organisations, international conferences and professional communities. You can also attend events in neighbouring cities without having to relocate.
The multilingual environment is another important advantage. Dutch is the main language in Flanders, while French and Dutch are both widely used in Brussels. English is common within universities, international organisations and many professional environments.
This means international students can gradually discover the local culture while still being able to communicate, participate in events and build professional connections.
1. Antwerp: international business, fashion and creativity
Antwerp is one of Belgium’s largest and most dynamic cities. It combines a strong international business environment with a thriving creative scene and a large student population.
The city is home to one of Europe’s most important ports, making it especially relevant for students interested in logistics, international trade, supply chain management, engineering and maritime industries.
Antwerp is also known internationally for fashion, design, art and diamonds. Students pursuing careers in fashion management, communication, marketing, architecture, design or the creative industries will find a diverse professional ecosystem.
Throughout the year, Antwerp hosts business conferences, recruitment events, creative workshops, cultural festivals and entrepreneurial meetups. Universities, colleges, start-up organisations and co-working spaces regularly bring students and professionals together.
What kind of networking opportunities can you find in Antwerp?
Networking opportunities in Antwerp can range from formal business conferences to smaller, more informal gatherings.
Depending on your interests, you may encounter:
- Port and logistics conferences
- International trade events
- Fashion and design gatherings
- Career fairs and recruitment events
- Marketing and communication meetups
- Technology and start-up events
- Student association activities
- Cultural and international community events
Because the city attracts people from many different industries, it is a good place to build a broad professional network.
The atmosphere in Antwerp
Antwerp feels cosmopolitan, creative and entrepreneurial. It is large enough to offer a wide range of events, but compact enough to explore by bike, tram or public transport.
The city also has many cafés, restaurants, museums and cultural venues where professional and social connections can develop naturally.
Networking tip for students in Antwerp
Do not limit yourself to events organised directly by your university. Follow local co-working spaces, professional associations, cultural institutions and start-up communities as well.
Smaller events can sometimes be more valuable than large conferences because they give you more time to speak directly with other attendees.
Finding student accommodation in Antwerp
A well-located student room can make it easier to combine your classes with networking events, student activities and internships.
Living close to your campus or public transport can save you considerable time during a busy academic week.
You can explore the available student rooms in Antwerp through Diggit Studentlife.
2. Brussels: the international heart of Europe
Brussels is not located in Flanders, but no overview of international networking opportunities in Belgium would be complete without it.
As the capital of Belgium and one of Europe’s most important political and institutional centres, Brussels attracts students, policymakers, diplomats, researchers, journalists, consultants and professionals from around the world.
The city is home to major European institutions, international organisations, multinational companies, NGOs, trade associations and media organisations.
For students interested in European affairs, international relations, politics, law, communications, public policy or business, Brussels offers a particularly valuable environment.
A city built around international connections
Brussels has an exceptionally diverse population. You can hear many different languages in its streets, universities, offices and cafés.
This international character makes it relatively easy for students to find communities that match their academic, cultural or professional interests.
Events are organised throughout the year by universities, embassies, European organisations, business networks, cultural institutions and international associations.
What kind of events can students attend in Brussels?
Brussels offers a wide variety of professional and social events, including:
- European policy discussions
- International conferences
- Embassy and cultural events
- Business seminars
- NGO and sustainability gatherings
- Journalism and communication events
- Career fairs
- Political debates
- International student meetups
- Language exchange evenings
- Start-up pitch events
Many events in Brussels take place in English, although learning some Dutch or French can help you participate more fully in daily life.
The atmosphere in Brussels
Brussels is international, diverse and constantly changing. Each neighbourhood has its own character, from the European Quarter and lively city centre to quieter residential and student areas.
The city can feel busier and more complex than smaller Belgian student cities, but this also means that there are networking opportunities almost every day.
Networking tip for students in Brussels
Create a professional online profile early in your studies and follow organisations related to your field.
Many events in Brussels require registration in advance, even when attendance is free. Regularly checking university calendars, professional platforms and organisation newsletters can help you avoid missing useful opportunities.
Finding student accommodation in Brussels
Brussels is a large city, so location is especially important. Consider the distance to your campus, nearby public transport and how easily you can reach the areas where events usually take place.
A reliable student residence can provide the stability you need while adapting to life in an international capital.
Discover the available student rooms in Brussels through Diggit Studentlife.
3. Ghent: technology, research and creative innovation
Ghent is one of Belgium’s most popular student cities. It combines historic architecture and a lively cultural scene with a strong university community and an expanding innovation ecosystem.
The city has a large and diverse student population, which helps create an open and energetic atmosphere. Students are visible throughout Ghent, from its university buildings and libraries to its cafés, cultural centres and public spaces.
Ghent is particularly interesting for students in technology, biotechnology, sustainability, life sciences, engineering and the creative industries.
A strong connection between education and innovation
Ghent’s universities, research centres and businesses regularly collaborate on innovative projects.
