Student Accommodation in Ireland
A practical guide to exploring, choosing, and securing suitable student housing in Ireland before you arrive.
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Types of Student Accommodation in Ireland
Discover the various accommodation options available to international students in Ireland, from university housing to private rentals. Each option offers different benefits in terms of cost, convenience, community, and independence. Understanding these differences will help you make an informed choice that suits your budget and lifestyle.
On-campus or university-managed housing is one of the most popular choices for international students in Ireland. These residences are typically located on or very near campus, offering maximum convenience.
- Close to classes and campus facilities
- Built-in student community
- Utilities and internet typically included
- Security and support staff
- Limited availability - books quickly
- Can be more expensive than other options
Cost Range: €600-€1,500 per month
Varies by university, location, and room type
Privately-owned student housing complexes that offer modern facilities and amenities, typically located near universities. These purpose-built residences often include studios or ensuite rooms in shared apartments.
- Modern facilities and amenities (gyms, study spaces)
- All-inclusive bills
- Professional management and security
- Furnished rooms
- Higher cost than most options
- May have restrictive rules
Cost Range: €800-€1,800 per month
Popular providers: Uninest, Aparto, Yugo, Binary Hub
Renting a room in a shared house or apartment, or an entire property on the private market. This option offers more independence and potentially lower costs when shared with other students.
- More privacy and independence
- Often more affordable when shared
- Choose your own roommates
- More housing options and locations
- Separate utility bills to manage
- Need to find and manage the accommodation yourself
- May need to furnish the property
Cost Range: €400-€900 per month (shared)
€800-€1,500+ for a one-bedroom apartment
Living with a local Irish family who provides a room and often meals. This option offers a unique cultural immersion experience and is excellent for language practice.
- Cultural immersion experience
- Often includes meals
- Supportive family environment
- Local insights and advice
- Less independence and privacy
- Need to adapt to family routines and rules
- Fewer opportunities to meet other students
Cost Range: €500-€850 per month
Often includes meals and utilities
| Accommodation Type | Average Monthly Cost (€) | Pros | Cons |
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| University Accommodation | €600-€1,500 |
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| Purpose-Built Student Accommodation | €800-€1,800 |
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| Private Rentals/Shared Houses | €400-€900 (shared) €800-€1,500+ (solo) |
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| Homestays | €500-€850 |
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City Cost Variations
University Accommodation Application Process
Securing university accommodation in Ireland requires planning and timely action. The process varies slightly between institutions, but all have competitive application periods with specific deadlines. Understanding the timeline and requirements will maximize your chances of securing your preferred housing option.
February-March 2025
Applications open for most university accommodations. Many universities start accepting applications as early as March 1st.
End of March/Early April 2025
Application closing dates for continuing students at many universities (UCD applications close March 31st).
April-May 2025
Room allocations and offers begin for continuing students. First-round lottery results for new students at many institutions.
May-July 2025
Deadline for applications from new CAO students (usually early July). Many universities offer "No Course, No Contract" guarantees until this point.
August 14, 2025
Final deadline for international student applications to guarantee accommodation for Semester 1.
- Student ID or Application Number: You'll need your student ID or application number (e.g., CAO number, university B-number) to apply.
- Booking/Application Fee: Most universities require a booking fee (typically €100-€250) which is usually refundable if you don't accept an offer.
- Accommodation Preferences: You'll need to specify your preferred residence and room type, often in order of preference.
- Personal Details: Basic personal information and contact details.
- Special Requirements: Information about any disabilities or specific accommodation needs.
Research and Decide
Research different accommodation options on university websites. Decide on your preferred residence and room type before applying.
Create an Account
Register on the university's accommodation portal using your student ID/application number, date of birth, and email.
Complete Application
Fill out the application form with your personal details and accommodation preferences. Note that for many universities, you cannot change your accommodation choice once submitted.
Pay Application/Booking Fee
Pay the required booking fee (usually €100-€250) which is typically refundable if you don't get or accept an offer.
Wait for Room Allocation
Most universities use either first-come-first-served systems or computerized lotteries to allocate rooms. This typically happens a few weeks after the application deadline.
