0 Student halls of residence in Madeira

For both exchange students and those undertaking a full course, many young people choose the comfort of student residences in Madeira. Here, you’ll find useful information about accommodation options on this Portuguese island. We explore the advantages and disadvantages of different types of residences, including university-managed and private ones. Additionally, we guide you on where to find affordable alternatives and answer the most common questions regarding this type of accommodation.

Advantages and disadvantages of living in student residences in Madeira

These are the most notable pros and cons of this type of accommodation in the Portuguese city:

Pros of living in student residences in Madeira

Coexistence within university residences fosters a multicultural and inclusive environment, providing students with the opportunity to meet people from diverse backgrounds and cultures.
These residences are typically located in central areas of Funchal, ensuring convenient access to the university, public transport, and essential city services.
Compared to renting shared apartments, university residences generally offer more affordable prices.
Madeira’s close proximity to both mountains and beaches allows students to strike a healthy balance between their studies and outdoor activities.

Cons of living in student residences in Madeira

Rooms in university residences are typically small and shared.
These residences usually operate under established schedules and coexistence regulations, which may feel somewhat restrictive, especially in a city renowned for its vibrant lifestyle.
Sharing a room or common areas can be challenging, particularly for students accustomed to living independently prior to arriving in Madeira.
Accommodation demand in Madeira is high, both from tourists and students, which can make securing a place in university residences difficult.
Many residences accommodate non-student tenants as well, resulting in frequent changes in flatmates.

Private student residences in Madeira

It’s worth noting that Madeira doesn’t typically have private student residences. However, there are plenty of co-living spaces, which offer a similar setup. The main difference is that co-livings welcome not only students but also young professionals and freelancers. As a result, monthly rental prices are usually a bit higher than in traditional student residences.

In terms of accommodation types, single rooms are the most common option. Most of these have private bathrooms, although there are also some rooms with shared bathroom facilities.

Co-living spaces usually include a range of shared areas, such as kitchens, lounges, coworking spaces, and sometimes gyms or terraces. These environments are designed to encourage community living, and often organise group activities, workshops, or social events for residents.

One key advantage of co-living is that they tend to offer more flexible rental contracts. Unlike student residences, which often follow the academic calendar, co-livings usually allow for monthly or even weekly stays, making them ideal for those looking for short-term arrangements.

University halls of residence in Madeira

In this section, we refer to the accommodation offered by institutions based in Madeira. These university residences are usually located in central areas of Funchal, including Santa Maria Street. This gives students easy access not only to the University of Madeira campus but also to the city’s main entertainment and leisure spots. Public transport connections are also close by, making it easy to get around the island.

The most common type to find are shared rooms.These rooms may come with a private bathroom or share bathroom facilities with other rooms. Some single rooms are available, though they are less common, and priority is often given to university researchers when allocating them.

As for common facilities, university residences in Madeira usually offer more basic amenities compared to private housing. These typically include dining areas and equipped kitchens, study rooms, and recreation rooms with sofas and televisions.

Residences of the University of Madeira

This institution offers places in some of its residences, but they only have shared rooms.

If you want to know about the accommodation near the University of Madeira, check out this article.

Rent cheap student residences in Madeira

Using search engines like Erasmus Play, comparing and choosing among the student residences available in Madeira is simple and secure. Our platform allows you to filter your search by price, room type, and included services, helping you find the ideal option. Plus, you can book online with complete peace of mind. Remember, securing your accommodation in advance frees you up to focus on other aspects of your Madeira experience, such as exploring its trails, beaches, and the lively atmosphere of downtown Funchal.

FAQ’s about student residences in Madeira

What are the requirements for living in a student residence in Madeira?

To live in a student residence in Madeira, you must be enrolled in a local educational institution, complete the housing application within the established deadlines, and submit documentation such as valid identification and proof of enrollment. You must also pay the applicable fees, which may include a security deposit, and accept the residence's living arrangements.

What's cheaper, a room in an apartment or a student residence in Madeira?

In Madeira, university residences are often cheaper than renting a room in a shared apartment. For example, the residences at the University of Madeira offer shared rooms for approximately 150€ per month. In contrast, renting a room in a shared apartment in Funchal typically ranges from 250€ to 300€ per month.

When should you apply for a student residence in Madeira?

It's essential to pay attention to the deadlines established by the corresponding institution. For example, the University of Madeira typically opens its application period for international students between December 31 and January 1. However, these periods may vary depending on the type of student and the academic year.

Are there male and female university residences in Madeira?

Most residences and co-living spaces are mixed gender, so there’s usually no option for single-sex dorms. That said, shared rooms tend to be given to people who are single.

What services do student residences in Madeira typically include?

They typically include basic services such as high-speed internet access, regular cleaning of common areas, and 24-hour security. They also offer facilities including laundry facilities, study rooms, equipped dining rooms, and recreational areas to encourage socializing. Some accommodations also offer additional services, such as parking and vending machines, although these may incur an additional cost.