Let’s be honest: Amsterdam has a housing crisis. International student numbers have exploded, and available rooms haven’t kept pace. Finding a place takes persistence, but thousands of students manage it every year — here’s how.
University Housing
Both the University of Amsterdam (UvA) and Vrije Universiteit (VU) reserve housing for international students through DUWO and other housing corporations. This is your best option as a first-year international student.
- UvA reserved housing: Rooms in student complexes across the city — from €350–600/month. Apply as soon as you receive your offer letter.
- VU reserved housing: Similar system, with complexes near the VU campus in Buitenveldert and further out in Amstelveen.
The bad news: UvA and VU housing isn’t guaranteed. Apply early and have a Plan B.
Private Market
De Pijp: The “Latin Quarter” of Amsterdam. Albert Cuyp market, international food, 10 min bike to UvA. Rooms €500–800/month.
Oost: East Amsterdam, near Oosterpark. Diverse, up-and-coming. Rooms €450–750/month.
West (Bos en Lommer, De Baarsjes): Formerly working-class, now a mix of cultures. Rooms €400–700/month.
Noord: Across the IJ river (free ferry, 5 min). Former shipyards turned creative hub. Can be cheaper — rooms €400–650/month. Check the ferry schedule before committing.
Diemen & Amstelveen: Suburbs on the metro/tram network. 20–30 min to the city centre. Rooms €350–600/month.
Housing Platforms
- Kamernet.nl — The primary platform for rooms (kamers). Paid membership required to respond to listings.
- Studentenwoningweb.nl — Student housing corporation portal. Register early (waiting time matters).
- Facebook groups — “Amsterdam Housing” and “Kamer Gezocht Amsterdam” are active.
FAQ
How hard is it really? Difficult but not impossible. Start 3–4 months before arrival. Expect to respond to 20+ listings before landing a room. What’s a realistic budget? €400–700/month for a room in shared housing. €800–1,200/month for a studio (if you can get one). What about health insurance? EU students use EHIC. Non-EU students need Dutch public health insurance (zorgverzekering, ~€130/month). SafetyWing works as a temporary bridge.