Accept Offer & Pay Deposit
If offered a room, you'll typically have 24-48 hours to accept and pay a deposit to secure it. Most universities will email your offer with instructions.
International Student Guarantee
Finding Private Accommodation
Discover reliable strategies and trusted platforms for finding private accommodation in Ireland from your home country. While university housing provides a straightforward option, many international students opt for private rentals due to preference, availability, or cost considerations.
Daft.ie
Ireland's largest property website with thousands of rental listings. Features map search, filters for student accommodation, and property alerts.
Rent.ie
Specializes in rental properties with a dedicated student section. Provides detailed listing information and landlord contact details.
Myhome.ie
One of Ireland's premier property sites with extensive listings and neighborhood information. Slightly more focused on purchases but has many rentals.
SpareRoom.ie
Focused on shared accommodation and house shares, popular among students and young professionals. Good for finding roommates.
University Noticeboards
Many Irish universities maintain online accommodation noticeboards where private landlords advertise student-friendly properties.
✓ Set Up Property Alerts
Create accounts on property websites and set up email alerts for new listings that match your criteria. The Irish rental market moves quickly, so prompt responses are essential.
✓ Join Facebook Groups
Many cities have dedicated Facebook groups for housing (e.g., "Dublin Rent a Room/Apartment" or "Galway House Hunting for Sound People"). These often have listings before they appear on official sites.
✓ Contact Student Unions
University student unions often maintain lists of verified landlords and properties suitable for students. They can be a valuable resource for trustworthy accommodation.
✓ Consider Property Agencies
Licensed letting agencies can help find verified properties, though they often charge fees. Reputable agencies include Lisney, Savills, and DNG.
✓ Arrange Video Viewings
If you can't view the property in person, ask for a live video tour via WhatsApp, Zoom, or FaceTime. This gives you a better sense of the property than static photos.
Watch Out for Scams
The competitive Irish rental market has unfortunately led to an increase in accommodation scams targeting international students. Protect yourself by being aware of these common warning signs:
- Landlords who refuse to show the property in person or via live video call
- Requests for deposits or payments before viewing the property
- Prices that seem too good to be true (significantly below market rates)
- Requests for payment via wire transfer, cryptocurrency, or cash
- Vague answers to specific questions about the property
- Poor grammar and spelling in communications
- Pressure to make quick decisions or payments
If you suspect a scam, report it to the Gardaí (Irish police) and your university's accommodation office.
Security Deposits
Typically equal to one month's rent, paid upfront and returned at the end of the tenancy if there's no damage. Since July 2023, landlords are legally required to register with the Rental Tenancies Board (RTB) and lodge deposits with them.
Advance Rent
Landlords typically require the first month's rent in advance. Some may ask for multiple months from international students, but be wary of requests for more than 2 months' advance rent.
Lease Terms
Student rentals typically run for 9-12 months. Be aware of break clauses, notice periods, and any special conditions. Short-term leases (less than 6 months) are rare and often more expensive.
Bills & Utilities
Confirm whether utilities (electricity, gas, water, internet) are included in the rent or paid separately. If separate, budget approximately €80-€150 per month for a shared property.
Many international students book temporary accommodation for their first few weeks in Ireland, then search for long-term housing after arrival. This allows you to view properties in person and make more informed decisions.
Recommended Approach:
- Book temporary accommodation for 2-4 weeks upon arrival
- Research neighborhoods and rental prices before arrival
- Set up property alerts and join relevant Facebook groups
- Begin active property search immediately after arrival
- Schedule multiple viewings in similar areas to compare options
- Have necessary documents and deposit ready to secure a property quickly
Lease Agreements & Tenant Rights
Understanding the key aspects of Irish rental agreements and your rights as an international student tenant is essential for a smooth renting experience. Irish tenancy law provides significant protections for tenants, but it's important to know these rights to avoid potential issues.
Temporary Accommodation Options
Explore short-term accommodation solutions if you need a place to stay upon arrival in Ireland while searching for permanent housing. These options provide flexibility while you familiarize yourself with the city and conduct in-person property viewings.
