Program Overview

Dutch Preparatory One-Year Programme

The Dutch Preparatory One-Year Programme is an intensive course designed for students who wish to study Dutch in Belgium. This full-time programme entitles students to a student visa if they plan to continue their studies in Dutch at a Belgian university or university college.

Programme Description

The programme includes classes in Dutch from the absolute beginner level up to level 5 (CEFR level B2-C1), as well as courses in Culture of the Low Countries, Academic Study Skills, and Dutch Phonetics and Pronunciation. Students have classes for 15 hours a week during the day, Monday to Friday, and are expected to dedicate sufficient time for self-study.

Programme Structure

• Classes in Dutch from beginner to advanced level (CEFR level B2-C1)
• Courses in Culture of the Low Countries, Academic Study Skills, and Dutch Phonetics and Pronunciation
• 15 hours of classes per week, Monday to Friday
• Sufficient time required for self-study

Taalmaat Buddy Project

Students can participate in Taalmaat, a buddy project that allows them to practice their Dutch outside of class.

Admission Criteria

To apply for the Dutch Preparatory Year, students must comply with the following conditions:

• Visa requirements: Depending on nationality, a visa may be required to follow the Dutch Preparatory Programme.
• Diploma requirements: Students must have successfully completed secondary school, and the degree must give access to higher studies in the country where the diploma was obtained.
• Language requirements: Students must have an intermediate knowledge of English (level B1 in the CEFR) and, if applicable, proof of studying another European language as a foreign language.

Visa Requirements

• A visa is required for non-EEA nationals.
• To obtain a student visa, candidates must be accepted for both the Preparatory One-Year Programme and the (under)graduate degree they intend to start in the following academic year.
• A second Letter of Acceptance from a Flemish university or college is required for visa approval.

Diploma Requirements

• A copy of a valid passport or identity card
• A copy of the secondary school certificate (translated into Dutch, English, French, or German)
• A copy of the secondary school transcript of records (translated into Dutch, English, French, or German)
• Copies of other diplomas, degrees, or certificates (if applicable)
• APS certificate (for Chinese students)

Language Requirements

• Intermediate knowledge of English (level B1 in the CEFR)
• Proof of studying another European language as a foreign language (if English is the mother tongue or the language of instruction at the secondary school)

Tuition Fees

• Total tuition fee for EEA nationals: 4,895 (2,000 to be paid in advance)
• Total tuition fee for non-EEA nationals: 6,625 (2,000 to be paid in advance)
• Accommodation is not included in the tuition fee.

Scholarships for Refugees

A limited number of scholarships is available for refugees. Deadlines for the academic year will be announced on May 1, 2026.

Application Procedure

Applications for the academic year are now open. Students who need a student visa and those who do not need a student visa have different application procedures.

Student Life

The programme offers opportunities for students to practice their Dutch outside of class and to participate in cultural and social activities. Students will become part of the University of Antwerp community and can access university facilities using their student card.