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With increasing interest in The Netherlands as an international education destination, there has been an increase in housing shortages as well.

According to a study published by Kences in 2019, approximately 22,000 students had been impacted by housing shortages. Jolan de Bie, the organisation’s director, told Trouw that this number is set to rise to atleast 50,000 by 2024-25.

Keeping in mind the plan to build 18,000 student residences by 2024, this is the best-case scenario according to The Pie News.

The Dutch Ministry of Education stated in last year’s forecasts that the number of students is steadily rising. In the 2024-25 academic year, there could be 103,000 more students at colleges and universities than has been estimated earlier. Not only are the international students flocking to The Netherlands but more domestic students are choosing to live away from home according to De Bie’s statement to Trouw. 

The UK’s separation from the EU is also likely to boost international student traffic. With the UK becoming a less accessible option, more students are likely to choose The Netherlands for university.

The universities and colleges are trying to address the issue.

“We are well aware of the projected growth of students in the Netherlands – also in Enschede – and, therefore, increased demand for student housing,” a spokesperson for the University of Twente told The PIE News.  “The prognosis is not new and is already on the table as we discuss how we can accommodate that with our local and regional partners. We will be monitoring the developments closely to make sure there’s a healthy balance in supply and demand. In the long run, there shouldn’t be too many difficulties, either for Dutch or international students,” he said. 

The spokesperson said this was a sudden peak in student interest that was proving to be challenging for universities but believes it to be a “short-term issue.”

In the meanwhile, he agreed that “Students may experience difficulties in finding [rooms]”

From an international student’s perspective, this shortage can be especially challenging. Unfortunately, the shortage exists all over The Netherlands and is not restricted to a region.

Neither is it a new one. In 2017, students had to live in a campsite in Utrecht or a refugee centre in Groningen reopened to help ease the housing shortage for students.