Adaptation, Life in Antwerp, Travel, and Final Exams

Ilyas Abbyasov, a third-year undergraduate student of the "Business Administration" program, completed his exchange semester at the University of Antwerp, Belgium. In his story, he covers four key areas relevant to every student spending their exchange in Antwerp: adaptation, life in the city, travel, and the exam session.

Hi! My name is Ilyas Abbyasov, and I’m a third-year student in the “Business Administration” program. Despite COVID-19 (this was in 2021), right after the second autumn-winter wave, I managed to break through the closed borders and head to Belgium for modules 3 and 4 to study at the University of Antwerp. Let me tell you about this unforgettable experience.

Adaptation (February)

Let’s start with the adaptation period. Like it or not, you’ll have one. For some it’s easier, for others harder — but it’s definitely a challenge. The first thing you do when you arrive is feel lost and panic a little. So here’s a quick guide for the first few days:

1. Get internet access if it’s not already available in your room or apartment. Your landlord should know how to set it up.

2. Find a supermarket. In Antwerp, the main ones are Lidl, Kruidvat, Colruyt, and Delhaize. There’s probably one nearby.

3. Buy a SIM card. Many choose Wikings, but Proximus and Orange are also popular.

4. Head to Action to buy any household essentials you’re missing.

The University of Antwerp is very supportive. They’ll send you a welcome package with snacks and assist with any questions, so read their emails and stay active! Try to make friends early — the more people around you, the better your exchange experience will be.

Life in Antwerp (March–May)

Here’s what daily life in Antwerp looked like. It’s worth noting that in spring 2021, Europe was experiencing a third COVID wave, meaning much of my stay was under lockdown.

I chose to live in a private studio because I wanted my own kitchen and bathroom during the pandemic. This decision shaped my entire mobility experience — living in a private apartment is like just living alone in a new city: fewer parties, but more independence. Living in a student dorm, on the other hand, is much more like the stereotypical student life — music and parties every Friday. The choice is yours.

Studying at the University of Antwerp is no walk in the park. Here are a few key points:

• The grading system is simpler: usually 30% coursework + 70% exam, or even 100% final exam.

• No seminars. Just lectures. Attendance isn’t tracked, and all practical application is on you.

• 20-point grading scale. Professors only give top marks if you “know what they know.” Scores from 10 to 16 are typical; anything below 9 is a fail.

• You won’t know your grades until you receive your transcript after the exchange. So the mindset is: do your best and trust the system.

The university itself is beautiful, and the library is a fantastic place to work and prep for exams (more on that later…).

Unfortunately, due to COVID, restaurants, bars, and clubs were closed most of the time. But I highly recommend trying the local fries — they’re very different from what we’re used to — and dining at Elfde Gebod, a great local spot.

Travel

Travel definitely deserves its own section. Yes, you’ll have time to explore new countries! Belgium is split into Flanders and Wallonia, with the most interesting cities in Flanders: Antwerp, Bruges, Ghent, and seaside Ostend. And don’t miss Brussels either!

As for nearby countries, Belgium borders the Netherlands, France, Germany, and... Luxembourg (yes, it’s a country!). Visit as many as you can — Luxembourg with its layered cityscape is a must. I also made it to the Netherlands — beautiful and fascinating.

Exam Session (June)

The final stage of your mobility is exam time. Exams at the University of Antwerp aren’t easy — professors are strict, and there’s a lot of material to study. Here are the main types of exams:

• Oral exam: You draw a ticket and answer questions.

• Written exam: A mix of formats — closed questions, open questions, case studies.

• Combined exam: Typically, you analyze a case in writing and then present it orally.

Thorough preparation is key, since the exam makes up the majority of your grade — but don’t forget to rest too! Personally, changing study locations really helped me stay focused. I highly recommend the Antwerp library — it’s always quiet and cool (great during the summer heat), as well as Stadspark and Capital Café nearby. Every exam at the University is passable — tested and proven!

That wraps up my story about this amazing exchange experience. After going through this adventure, I can confidently say: everyone needs this kind of experience in their life. And I’m always happy to offer advice — feel free to reach out on VK: abbyasov_jr or Instagram: @abbyasov_jr.

Life in Antwerp through the eyes of a GSB student

Video: Ilyas Abbyasov