International students in Ireland: finding your first room
13 October 2026
Coming to Ireland to study is exciting, but finding a room from abroad is where many international students run into trouble. Here is how to plan your accommodation safely, before and after you arrive.
Start early, but don't pay early
Start looking as soon as you have your college place, especially for Dublin, Cork and Galway. But never send money for a room you haven't viewed: fake ads target international students more than anyone.
Your options
Student residences can often be booked from abroad through the provider or your college. House shares and digs are usually cheaper but are normally arranged after a viewing.
Plan a soft landing
Book a short-term room or a residence for your first weeks, then view long-term places in person. Your college's international office and accommodation office can help, and many have lists of local rooms and digs.
What you'll be asked for
Photo ID, your college acceptance letter and sometimes a reference or proof of funds. Keep them as files on your phone. You don't need a PPS number to rent a room.
Know the basics
For a tenancy, the deposit and the rent in advance can each be no more than one month's rent. In digs you are usually a licensee, so agree the terms in writing.