If you're going to study in this Belgian city, you're probably looking for student residences in Leuven. In this article you’ll find all the key information you need to choose the ideal residence for you: pros and cons of living in halls of residence, private and university options, tips on finding affordable accommodation and FAQs. Let's go!
Characteristics of this type of accommodation are:
Leuven, known for its student atmosphere, offers a variety of student residences, located in different neighbourhoods of the city, such as Heverlee, Naamsestraat and the historic city centre. These areas are well connected to major Universities, such as KU Leuven.
Among the accommodation options available, it’s common to find single studio flats, shared flats and rooms in residential buildings. Single rooms usually have private bathrooms, while cheaper rooms may share bathrooms and kitchens with other students. Studio flats tend to be more spacious and private, ideal for those seeking more independence.
Common-use facilities include fully equipped kitchens, laundry and study areas. Some residences also offer access to gyms, games rooms and social areas, which encourage the formation of a community among residents. In addition, some buildings have gardens or courtyards for outdoor enjoyment.
As for services, residences usually include access to internet, water, electricity, gas, cleaning of common areas and maintenance. Other services, such as room cleaning, the possibility of renting bed linen or the use of parking, may be available at an additional cost.
Another important fact to keep in mind is that in Leuven it’s common to find ‘kots’, a typical accommodation in Belgium. These are generally rooms in shared houses or flats, offering more independence and a closer experience to local life, but with less centralised services and administrative support.
In this section we’ll talk about the residences offered by Universities in the Belgian city, such as the Catholic University of Leuven. As expected, these residences are strategically located near the campuses and institutions, offering easy access to classrooms and other facilities. For example, in Leuven, some of them are located in the historic centre, Naamsestraat and areas close to the park Sint-Donatus, providing both a cultural and academic environment.
In university residences, the type of accommodation usually varies from single rooms to studio flats, ideal for those who prefer more independence. Single rooms usually include a desk and bed and, in some cases, a private bathroom, while more affordable options offer shared bathrooms and kitchens. Studio flats have private kitchens and bathrooms.
Common-use facilities in these residences include shared kitchens, study rooms and, in many cases, recreational areas. Laundry areas, bicycle storage spaces and lounge areas for socialising are common. Some also offer music rooms and fitness areas, but not all do.
The Catholic University of Leuven offers places in its residences to registered students. Generally an annual contract is required, with the possibility of renewal depending on the conditions of each residence. In some, preference is given to first-year or international students, so be aware of this.
If you want to know about accommodation near KU Leuven, read this article.
To find an affordable residence in Leuven, you can use search platforms like Erasmus Play. In our search engine you’ll be able to see the private residences verified and available for your stay in Leuven. Once you have booked safely and online, you can continue with another important search: a second-hand or rented bicycle, ideal for getting around the city and saving on transport!
The requirements vary, but generally you are required to register with an educational institution in Leuven, a security deposit and to sign a rental contract, which can be for semester or yearly periods.
The main difference is that halls of residence are usually buildings run by Universities or companies, with more amenities and common areas, whereas a ‘kot’ is a type of shared accommodation, usually in a house, where students rent individual rooms and share a kitchen and bathroom. Kots offer a more social and independent experience, while residences have a more formal structure.
The cost varies depending on whether it’s private or University-run. University halls of residence run by KU Leuven tend to cost between €300 and €600 per month, depending on the type of room and services included. Private residences, on the other hand, tend to be more expensive, with prices ranging from €400 to €800 per month, often offering more modern or additional facilities such as gyms or cleaning services. Prices also depend on the location and size of the accommodation.
Yes, there are scholarships for student residences, both from the University and from external organisations. KU Leuven offers financial aid to students with financial difficulties, and some exchange programmes, such as Erasmus, also include support for accommodation costs. These grants usually depend on the student's financial situation and academic performance, and it’s important to meet certain requirements to be eligible.
In Leuven, most university residences are coeducational, but there are also some specific options for female or male students, especially in more traditional or religious residences. However, these options are more limited and tend to have specific and strict cohabitation rules.