Housing

Finding your own room

When you study abroad, one of the most important things you have to arrange is your accommodation. Student accommodation in The Netherlands differs from many other countries: most universities do not offer housing on campus and most Dutch and international students find their own accommodation on the private market. Due to the current housing shortage in the Netherlands it can be challenging to find an accommodation. Start looking for accommodation at least 5-6 months prior to the start of your studies. We strongly advise you not to depart to the Netherlands without having arranged (temporary) accommodation.

Velp/ Arnhem

Students arriving at VHL in Velp can apply for housing with SSHN. SSHN offers a range of rooms in student buildings around Arnhem. There are also many other options available to find a room in Velp and Arnhem such as private housing agencies and Facebook groups.

Leeuwarden

StudentStay is an official accommodation partner for the Leeuwarden campus. Its provides affordable accommodation located near the campus and the city centre. The rooms may be furnished or unfurnished and shared or independent. How to organise an accommodation? Visit StudentStay.com. Complete your registration by creating a profile (free). The earlier you apply, the more choice you have. There are also many other options available to find a room in Leeuwarden such as private housing agencies and Facebook groups. 

Tricks and Quick Facts

• The earlier you apply, the more choice you have.
• Join Facebook groups, check different agencies or sign up with a student association.
• Almost 50% of students find their room through friends and family. So start building your network. Tell everyone you are looking for a room and check with other international students or family members abroad!
• Check whether the rental fees include utilities (water, heating, electricity and Internet).
• It is common for men and women to live together in a shared house.
• Make sure you read your rental contract carefully before signing it. Check what you are allowed (and not allowed) to do in your room. And check who you should speak to if there is a problem. 
• Be aware of scammers on the housing market.
• It’s common to pay for a deposit, however this should not exceed the amount of three months rent. Agencies have to follow Dutch law regulations concerning the deposit.
• More general information about finding a room in The Netherlands? Check Studyinholland or Arnhem Student City 

Questions?

If you have any further questions on student housing, please send an e-mail to [email protected].

Are you an OKP Scholarship student?

In that case, housing is included in your scholarship coverage and accommodation has already been arranged for you by VHL University of Applied Sciences (VHL). You will be contacted via email with more information.

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