Urban Student

Studying in Utrecht

Utrecht sits at the heart of the Netherlands, a beautiful canal city with a medieval centre and one of Europe’s highest-ranked universities. It is youthful and lively, exceptionally well-connected by rail, and a popular, slightly calmer alternative to Amsterdam just half an hour away.

Universities and major institutes

  • Utrecht University
  • HU University of Applied Sciences Utrecht
  • University College Utrecht

Cost of living

Utrecht is expensive and housing is scarce, though generally a little below Amsterdam. A room typically runs €600–€1,000 per month, with a compact, bike-friendly centre and excellent train links.

Neighbourhoods for students

  • Binnenstad (Old Town) — historic and central, in high demand.
  • Lombok — diverse and popular with students.
  • Utrecht Science Park (De Uithof) — the main university campus, with student housing.
  • Wittevrouwen / Oost — leafy and well-connected.

Institutions in Utrecht