Live, Learn, and Create in Mechelen – A Student City in the Heart of Europe
Thinking of studying International Communication & Media in English? Mechelen, a compact and creative Belgian city between Brussels and Antwerp, offers international students an affordable, safe, and culturally rich place to begin their global careers.
Why Mechelen is perfect for international students
Mechelen is the ideal base for students who want the benefits of European study without the chaos of a megacity. You’ll find:
Short commutes to Brussels (≈25 minutes) and Antwerp (≈20 minutes) by train — perfect for internships and cultural trips.
A welcoming, English-friendly academic community for English-taught bachelor programs like International Communication & Media (ICM).
Lower living costs compared with bigger Belgian cities — great for budget-conscious students and scholarship winners.
Quick fact: Mechelen's central location and efficient trains make weekend travel across Europe easy — ideal for international students eager to explore.
Student housing & cost of living
Finding the right place to live is one of the first steps. Mechelen has options to suit most budgets, from shared student flats to private studios.
Shared flats: A popular and social choice that lowers rent and helps you make friends fast.
Student residences: Managed halls provide security and student-focused services.
Budgeting: Expect lower rents than central Brussels; factor in public transport, food, study materials, and health insurance.
Tip: Start your search early and use university housing platforms, local Facebook groups, and official student services.
Academic life: practical, creative, and international
The ICM bachelor combines media theory with hands-on practice — think workshops, multimedia projects, internships, and group work with international peers. Courses are taught in English and emphasise:
Digital storytelling and multimedia production
Intercultural communication and media ethics
Internships with local media, NGOs, and creative agencies
Small class sizes and project-based learning mean you’ll build a portfolio and professional network before you graduate.
Internships, jobs, and networking
Belgium's location and international economy create strong internship opportunities in Brussels, Antwerp and beyond. Students in Mechelen often secure placements in:
Public relations and creative agencies
Broadcasting and digital media startups
International NGOs and EU institutions in Brussels
Career services, campus job fairs, and alumni networks are essential resources for international students looking to gain professional experience.
Social life & community: make friends from all over the world
Mechelen’s lively cafés, student associations, and cultural events make it easy to meet people. Expect:
Student clubs for media, sports, music and more
English-language meetups and cultural exchanges
Festivals, exhibitions, and weekend markets that bring the city to life
International students often form tight-knit communities through project groups, language exchanges, and shared housing.
Scholarships, tuition, and affordability
Many students search for ways to fund their European studies. Look for:
University scholarships and merit-based awards for international applicants
Country-specific grants and external foundations supporting study in Belgium
Work-study and part-time job options to help cover living costs
Check the admissions and international office pages for program-specific scholarships for the International Communication & Media bachelor.
Explore Europe from Mechelen
Mechelen is your gateway to Europe. Fast trains and budget airlines put top European cities within easy reach — perfect for low-cost weekend trips during the semester.
Day trips to Brussels and Antwerp for museums, internships, and nightlife
Weekend city breaks to Amsterdam, Paris, and Cologne
Affordable rail and bus connections for student travel
Practical tips for incoming international students
Visa & residency: Start your visa application early and check the Belgian immigration site for up-to-date rules.
Healthcare: Arrange health insurance that covers you while studying in Belgium.
Banking: Open a local bank account to manage rent and daily expenses easily.
Language: While many study services are in English, learning basic Dutch can help day-to-day life and job prospects.
Ready to start your European study adventure?
If you’re 17–21, creative, and eager to study media in English, the International Communication & Media bachelor in Mechelen could be the perfect next step. Apply, request info, or schedule a virtual campus visit.
Social life & community: make friends from all over the world
Mechelen’s lively cafés, student associations, and cultural events make it easy to meet people. Expect:
International students often form tight-knit communities through project groups, language exchanges, and shared housing.