The answers to all questions you'd like to ask us.

Duty Manager

Frequently asked questions
And information for residents.

We've compiled the most important questions below. Student Experience has locations in the Netherlands and Spain, and each one works a little differently. Some are short-stay (up to a year), others long-stay (for your whole study period). Some studios come fully furnished, others you furnish yourself. Details like waste disposal, shared bikes, and mailboxes also vary.

That's why each location has its own FAQ page too, so you know exactly what applies to you. You'll find the link to your specific location at the bottom of this page.

Terms and conditions

  • Am I eligible to live at Student Experience?

    You need to be at least 16 years old to stay at Student Experience Amsterdam Amstel. If you’re 16 or 17, you can stay with permission from a parent or guardian to sign the contract. From 18 onwards, you can sign the contract yourself.

    Study conditions vary by location; for more information, visit the FAQ page specific for your location:
    Amsterdam Amstel
    Amsterdam Minervahaven
    Amsterdam NDSM
    Amsterdam Zuidas
    Leiden
    Granada
    Madrid Pozuelo

  • Why do I need to provide a proof of enrollment?

    All Student Experience studios are exclusively available for students. You can upload proof of enrollment during the booking journey, or later in your service portal.

    When you check in, you must be registered as a student at an educational institution.

    Your proof of enrollment must contain the following information:

    • Your name
    • Study program
    • Whether you're a full- or part-time student
    • The name of your school
    • The academic year

    Campus clause

    For those staying at a long-stay location in the Netherlands (Amsterdam Amstel, Amsterdam NDSM, Amsterdam Zuidas, or Leiden), the contract includes a campus clause. Every year before October 1, you must upload proof of ongoing enrollment in your service portal.

    This campus clause also determines that after you end or complete your studies, you can stay in your studio for up to 6 additional months. If you end or complete your studies you must notify us and terminate your contract through the service portal.

    For Amsterdam Amstel, Amsterdam NDSM, Amsterdam Zuidas, and Leiden:
    We only accept conditional proof of enrolment for the upcoming academic year (starting in September) from June onwards. If you are not currently enrolled as a student, you are not eligible to apply for our studios (yet).

    For more information, visit the page specific for you location:
    Amsterdam Amstel
    Amsterdam Minervahaven
    Amsterdam NDSM
    Amsterdam Zuidas
    Leiden
    Granada
    Madrid Pozuelo
     

  • Can international and Erasmus students apply to live at Student Experience?

    Yes, international and Erasmus students are welcome at all Student Experience locations, and in some cases you do not need to be enrolled at a local university to qualify.

    For Amsterdam, we recommend our Minervahaven location. It is specially designed for stays of 12 months, for students from abroad doing a one-year Erasmus or other exchange program, an internship, or a PhD in Amsterdam. There is no waiting list, so you can book right away. Explore Amsterdam Minervahaven.

    At Granada and Madrid Pozuelo, students from any university worldwide are eligible, including Erasmus students whose home university is outside Spain.

    For all locations, the entire booking process can be completed from abroad. You can visit the locations virtually or via our 360º tour. In-person visit is not required to register, select a studio, or sign your contract.

     

     

  • Can I use my address at Student Experience to apply for my BSN and DigiD (Netherlands) or NIE and empadronamiento (Spain)?

    Yes, you can use your Student Experience address for official address registration in both the Netherlands and Spain, and this is one of the most important administrative steps to complete when you arrive.

    In the Netherlands, residents at a Student Experience location must register their address at the local municipality (BRP, Basisregistratie Personen). This gives you your BSN (citizen service number), which unlocks your DigiD, Dutch bank account, healthcare, and housing allowance (huurtoeslag) if eligible. 

    In Spain, all students staying in Spain for 6 months or more are required to complete "empadronamiento" (municipal address registration) at the local town hall. This is the first step towards obtaining your NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero: your Spanish identification number), TIE, opening a bank account, and accessing local services. 

    → For full registration guidance specific to your location, visit:
    Amsterdam Amstel
    Amsterdam Minervahaven
    Amsterdam NDSM
    Amsterdam Zuidas
    Leiden
    Granada
    Madrid Pozuelo

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Before you book

  • Can I visit the location before signing a contract?

