Accommodation in Ireland for International Students

Table of Contents:

1. Student accommodation in Ireland- Key highlights
2. General Cost of Living in Ireland
3. Types of International Student Accommodation in Ireland
4. Housing Options
5.  On vs. off-campus housing cost
6. Accommodation Cost in Ireland
7. City-Wise Accommodation Cost in Ireland (Monthly)
8. Documents required for accommodation in Ireland
9. How to Secure Accommodation in Ireland?
10. Frequently Asked Questions

When an international student chooses to study abroad, settling into a new country begins once accommodation is secured. After receiving admission, the next important task is finding the ideal place to live—a space that feels like home. 

While away from your home country, selecting the right housing option that fits your budget, lifestyle, and availability is crucial to ensuring a smooth and successful study-abroad experience.

Student accommodation in Ireland- Key highlights

• Variety of Options: Students can choose from on-campus accommodation, host family arrangements, shared rentals, or private apartments.
• Cost Considerations: Rented apartments and shared accommodations are more budget-friendly than on-campus options.
• University Support: Many top universities in Ireland provide dedicated housing options for international students.
• Proximity to Campus: On-campus housing provides easy access to university facilities, while off-campus options may require commuting.
• Early Planning: Due to high demand, securing accommodation early is important, especially for on-campus housing.

General Cost of Living in Ireland

Details	Cost
Estimated monthly cost for a single person	€2,728
Estimated monthly cost for a family of four	€4,809
Acceptable standard of living income	Around €450 per week, which is about €3 more than the minimum wage
Monthly rent for furnished accommodation	€2,174- For expensive area€1,769- For normal area

Types of International Student Accommodation in Ireland

On-Campus Housing

• Students can live in residence halls on or near the university campus, providing easy access to university services.
• Typically, 4-8 students share these spaces, with options for private rooms and shared kitchen, bathroom, and living areas.
• Rent is usually paid in two installments (September and February), and a deposit equivalent to one month’s rent is often required.
• Facilities include WiFi, furniture, electricity, and heating, with optional services like catered meals and cleaning available at extra cost.

Off-Campus Housing

• Students can share rented apartments with others, split the rent, or opt for a private apartment, though this can be more expensive.
• Host family accommodation is also an option, where students live with a local family and pay monthly rent.
• Rent for off-campus housing is typically paid monthly, with landlords often requiring a three-month advance and a 9-12-month lease.
• Some landlords may withhold the deposit if tenants leave early or if there is damage to the property.

Housing Options: 

On-campus housing

• Halls of residence
• Private rooms

Off-campus housing

• Rented apartment (shared or single)
• Staying with a host family 

 On vs. off-campus housing cost

Type of Student Accommodation in Ireland	Price of Student Housing in Ireland
On-Campus with food	€600 – 900
On-Campus without food	€1,000 – 1,200
Off-campus, own studio/apartment	€800 – 1,200
Off-campus, shared apartment	€150 – 250

Accommodation Cost in Ireland

When looking for universities, checking students’ rent prices in Ireland is important. Living closer to your university can enhance your social life, and although rent can be higher, it also saves on transportation costs.

To begin, decide on the university you plan to attend. After admission, search for affordable student accommodations in Ireland or contact us for assistance in finding city-wise accommodation costs.

City-Wise Accommodation Cost in Ireland (Monthly)

City	Monthly Expense (EUR)
Dublin	1,000 – 1,300
Cork	900 – 1,100
Galway	800 – 1,000
Maynooth	800 – 1,000
Limerick	800 – 1,000
Athlone	700 – 900
Letterkenny	700 – 900

What documents are required for accommodation in Ireland for International Students?

• Proof of Identity
• Student ID
• Proof of Address
• Financial Documents
• Accommodation Application Form
• References
• Deposit Payment

How to Secure Accommodation in Ireland?

Step 1: Research & Planning: Explore on-campus dormitories, shared apartments, private studios, or homestays. Consider your budget and preferred location (near campus, lively downtown, or a quieter suburb). Determine how much you can afford and research average rental prices in your chosen area. Be mindful of on-campus application deadlines.

Step 2: Utilizing Resources: Contact your university’s housing office to understand application procedures and available options. Utilize Irish rental websites like daft.ie or rent.ie. University-affiliated portals might also offer listings. Refine your search by location, budget, and accommodation type.

Step 3: Reviews & Information Gathering: Gain insights into the quality of different accommodations, management style, and overall experience. Explore proximity to amenities, transportation links, and any potential issues raised by previous tenants.

Step 4: Be Budget-Conscious: Research average rents for different housing types. Consider cost-saving options like shared flats or off-campus locations. Include utilities, internet, and transportation costs when calculating your total living expenses.

Step 5: Understanding Lease Terms & Costs: Request virtual tours from landlords or property managers to assess potential accommodations. Ensure you understand terms like duration, rental amount, and additional costs. Check if the lease length aligns with your study program.

Step 6: Additional Documentation: This outlines your rights and responsibilities as a tenant. Read it carefully and request clarification if needed. Prepare necessary documents like ID, university enrollment confirmation, or references.

Step 7: Secure Your Place & Pay Deposit: Deposits are typically one or two months’ rent. Confirm payment methods and deadlines. In Ireland, landlords must use a government-approved Deposit Protection Scheme. Ensure your deposit is protected under this scheme.

Step 8: Prepare for Arrival: Create a list of items you’ll need upon arrival like bedding, kitchen utensils, and toiletries. Arrange for electricity, water, gas, and internet connections in your name (if necessary).

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for on-campus accommodation?

You can apply for on-campus accommodation once you receive your university admission offer. Applications are usually done through the university’s housing office, and spots are limited, so it’s important to apply early.

Is a deposit required for student accommodation?

Yes, it is common for most accommodation places to require a deposit. Generally, such deposits for on-campus residences tend to go for one month’s rental charges. In the case of off-campus housing, however, property owners and agents usually ask for a deposit ranging from 1-2 months of the rent but is released back to the tenant at the end of the lease period, given the place has not been damaged.

How early should I start looking for accommodation?

It’s advisable to start looking for accommodation as soon as you receive your university offer. On-campus housing has early deadlines, and off-campus options can fill up quickly, especially in major cities like Dublin, Cork, and Galway.

 Can I work while living in student accommodation?

Indeed, foreign students can take on a part-time job (not exceeding 20 hours per week) during the academic session and a full-time job during the holidays. The majority of the matriculated students, whether staying on campus or outside, have part-time jobs to cover their living expenses.

Are there accommodation options specifically for international students?

Many Irish colleges and universities offer international students, as they seem to have a more elaborate structure for on-campus housing, especially for international students. They also look for host family accommodation as it allows them to experience Irish culture and learn the language.