How to Find a Student Room in the Netherlands?

Why is it so difficult to find student housing in the Netherlands?

Every year, thousands of Dutch and international students move to cities across the country. Popular study destinations such as Amsterdam, Utrecht and Groningen face huge housing shortages. The main problem? The housing market is scattered. Some rooms are listed on rental platforms, others on social media, and many are passed on through personal networks. Without the right tools, it’s nearly impossible to get an overview of 100% of the available rooms.

Useful tips to find a student room quickly

1. Start your search early

Don’t wait until the end of summer. Many rooms are advertised months before the academic year starts. The earlier you begin, the better your chances.

2. Use your network

Ask friends, classmates or family if they know someone renting a room. Word-of-mouth is still one of the most effective ways to find student housing.

3. Use Stekkies.com – 100% of all listings in one place

The smartest way to find a room in the Netherlands is through Stekkies.com. Stekkies is unique because it combines all available rooms from the private rental market AND from social media in one platform.

• You can filter specifically for rooms only.
• Stekkies automatically searches Facebook groups and other social platforms – something no other platform in the Netherlands does.
• This means you have 100% of all listings in one place.

No more scrolling through hundreds of Facebook groups or separate websites. With Stekkies, you’ll never miss out on the perfect room.

4. Stay flexible

If you’re open to different neighborhoods or surrounding towns, your chances will increase. Living just outside Utrecht or Amsterdam, for example, is often more affordable and gives you more space.

5. Prepare for “hospiteren” (house viewings)

In many Dutch student houses, you’ll need to attend a “hospiteeravond” (roommate selection evening). Be prepared to introduce yourself in a short and enthusiastic way. A good connection with the housemates often makes the difference.

Popular student cities in the Netherlands

• Amsterdam – high demand, but also plenty of opportunities.
• Utrecht – central and popular, though often expensive and competitive.
• Groningen – a true student city with many rooms, but strong competition.
• Rotterdam & The Hague – large international communities, lots of housing options.
• Leiden, Nijmegen and Tilburg – smaller, lively student cities with active associations.
• Eindhoven – increasingly popular thanks to TU/e and international students.

Conclusion

Finding student accommodation in the Netherlands is not easy, but with the right strategy you can greatly improve your chances. Start early, use your network, and take advantage of Stekkies.com. With 100% of all listings – from rental platforms to social media – in one place, you’ll save time and never miss out on a room.