This creates opportunities for students to attend lectures, academic conferences, workshops, hackathons and networking sessions related to emerging technologies and societal challenges.
The city also has an active start-up and scale-up community. Students with entrepreneurial ambitions can learn from founders, attend pitch evenings and discover internship or employment opportunities.
What kind of networking events can you find in Ghent?
Examples include:
- Technology meetups
- Biotechnology seminars
- Sustainability workshops
- Research conferences
- Creative industry events
- Student entrepreneurship activities
- Hackathons
- Career fairs
- Cultural festivals
- International student gatherings
Many events in Ghent are relatively informal. This can make them less intimidating for students who are attending a networking event for the first time.
The atmosphere in Ghent
Ghent is creative, progressive and community-oriented. It offers many of the advantages of a larger city while retaining a relaxed and approachable character.
Cycling is an important part of daily life, and many campuses, student residences and event locations are relatively easy to reach.
Networking tip for students in Ghent
Explore events outside your immediate study programme.
A student in business may find valuable contacts at a technology event, while an engineering student may benefit from attending a sustainability or entrepreneurship workshop.
Interdisciplinary events are often where the most unexpected connections are made.
Finding student accommodation in Ghent
Ghent’s popularity means that demand for student accommodation can be high, particularly before the start of the academic year.
Securing a comfortable room in a practical location can make it easier to participate in student life without spending too much time travelling.
You can view the available student rooms in Ghent at Diggit Studentlife.
4. Leuven: academic excellence and international research
Leuven is one of Europe’s best-known university cities. Student life is deeply embedded in the city’s identity, and the academic calendar influences everything from cultural activities to nightlife and public events.
The city is home to KU Leuven and attracts students, researchers and academics from many different countries.
Leuven is particularly relevant for students interested in science, engineering, healthcare, technology, research and entrepreneurship.
Networking within an academic environment
Many networking opportunities in Leuven are directly connected to the university.
Faculties, research centres, student societies and international organisations regularly host academic lectures, conferences, panel discussions and career events.
Students can meet researchers, professors, entrepreneurs, alumni and representatives from companies that collaborate with the university.
Leuven also has a strong technology and innovation ecosystem. Research and entrepreneurship are closely connected, offering opportunities for students who want to turn academic knowledge into practical applications.
What kind of networking opportunities can you find in Leuven?
Students can participate in:
- Academic conferences
- Research symposiums
- Career fairs
- Alumni events
- Technology demonstrations
- Entrepreneurship workshops
- Student society activities
- International student events
- Guest lectures
- Company presentations
Because Leuven has such a concentrated student and academic population, networking often becomes part of everyday life.
A conversation during a student event, group project or university workshop may lead to a research opportunity, internship or future collaboration.
The atmosphere in Leuven
Leuven is historic, international and energetic. The city centre is compact, with many university buildings, student cafés and cultural venues located within walking or cycling distance.
The large student population creates a lively atmosphere, especially during the academic year.
Networking tip for students in Leuven
Join at least one student organisation connected to your interests.
International student associations can help you meet people quickly, while academic and professional societies can introduce you to students and experts in your field.
Try to attend events consistently rather than only visiting the largest annual conferences. Strong networks are usually built through repeated contact over time.
Finding a student room in Leuven
Student accommodation in Leuven is highly sought after. Starting your search early can give you more choice in terms of location and room type.
A room near your campus can make it easier to attend early lectures, evening events and student activities while maintaining a comfortable daily routine.
Explore the available student rooms in Leuven through Diggit Studentlife.
5. Kortrijk: accessible entrepreneurship and a close student community
Kortrijk offers a different student experience from larger cities such as Antwerp, Brussels and Ghent.
The city has a more compact scale, which can make it easier for international students to find their way around and become part of the local community.
Kortrijk has strong connections to entrepreneurship, design, manufacturing, technology and applied education. The wider region is known for its business activity and innovative small and medium-sized companies.
For students who prefer smaller events and more direct contact with professionals, Kortrijk can be an excellent place to study.
Networking in a smaller city
Networking does not always require large international conferences.
In Kortrijk, students may have opportunities to connect with local entrepreneurs, business owners, designers, researchers and professionals through workshops, campus events and regional business initiatives.
Smaller gatherings can make it easier to have meaningful conversations. Instead of briefly introducing yourself to dozens of people, you may have more time to learn about someone’s work and discuss potential collaborations.
What kind of events can students attend in Kortrijk?
Depending on your study programme and interests, you may find:
- Entrepreneurship workshops
- Design events
- Technology demonstrations
- Local business gatherings
- Career fairs
- Campus activities
- Innovation seminars
- Student association events
- Creative workshops
- Regional networking evenings
Kortrijk is also well connected by train, making it possible to attend events in Ghent, Brussels and other Belgian cities.
The atmosphere in Kortrijk
Kortrijk feels approachable, creative and business-oriented.