Budget-friendly shared accommodation in dormitory-style rooms or private rooms with shared facilities. A popular choice for short stays while property hunting.
Popular options:
- Generator Hostel (Dublin)
- Abbey Court Hostel (Dublin)
- Kinlay House (Galway)
- Sheila's Hostel (Cork)
Many universities offer short-term accommodation during summer months or have arrangements with providers for temporary student housing. This option is particularly good for arriving before term starts.
Note: Contact your university's accommodation office well in advance to inquire about temporary housing options, especially if arriving before the official move-in dates.
Apartment or house rentals available for short periods, offering more space and privacy than hostels. Options include Airbnb, VRBO, and monthly serviced apartments.
Tip: For stays longer than a week, message hosts directly to negotiate a better monthly rate, which can often be 30-50% less than the nightly rate.
If possible, plan to arrive in Ireland 2-3 weeks before your course begins to give yourself adequate time to find permanent accommodation. This timing offers several advantages:
- You'll avoid the peak rush of students all competing for housing at the same time
- You'll have time to view multiple properties in person before committing
- You can familiarize yourself with different neighborhoods and their amenities
- If you encounter any unexpected issues, you'll have a buffer to address them
Booking Tips
- Book your temporary accommodation well in advance, especially if arriving during peak periods (August-September or January).
- Choose locations close to public transport for easy access to property viewings across the city.
- Book accommodations with flexible cancellation policies in case you find permanent housing quickly.
- Look for places with free WiFi to facilitate your housing search and stay connected.
Alternative Options
- University Guest Accommodation: Some universities offer guest rooms or visitor apartments that can be booked for short stays.
- Homestay Programs: Short-term stays with local families, often including meals and a welcoming introduction to the area.
- Budget Hotels: While not as economical as hostels, budget hotels offer more privacy and comfort for short stays.
- Student Networks: Some student unions coordinate temporary hosting by current students for incoming international students.
Location Considerations
Choosing the right location for your accommodation is as important as the property itself. Consider these key factors when deciding where to live in Ireland to ensure your housing meets both your academic and lifestyle needs.
Distance to Campus
Consider how long it will take to reach your campus daily. Ideally, aim for a commute under 30-40 minutes. Living very close to campus often means higher rents but saves on transportation costs and commuting time.
Public Transportation
Consider proximity to bus stops, train stations, or Luas lines (in Dublin). Check the reliability and frequency of service, especially early mornings and late evenings. Many student areas in Ireland are well-served by public transportation.
Amenities & Services
Check for nearby grocery stores, pharmacies, laundromats, cafes, and other services you'll use regularly. Having these within walking distance can significantly improve your quality of life.
Study Spaces
Consider proximity to libraries, study centers, or cafes where you can study outside your accommodation. This is especially important if your housing might be noisy or lacks suitable study space.
Safety & Security
Research the safety of different neighborhoods, especially if you'll be coming home late at night. Ask local students, check online forums, or consult with your university's accommodation office about safe areas. Well-lit streets and regular police presence are good indicators.
Student Population
Areas with high student populations often have more suitable housing options, social activities, and student-friendly businesses. Popular student areas include Drumcondra and Stoneybatter in Dublin, College Road in Cork, and Newcastle in Galway.
Cost of Living
Some neighborhoods are significantly more expensive than others, even within the same city. Consider not just rent but also local grocery prices, transportation costs, and restaurant/cafe pricing in the area.
Noise Levels & Lifestyle
Consider whether you prefer a quiet residential area or a lively neighborhood with nightlife. Living above or near pubs, music venues, or busy streets may affect your sleep and study. Consider your personal preferences and tolerance for noise.
Google Maps & Street View
Use Google Maps to assess the commute time to your university and explore the area virtually through Street View to get a feel for the neighborhood before arriving.
Transport Apps
Download transport apps like Transport for Ireland, Dublin Bus, or Irish Rail to check service frequency and route coverage in your prospective area.
Reddit & Student Forums
Check subreddits like r/Ireland, r/Dublin, r/Cork, or university-specific forums for honest opinions about different neighborhoods from locals and current students.
