Student Accommodation in Brussels

Are you coming to study in Brussels and need a place to live? When you come to Brussels to study at a university, you might not find a room immediately. This guide will tell you all about student accommodation in Brussels. We will talk about types of housing, rent costs, good neighborhoods, and some important tips to find a place.

Finding student accommodation in Brussels is not easy. The city has big universities like Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) and Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), so many international students come here. This means a lot of people are looking for rooms. You should start looking for a room at least 2 to 3 months before you arrive to study in Belgium. If you plan early, you will have more choices and less stress.

The main options for student housing in Brussels are university housing, private student rooms, shared flats (people here call it a kot or WG), private apartments, and temporary housing. On average, the rent for a student place is between €350 and €650 per month. A shared flat or a university room is usually cheaper than a private apartment.

Brussels has a good public transport system. Many students choose to live in nearby areas, such as Ixelles, Etterbeek, Auderghem, Saint-Gilles, or Bruxelles-Ville. These neighbourhoods are popular with students and are well-connected to the universities. Living a little outside the main city areas can sometimes help you find more affordable rent.

Types of Student Accommodation in Brussels

Brussels has different housing options for students. The accommodation in Brussels includes university housing to private apartments, and shared flats.  With some planning, you can find a good and cheap accommodation in Belgium that fits your budget.

University Housing (VUB and ULB)

Both Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) and Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) provide a limited number of student rooms. These include single rooms, studios, two-person flats, and a few wheelchair-accessible rooms. Demand is much higher than supply, so applying early is very important.

• Average monthly rent: €300–€450
• Cheapest long-term housing option
• Waiting list applies, application needed months in advance

Private Student Residences

Private companies manage these, but often in partnership with universities. They are more expensive but usually well-furnished and include modern facilities like study rooms, gyms, and laundry services. Some popular providers in Brussels are MyKot, Brik, UpKot, Diggit, and Brusselo XL.

• Average monthly rent: €450–€750
• More flexible than university housing
• Higher costs but better facilities

Shared Apartments (Kot or WG)

Shared flats, locally known as kot or WG, are the most common housing choice for students in Brussels. Students share an apartment with flatmates, each having their own bedroom while sharing the kitchen and bathroom. Costs are split among roommates, making it an affordable option.

• Average rent: €350–€600 per month
• Popular websites: Appartager, Immoweb, iKot, Student.be, HousingAnywhere
• Good way to save money and meet new people

Private Apartments & Studios

For students who want more independence, private apartments and studios are widely available in Brussels. This option is more costly and usually requires more paperwork, such as signing a rental contract and arranging insurance. It is a good choice for students moving with family or those who prefer privacy.

• Typical rent: €600–€900 per month
• Websites: Immoweb, ImmoVlan, Nestpick, Spotahome, Rentola
• Tip: Clarify notice periods and deposits before signing the contract

Short-term & Temporary Housing

Many international students book temporary housing when they first arrive in Brussels. Hostels, hotels, and short-term rentals are available until they secure long-term accommodation. This is the safest way to avoid scams and find a place after visiting it in person.

• Rent: €400–€1,000 per month
• Options available on: HousingAnywhere, Spotahome, Nestpick, Facebook groups
• Useful for new students who have just arrived in Brussels

Must-Check: Top Student Checklist Before Moving to Germany

Student Housing in Brussels Cost Comparison 2025

Based on the different types of student housing in Brussels, here is a list of the cheapest to the most expensive options, mentioned in the table below for reference:

So, the cheapest accommodation in Brussels for students is university housing if you manage to get a place. Shared flats are also quite affordable. On the other hand, private apartments, studios, and short-term housing options can be expensive in the long run.

Also Check: Cost of Studying in Belgium

Documents Required for Rent in Brussels

When you want to rent a student accommodation in Brussels, the landlord will usually ask for some documents. There is are high chance that if you miss any of these documents, you can miss a nice accommodation in Brussels. So, it is recommended to keep all your documents ready beforehand. This will make your task easier, and you will be living in better and secure accommodation in Brussels. 

The common documents required for student accommodation in Brussels include:

• Proof of Income: Any document showing that you can pay the rent, such as a scholarship letter, bank statement, or blocked account certificate.
• Copy of Passport or ID: For identification purposes.
• Your passport or ID card.
• Proof you are a student: Your acceptance letter from the university.
• Belgian ID card or visa: If you have it.
• Guarantor details: Some landlords want a parent to sign the contract too.
• Proof you paid the rental deposit: The deposit is usually 2 months’ rent.

Also Check: Universities and Colleges in Belgium

Monthly Cost of Living in Brussels

The cost of living in Brussels is higher compared to many other Belgian cities, since it is the capital and a major international hub. Accommodation in Brussels will be the biggest part of your budget, and costs vary depending on the neighbourhood, size of the place, and distance from the city center.

The estimated monthly costs of living in Brussels for a single person in Brussels are around ₹105,722.5 ( €1,043.7), excluding rent. Your actual expenses for cost of living in Belgium will depend on your lifestyle, but students should prepare their budget well in advance to manage costs smoothly.

Average Monthly Costs in Brussels (without rent):

Note: During the first month, students often face higher costs due to registration, deposits, and setup expenses. Plan your budget accordingly.

Important advice before starting your search for Student Accommodation in Belgium:

• The student housing situation in Brussels is competitive, and it may take time to find the right place. Start your search as early as possible once your admission or exchange nomination is confirmed.
• In Belgium, a student apartment is often called “a kot”. In a kot, you usually have your own private room but share the kitchen and bathroom with other students.
• Budget at least €400 to €500 per month for rent, depending on the location and quality of housing.
• Furnished student room: €350 – €450 (charges included)
• Furnished short-term studio (6 months to 1 year): €450 – €700 (charges not included)
• Non-furnished long-term studio: €600+ (charges not included)
• Always check if utilities such as heating, electricity, and water are included in the rent. If not, the rental contract should clearly explain how these costs are calculated.
• Most landlords will ask for a rental deposit, usually the equivalent of 2 months’ rent for both rooms and apartments.
• If possible, visit the room or apartment in person before signing. If you cannot, ask a trusted contact in Brussels to check it for you. Many students also use Facebook groups and student forums to find or review housing.
• Never send money through Western Union or similar private transfer services. Use only official bank transfers and ask the landlord to provide proper identification, such as a copy of a passport.
• Always sign a written rental contract. Read it carefully and pay attention to notice periods and rules for early termination. If you are unsure about any part of the contract, seek advice before signing.

Welcome to Brussels and good luck with your housing search!