Securing Student Accommodation in Poland
A practical guide to exploring, choosing, and securing suitable student housing in Poland before arrival - from university dormitories and shared flats to private apartments and homestays.
Accommodation Options
Poland offers several housing types for students, each with different costs, benefits, and trade-offs. Choose based on your budget, social preferences, and independence needs.
| Type | Cost (Monthly) | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
University Dormitories (Akademiki) | 600-1500 PLN |
|
| Budget-conscious students who prioritize social life and convenience |
Private Room in Shared Flat | 1000-2500 PLN + utilities |
|
| Students seeking a balance between budget, privacy, and social opportunities |
Private Studio/ Apartment | 1500-4000+ PLN + utilities |
|
| Students with higher budgets who prioritize privacy, independence and comfort |
Homestay with Polish Family | Variable |
|
| Students seeking cultural integration, language learning, and a more family-like environment |
High Demand for Dorms
Finding & Securing Housing
Accommodation Search Timeline:
Research Options
Explore accommodation types, costs, and locations in your university city. Contact university housing office for dorm application deadlines.
Apply for University Dorms
Submit your dormitory application as soon as possible after receiving university acceptance (high demand!).
Start Private Housing Search
Browse online portals, join Facebook groups. Reach out to listings for virtual tours if still in your home country.
Book Temporary Accommodation
Reserve a hostel, Airbnb, or hotel for your first 1-2 weeks if you plan to find housing after arrival (recommended for private rentals).
View Properties In Person
Schedule multiple viewings, inspect properties carefully, take photos, and ask questions about contracts and utilities.
Sign Agreement & Document Condition
Carefully review your lease before signing. Document property condition and create an inventory with the landlord.
Where to Look:
- University Housing Office: First stop, especially for dormitories.
- Online Portals: Otodom.pl, OLX.pl, Gumtree.pl, Pepe Housing (student-focused), Erasmusu.com.
- Facebook Groups: Search for "[City Name] apartments for rent" or "International Students in [City Name]".
- Recommendations: Ask friends or current students.
Documents & Details:
- Lease Agreement (Umowa najmu): Read carefully! Understand duration, notice period, rent, included costs, deposit terms. Request English version.
- Deposit (Kaucja): Usually 1-2 months' rent. Get a receipt. Document flat condition.
- Handover Protocol: Document listing flat contents and condition (take photos!).
Avoiding Scams
- Never pay to view a property
- Be wary of prices significantly below market average
- Avoid transferring large sums before signing a contract (unless using a secure platform)
- Request video tours if booking remotely
- Always view the property in person when possible
Costs & Key Considerations
Typical Costs (Monthly PLN):
Costs vary by city (Warsaw/Krakow highest, Lodz/Lublin lower).
Popular Student Locations:
Key Considerations:
- Location vs. cost balance (city center vs. suburbs)
- Proximity to university & public transport
- Safety and neighborhood vibe
Lease Terms:
- Lease duration (longer often cheaper per month)
- Included amenities (furniture, internet, utilities?)
- Notice period for termination (typically 1-3 months)
Remember "Czynsz"!
Securing Housing Tips
Start your search early, especially for dorms (apply as soon as possible after acceptance).
Use multiple resources: university housing office, dedicated platforms (Pepe Housing), verified portals (Otodom), and student groups (cautiously).
Be wary of scams: never pay fees just to view a flat, avoid sending large sums before signing a contract/viewing (unless using a secure platform), and if a price seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Request a video tour if booking remotely before arrival.
Thoroughly inspect the property upon viewing/check-in and document its condition with photos/videos and a signed handover protocol (protokół zdawczo-odbiorczy).
Read the lease agreement carefully, paying attention to duration, notice period, deposit details, and included costs.
Clarify utility payment procedures and average costs with the landlord.
Register your address (meldunek) at the local city office soon after moving in.
Accommodation FAQs
Prepare Your Finances
Accommodation secured? Now, ensure your finances are in order for tuition, living costs, and initial expenses in Poland.
Financial Preparation Guide