Student accommodation in Spain

Housing in Spain

Options include university halls, colegios mayores (residences attached to a university that also run academic and cultural activities), private student residences and shared flats. Private rentals usually require a deposit (fianza) and a written contract; verify the landlord and the property before transferring money, and register your address on the town hall's padrón once you move in, because many procedures ask for it.

Housing options compared

• University halls (residencias universitarias): limited places, often allocated early.
• Colegios mayores: residences attached to a university with meals, study support and cultural programmes; some run their own admission process.
• Private student residences: furnished rooms with services, usually on contracts for the academic year.
• Shared flats (pisos compartidos): the most common choice; check who holds the contract and whether you can register on the padrón there.

Check the full cost

Confirm deposits, utilities, contract length, furnishings, transport and cancellation terms, not only the advertised monthly amount.

Protect yourself

Verify the landlord or provider, use a written contract and avoid untraceable payments or offers that cannot be inspected.