Moving to Poland for your studies? Our guide offers 5 Tips for Renting in Poland as a Erasmus Student, how to find affordable and safe accommodation for your adventure.
Poland has become an increasingly attractive destination for international students, welcoming around 100,000 students from across the globe each year. Whether you're coming for an Erasmus exchange program or pursuing your entire degree, finding the right accommodation is one of your most important tasks.
The rental process can feel overwhelming, especially when you're navigating a foreign country's housing market for the first time. Language barriers, unfamiliar legal requirements, and different cultural expectations can make securing a place to live seem daunting. But don't worry! With the right guidance and preparation, you'll find that renting in Poland can be a smooth and manageable process.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about student accommodation in Poland, from understanding your options to securing the perfect place to call home during your studies.
Poland offers an exceptional combination of high-quality education, rich cultural heritage, and affordable living costs that makes it irresistible to students worldwide. Universities like the University of Warsaw, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, and the Warsaw University of Technology consistently rank among Europe's top institutions.
The country provides excellent value for money compared to other European destinations. Your monthly expenses, including accommodation, food, and entertainment, typically range from €400 to €700, making it significantly more budget-friendly than studying in Western European countries.
Beyond the financial advantages, Poland's central location makes it perfect for exploring Europe during breaks. You can easily travel to neighboring countries like Germany, Czech Republic, or Slovakia for weekend adventures.
As Poland's capital and largest city, Warsaw hosts the highest number of international students. The city offers diverse accommodation options, from modern dormitories near university campuses to shared apartments in vibrant neighborhoods like Mokotów or Śródmieście. Monthly rent typically ranges from €200-400 for shared housing.
Warsaw is home to some of Poland's most prestigious universities. The University of Warsaw and Warsaw University of Technology are top-ranked institutions that attract thousands of international students each year. They offer a wide range of courses in English and have well-established support systems for Erasmus students.
This historic city charms students with its medieval architecture and lively atmosphere. Krakow's compact size makes it easy to navigate, and most student accommodations are within walking distance of major universities. The city offers slightly lower rental prices than Warsaw, with shared apartments averaging €180-350 per month.
Krakow is home to the Jagiellonian University, one of the oldest and most respected universities in Europe. Its historic campus and high academic standards provide an inspiring learning environment. The city's academic scene is buzzing, creating a vibrant intellectual atmosphere.
Known for its beautiful architecture and growing tech scene, Wrocław has become increasingly popular among international students. The city provides excellent value for money, with accommodation costs ranging from €150-300 monthly for shared housing options.
Wroclaw boasts several excellent universities, including the University of Wrocław and the Wrocław University of Science and Technology. Both institutions have strong international programs and a supportive community for Erasmus students.
Before diving into rental tips, let's explore the accommodation types available to you in Poland.
University Dormitories represent the most straightforward choice for international students. Most Polish universities provide dormitory accommodation at relatively low costs, typically ranging from €80-200 per month. However, the standard in Polish student residences often falls below what many international students expect. Rooms are usually basic, with shared bathrooms and kitchens.
Studio Apartments give you complete independence but come at a higher price point, usually €400-600 per month. These work well if you prefer living alone or need a quiet space for intensive study periods.
Host Families provide an immersive cultural experience while offering a supportive environment. Monthly costs typically range from €300-500, including meals.
Private Shared Apartments offer more comfort and independence. You'll typically share a flat with 2-4 other students, each having your own room while sharing common areas. This option provides better living conditions and more privacy, with costs ranging from €200-400 monthly.
Begin looking for accommodation at least 2-3 months before your arrival date. Popular areas fill up quickly, especially before the academic year starts in September/October. Renting in Poland as a Erasmus Student
Use various online platforms to maximize your options:
Polish rental law requires specific documentation from both tenants and landlords. Prepare these documents before starting your search:
Essential Documents:
Understanding Contracts:
Polish rental agreements (umowa najmu) must be written and should specify rent amount, deposit requirements, utility responsibilities, and termination conditions. Don't sign anything you don't fully understand. Many universities offer translation services or legal advice for international students.
Deposit and Fees: Renting in Poland as a Erasmus Student
Expect to pay a security deposit equal to 1-2 months' rent, plus the first month's rent upfront. Some landlords may also charge administrative fees. Factor these initial costs into your budget planning.
Your housing costs extend beyond the monthly rent. Create a comprehensive budget that includes:
Monthly Utilities (€30-80):
Additional Costs:
Ask landlords whether utilities are included in the rent or billed separately. This information significantly impacts your monthly housing budget. Some apartments offer "all-inclusive" rates that cover utilities, making budgeting easier but potentially costing more overall. Renting in Poland as a Erasmus Student
Important Questions to Ask:
Take photos or videos during your move in to document the property's condition. This protects you when it's time to get your deposit back.
Building connections with fellow international students provides invaluable support throughout your rental journey and stay in Poland. Renting in Poland as a Erasmus Student
Join Student Communities:
Benefits of Networking:
Many students find their best housing options through word-of-mouth recommendations from peers who have already navigated the rental process.
Consider organizing apartment hunting groups with other international students. You can share transportation costs for property viewings and provide emotional support during what can be a stressful process.
Successfully Renting in Poland as a Erasmus Student requires patience, preparation, and persistence. Remember that finding the perfect accommodation might take time, and that's completely normal.
Stay flexible with your expectations while maintaining your non-negotiables. Maybe you'll find a great apartment that's slightly further from campus than you initially wanted, but it's in a vibrant neighborhood with excellent public transportation connections.
Most importantly, don't hesitate to ask for help. University international offices, student organizations, and fellow international students are valuable resources throughout your housing search and beyond.
Your accommodation will become your home base for creating memories, building friendships, and achieving your academic goals in Poland. Taking the time to find the right place will pay dividends throughout your entire study abroad experience.
With proper preparation and the right approach, you'll soon have keys to your new Polish home, ready to begin this exciting chapter of your international education journey. Renting in Poland as a Erasmus Student