    Yes, you can explore every Student Experience location online through a 360° virtual tour: Just select your specific location on our locations page.

    At most locations, you can also visit in person before committing.

    • Amsterdam Amstel, NDSM, Zuidas, and Leiden: if you're selected through the automated draw, you can book a 30-minute introductory meeting with the duty manager within 48 hours, on-site, by FaceTime, or by phone.
    • Amsterdam Minervahaven: explore the building through the online 360° tour before booking or book a virtual tour with the duty manager. After check-in, the duty manager will give you an in-person tour of the facilities.
    • Granada and Madrid Pozuelo: visit in person if you're nearby, or take a virtual tour from further away. Book a tour in Granada or Madrid.
  • How do I register

    Did you check the terms and conditions, and are you eligible to live at Student Experience? Then register to be kept informed of our available studios in Amsterdam Amstel, Amsterdam NDSM, Amsterdam Zuidas, and Leiden. 
    During the registration, you can select your preferred country and location(s). That way, we only send you a notification when a studio that matches your preferences becomes available.

    Registering with multiple email addresses to increase your chances is not allowed. All of your registrations will be removed from the system automatically.

    For our locations Amsterdam Minervahaven, Granada and Madrid, you can book a studio directly here!

    For more information, visit your specific location page:
    Amsterdam Amstel
    Amsterdam Minervahaven
    Amsterdam NDSM
    Amsterdam Zuidas
    Leiden
    Granada
    Madrid Pozuelo

  • How do I book a studio?

    At Student Experience, our goal is to give everyone an equal chance. That's why there's no waitlist! 

    For our locations Amsterdam Minervahaven, Madrid Pozuelo, and Granada, we operate on a 'first come, first served' basis. If there's a studio available you can book it straight away. Curious how? Click on the location to learn how to book a studio: 
    Amsterdam Minervahaven
    Madrid Pozuelo
    Granada

    For our locations Amsterdam Amstel, Amsterdam NDSM, Amsterdam Zuidas, and Leiden, you can respond to a studio by entering the automated draw. If you've been selected for the automated draw, you'll be notified within a few days. Click on one of the locations below to read everything about responding to a studio: 

    Amsterdam Amstel
    Amsterdam NDSM
    Amsterdam Zuidas
    Leiden

  • Can I obtain a studio in Amsterdam right away?

    Yes, studios at Amsterdam Minervahaven are available to book directly: no draw, no waiting list, first come first served. 

    Did you check the terms and conditions, and are you eligible to live at Student Experience Amsterdam Minervahaven? Then, you can book your studio now here.

    You can also book a virtual tour of Amsterdam Minervahaven here.

     

     

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Contract

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Prices

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About our studios and facilities

  • Are the studios furnished?

    At Amsterdam Minervahaven, Madrid Pozuelo, and Granada, you'll stay in a fully furnished studio. All you have to do is unpack your suitcase, and then the best time of your life can begin!

    Amsterdam Minervahaven
    Granada
    Madrid Pozuelo

    At Amsterdam Amstel, Amsterdam NDSM, and Amsterdam Zuidas, you'll stay in an unfurnished studio. Let your creativity flow and personalize your studio entirely in your own style :). Drilling is not permitted, but there are many different ways to furnish your studio and create more storage space. See our tips here.

    In unfurnished studios, you can even give your floor a new look by laying laminate up to 6 mm thick on top of the existing floor covering. When you move out, you must return the floor to its original condition.

    In Leiden, your studio comes with all the major pieces of furniture, such as a bed, desk, table with chairs, and more. Bring your own accessories to give your studio a personal touch, and take a look at the IKEA cart we've filled with all the essential items you'll need in your studio.

    Want to know exactly which pieces of furniture are included with your studio in Leiden? Then check out the Leiden location page.

    Looking for inspiration to decorate your furnished studio? Then take a look at this article.

  • How big are the studios?

    Student Experience studios range from 17 m² to 45 m², depending on the location and studio type. Every studio is a private space with its own kitchen (or coffee corner) and bathroom.

