Are you thinking about renting accommodation in a student residence in Katowice? Then this article is for you! Here we tell you everything you need to know: from the pros and cons of the available options, to details about private and university residences, how to find affordable accommodation, and answers to the most common questions asked by students. Let's get started! Or, as the Poles would say, zaczynajmy!
Below we mention the most notable pros and cons of living in this type of housing:
The reality is that there aren’t many options in the private sector, but there are some student residences that you can choose to live in for a while in the Polish city. They’re usually located in neighbourhoods that allow easy access to educational centres and leisure areas frequented by students, such as the Paderewskiego neighbourhood.
In terms of accommodation types, residences offer different types designed for single occupants. On the one hand, there are single rooms. These rooms are generally equipped with a double bed, a workspace, storage space, and a private bathroom. On the other hand, there are studio flats, which can vary in size and may also have a balcony. This option is more expensive because they have their own kitchenette, while residents in rooms have access to shared kitchens.
Among the shared facilities that you can find in private residences in Katowice are usually the following: fully equipped shared kitchens, co-working spaces, gyms, laundries, and relaxation areas. Some of them may also have cinema rooms and secure bicycle storage.
The rental cost generally covers all utility expenses, including water, gas, and electricity. This includes the use of heating, which is essential in the Polish winter. In addition, other services are offered, such as internet connection, 24-hour security, and, on occasion, the organisation of planned events.
In this section, we refer to the residences offered by the institutions themselves, i.e., those managed by the universities. Because of this, we can tell you that they are usually located near the different campuses of each university, offering convenient locations for different students. For example, some of the neighbourhoods where they can be found are Ligota, Sosnowiec and Cieszyn.
The types of accommodation available include single and shared rooms, adapted to different preferences and budgets. Some residences have studio flats with private bathrooms and kitchens, while others have rooms that share common facilities, such as kitchens and bathrooms.
Speaking of common areas, in addition to shared kitchens and bathrooms, there are usually some areas that encourage interaction among residents. For example, they often include study and television rooms, gyms, and recreational spaces such as games rooms.
The services included generally cover internet access, 24-hour security, heating, cleaning and maintenance of the facilities. Some residences also organise cultural and social activities to enrich the students' experience. As for additional services, the use of laundries or gyms may be available free of charge or at a minimal cost.
This institution has residences in various parts of the city, all close to its faculties. They also offer easy access to sports facilities, canteens, and other university facilities, making living there quite convenient.
Would you like to find affordable accommodation in this lively Polish city? Through the Erasmus Play search engine, you can compare different private and verified options, tailored to the period you will be staying. In addition, you can make your booking completely online and securely, resolving the issue of accommodation quickly and without complications. This will give you more time to plan the best of your experience, such as exploring the rich Polish cuisine or visiting historical sites in Katowice and its surroundings.
It’s usually necessary to be a student at a local university, such as the University of Silesia or the Silesian University of Technology. A formal application must be submitted, including documents such as proof of enrolment or acceptance at the university. Places are usually given on a priority basis to international students or those with greater financial needs.
It varies depending on whether it’s university or private accommodation. University halls of residence are usually cheaper, with prices ranging from approximately €100 to €200 per month, depending on the type of room and the services offered. On the other hand, private halls of residence tend to be more expensive, with prices ranging from €250 to €500 per month, but they offer greater comfort, more modern facilities and additional services.
In Katowice, university halls of residence are usually cheaper than renting a room in a shared flat. This is because halls of residence are subsidised by universities and offer basic services included in the cost. However, rooms in shared flats can provide greater privacy and flexibility, albeit at a higher cost.
It’s important to apply as soon as possible, as places are limited and are allocated on a priority or need basis. Applications for university accommodation usually open before the start of the academic year, generally between May and July. It’s advisable to check the exact dates with the relevant university, as they may vary depending on the institution.
They usually include basic services such as internet, heating, 24-hour security, and facility maintenance. They also typically offer access to shared kitchens, study rooms, laundries, and social areas. However, services such as the use of gyms, laundries, or parking may incur an additional cost. Generally, meals and cleaning services are not included in private rooms.