Student Accommodation in the Netherlands
Housing types, scam alerts, rent by city and move-in costs. The housing shortage is the hardest part of moving to the Netherlands, so start early and know the warning signs.
ScholarshipUnion Editorial
2 min read
Updated Oct 6, 2026
Housing types
There are four main ways students find a place to live. Prices below are typical monthly ranges (estimates).
Pros: managed, near campus, social. Cons: long waits, often allocated by lottery, limited supply.
Pros: more options, city locations, flexible. Cons: you pay a premium subscription to respond, very competitive, and you often have to win a hospiteeravond (a viewing evening where housemates choose).
Pros: privacy, eligible for huurtoeslag (rent allowance), independence. Cons: extremely scarce, very expensive, long contracts.
Pros: very cheap, unique and often large spaces. Cons: often only a few weeks' notice to leave, no tenant rights, and your location can change.
Can you get rent allowance?
Huurtoeslag (rent allowance) is paid only for a self-contained home — your own lockable front door, kitchen, toilet and shower — which is why studios qualify and most shared rooms don't. Since 2026 a rent above the old limit no longer rules you out (the allowance is calculated on rent up to €932.93), but income and asset limits still apply (assets up to €38,479 for a single person in 2026). Check your situation with the Dienst Toeslagen before you count on it.
Scam checklist
Tick every warning sign that applies to a listing you're considering. Two or more flags = walk away.
No warning signs ticked. Still never pay before viewing.
One flag: investigate further before you go ahead.
Two or more flags: do NOT send money.
Rent by city
Typical monthly rent for a student room (estimates):
Bars are scaled to €1,200 a month. For room types and waiting times per city, see the Study in Holland housing guide.
Move-in costs
Budget for a lump sum before you get your keys. A typical example (estimate):
| Cost | Amount |
|---|---|
| Deposit (1–2 months' rent) | €700 |
| First month's rent | €550 |
| Insurance | €5/month |
| Total | €1,255 |