Student dedicated accommodation, or student villages, comprise of apartments or housing available to students only. These residences can be on- or off-campus and are run by the college or a private management company. Student housing in Ireland is of a high quality, with clean and modern facilities, and easy access to your college.

The term ‘student village’ is apt as there are usually many services provided that help foster a communal environment; facilities often include wireless internet connection, laundry services, shops, cafes, and common rooms and halls.

This communal spirit is why most higher education providers recommend that newcomers choose student housing for their first year in college. The student village encourages first years to make friends, grow in confidence and overcome homesickness, all of which prepares them for private rented accommodation in later years. Most colleges therefore ensure a large proportion of their student accommodation is available to first years only.

The application times for student housing can vary greatly. Some colleges (e.g. NUI Galway) allow and recommend provisional booking as soon as your CAO choice is made, while others (such as Trinity College Dublin) do not accept applications until August, when you have received a course offer from the CAO. Please check what application policy your intended college applies.

Accommodation costs also vary a good deal. The price for a standard 38-week academic year can be anything from €3,000 to €5,000, and is influenced by factors such as whether you are willing to share a room and the overall standard of accommodation. A security and/or booking deposit is usually required in advance, and the rent is normally paid in two instalments during the year.