Student Accommodation in Europe: Ultimate 2025 Guide for International Students

Global Ed
July 14, 2025


Why Student Housing in Europe Needs a Game Plan


Moving abroad to study is exciting—but let’s be honest, figuring out where you’re going to live can be stressful. Student housing in Europe isn’t one-size-fits-all, and every city (and university!) handles it a little differently. That’s why having a clear plan and understanding your options makes all the difference.
Why Student Housing in Europe Needs a Game Plan

Whether you’re heading to Berlin, Paris, Amsterdam, or Prague, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about student accommodation in Europe—from the types of housing to costs, the best cities to live in, and how to find the right place without getting scammed. Let’s dive in!


How Many Types of Student Housing Are There in Europe?


How Many Types of Student Housing Are There in Europe?

There’s a surprising variety of student housing across Europe. Here are the main types:

  • On-Campus Dormitories: These are often university-managed and located close to campus. Great for meeting other students, but can be competitive to get.
  • Private Student Residences: These are purpose-built buildings managed by private companies. More modern, sometimes pricier, but come with amenities like Wi-Fi, laundry, gyms, and even events.
  • Shared Apartments (Flatshares): Very popular across Europe. You rent a room in a shared apartment with other students. Costs vary by location and flat size.
  • Studio Apartments: For those who prefer privacy. You’ll have your own space, but it’ll likely be more expensive.
  • Homestays / Host Families: Ideal for language learning and cultural immersion. You stay with a local family and often get meals included.

On-Campus vs Off-Campus Housing: Which One’s Right for You?


Source: UniAcco

Still debating between living on campus or renting outside? Here’s a quick comparison:

On-Campus Pros:

  • Close to lectures and facilities
  • Built-in social network
  • Often more affordable

On-Campus Cons:

  • Limited availability
  • Less privacy
  • May lack modern amenities

Off-Campus Pros:

  • More options and flexibility
  • Better locations in some cities
  • Greater independence

Off-Campus Cons:

  • Can be more expensive
  • You’ll need to deal with landlords
  • Commute time may increase

What’s the Average Cost of Student Accommodation in Europe?



Source: UniAcco

This depends on the city and type of housing, but here’s a rough idea of what you might pay per month (in Euros):

  • Berlin: €350–€700
  • Paris: €500–€1000
  • Amsterdam: €600–€900
  • Prague: €300–€600
  • Vienna: €400–€750
  • Barcelona: €450–€800

Keep in mind: these costs may or may not include utilities, internet, or maintenance fees. Always double-check!

Top Student Cities in Europe and Where to Live in Them



Source: UniAcco

Here are some of the best student cities in Europe and housing tips for each:
Berlin, Germany – Affordable compared to other major cities. Look for housing in areas like Neukölln or Friedrichshain.

Paris, France – Try suburbs like Montrouge or Ivry-sur-Seine for cheaper rent and fast metro access.

Amsterdam, the Netherlands – Housing is tight! Book early and check neighborhoods like Diemen or Slotervaart.

Prague, Czech Republic – Generally cheaper rent. Vinohrady and Žižkov are popular student spots.

Vienna, Austria – Consider 4th or 5th districts for a balance of affordability and location.

Barcelona, Spain – Eixample and Gràcia are student-friendly and well-connected.

How To Find Student Housing in Europe (Step-by-Step Guide)



Source: HostelWorld
Here’s how to find housing like a pro:

  • Check University Housing First – Some schools offer dorms or help you connect with landlords.
  • Use Trusted Websites – Try HousingAnywhere, Uniplaces, Spotahome, ErasmusU, WG-Gesucht (Germany), or Pap.fr (France).
  • Join Student Groups – Facebook groups for your university or city are gold mines for leads.
  • Watch Out for Scams – Never pay upfront without a signed lease or video call verification.
  • Understand the Lease – Read it carefully and understand your obligations (deposit, notice period, etc.).

Tips for Budget-Friendly Student Living in Europe


Tips for Budget-Friendly Student Living in Europe

Student life doesn’t have to mean being broke. Try these:

  • Look for rooms further from city centers
  • Share with roommates
  • Apply early to avoid peak prices
  • Use your student ID for public transport and discount cards
  • Choose all-inclusive rent options to avoid surprise bills

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Finding Student Accommodation


Common Mistakes to Avoid When Finding Student Accommodation

Some traps are easy to fall into—here’s what to avoid:

  • Paying before seeing the place (in-person or virtual tour)
  • Not clarifying what’s included in rent
  • Forgetting to budget for commute costs
  • Not checking cancellation or refund policies
  • Signing a lease you don’t fully understand

What to Pack (and What Not To) for Your European Student Housing


What to Pack (and What Not To) for Your European Student Housing

Space is limited, so pack smart:

Do bring:

  • Important documents (visas, ID, insurance)
  • Laptop, chargers, adapters
  • Bedsheets and towels (check if provided!)
  • Basic kitchen gear if you’ll cook often

Leave behind:

  • Heavy appliances (most flats have them)
  • Too many clothes
  • Things you can easily buy there

Studying in Europe? TC Global (The Chopras) Can Help You Get Settled

Studying in Europe? TC Global (The Chopras)

We know that finding the right place to live can feel overwhelming. That’s why at TC Global (The Chopras), we don’t just help you get into a university—we stay with you through every step, including:

  • Helping you shortlist accommodation options
  • Connecting you with trusted housing providers
  • Hosting pre-departure sessions with housing guidance
  • Offering 1-on-1 support throughout your journey

Whether you’re still researching or already got your offer letter, we’re here to make the transition easier. Because a good home makes a great start.



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