LOKO Services for International Students
Looking to get the most out of your time in Leuven? Here you will find reliable information on student associations, events and activities, popular meeting places, useful day-to-day tips, academic support, and much more to help you settle in, connect with others, and enjoy a fulfilling student life.
RepresentationWhat can LOKO offer you as an international student?
Student Associations
Leuven is home to two main categories of student associations. The first are the international student associations. The second are the 'kringen'—faculty-based student unions. The key difference between them is that the kringen have a direct link to a specific faculty. This unique connection allows them to officially represent students both at the university level and during LOKO General Assembly meetings.
Student Life
Leuven is one of Europe's most vibrant student cities, with nearly one in four residents being a student. The culture revolves heavily around "kringen"—faculty-based student unions that organize legendary traditions like the "cantus" (singing and drinking evenings). Social life centers on the Oude Markt, famously known as the longest bar in the world, where students gather every night. Beyond the festivities, international student associations and the university's global reputation create a diverse, welcoming, and intellectually energetic atmosphere.
Explore Belgium
Belgium consists of three distinct regions: Flanders, Wallonia, and Brussels. In the north lies Flanders, where Dutch is spoken and medieval cities like Bruges and Ghent draw visitors from around the world. To the south is Wallonia, a French-speaking region renowned for its natural beauty—particularly the Ardennes forest and the Meuse valley. Notably, Wallonia also includes a small German-speaking community in the east. Between these two lies Brussels, the country's capital and the seat of the European Union. With its rich cultural diversity and vibrant nightlife, Brussels offers a distinctly cosmopolitan atmosphere. For recommendations on what to see in Leuven and across Belgium, please refer to the list below.
Do you have questions or just good ideas to improve our student life in Leuven?
We can answer any of your questions about student life in and around Leuven—and if you're thinking about volunteering, we would be happy to guide you.
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