    Each location offers different studio types, so the exact floor plan and size depend on the studio you choose. For all floor plans, sizes, and prices at your location, see the studio overview for:

    Amsterdam Amstel
    Amsterdam Minervahaven
    Amsterdam NDSM
    Amsterdam Zuidas
    Leiden
    Granada
    Madrid Pozuelo

  • What are the facilities available at Student Experience?

    Every Student Experience location is built around shared facilities designed to help you study, relax, and meet people.

    Facilities you'll find across most locations include:

    • Study rooms and quiet workspaces
    • Lounges and communal social areas
    • A laundromat
    • A regular programme of community events
    • 24/7 security and on-site management
    • Bicycle storage

    Some locations offer additional facilities, such as rooftop sports field, gym, game corner, dining room, onsite restaurant, outdoor swimming pool, carpark, and much more!

     

  • Is there security in the complex?

    Yes, your safety is a priority at every Student Experience location, with secured access and on-site support available around the clock.

    Security measures across our locations include:

    • Electronic key card access, so only residents can enter the building and communal areas
    • A duty manager on site during the day to help with any questions or issues
    • Security staff overseeing the building at night
    • 24/7 support, so there is always someone to contact in an emergency

     

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The Student Experience community

  • Are there events at Student Experience?

    Yes, and they are at the heart of what makes Student Experience more than just a studio. From the moment you move in, you become part of a community: we organise activities and events designed to help you focus, unwind, and meet the people living right next door.

    You can join Co-Study Sessions to stay focused during exam week, take part in Masterclasses with inspiring speakers, sweat it out at a bootcamp or rooftop yoga session, or play football with FC Urban. There is always something happening, whether you are looking to study, stay active, or simply hang out.

    And the events are not only organized by us: you can plan your own. Fancy hosting a game night, a picnic, a city walk, or a sports session to get to know your neighbours better? Let us know, and we will add it to the community event calendar for everyone to join.

    Your studio is your private space, but the events, the shared facilities, and the people are what turn it into a home. Many of the friendships our residents make here start at an event just like these.

    Discover what's coming up on the event calendar, or follow your us  on social media to stay in the loop: Facebook, Instagram (Netherlands), Instagram (Spain), TikTok, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Pinterest!

  • Are there communal areas in the complex?

    Yes, and they're where Student Experience really comes to life. Your studio is your own private space with is own kitchen and bathroom, but step outside your door and the whole building becomes your living room.

    Across our locations you'll find lounges to unwind in, study rooms for focusing during exam season, game corners, and shared dining areas. Some locations offer even more: garden with hammocks, rooftop sports field, gym, and much more!

     

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Our locations

  • How far is Student Experience from my University or College?

    Every Student Experience complex is in a well-connected location, with direct public transport or cycling routes to the major universities in the city.

    In Amsterdam, our four locations each suit different campuses. Amsterdam Amstel sits beside the Amstel river, close to the city centre and well connected to UvA and HvA. Amsterdam Zuidas is in the business district, just minutes by bike from VU Amsterdam. Amsterdam NDSM is in Amsterdam Noord, a short free ferry ride across the IJ to Central Station. Amsterdam Minervahaven is in the west of the city, within easy reach of the centre and Central Station.

    In Leiden, you're close to Leiden University and the Bio Science Park. In Granada, our residence is well connected to the University of Granada's health sciences campuses. In Madrid, the Pozuelo complex is close to Complutense University Somosaguas campus and other campuses in the area.

    For the exact address of each location, visit our contact page.

  • Are the cities where Student Experience is located good for students?

    Absolutely, every Student Experience city is a renowned student destination, each with its own character. Wherever you choose, you'll land somewhere built for student life.

    Amsterdam is one of Europe's most international student cities, home to around 110,000 students and two leading universities: the University of Amsterdam (UvA) and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU). With a famously bike-friendly, English-speaking culture, it consistently ranks among the top 15 best student cities in the world in the QS Best Student Cities index. Our four locations let you pick the neighbourhood that suits you, from the creative energy of NDSM in the north to the riverside calm of Amstel.

    Leiden is a classic Dutch university town, built around Leiden University: the oldest university in the Netherlands, founded in 1575. Home to roughly 35,000 students, it's charming, walkable, and just 15 minutes by train from The Hague and around 35 minutes from Amsterdam.

