
Old Prison UHasselt
A modern university campus with a unique history, built on the grounds of a former prison, offering a blend of contemporary facilities and historical ...
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Experience vibrant student life

Old Prison UHasselt
Best Time
Experience vibrant student life
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A modern university campus with a unique history, built on the grounds of a former prison, offering a blend of contemporary facilities and historical intrigue.
"Modern and well equipped university in the center of the city of Hasselt."

🚲 Bike for Campus Commutes
Consider getting a bike for easy travel around campus and Hasselt. Local students suggest it's a great way to get around.
📚 Find Second-Hand Goods
For affordable furniture and appliances, check out charity shops or second-hand stores in Hasselt.

Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.4 · 78 reviews
Type
University
Website
uhasselt.beHighlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Former Prison Architecture
Campus UHasselt
Explore the modern university campus built within the walls of a former prison, offering a unique blend of history and contemporary design.

Student-Friendly Cafeteria
Campus UHasselt Cafeteria
Enjoy affordable and tasty meals at the campus cafeteria, a favorite spot for students seeking good food at reasonable prices.

Modern Study Spaces
Campus UHasselt Libraries & Study Areas
Discover bright, well-equipped classrooms and inviting study areas perfect for focused learning and academic pursuits.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
A Unique Campus History
Student Life Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚲 Bike for Campus Commutes
Consider getting a bike for easy travel around campus and Hasselt. Local students suggest it's a great way to get around.
📚 Find Second-Hand Goods
For affordable furniture and appliances, check out charity shops or second-hand stores in Hasselt.
UHasselt - Any advice?
Hi everyone! I’m an Italian economics student and I’m considering the University of Hasselt (Belgium) for my Erasmus. I’d love to get some advice on this destination. Here are some of the questions I have: • How difficult are the courses at the University of Hasselt? Are they…
Moving to Hasselt for Uni in September
Hey guys, if all goes well (still don't know if anything is going to change or not because of the pandemic) I should be moving to Hasselt for 2 years for a MSc so need to find a dorm/apartment to rent. If I've understood correctly the department for Biomed is in Diepenbeek…
🗣️ Multilingual Staff
Don't hesitate to ask for help; staff are friendly and fluent in Dutch, French, and English. [^Review]
🏛️ Unique Campus Vibe
Appreciate the campus's unique history as a former prison, with some original elements still visible. [^Review]
Hasselt student life 101
Hi everyone! I am a master student moved to Hasselt recently. I have some questions 1. I need basic kitchen appliances, blanket, towels, maybe some small furniture for my room. Can you suggest some charity shops/second hand stores etc. ? 2. What is to best way to have a bike…
Tips
from all over the internet
🚲 Bike for Campus Commutes
Consider getting a bike for easy travel around campus and Hasselt. Local students suggest it's a great way to get around.
📚 Find Second-Hand Goods
For affordable furniture and appliances, check out charity shops or second-hand stores in Hasselt.
🗣️ Multilingual Staff
Don't hesitate to ask for help; staff are friendly and fluent in Dutch, French, and English. [^Review]
🏛️ Unique Campus Vibe
Appreciate the campus's unique history as a former prison, with some original elements still visible. [^Review]
📢 Be Aware of Protests
Student protests can occur on campus, sometimes leading to visible demonstrations.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
UHasselt's campus, built on a former prison site, is praised for its modern facilities, friendly staff, and student-friendly cafeteria. While the unique historical aspect is noted, some reviews mention negative interactions with specific staff members. Overall, it's seen as a good university with a pleasant atmosphere.
"One of very good universitiea in Belgium. It is in Hasselt"
S Felix
"Modern and well equipped university in the center of the city of Hasselt. The staff is always friendly and eager to help you in Dutch, French or English. There are a lot of nice places for studying and the classrooms are light and well equipped. The prices in the cafeteria are student-friendly and the food tastes pretty good. Nice to know: UHasselt was the former prison, in some places you can still see that."
Sreida Feb
"For this score the University should thanks to : Kristel, Ansar-UI, Adnan, Feng. Rude, uneducated persons. How can you pretend you can teach the others when you don't have the human level."
Future Travel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Old Prison UHasselt is part of the main UHasselt campus in Diepenbeek. You can reach it by public transport, with bus lines serving the campus frequently. If driving, there is parking available, though it can be busy during peak academic hours.
Yes, the UHasselt campus is well-connected by public transport. Several bus lines stop directly at or near the campus, making it easy to access from Hasselt city center and surrounding areas.
Many students opt for bicycles to navigate the campus and the city of Hasselt. It's a convenient and eco-friendly way to get around.
For new students, exploring bike rental or purchase options early is recommended. Facebook Marketplace is a popular spot for second-hand bikes, though VITO is also an option to consider.
Yes, you can take a bus from Hasselt train station directly to the UHasselt campus in Diepenbeek. Check local bus schedules for the most convenient routes and times.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Old Prison UHasselt campus is part of the university and generally accessible to students, staff, and visitors during operating hours. No specific tickets are usually required for general campus access. [^Review]
University campuses typically have general access during daytime hours on weekdays. Specific building access might vary. It's best to check the official UHasselt website for the most accurate information on campus access and building hours. [^Review]
As a functioning university campus, there is typically no admission fee for general access. However, specific events or facilities might have separate charges. [^Review]
While the campus retains elements of its past, access to specific former prison areas may be restricted or only visible from the outside as part of the campus architecture. [^Review]
UHasselt occasionally hosts public events, lectures, or open days. For these, booking might be required, so it's advisable to check the university's event calendar. [^Review]
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
You can explore the modern university facilities, appreciate the unique architecture that blends old and new, and experience the vibrant student atmosphere. Some remnants of its prison past are still visible. [^Review]
Yes, the campus offers many light and well-equipped classrooms and comfortable study areas, including libraries, perfect for focused academic work. [^Review]
The campus generally has a nice atmosphere, described as modern and welcoming by students and visitors. [^Review]
Photography for personal use is generally permitted on university campuses. However, be mindful of privacy and avoid photographing individuals without their consent.
Student protests can occur on campus, as seen in recent demonstrations. While usually peaceful, be aware of potential gatherings or disruptions.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the campus features a cafeteria that offers student-friendly prices and good-tasting food, making it a convenient option for meals. [^Review]
The prices in the cafeteria are described as student-friendly, offering affordable options for meals and snacks. [^Review]
Reviews suggest that the food in the cafeteria tastes pretty good, providing a satisfying dining experience for students. [^Review]
While the campus cafeteria is a primary option, the surrounding Diepenbeek area and nearby Hasselt city offer various restaurants and cafes for different tastes and budgets.
Generally, you can bring your own food and eat in designated common areas or study spaces, respecting any campus policies. [^Review]
📸 📸 Photography
Look for interesting architectural contrasts between the old prison structures and modern university buildings. The campus grounds offer various scenic spots. [^Review]
While the campus is modernized, some architectural remnants of the former prison might be visible. Photographing these unique historical aspects can be interesting. [^Review]
General photography for personal use is usually allowed. However, always be respectful of students and staff, and avoid intrusive photography.
You can capture modern university life, architectural details, and the unique blend of history and contemporary design. [^Review]
Drone usage is typically restricted on university campuses due to safety and privacy regulations. Check UHasselt's specific policies before attempting to fly a drone.




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