Coming to study in Rotterdam? Good choice! You’re going to love it here. But where do international students normally live? And how do you go about arranging accommodation that’s good for your studies – and for Rotterdam student life? Luckily there are lots of organisations to help. Just take things step by step.
- Step 1: register with student housing organisations
There are various organisations set up to help international students find accommodation in Rotterdam. Organisations like Housing Anywhere, SSH, Stadswonen Rotterdam and The Student Hotel are specifically aimed at students. Be sure to register at one or more of these as soon as possible. Generally they have waiting lists so the sooner you register the more likely you are to get the place you want.
- Step 2: get oriented
Next you need to pick which district of Rotterdam you’d like to live in – and decide whether you want to be on- or off-campus. The very nice district of Kralingen is home to both the Erasmus University and the Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences. It offers plenty of options for both independent living and campus life.
If living on or around the campus is your preference, SSH is a very good option. See their handy property locator to find out where currently available properties are located. Their website also has a lot of good information for international students and staff and explains in a lot more detail what steps you need to take.
If you prefer to live more independently and not necessarily around the campus, it’s probably best to register with an organisation like Housing Anywhere. This puts landlords in touch with prospective students giving you the chance to chat with them directly through an online dashboard. Check out their current properties on their interactive map. Nestpick is another good option offering thousands of furnished rentals throughout the city.
Last but not least, take a look at the groups on Facebook offering accommodation for international students.
- Step 3: do some viewings
Ideally, of course, it’s best to view your accommodation in person before committing – although that means making a special trip to Holland (which is actually a good thing, right?). In fact, for some of the student housing organisations it may be obligatory to visit the property in some shared accommodation so you can meet the other housemates. Some places operate the very Dutch system of “hospiteren” where you will be invited to meet everyone and introduce yourself before they vote among themselves who they’d like to be their new housemate. Don’t worry, it’s not as scary as it sounds. And it only applies to certain SSH properties.
- Step 4: living in Rotterdam
As a student it’s pretty easy to settle down in the city. There are many great neighbourhoods all with their own particular vibes to choose from. The main universities are located in the district of Kralingen-Crooswijk. This is a lively melting pot of a place with a wide choice of housing options, shops and restaurants plus a lake that’s great for water sports or for just wandering around. In Centrum, you’ll be close to all the shops and nightlife as well as the central station. Delfshaven, on the west side of the city, provides a mix of affordable accommodation as well as a glimpse of the city’s historical past with waterside bars and restaurants – and even a windmill. Feijenoord, most famous for the Eredivisie football team, is a district on the south of the city over the Erasmus bridge and currently enjoying a bit of a renaissance. And then there’s the Noord district behind the central station which has lot of great (but pricier) apartments in gorgeous properties dating back to the last century.
If you need any general help or advice about living in Rotterdam, take a look at the Rotterdam Expat Centre. It’s got loads more information about every aspect of moving to and living in this amazing city. Good luck with your move and we look forward to seeing you around!
