What you should know before renting student accommodation in Brussels
Finding student accommodation in Brussels requires a bit of preparation. As the European capital and a lively university city, Brussels welcomes thousands of Belgian and international students every year. Because of this, the demand for housing is quite high, especially near university campuses.
Before starting your search, it helps to understand which neighborhoods are popular with students, what types of housing are available, and the average budget to expect. Here are a few key tips to help you prepare your move and settle into Brussels with confidence.
Best neighborhoods to live in as a student in Brussels
Most students prefer neighborhoods close to universities and well connected by public transport. Here are some areas that are especially popular among students in Brussels.
| Neighborhood | Why students like it | Nearby schools / universities |
|---|---|---|
| Ixelles | Lively atmosphere, many bars, restaurants and shops. A very popular area among students. | ULB, VUB |
| Saint-Josse | More affordable rents, multicultural environment and close to the city center. | Saint-Louis University, ICHEC |
| Schaerbeek | Residential and diverse area with more moderate prices and good transport connections. | Easy access to universities in the city center |
| La Bascule (Ixelles / Uccle) | Dynamic neighborhood with many shops and convenient transport links. | ULB – Solbosch campus |
Which type of student accommodation should you choose?
There are several types of student housing in Brussels. The best option depends on your budget, your lifestyle and how independent you want to be.
In Belgium, you will often hear the word “kot”. A kot is a typical Belgian student room, usually located in buildings dedicated to students or close to university campuses. It is one of the most common types of housing for students in cities like Brussels, Leuven or Ghent.
| Type of accommodation | Average size | Main advantages | Things to consider | Available on Studapart |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kot (student room) | 10 to 18 m² | Typical Belgian student housing, often close to universities and more affordable | Shared kitchen or bathroom in most cases | Depending on listings |
| Studio | 20 to 35 m² | Full independence, furnished and ready to live in | Higher budget | Yes |
| Shared apartment | 12 to 20 m² per room | More affordable and social | Less privacy | Yes |
| Student residence | 18 to 30 m² | Services included, safe and convenient environment | Limited availability | Yes |
| Room in a private home | 12 to 18 m² | Lower rent and a chance to experience local life | Less independence | Depending on listings |
When should you start looking for student accommodation in Brussels?
Most students begin searching for student accommodation in Brussels several months before the academic year starts.
- April to June: first searches begin, especially for international students.
- July to August: the busiest period, with strong demand.
- September: you can still find opportunities, but many homes close to campuses are already rented.
Starting early gives you more options and helps you find accommodation that truly matches your budget and preferred location.
Student housing budget: how much does student accommodation cost in Brussels?
The price of student accommodation in Brussels depends on several factors: the neighborhood, the size of the property and the services included. On average, rents remain more affordable than in some European capitals, but prices can vary depending on the location.
What type of accommodation can you find depending on your budget?
- Budget under €500: rooms in shared apartments, kots or in private homes.
- Budget between €500 and €750: studios or rooms in student residences.
- Budget above €750: larger studios or homes closer to the city center.
In all cases, comparing several listings is the best way to find accommodation that matches both your needs and your budget.
How do rental charges work in Brussels?
In Brussels, some utilities may be included in the rent, while others are billed separately. Rental charges may include:
- water
- heating
- electricity
- internet access
- maintenance of common areas
In student residences, these charges are often included in a fixed package, which makes budgeting easier for students.
Which neighborhood should you choose depending on your budget?
Some areas of Brussels are generally more affordable for students than others:
- Ixelles: very popular student neighborhood with higher rents.
- Schaerbeek: a good balance between price and accessibility.
- Saint-Josse: usually more affordable rents.
- Uccle: quieter residential environment.
Why choose Studapart to help you find your accommodation
Looking for student accommodation in Brussels can feel overwhelming, especially if you are arriving in a new city or a new country. Studapart supports you at every step to make your search easier and your rental more secure.
Support from a real team
- Webinars to understand the student housing market and learn how to prepare a strong rental application
- Customer support available in French and English
- Help center answering the most common questions
Our team is here to guide you and help you find accommodation that fits your situation.
Does Studapart partner with universities in Brussels?
Yes. Studapart works with several higher education institutions to make it easier for students to access housing.
In Brussels, Studapart notably partners with the Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB). This partnership allows students to access a selection of verified homes adapted to their needs.
Studapart makes the process easier
- Verified listings to reduce the risk of scams
- Secure payment directly through the platform
- Home insurance options to simplify your installation
With Studapart, you can complete your rental process remotely and book your accommodation with confidence, even before arriving in Brussels!