How to Apply for Student Housing in the Netherlands in 2025?

Are you searching for student housing in the Netherlands? If so, you need to know that finding a desired property is only half of the journey. The other half could be just as stressful – submitting a strong housing application that will make you stand out to landlords and secure your dream accommodation is no joke. 😩

But no need to worry, this blog post delivers a step-by-step guide on the process of applying to housing in the Netherlands, starting with a checklist of all necessary documents and tips for writing the perfect motivation letter. So, keep reading! 🔍

Application Checklist: Essential Documents

It is common for housing agencies and landlords in the Netherlands to require a standard set of documents in the application process. Whether you are applying individually or with a guarantor (a parent), make sure to always have these at hand: 📋

1. Copy of personal identification (Passport/ID)  –
   • This applies both to the applicant/future tenant and their guarantor, if applicable.
2.    Recent salary pay slips/recent bank statements
   • If you work, it is crucial to provide proof that you can financially sustain yourself and pay your rent. Pay slips from the last three months of working are typically expected from agents and landlords.
   • If you are a student without income, you must provide proof of your guarantor’s financial reliability.
3. Employment contract
   • Similarly to the salary slips, an employment contract will provide the source and duration of your income. This is relevant for the tenant and guarantor, if applicable. 
4. Previous landlord reference(s)
   • If you have rented before, a reference letter will be a beneficial document to provide. 
   • Focus on stating that you paid on time, respected house rules and had zero complaints. 
     
     
     

Your Ticket to Success: The Cover Letter

If you are a first-time renter in the Netherlands, you are probably thinking that writing a motivation/cover letter for housing applications is quite unusual. However, due to the growing housing crisis and overwhelming number of applications, agents and landlords rely on this to get to know their tenants in advance and choose someone who’s lifestyle best matches the property. Here is how to stand out in this competitive market: 💌

1. Add a photo – landlords will put a face to your name and get a more personal impression of you. But make sure to keep it professional, no party photos!
2. The ‘About you’ section: 
   • Essentials: Name; Age; University and program; year of study
3. Explain why you want to move 
   • Describe what is your reason to be searching for housing in the first place. Are you looking to move because of your studies or looking for more professional opportunities and thus want to live in a central place? Make sure to make it clear.
     
     
4. Why this place
   • Here you can be specific about your interest in this particular place. Do you prefer living alone or enjoy a big student house?
   • Show that you have read the listing and that you are a good match. 
5. The personal touch: hobbies/interests
   • Mention what you do in your spare time – talk about your hobbies and passions from sports to music and fashion.
   • This will help landlords or potential future roommates determine if your schedules and lifestyle align. You never know where your next best friend is! 
6. 💡Pro-tip: you can download a free template for a motivation letter below.

The Final Boost! 🚀

1. Be quick: The housing market is competitive and searching on your own can be challenging, so when you come across something promising be quick to apply
2. Be professional: have all of the documents mentioned in this article ready in a single file to send out when necessary 
3. It might sound like a lot, but be concise and specific, your cover letter should be about 1 page long.
4. Do not lose hope! Searching for housing in the Netherlands is not easy but you will succeed.
   

Need help or want to know more? 🧐

At Domakin, we work hard to make this process stress-free. From remote viewings, student-to-student housing listings, and application support, we are here to help you find ideal accommodation. 🏠

Send us a message here or on our socials and check regularly for new listings!