Quick City Guide
Dublin
- Student Areas: Drumcondra, Stoneybatter, Smithfield, Rathmines, Portobello
- Transport: Extensive bus network, DART train, Luas tram
- Approximate Rent: €700-1200/month (shared)
- Pros: Most job opportunities, cultural activities
- Cons: Highest cost of living in Ireland
Cork
- Student Areas: College Road, Glasheen, Bishopstown, Sunday's Well
- Transport: City buses, limited suburban rail
- Approximate Rent: €500-750/month (shared)
- Pros: Friendly atmosphere, more affordable than Dublin
- Cons: Fewer transport options, hillier terrain
Galway
- Student Areas: Newcastle, Salthill, Renmore, Woodquay
- Transport: City buses, bikeable city center
- Approximate Rent: €450-700/month (shared)
- Pros: Vibrant culture, walkable city, beautiful location
- Cons: Rainy weather, tourism affects housing in summer
Limerick
- Student Areas: Castletroy, Rhebogue, South Circular Road
- Transport: Limited bus service, relatively compact city
- Approximate Rent: €400-600/month (shared)
- Pros: More affordable housing, developing cultural scene
- Cons: Less extensive public transport, fewer amenities
Tips for Securing Accommodation Successfully
Finding your ideal accommodation in Ireland requires a strategic approach, especially with the competitive housing market. Follow these expert tips to maximize your chances of success and secure housing that fits your needs and budget.
- 1
Start Early
Begin your search at least 2-3 months before your planned arrival, especially for September intake when competition is highest.
- 2
Use Multiple Platforms
Don't rely on just one website. Check Daft.ie, Rent.ie, university accommodation offices, Facebook groups, and student forums simultaneously.
- 3
Set Up Alerts
Create email alerts on property websites with your specific criteria. Be ready to respond immediately as good properties are often taken within hours.
- 4
Expand Your Search Area
Be flexible with location if possible. Consider areas slightly further from campus but well-connected by public transport. These often offer better value.
- 5
Network
Connect with current students through university social media groups. Many find accommodation through word-of-mouth or when others are looking for replacement tenants.
- 6
Prepare Documentation
Have all your documents ready in advance: ID, proof of student status, references, proof of income/savings/sponsorship, and bank statements.
- 7
Create a Tenant Profile
Write a brief professional introduction about yourself for landlords. Include your course, duration of stay, and why you'd be a reliable tenant.
- 8
Act Quickly
When you find a suitable property, be prepared to make a decision and pay a deposit immediately. Good accommodations don't stay available for long.
- 9
View Before Committing (If Possible)
Try to view properties in person or via video call before signing any contract or sending money. If sending someone to view on your behalf, ensure they take detailed photos and videos.
- 10
Understand the Contract
Read your lease carefully before signing. Pay attention to terms regarding rent increases, maintenance responsibilities, and notice periods.
- Paying Without Verification: Never transfer money or pay a deposit without confirming the property and landlord are legitimate.
- Ignoring Location Safety: Prioritizing low rent over safety can lead to security issues and uncomfortable living situations.
- Overlooking Contract Details: Make sure you understand lease duration, break clauses, and deposit protection arrangements.
- Not Budgeting for Extras: Remember to factor in utility costs, internet, transportation, and household supplies when calculating affordability.
- Waiting Until the Last Minute: Starting your search too late limits options and increases stress. Begin your search well in advance.
- Failing to Document Condition: Always take photos of any existing damage when you move in to avoid disputes when moving out.
Special Tips for International Students
Use University International Office
Most Irish universities have dedicated international student support services that can provide accommodation guidance and sometimes guaranteed housing for first-year international students.
Connect With Fellow Nationals
Reach out to students from your country who are already studying in Ireland. They can provide invaluable advice and may know of available accommodations or be looking for roommates.
Budget for Initial Costs
Be prepared for upfront costs including security deposit (typically one month's rent), first month's rent, and possibly agency fees. Having these funds readily available will help you secure accommodation quickly.
Further Information
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