Can I study in Belgium without speaking Dutch?

Thinking about learning Dutch while studying at KdG? Whether you want to connect with locals, improve your CV, or just order fries like a pro, here’s everything you need to know!

Do I need Dutch for my studies?

No, you can follow our English-taught programmes without speaking Dutch. Many of our students do so and enjoy their student life in Antwerp.

One exception: the Bachelor of Nursing. Learning Dutch is part of the programme, because you’ll work with patients during your training. For all other programmes, Dutch is optional.

Why it’s worth learning Dutch anyway

  • Experience Antwerp like a local. A little Dutch helps you connect, enjoy local events, and get your Belgian classmates’ jokes.
  • Connect with the local community. Most locals speak English, but they love it when you try Dutch – even just a few words! Hoi, dankjewel and saluutjes will get you an instant smile.
  • More opportunities. A student job? Understanding daily life? Dutch makes things easier.
  • Career boost. Staying in Belgium after graduation? Dutch on your CV is a plus.

Good to know

  • You can start learning Dutch at any time during your studies.
  • There are many flexible and budget-friendly options to learn Dutch in Antwerp.
  • Dutch is one of the easiest languages for English speakers to learn and is spoken by over 23 million people worldwide.

International Business Management

  • Dutch is an elective language course of 3 credits per year.
  • First-year courses start at elementary level (CEFR A1).

Multimedia & Creative Technologies and Applied Computer Science

  • Dutch courses are not included in your program.
  • Want to take Dutch as an extra course? Contact your career coordinator to join the IBM course for additional credits.

Nursing

  • Dutch is mandatory in this programme.
  • You’ll learn step by step so you can communicate with patients and colleagues during internships.

Looking to improve your Dutch outside of KdG? Here are some options:

  • Linguapolis (University of Antwerp):  Academic evening courses, ideal for a university setting.
  • CVO (Adult Education Center): Practical, affordable evening classes across the city.
  • Taalpunt Nederlands (in the local library): Books, films & free practice sessions with teachers and volunteers.
  • Ikdoemee.be: overview of fre activities where you can practice Dutch.
  • Online learning: Duolingo, Babadada, Nedbox, Beeldwoordenboek and Taalthuis.
  • Dutch conversation cafés: Informal, low-cost meetups to practice speaking At the Antwerp Language Exchange for example.
  • Private schools: flexible but pricier.
After only 4 lessons at Linguapolis I’ve already learned a lot. I helped somebody find directions and I’ve asked for prices in the supermarket! I want to learn Dutch to push my boundaries and feel more comfortable living here. Luckily, I can always rely on my Dutch-speaking friends to help me with my pronunciation. Vooruit!
Alina, 2nd year Applied Computer Science student
Alina
2nd year Applied Computer Science student
  • Hallo – Hello
  • Dankjewel – Thank you
  • Alsjeblieft – Please / Here you go
  • Salut – See you
  • Hoe gaat het? – How are you?
  • Goedemorgen – Good morning
  • Ik ben een student – I am a student
  • Fiets – Bicycle (you’ll see a lot of these in Antwerp!)
  • Ik spreek een beetje Nederlands – I speak some Dutch
  • Het regent weer! – It’s raining again!
  • Veel succes! – Good luck!

Student life

  • Studentenkorting – Student discount
  • De blok – Exam period
  • Ik moet blokken – I have to study for my exams
  • Samenvatting – Summary
  • Ik was niet in de les – I missed my class
  • Mag ik je notities lenen? – Can I borrow your notes?
  • Kot  – Student accommodation
  • Op café gaan – Going out to a pub
  • Kater – Hangover

Food & drinks

  • Boke – Sandwich
  • Friet – Fries
  • Stoverij – Flemish beef stew
  • Pintje – Beer
  • Smakelijk! – Enjoy your meal!
  • Met alles erop – With everything on it (for example on your frietjes!)