Student halls of residence in Rome

In this article, we tell you everything you need to know about student residences in Rome. From their advantages and disadvantages to information about private and university dorms, including how to find cheap residences and answers to the most frequently asked questions that arise from students every year.

The Eternal City, with its history, Italian culture and delicious gastronomy, is one of the preferred destinations for international students every year, especially those who go on Erasmus. For this reason, we recommend that you start searching for accommodation as soon as possible. This way you’ll have more options to choose from and more chances of finding the ideal accommodation for you more quickly.

Pros and cons of living in a residence in Rome

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

Pros of living in student dorms in Rome

You can meet students as soon as you arrive in the Eternal City, so you won’t feel alone!
Many residences have air conditioning and heating. This isn’t always the case in private flats, but it’s very important that you consider it! In Rome, summer is usually very hot and humid (with temperatures varying between 25º and 35º C), and in winter it can get freezing at night (minimum temperatures during the day are around 5ºC).
They have common spaces to enjoy with other residents which may include: gym, study rooms, gardens, living and games room, washing machine area, spa, outdoor terrace, and common kitchen.
Their locations are usually close to campuses of the different Universities of Rome.
They typically offer services included in the price such as 24 hour security and cleaning of common areas. They may also offer other services, which are usually charged separately from the rental price, such as laundry, room cleaning, food and even training in the gym.

Cons of living in student dorms in Rome

Some of them are not modern or remodelled, which makes the atmosphere not very welcoming. The furniture can also be old, although it’s frequently comfortable. We recommend that you bring photographs or decorative objects so you can feel more comfortable.
They often charge a one-time administration fee when reserving your place, which can reach up to €150 or even more. In addition, you can request that a separate payment be made for the cleaning rate (normally around €50).
There may be rules regarding moving schedules, even having to pay extra if you want to do it on a weekend.
The common areas can be shared between many people, so they can sometimes be crowded. Because of this, you may have to wait for your turn to, for example, cook.

Private student residences in Rome

Many of the private student residences in Rome have different characteristics than the residences in other cities in Italy and the world. Some do have the normal services and facilities that make the stay more comfortable, but in many cases, they simply function as buildings with apartments with their own common spaces.

The most common type of accommodation offered by private residences are private rooms. Some may have a private bathroom, but it’s normally shared with the other rooms in the apartments. You can also find shared rooms, which are usually cheaper, but this isn’t always the case.

Among the facilities that private residences have you can find: gym, washing machine area, spa, outdoor terrace, and shared kitchen for everyone to use.

Private residences also usually offer some services that differentiate them as accommodation compared to private apartments. For example, the cleaning of common areas is run by the establishment itself, so you won’t have to agree on a schedule with your colleagues. In addition, they may offer other services (which are usually charged separately) such as cleaning of rooms, laundry, and food, which can be on half board basis (breakfast and one meal) or full board (breakfast and two meals).

University student halls of residence in Rome

Note that it’s not common for universities in the Italian capital to have their own residences. In fact, usually, living in university residences at some institutions isn’t an alternative for students. For this reason, young people tend to choose between private residences and private shared apartments. These two alternatives also allow you to live with other people, making the stay fun and enjoyable.

University Residences of the University of Rome La Sapienza

This prestigious institution doesn’t have its own residences. However, if you want to know about the accommodation near the Sapienza University of Rome, read this article.

University Residence Halls of the University of Roma Tre

This University doesn’t have its own residences either, but it does have agreements with some private ones so that students can request accommodation. However, sometimes they accept residents on merit, so they don't guarantee that you can have a place either.

If you want to know about accommodation near Roma Tre University, read this article.

Rent cheap student residences in Rome

To rent a cheap student residence in the Italian capital, we recommend that you use our Erasmus Play search engine. You’ll have the possibility of comparing between all private and verified residences available in the Eternal City, filtering between your preferences and choosing the ideal one for you easily. Once the reservation has been made, 100% online and securely, you can start planning other aspects of your stay, such as the places you want to visit. Don't forget to include the pretty Villa Borghese and the Parco dell'Appia Antica!

Frequently Asked Questions about student dorms in Rome

What are the requirements to apply for a place in a student residence in Rome?
The most common requirements that they usually have are to be enrolled in a University of Rome and present a valid identity document. Some residences choose their students based on merit, so in that case you’ll have to present your grades.
How much does a student residence cost in Rome?
The minimum cost of a single room in a private residence is frequently €380 per month. However, you have to look carefully at what that price includes and what you have to pay as a one-time expense (administrative fee, moving fee, among others).
Which is cheaper, an apartment or a student residence in Rome?
The cheapest type of accommodation is a shared room, and you’ll find more options in private apartments. They can range from €190 onwards per person. However, keep in mind that residences have higher prices due to the amenities and services they offer to their residents.
When to book a student residence in Rome?
As soon as possible! Rome is a city that welcomes numerous students every year, both Italian and international. This means that the demand for accommodation is very high, so you should start looking for your housing as soon as you’re accepted by the university where you’re going to study.
Are there female and male university residences in Rome?
Although the most common are mixed residences, you’ll find both female and male residences in the Italian city. We remind you that you should do your search well in advance, especially if you have an exclusive preference like this one.