    Granada is one of Europe's most popular Erasmus destinations: the University of Granada welcomes around 6,000 Erasmus & international students each year. Known for its vibrant tapas culture, and the backdrop of the Alhambra and Sierra Nevada, it's a warm, social city where international students feel at home fast.

    Madrid is Spain's cosmopolitan capital, home to more than 300,000 university students across some of the country's top institutions, including Complutense University of Madrid, one of the oldest universities in the world. With the quieter, greener setting of Pozuelo de Alarcón on its western edge, you get the best of both: city life and calm.

     

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For parents and guardians

  • Is Student Experience a legitimate and established housing provider?

    Yes. Student Experience is an established, independent property manager and developer that has provided high-quality student housing since 2015.

    Founded by Johan Verweij with a simple vision, to create student housing he would trust his own children to live in, Student Experience opened its first residence in Zuidas in Amsterdam in 2015. It has since grown to seven locations across the Netherlands and Spain.

    Our commitment to quality and sustainability is recognized through independent awards and certifications, including:

    • BREEAM certification (four-star), the leading international standard for sustainable building
    • ISAE 3402 certification, an internationally recognized standard for operational and financial controls
    • Best in Class Awards 2025 and Coliving Awards 2025 winner for Student Coliving
    • Best Environmental Management award

    Read our story here and see our full list of awards and certifications.

  • Do I need to act as a guarantor for my child's contract?

    No, Student Experience does not require a parent or third-party guarantor (borgsteller) to sign your child's rental contract. If they are 18+, your child enters into the contract with Student Experience directly, based on their student status, so you do not take on any legal or financial liability as a guarantor.

    (If you child is between 16 and 18 years old, they need permission from a parent or guardian to enter into the contract.)

    This is different from many private landlords in the Netherlands and Spain, who often require a guarantor with local income before they will rent to an international student, a requirement that can be a real barrier for students moving from abroad. At Student Experience, no guarantor and no agency fee are needed.

    If you would like to pay your child's rent directly, you can do so easily by setting up direct debit from your own bank account or by making a monthly bank transfer. Your child simply needs to meet the eligibility requirements and provide their documents to finalize their contract.

     

  • Can my child receive housing allowance?

    If your child lives at a qualifying Student Experience location in the Netherlands, they may be able to receive Dutch housing allowance (huurtoeslag), a monthly government subsidy that reduces their rent.

    Housing allowance is available at Amsterdam Amstel, Amsterdam NDSM, Amsterdam Zuidas, and Leiden. To qualify, your child generally needs to be 21 or over, hold a Dutch address registration (BRP) and a BSN, and meet the income limits set by the Dutch Tax Authority. At Leiden, 200 studios are priced below the threshold so students aged 18 to 20 can also apply. 

    Your child applies directly through the Dutch Tax Authority using their DigiD, you cannot apply on their behalf, and the allowance is paid to their bank account even if you pay the rent.

    Your child can check eligibility and apply at belastingdienst.nl.

  • Is the building safe, and who is available if my child needs help?

    Yes, safety and well-being are the top priority at every Student Experience location, and there is always someone on hand to help.

    • Each complex has secured entry, so only residents can access the building and communal areas using an electronic key card.
    • A duty manager is on site to support residents day-to-day: whether that's answering questions, helping with a maintenance issue, or dealing with anything urgent.
    • There is 24/7 support, so help is available at any hour, including overnight.

    If your child ever needs help, the duty manager's contact details are available at reception and in their online service portal. As a parent, you can also reach the central team via studentexperience.com/contact.

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Is your answer not listed here?

Get in contact with us, the Student Experience team would love to help you. Want to contact the duty manager of your location directly? You can find his number at the reception of your location and in your service portal.

Email

For future, current, and past residents.
info@studentexperience.com

For future residents who have not yet made a reservation. (Granada, Madrid Pozuelo, and Amsterdam Minervahaven only) 

bookings@studentexperience.com

Phone

Netherlands+31 (0)20 235 21 59Spain
+34 919 54 97 71

Looking for contact details for short stays ( < 1 month) for Granada or Madrid? Visit this page

Amsterdam Amstel.

Amsterdam Minervahaven.

Amsterdam NDSM.

Amsterdam Zuidas.

Leiden.

Madrid Pozuelo.

Granada.