Accommodation in Italy for International Students (Study Visa Guide 2025)

Planning to study in Italy is an exciting journey—but before you apply for a study visa, one of the most important steps is finding the right accommodation. Italian consulates often require proof of housing for visa approval, and your choice of where to live can greatly affect your budget and overall student experience.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything international students need to know about student accommodation in Italy from types of housing, costs, and application documents to helpful tips on avoiding scams.

Types of Accommodation in Italy for Students

Italy offers a variety of housing options for international students. Your choice depends on your budget, lifestyle, and the city you live in.

1. University Dormitories (Student Halls)

  • Managed by universities or regional bodies such as DSU (Diritto allo Studio Universitario) or EDISU.

  • Affordable, usually ranging from €200–€400 per month.

  • Rooms may be shared, and facilities like kitchens, laundry, and study rooms are common.

  • Highly competitive—apply early through your university’s student services.

2. Private Student Residences

  • Modern residences with facilities like Wi-Fi, gym, cleaning services, and study lounges.

  • Prices range between €500–€900/month, depending on the city.

  • Comfortable, secure, and ideal if you prefer ready-to-move-in housing.

3. Shared Apartments

  • Popular among international students and Erasmus participants.

  • Monthly rent: €300–€600 (shared between 2–4 students).

  • Offers independence and cultural exchange.

  • Usually found through housing websites or Facebook groups.

4. Homestays (Living with Italian Families)

  • Great for improving your Italian language and experiencing local culture.

  • Rent varies from €350–€600, often including meals.

  • Some families provide long-term arrangements, while others prefer short stays.

5. Temporary Accommodation in Italy

  • Hostels, hotels, or Airbnb are good short-term options while you search for permanent housing.

  • Recommended for students arriving without a confirmed rental.

Average Cost of Accommodation in Italy

The cost of accommodation depends on the city size and type of housing.

  • Big cities (Rome, Milan, Florence, Bologna): €400–€800/month

  • Medium-sized cities (Turin, Pisa, Naples, Padua): €300–€600/month

  • Smaller towns (Perugia, Bari, Siena): €250–€500/month

  • Utilities (electricity, water, internet, heating): €50–€100/month extra

👉 Tip: Renting in smaller cities is more budget-friendly, but check transportation options before choosing.

How to Find Accommodation in Italy

Here are the most reliable ways to search for student housing:

  • University Housing Offices & DSU Websites – check if your university provides dormitories.

  • Online Platforms:

  • Facebook Groups & Erasmus Networks many students post available rooms.

  • Real Estate Agencies  useful but may charge 1–2 months’ rent as commission.

Documents Required for Student Accommodation

Most landlords or universities will ask for:

  • Copy of passport.

  • Codice Fiscale (Italian tax code – required for contracts).

  • Proof of enrollment or university admission letter.

  • Rental deposit (usually 1–3 months’ rent).

  • Sometimes a guarantor, especially in private rentals.

⚠️ Tips to Avoid Scams

Unfortunately, some international students fall into housing scams. To protect yourself:

  • Never pay full rent before signing a written contract.

  • Use official university housing services or trusted platforms.

  • Be careful with unrealistically cheap offers in expensive cities.

  • Always ask for receipts when paying deposits or rent.

Accommodation & Study Visa Requirements

When applying for an Italian study visa, you may need to provide proof of accommodation. Accepted documents include:

  • Confirmation of a place in university dormitory.

  • Signed rental contract.

  • Hotel/hostel booking (temporary).

  • Invitation letter if staying with relatives/friends in Italy.

👉 This step is crucial because the Italian consulate wants to ensure you have a safe place to live upon arrival.

Best Student Cities in Italy (and Housing Costs)

Accommodation in Italy for Study Visa Students – A Study Visa Guide" showing a student with a backpack reading a book next to the Leaning Tower of Pisa and an Italian apartment building. The lower section lists average monthly housing costs: Rome (€400–€800), Milan (€600–€900), Florence (€400–€700), Bologna (€350–€600), Pisa/Perugia (€250–€500)

  • Rome – historic capital, diverse opportunities, but expensive (€500–€800/month).

  • Milan – fashion & business hub, modern student housing, high costs (€600–€900/month).

  • Bologna – lively student city, affordable (€350–€600/month).

  • Florence – cultural center, moderate housing prices (€400–€700/month).

Pisa/Perugia – budget-friendly, smaller cities (€250–€450/month).

Finding the right accommodation in Italy is one of the most important steps for international students. Whether you choose a university dorm, a private residence, or a shared flat, start your search early and budget carefully.

👉 Remember: Proof of housing is often required for your Italy study visa, so secure your accommodation in advance. By choosing the right place, you can enjoy a comfortable, safe, and enriching student life in Italy.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I live in Italy without a rental contract?
It’s not recommended. For visas and residence permits, a rental contract or official proof of accommodation is required.

2. When should I start looking for student accommodation in Italy?
Ideally 3–4 months before your course begins, especially in big cities like Rome or Milan.

3. Do universities in Italy guarantee housing?
Not always—dormitory places are limited and often given based on merit or financial need.

4. Is it cheaper to share a flat or live in dorms?
Shared flats are often cheaper and more flexible, while dorms provide facilities but may have strict rules.

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