When should I start looking for student housing?

As early as possible, ideally as soon as you are admitted. Many universities work with housing providers that reserve rooms for international students, and those fill up early.

What is the difference between a room and a studio?

A room (kamer) usually shares the kitchen and bathroom with others; it is called non-self-contained (onzelfstandig). A studio has its own kitchen and bathroom (zelfstandig). Self-contained homes can make you eligible for rent allowance; rooms usually do not, unless they are designated for it.

Can I get rent allowance (huurtoeslag) as a student?

Usually not for a room with shared facilities, unless the room is designated (aangewezen) for rent allowance. For a self-contained studio you might, if you are registered at the address, meet the age, income and rent conditions and have a residence status that qualifies. Check the current conditions with the Dutch Tax Administration (Belastingdienst).

Student housing checklist for the Netherlands

Student rooms in Dutch university cities are scarce at the start of the academic year. Start early, use the options your university offers, and check every offer before you pay.

Last reviewed 12 November 2026. General information, not legal advice.

Before you arrive

Apply for housing through your university or its housing partners as soon as you are admitted.
Decide what you are looking for: a room with shared facilities (onzelfstandig) or a studio with its own kitchen and bathroom (zelfstandig).
Check what you can register at: you need an address registration for your BSN.
Prepare proof of enrolment, ID and proof of funds.

While you search

Never pay before you have seen the room and signed a contract. Read how to spot scams.
Ask what is included in the rent: service costs, energy, internet, furniture.
Check whether the contract is temporary. A temporary contract is still allowed when you rent as a student for your studies, but not in every other case.

After you move in

Register your address at the municipality. See address registration.
Make photos of the room and note any damage, with the date.
Check whether you qualify for rent allowance (huurtoeslag). For most rooms you do not, unless the room is designated for rent allowance (aangewezen); ask your landlord. For a studio you might.

Frequently asked questions

When should I start looking for student housing?: As early as possible, ideally as soon as you are admitted. Many universities work with housing providers that reserve rooms for international students, and those fill up early.
What is the difference between a room and a studio?: A room (kamer) usually shares the kitchen and bathroom with others; it is called non-self-contained (onzelfstandig). A studio has its own kitchen and bathroom (zelfstandig). Self-contained homes can make you eligible for rent allowance; rooms usually do not, unless they are designated for it.
Can I get rent allowance (huurtoeslag) as a student?: Usually not for a room with shared facilities, unless the room is designated (aangewezen) for rent allowance. For a self-contained studio you might, if you are registered at the address, meet the age, income and rent conditions and have a residence status that qualifies. Check the current conditions with the Dutch Tax Administration (Belastingdienst).