Its smaller scale can be reassuring for students arriving in Belgium for the first time. At the same time, the city offers enough cultural, academic and professional activity to create a varied student experience.
Networking tip for students in Kortrijk
Make use of the city’s close connections between education and local businesses.
Attend company visits, workshops and smaller campus events. These can provide more direct access to employers and entrepreneurs than larger, less personal conferences.
Finding student accommodation in Kortrijk
Living near your campus or the train station can make it easier to combine your studies with activities in Kortrijk and events elsewhere in Belgium.
You can find available student rooms in Kortrijk through Diggit Studentlife.
How to start networking as an international student
Attending your first networking event can feel uncomfortable, especially in a new country. However, you do not need to be an experienced networker to make valuable connections.
The goal is not to speak to as many people as possible. A few genuine conversations are usually more valuable than collecting dozens of names or business cards.
Choose events that match your interests
Start by identifying the subjects, industries or career paths that interest you.
You can then follow relevant universities, companies, student organisations, professional communities and event organisers.
Choosing events that genuinely interest you also makes conversations easier. You will already have a shared topic with the other attendees.
Prepare a short introduction
Think about how you would introduce yourself in two or three sentences.
You can mention:
- Your name
- Where you are from
- What you are studying
- Why you are attending the event
- What subjects or industries interest you
Your introduction does not need to sound like a sales pitch. It simply gives the other person enough information to continue the conversation.
Ask specific questions
Instead of asking someone what they do and immediately moving on, try to ask a more specific follow-up question.
You could ask what they are currently working on, how they entered their industry or what they think students should know about their field.
People often remember thoughtful conversations more easily than polished introductions.
Follow up after the event
When you meet someone relevant to your studies or career, connect with them afterwards.
Add a short personal message reminding them where you met and what you discussed. This makes the connection more meaningful than sending a generic request.
Attend events regularly
Networking becomes easier with practice.
When you repeatedly attend events within the same community, you will begin to recognise people and become a familiar face. This is often how professional relationships develop naturally.
Why your student accommodation affects your experience
Your accommodation is more than a place where you sleep. It is your base for studying, relaxing and preparing for everything happening outside your residence.
A busy student schedule can include lectures, group projects, exams, student activities, part-time work and professional events. A stressful or unreliable living situation can make it harder to manage all of these responsibilities.
Comfortable student accommodation gives you the space to recharge and focus.
A reliable place to study and rest
After a full day of lectures or networking events, you need somewhere comfortable to return to.
A well-maintained room and reliable facilities can help you establish a daily routine. This is especially important for international students who are still adapting to a new city, language and education system.
A useful location
Location can influence how much of the city you are able to experience.
Living close to your campus, public transport or the city centre can make it easier to attend evening lectures, student association meetings and networking events.
You are also more likely to participate when travelling does not require extensive planning.
Opportunities to meet other students
Not every valuable connection begins at an official event.
You may meet some of your closest friends, future colleagues or project partners in your student residence.
Shared areas and common facilities can create informal opportunities to speak with students from different study programmes and countries.
Professional housing support
Clear communication and accessible support are especially valuable when you are living abroad.
Understanding local rental procedures and arranging practical matters can be challenging in an unfamiliar country. Professionally managed student accommodation can reduce uncertainty and help you focus on your studies.
Student accommodation with Diggit Studentlife
Diggit Studentlife offers student accommodation in five major Belgian student cities: Antwerp, Brussels, Ghent, Kortrijk and Leuven.
Students can explore available rooms based on the city where they plan to study:
- Student rooms in Antwerp
- Student rooms in Brussels
- Student rooms in Ghent
- Student rooms in Kortrijk
- Student rooms in Leuven
By choosing a suitable room in the right location, you create a comfortable base from which to explore your university, your student city and the wider professional opportunities available in Belgium.
Which Belgian student city is right for you?
Each city offers a different experience.
Antwerp may be the right choice when you are interested in international business, logistics, fashion or creative industries.
Brussels provides direct access to European institutions, multinational organisations and an exceptionally international professional community.
Ghent combines a large student population with technology, research, sustainability and creative innovation.
Leuven offers an academic environment where research, entrepreneurship and international student life are closely connected.
Kortrijk provides a more compact student experience with strong links to entrepreneurship, design and regional businesses.
The best choice depends on your study programme, preferred lifestyle and professional ambitions.
Whichever city you choose, becoming active outside the classroom can significantly enrich your time in Belgium.
Attend events, join student organisations, explore new communities and speak with people whose work interests you. Every conversation has the potential to teach you something new.
Build your network from a strong home base
Studying in Belgium gives you access to a diverse academic and professional environment in the centre of Europe.
By combining your studies with conferences, career fairs, workshops and student activities, you can develop skills and connections that remain valuable long after graduation.
A comfortable and reliable student room gives you the foundation you need to make the most of these opportunities.
Explore the available student accommodation from Diggit Studentlife in Antwerp, Brussels, Ghent, Kortrijk and Leuven, and start preparing for your student experience in Belgium.