How to find living accommodation while studying in Ireland

How to find living accommodation while studying in Ireland: Known for its rich heritage, scenic landscapes, and a welcoming environment, Ireland is home to some of the best universities around the globe. However, in order to study in one of the Irish universities, you need to find a place to stay in. International students going to study in Ireland might have a difficult time finding a place to stay at. If you are new to the city and don’t know anyone, you can’t ask for anyone for recommendations and suggestions. But you need to find a place to stay even before you make friends. So how do you go about finding accommodation? Here are a few tips and pointers to help you ease the anxiety of finding a suitable accommodation.

Accommodation options

Student accommodation in Ireland can be categorized into four types, with varying costs:

• On-campus accommodation - Campus residence is the most popular choice of students but it is relatively expensive. It is organized as apartments for 4 - 8 students, with a private bedrooms and a shared kitchen, living room and/or bathroom. Rent is paid at the beginning of each semester. Utility bills like heating, electricity could cost extra, though many dorm expenses include them in the initial charge.
• Long-term hostel – this option is very popular in Europe. The availability of hostel near the college of your choice could be limited so you will have to do thorough research. You share room with other students and your monthly rent includes use of a common living area and kitchen. Meals could be inclusive but most places don’t provide for prepared meals.
• Home stay - You can live as a paying guest with an Irish family, you will have your own room but otherwise share the house with the family. This is popular with students attending language schools or short courses. Meals are usually provided and there are no extra charges for heat, electricity, laundry etc.
• Rented apartment - The options include bed-sit, apartment or sharing a house. A bed-sit is a single room with mini-kitchen area, bed and some furniture. Bathroom is shared with other tenants of the building. An apartment will have a kitchen and living room, bathroom and bedrooms. If you decide to share your apartment with other students then it can be the cheapest option, as bills are divided.

Rent is usually paid by month and in advance. Initially you will pay a deposit of one month's rent which is refundable on the end of tenancy. The average length of lease is 9 or 12 months, and anything shorter is hardtop find.

How to find accommodation

Accommodation Officer - at every university/college there is an accommodation officer who can advise you about the kind of accommodation that fits your needs and budget the best. At their office you will be able to go through lists of available places. You can get in touch with the officer over email before you leave for Ireland, and get your accommodation booked as soon as possible. Or you can book a hostel for a period and start your search once you arrive.

Internet - Daft is the most popular renting website where you can find apartments and house shares.

Costs to consider

• Connection charges for electricity and cooking gas may have to be paid. Deposit cost could be €150 and upwards. It is refundable or offset against your bills.
• You will need your own bedding, mattress and a few kitchen utensils.
• You need a TV license (€160 per year) to own a color TV.
• Cost of heat and electricity - €40 to €140 per month depending on the amount consumed.
• If you are moving into an occupied or shared apartment, then some of these costs will have been already met.

Tips for renting off-campus

• International students need to start searching early as you need to get familiar with the city first.
• Check out the properties you are considering renting in person and online. If you know someone in the city, ask them for recommendations.
• Research the public transportation connectivity between your university and potential property where you might live. Some areas may not be easy to travel by bus or tram. Know beforehand how much time you will need for travelling and the costs involved.
• Do not rush and take the first available place even if you are under pressure. Always be wary of scams.

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