Ireland is a dynamic, lively, modern country with a young population and a successful, technologically-orientated economy. Yet it remains a country where music, conversation, culture, traditions and time to relax, listen and make friends matters; a country with cultured, cosmopolitan cities and beautiful, unspoiled countryside and scenery.
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Organising accommodation before you depart for Ireland is essential. Your institution may have pre-booked accommodation for you, or you might need to organise this yourself.
Most institutions will ensure that they can offer accommodation for international students for at least their first year, but this isn’t guaranteed. When you are accepted on a course, you will likely be sent an accommodation pack and details of an accommodation office with staff that can help you find housing. Institutions strongly advise students to take advantage of this resource, as accommodation officers will have the information and contacts to help you find affordable and well-located student accommodation easily and quickly.
When researching your accommodation choices, you may wish to consider:
Below are some of the main types of accommodation available to students:
On-campus/halls of residence
Approximate cost: €500-600 per month
On-campus accommodation comes in various forms, ranging from shared or private rooms to one bedroom flats, and can be catered or self-catered with private or shared bathrooms. The majority will have a kitchen, typically shared by four to eight students, though some accommodation is catered and food will be served in a dining hall. You may be able to choose to live in a single-sex residence.
On-campus accommodation is a popular choice for students as most campuses are located near the institution and provide services such as shops and laundry. It’s also a great way to meet people and share your experience with other students. Basic facilities and bills will be included in your rent, which varies greatly according to location and room type. Students should apply for accommodation as early as possible to secure their preferred room type.
Host family
Approximate cost: €125-180 per week
You may be offered the opportunity to live with a host family during your studies; this is the most common type of accommodation for language students. It’s a great way to practise speaking English and learn about Irish culture. You will be allocated your own private room and will be treated as a member of the family - sharing other facilities and being included in their activities. Students are also normally given morning and evening meals. You may be expected to help with household chores, and sometimes may also need to contribute financially to bills and accommodation costs.
Private rental
Approximate cost: €380-750 per month, plus bills
Alternatively you can rent a private flat, or room in a shared house; this usually entails your own private room with shared kitchen and bathroom facilities. This option often suits those wanting independence. In most cases bills will not be included in the monthly rent; you will need to agree how you are going to share these, as well as the cleaning duties, with your other housemates.
You should be aware that there may be a minimum lease; often six to twelve months, and a deposit is usually required to cover possible damage, refundable when the tenancy ends. Students wishing to privately rent are advised to arrive in Ireland a few weeks before their course starts in order to secure a place, as most landlords will not reserve accommodation without signing a contract. It is advisable to make sure you have seen the accommodation before handing over any money. Consult your institution’s accommodation office for advice about renting privately.
For more information about accommodation in Ireland, visit Discover Ireland or the Irish Council for International Students.
Last updated: 8 September 2011
