Best Options for Student Accommodation in Dublin

The one question that every international student asks before they travel to Ireland is ‘What are the best options for student accommodation in Dublin?’.

Trying to research your options from abroad and decide what is suitable for you can be difficult – especially when you are living abroad and have never been to Dublin before!

There are many options for student accommodation in Dublin – from homestay to on-campus and speciality-built student accommodation blocks. Each option has its pros and cons, and the best option for you will depend on your own personal needs.

To help you choose the right option for you, we’ve taken a closer look at the best options for international students looking for accommodation in Dublin. But first, there are few top tips the you should know when you are booking your accommodation:

• There is high demand for student accommodation in Dublin. So, the main thing you need to bear in mind is, the sooner you book, the better!
• For on-campus or specialty student accommodation blocks, check the payment schedule and whether you need to pay in full in advance.
• Most accommodation providers will refund fees paid in the event your visa is refused to Ireland – but you should confirm this with them
• Need to be clear about what your budget is for accommodation and living expenses – there are options for a variety of budgets.
• There is only one approve accommodation provider for student’s under 18 years (see below)

There are three main options for student accommodation in Dublin for international students:

• On-campus
• Student accommodation within walking distance
• DIFC arranged homestay

On-campus Accommodation

DIFC is located on Griffith College campus which has on-campus accommodation provided by Griffith Halls of Residence (GHR). It is a very safe and secure option for international students. And, for DIFC students, you will literally be a 2 minute walk from your classes. Bonus!

GHR offers both shared or private ensuite rooms with twin share rooms from approximately €7,000 for the academic year. Private rooms are just under €12,000 for the academic year. Accommodation is on a self-catering basis, but includes basic utilities and WiFi for students.

Find out more here

Off-campus Student Accommodation

There are a number of high quality student accommodation blocks open in Dublin – all within walking distance of DIFC campus.

The benefit of living in off-campus accommodation blocks is the independence it teaches you. Furthermore, you will develop a broader network of international contacts as you’ll be living with students studying in different universities throughout Dublin.

Our top recommendations for off-campus accommodation are as follows:

Aparto – The Loom

Officially opening in September 2021, Aparto – The Loom is a new luxury student accommodation block purpose built to provide the best facilities for students. You can choose from 3 types of ensuite rooms at The Loom. All rooms are furnished to a high spec with comfy beds plus plenty of storage and study space. Within each apartment is a large kitchen and shared dining / living space, which you’ll share with 5-7 other students in your apartment.

Take a sneak peak below

aparto The Loom Dublin (virtual tour) – Opening September 2021 from aparto student on Vimeo.

The Loom : Introducing aparto’s brand new student accommodation in Dublin from aparto student on Vimeo.

Prices start from €255 per week and are fully-inclusive of fast WiFi, contents insurance and bills. Plus, on-site gym, social programme, study area, cinema room and games/social area, as well as an amazing rooftop terrace.

Find out more here

Uninest Student Residence – New Mill & The Tannery

For the last few years, DIFC students have rated Uninest New Mill & The Tannery as one of the best student accommodation options. It’s popularity is down to its location – just a 10 minute walk from campus – as well as it’s facilities.  It offers accommodation for up to 400 students with prices starting from €264 per week.

Uninest also offers students fully inclusive high-speed broadband and WiFi, bike storage, common rooms (cinema room, music room and study areas), as well as plenty of outdoor areas.

Uninest is also our approved accommodation provider for students under 18 years of age!

Here is a sneak peek

More information and booking details are available on their website

Homestay Accommodation

Many universities and colleges in Dublin have a network of local host families who will accommodate students studying with them. DIFC has varies homestay options for students – both short-term and longer term.

Host families generally live in the suburbs of Dublin, so you will need to take public transport to and from your host accommodation. Your host family will tell you which service is the most suitable for you.

The fee for homestay is €700 per 4 weeks (€800 for students under 18 years) plus a €50 booking fee. This includes a private room with a bed, wardrobe and a desk as well as your morning and evening meals.  In some instances, you may also need to pay a deposit of €800 – especially long term homestays – which will be refunded once you leave the homestay in good condition.

For 2021, homestay options will be very limited – so if this is your preferred option, you need to contact our Student Services team as soon as possible.

Homestay bookings are managed directly through DIFC’s Student Services team – so you need to contact us directly to make a booking at accommodation@difcdublin.ie

Book early to avoid disappointment!

So, that’s it! The low-down on the student accommodation scene in Dublin. If there was only one piece of advice to take away from this article it would be to book your accommodation as early as possible.

If you are a DIFC student joining in 2021/22 and you need advice regarding your accommodation options, feel free to contact our Student Services team at accommodation@difcdublin.ie