The International Student's Guide to Housing at the IT University of Copenhagen

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Navigating the complexities of finding student housing can be a daunting challenge, especially in a city as popular as Copenhagen. Finding accommodation in Denmark as an international student presents a significant challenge, with Copenhagen's popularity exacerbating the situation. The city's housing market is tight, especially during peak academic periods in August and September. With limited options available, the IT University of Copenhagen offers a lifeline through its housing service, as well as practical guidance for students seeking to increase their independence through the private rental market.

Whether you're an exchange student or pursuing a full degree, understanding your housing options is crucial for a smooth transition to student life in Denmark. This blog aims to shed light on the housing options available for international students at the IT University of Copenhagen, offering insights into dormitories, application processes, and practical tips for securing private rentals.

Looking for shared accommodation in Copenhagen? Check out the listings on Hemavi, and get matched with a compatible roommate within a few clicks!

Student Housing at IT University of Copenhagen

The IT University of Copenhagen offers housing for international students, including exchange and some full degree students, on a first-come, first-served basis.

The accommodation period is according to semester start and end dates, with the Spring semester starting in February to mid-July (with possibility of extension till end of August), and the autumn semester from mid-July to end of January. Generally, international full-degree students enrolling for their first semester at the university are able to rent a dorm for two semesters, from July to July of the following year.

Housing options include fully furnished single (37 dorms) and couple dorm rooms (4 dorms) in three main residence halls, all of which are of similar distance from the university:

Signalhuset (28 dorms)

Signalhuset is a modern residence located in Ørestad, Amager, close to public transportation for easy access to central Copenhagen. Built in 2006, it features 28 dorms divided into sections resembling individual apartments, each with 4 single rooms sharing 2 bathrooms and a kitchen/common area. The mixed-gender apartments come fully furnished, including elevators and a laundry mat, with a social event room available for rent. Monthly rent ranges from 3627 to 3751 DKK, plus a 250 DKK service fee and a 7425 DKK administration fee per semester.

Tietgenkollegiet (4 dorms)

Tietgenkollegiet, located in Amager, is a student residence hall that emphasizes community participation among its residents. Ready for occupancy since August 2006, it is situated near new student halls and the University of Copenhagen's Amager Campus. The hall is near the city center and Amager Beach, offering stunning views. It houses 360 rooms across 6 floors, with single rooms featuring private bathrooms and shared kitchens. Rent ranges from 4607 to 4938 DKK, plus a once per semester administration fee of 7425 DKK.

Øresundskollegiet (9 dorms: 5 single - 4 double)

Øresundskollegiet is one of Copenhagen's largest student residences, offering around 1025 rooms, including options for singles and couples. The single rooms come with private kitchen and bathroom, while rooms for couples include a living room. This residence boasts various amenities like a pool table, table tennis, study rooms, exercise equipment, sauna, terraces, and a bar. Each floor has a common kitchen, fostering a vibrant community atmosphere among students.

The montly rent varies from 3772 to 3877 DKK plus 250 DKK in service fee for the single dorms. The monthly rent for the double dorms varies from 6205 to 6733 DDK plus 250 DKK in service fee. The Administration and handling fee of 7425 DKK is paid once per semester.

Applying for Student Housing at IT University of Copenhagen

Exchange students apply for housing alongside their exchange application, while full-degree students are expected to fill in the housing application form send it to sap@itu.dk by November 1st for spring semester, or June 1st for Autumn semester.

If accepted for housing, the university will send the applicant detailed information about the reservation and payment process, as well as an invitation to the Housing Foundation Copenhagen's booking system.

Housing Foundation Copenhagen

The Housing Foundation Copenhagen is a key resource for international students seeking accommodation in Copenhagen. It assists students in finding housing by managing a range of housing options, including dormitories and apartments. Through partnerships with educational institutions, it provides a streamlined application process for international students and researchers. The foundation focuses on simplifying the often complex task of securing student housing in Copenhagen, emphasizing support and guidance to ease students' transition to living in Denmark.

For students enrolling at IT University of Copenhagen, the Housing Foundation Copenhagen is an invaluable resource, as it manages all the housing options offered by the university. It is advisable for students to sign up for the foundation's booking system as soon as possible, to qualify for housing outside of the options provided by the university.

Alternatives for Finding Housing in Copenhagen

Other than student dormitories, housing options in Copenhagen for international students and newcomers include private rental apartments, shared housing or co-living spaces, and short-term accommodations like hostels or Airbnbs. Many students opt for renting or subletting rooms in larger apartments, known as "værelse" in Danish, which often come furnished.

Renting a room in a shared apartment in Copenhagen offers international students several benefits, including lower living costs compared to renting a whole apartment. It provides an immediate social network, helping to combat loneliness and integrate more easily into a new environment. Shared living arrangements often include access to communal areas, making it easier to socialize and share experiences with flatmates. Additionally, it can offer a more immersive cultural experience, as students get to live and interact closely with locals or other international students, enhancing their understanding of Danish society and culture.

Finding Room Rentals for International Students in Copenhagen

  • Online Platforms such as Hemavi, whose match-making algorithm connects users with compatible and like-minded roommates.
  • Social Media Groups specialized in accommodation (particularly ones that target students, if they exist) always have tens of listings across the city.
  • Networking with fellow students or through university bulletin boards.
  • Expat communities or forums can also provide leads on available housing.

Conclusion

Navigating the complexities of student housing in Copenhagen, particularly for international students, reveals a journey fraught with challenges yet rich in opportunities. From the structured support of the IT University of Copenhagen's housing service to the adventurous pursuit of private rentals, students are faced with an array of choices each with its own set of benefits.

This blog has explored the various facets of finding a place to call home in Denmark's vibrant capital, providing insights into dormitory living, the application process, and alternative housing solutions. As students embark on this critical aspect of their academic journey, the knowledge shared here serves as a guiding light, illuminating the path to finding not just accommodation, but a community and a new way of life in Copenhagen.

Still looking for housing in Copenhagen? Make sure you check out shared accommodation listings on Hemavi.