Finding accommodation
Finding a room is one of the first steps in preparing for your studies.
In the Netherlands, universities do not have on-campus dorms, so you are responsible for arranging your own accommodation.
This is with the exception of first-year Global Responsibility & Leadership students. These are offered guaranteed housing. If you are admitted, you will receive information about how to register.
Leeuwarden is a bit easier than other big cities when it comes to housing, but here too it's important to start your search early.
What kind of housing can you expect in Leeuwarden?
Most students in Leeuwarden live in:
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A room in a shared student house: You have your own bedroom and share the kitchen and bathroom.
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A studio: You have your own small bedroom, kitchen and bathroom.
Most student rooms are in or near the city centre. From there you can usually reach the faculty by bike in about 5–10 minutes.
Step 1: Start early
As soon as you are seriously considering studying at our faculty, start exploring housing options.
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If you plan to start in September, we recommend that you begin your search at least 4–5 months in advance.
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Many rooms are advertised in late spring and over the summer, and popular options are booked quickly.
From our students:
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“Housing is easier in Leeuwarden than in many bigger student cities, but there is always demand – start looking a few months in advance just in case.” – Elena, Data Science & Society student
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“For my first year I chose student housing because it was easiest to arrange from abroad. In my second year I found a new place through other students who were moving out.” – Sophie, Global Responsibility & Leadership
Step 2: Decide on your budget
Before you start clicking through platforms, think about:
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Your maximum monthly rent (including utilities such as gas, water and electricity).
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Whether you want to live in a shared house or prefer a studio or one-bedroom apartment.
Step 3: Register on the main housing platforms
Many providers work with waiting lists, registration fees, or “first come, first served” policies. Register early so you can respond quickly when a suitable room appears.
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Private rooms, studios & apartments:
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Social media groups & local networks:
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Step 4: View the room and check the contract
Always view the room in person or via a video call before signing anything and do not transfer money before you have a written contract. We emphasise this because scams unfortunately exist in all Dutch student cities.
Student housing
Example of a furnished studio at StudentStay on Kanaalstraat, the residence of many first-year GRL students.
Rooms for second-year students and above are usually released in spring, so it helps to have your StudentStay account ready before then.
Tips from students
Nika, a 3rd year student:
1. "Create your accounts on housing platforms before the main housing season starts. That way you can react quickly when new rooms appear.”
2. "Use the free trial weeks on sites like Kamernet, Huizenpapa or Pararius in the period when you’re most active with sending messages and booking viewings.”
3. “Prepare a short introduction about yourself (who you are, what you study, hobbies) and reuse it when you reply to adverts. It saves a lot of time.”
Yaniek, a 3rd year student:
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Try to attend an in-person viewing before you move in. Photos can look great, but in real life you might spot issues like mould or poor maintenance.
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Can’t visit in person? Talk to the current tenants. They usually give the most honest picture of what the place is really like.
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Apply to many rooms at once. You can still decline later, if needed.
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Use WhatsApp housing groups once you’re in Leeuwarden. Access is usually via students who are already in the group.
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Come prepared with some questions to ask.
At a viewing: Questions to ask
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Is the rent inclusive or exclusive of utilities and internet?
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Are there any extra costs, such as administration fees or mandatory cleaning fees?
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How long is the contract and what is the notice period if I want to move out?
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Can I register at this address with the municipality? (Registering at your address is required if you live there, so if that isn’t possible, it’s a red flag)
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How good is the insulation and heating in winter?
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Is there a bike shed or safe place to store my bike?
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Is there a washing machine (and do I have to pay extra for it)?
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Who is responsible for cleaning the shared areas?
Staying safe: How to avoid scams
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Use official websites and providers with a clear company name and physical address.
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Always view the room (in person or via video) and read your contract carefully before you sign.
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Never pay rent or a deposit before you have a written contract and have verified that the room exists.
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Be careful with offers that seem too good to be true for the location or size of the room.
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Protect your identity: if you share a copy of your passport, always block your BSN and other sensitive data.
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Do not go to a viewing alone if you do not feel comfortable. If possible, take a friend or Dutch speaker with you.