How to Find Student Housing in Belgium

13 February، 2025

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Finding suitable student housing is one of the most important tasks for international and local students planning to study in Belgium. With its vibrant cities, prestigious universities, and diverse cultural environment, Belgium attracts thousands of students each year. However, securing affordable and convenient accommodation can be challenging due to high demand, especially in popular student hubs like Brussels, Leuven, Ghent, and Antwerp. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to find student housing in Belgium and provide tips to make the process smoother.

1. Start Early

The key to finding good student housing is to begin your search as early as possible—ideally 3–6 months before your arrival. Accommodation options fill up quickly, particularly at the start of the academic year (September/October).

2. Understand the Types of Student Housing

Belgium offers a variety of housing options tailored to students’ needs and budgets:

University Dormitories (Koten/Kot/Residences Universitaires)

Managed by universities or private organizations.
Affordable and often located close to campuses.
Shared facilities like kitchens, bathrooms, and common areas are common.
Ideal for first-year students or those on a tight budget.

Private Rooms or Studios (Kot/Private Rentals)

A “kot” is a Belgian term for a single room or small studio apartment rented by students.
Typically includes basic amenities but may require sharing a kitchen or bathroom with other tenants.
Prices vary depending on location and size, ranging from €300 to €700 per month.

Shared Apartments (Colocations)

Renting a room in a shared apartment with other students.
Offers a balance between affordability and independence.
Monthly rent usually ranges from €350 to €600, depending on the city and amenities.

Independent Apartments

Fully self-contained units for students who prefer more privacy.
More expensive than dorms or shared apartments, starting at €600–€1,000+ per month.
Best suited for students with higher budgets or those staying long-term.

3. Use Online Platforms

Several websites specialize in helping students find housing in Belgium:

Student Housing Portals

Kotspot: A popular platform listing rooms, studios, and shared apartments specifically for students.
HousingAnywhere: Connects international students with available rooms and sublets.
Erasmusu: Focuses on student accommodation across Europe, including Belgium.

General Rental Websites

Immoweb: One of Belgium’s largest real estate portals, offering listings for all types of housing.
Zimmo: Another comprehensive site where landlords post rental ads.
Facebook Groups: Many cities have Facebook groups dedicated to student housing (e.g., “Student Housing Brussels”).

University Resources

Most universities have dedicated housing offices or online platforms to assist students:

KU Leuven Housing Service
VUB Housing Office
ULB Housing Platform
UGent Kotweb

4. Network Locally

Building connections can help you secure housing faster:

Join University Forums: Participate in Facebook groups, WhatsApp chats, or forums specific to your university.
Attend Welcome Events: Orientation programs often include information sessions about housing options.
Ask Fellow Students: Reach out to current students or alumni for recommendations or leads on available rooms.

5. Consider Location

Choosing the right neighborhood can significantly impact your experience:

Proximity to Campus: Living near your university saves time and transportation costs.
Public Transport Access: Ensure there are bus, tram, or metro stops nearby if you’re farther from campus.
Safety and Amenities: Look for areas with grocery stores, cafes, and other conveniences.

Popular student neighborhoods:

Brussels: Etterbeek, Ixelles, Saint-Gilles
Leuven: Central Leuven, Heverlee
Ghent: Gent-Sint-Pieters, Gentbrugge
Antwerp: Berchem, Deurne

6. Budget Wisely

Accommodation costs vary widely depending on the city:

Brussels: Most expensive, with rents averaging €450–€800+ per month.
Leuven and Ghent: Moderate prices, typically €350–€650 per month.
Smaller Cities (e.g., Liège, Mons): More affordable, ranging from €300–€550 per month.

In addition to rent, factor in utilities (water, electricity, internet), which can add €50–€100 monthly.

7. Prepare Your Documents

Landlords and housing agencies often require specific documents to verify your eligibility:

Proof of enrollment at a Belgian university.
Copy of your passport or ID.
Financial proof (bank statements, scholarship letters, etc.).
Reference letter from a previous landlord (if applicable).

For international students, having a Belgian guarantor (someone who guarantees payment) may also be necessary, though some platforms offer alternatives like deposit insurance.

8. Be Cautious of Scams

Unfortunately, rental scams are common, especially among international students. To protect yourself:

Avoid paying deposits or rent upfront without verifying the landlord’s identity.
Inspect the property in person or via video call before signing any agreements.
Use trusted platforms and avoid deals that seem too good to be true.

9. Explore Temporary Housing Options

If you’re unable to secure permanent housing before arriving, consider short-term solutions:

Hostels or Guesthouses: Affordable and flexible for a few weeks.
Airbnb: Useful for temporary stays while searching for long-term accommodation.
Sublets: Rent a room from students leaving for holidays or internships.

Universities often provide emergency housing lists for incoming students.

10. Negotiate Rent and Terms

Don’t hesitate to negotiate rent or ask questions about the lease agreement:

Clarify what’s included in the rent (utilities, internet, etc.).
Check the policy on maintenance, repairs, and security deposits.
Confirm the duration of the lease and termination conditions.