Housing

Types of accommodation 

In the Netherlands, students usually rent a room in a shared house or apartment with other students, but you could also rent a one-bedroom or studio apartment. Student accommodation is usually provided by real estate agents or private landlords who advertise their rooms on different platforms.   

Rental contracts and costs 

In the Netherlands, you will generally be asked to sign a lease of at least 12 months and pay a deposit of at least one month’s rent. Most landlords offer unfurnished rooms with a complete kitchen and bathroom which you share with your housemates. StudentStay is an exception; they offer completely furnished rooms. The rent is usually paid per month. 

Advice on looking for accommodation

The summer months and the start of the academic year are the busiest times for finding rooms so make sure you start early. We’re confident our accommodation partners are reliable and highly recommend them. If you’re planning on renting through the private market or see something on social media, then there are a few things you should bear in mind:

• Make sure you stay alert, visit the room beforehand and always read your contract very carefully. If it looks too good to be true (the photos, the area or the rent), be particularly cautious. Get help from a Dutch speaker if you can – you could even ask them to go to the viewing with you.
• Avoid identity theft and never send a copy of your passport or ID to strangers.
• Use official websites or companies you can trace and be aware of scammers. Don’t pay anything before you have a written contract and make sure you get a receipt of payment.
• Check the proprietor has the right permit for what they are renting, for instance if it’s a room in a building with three or more residents.
• Keep a check on any agency costs or rental fees charged by commercial agencies and private landlords.