Accommodation
Accommodation in the Netherlands is diverse, with options to meet international students' interests and budgets. Whether you enjoy the bustle of city life or the peace and quiet of smaller villages, you'll find something to suit your needs. Many colleges provide easy and inclusive on-campus accommodation, while off-campus living options include shared apartments, studios, and even houseboats in scenic canals. The Dutch take pleasure in their well-kept and ecological housing, which is frequently provided with modern facilities. However, it is critical to plan ahead and secure home well in advance, as property might be in high demand, particularly in big cities such as Amsterdam and Utrecht. Additionally, look into the various housing allowances and subsidies available to students to help lessen your financial burden.
Tips for when looking for student accommodation
Finding the correct student accommodation is an important step in your path to study in the Netherlands. Consider the following suggestions to make the process go more smoothly. To begin, begin your search early because student housing can be in high demand. Investigate numerous possibilities, such as university-managed dormitories, private rentals, and shared apartments, to determine which best meets your needs and budget. Keep an eye out for housing websites and social media groups devoted to student housing. Don't forget to consider location - close accessibility to your university and important amenities is essential. Finally, familiarise yourself with Dutch rental legislation and contracts in order to have a fair and transparent rental experience. Taking these measures will assist you in securing comfortable and economical accommodation while studying in the Netherlands.
Underestimating the demand for housing is one of the most common mistakes international students make when looking for student housing in The Netherlands. With so many students migrating to Dutch cities, the competition for affordable and convenient housing can be fierce. To acquire a decent apartment, you must begin your search early, ideally several months before your arrival. Another risk is failing to consider location. While low-cost options may appear appealing, make sure your chosen lodging is close to your educational institution and important utilities, since long journeys can rapidly become a nuisance. To avoid unpleasant surprises, be wary of scammers and always verify the legality of landlords and contracts. Your biggest allies in navigating are staying informed, planning ahead, and practising due diligence.
The most common mistakes students make
How can I avoid making these mistakes?
Get the jumpstart on everyone else
Avoid using Facebook
Yes, although Facebook has the most tempting offers, it is usually filled with unreliable agents whom some tend to be scammers. Many students fall into the trap of making a deposit equivalent to a month or two worth of rent, only to find out that the accommodation does not exist. If they cannot meet you in real life, then they are probably not worth investing your time and money into. Instead, use the websites below as they are trustworthy.
Contact your universities
Most, if not all universities have a team dedicated to supporting students when finding accommodations. They usually partner up with housing agencies that own complexes or rows of houses dedicated to students. Contacting them is usually your last option but nonetheless, contact them in the beginning as they may have many options that have yet to be taken.
Start your search early
Most students only tend to look for accommodation 3 months before they embark on their journey to The Netherlands and some students are still on the search when they arrive in the country. This is already too late. Start your preparation and search 6 months in advance to ensure that you can secure housing at least a month before you leave your home country. When searching for an accommodation, be sure to have a list of your requirements such as distance to the university, shared or private areas, budgets and more.
