2025/26 Student Accommodation Advice
UCC Virtual Accommodation Information Session for Incoming students - Academic year 25/26
This information session, hosted by the Accommodation & Community Life Office, was designed specifically for incoming students. We strongly recommend watching this webinar, as it provides essential guidance on securing accommodation, including:
- Campus Accommodation: Campus Accommodation runs their applications via a Lottery based system which is now closed.Please note our office does not manage or control the UCC Campus Accommodation Lottery, as this is managed by Campus Accommodation directly.
- Private Student Apartment Complexes: An overview of options, pricing, and application procedures.
- Alternative Accommodation Options: Exploring non-student-specific housing, including private rentals, house shares, and homestay options.
- Other accommodation options outside of student specific apartment complexes, such as StudentPad
- Accommodation Information Session -Q&A
Explore this page
Cork City has a variety of accommodation types that are available to students. We advise that you consider all options when searching for safe and affordable accommodation.
The search for accommodation should begin in early January. Many options will be unavailable by the end of February each year. If you are a returning student you should begin discussions with your current provider at this time as well, if you are happy to stay there again.
Campus Accommodation may be your preference but you should also consider all of the alternative accommodation when starting your search. There are almost three times as many rooms available in the private complexes than in Campus Accommodation but the application windows, standard and price tend to be very different throughout.
View our Student Accommodation in Cork Tips and Advice booket for further information...
Campus Accommodation
UCC Campus Accommodation – Application Information
UCC Campus Accommodation operates six purpose-built student apartment complexes, all within walking distance of the main university campus.
Application Process for 2025/26
The application window for the 2025/26 academic year is now closed. Applications were processed through a lottery-based system, which ran from 10th February - 10th March 2025. Lottery results will be released in early April by Campus Accommodation directly.
Please Note: Our office does not manage or oversee the UCC Campus Accommodation Lottery. This process is administered solely by Campus Accommodation.
What to Do If You Encounter Issues
If you experience any issues with the Campus Accommodation Lottery, we recommend contacting the relevant accommodation complex directly by phone or email to resolve your query. Contact details for each complex can be found on the Campus Accommodation website.
Important Application Details
- No Late Applications: Once the application window closes, it will not be possible to apply or join a waiting list.
- Offer Process: The first round of offers is issued shortly after the application window closes. Additional offers may be made later in the year, subject to cancellations.
- Deposit & Payment: Successful applicants must pay a €300 deposit to secure their booking. Rent can be paid either:
- In two instalments (per semester)
- In monthly instalments
(Both options include electricity and utilities.)
For Students with Additional Requirements
If you are a returning or incoming student with specific accommodation needs, we strongly encourage you to contact our office at resservices@ucc.ie with details of your additional requirements.
While we can advocate for students in certain cases, please note that the number of allocated rooms for specific needs is extremely limited due to high demand. We will do our best to support you. Additionally, we strongly recommend registering with the UCC Disability Support Service for further assistance.
For further information, please visit the Campus Accommodation website.
Alternative Purpose-Built Student Accommodation Complexes
Private Purpose-Built Student Accommodation Complexes (PBSA)
Private student complexes are open for bookings for 2025/26 now. To increase your chances of securing accommodation, we recommend:
- Researching options in advance - know your budget and preferred complexes.
- Checking application opening dates for each provider.
- Understanding the application process to ensure a smooth booking experience.
If private student accommodation is fully booked when you begin your search, we recommend checking back regularly for cancellations, as rooms may become available closer to the start of the academic year.
We strongly encourage students to consider all available accommodation options, including private student complexes. Not all private providers are fully booked yet, and we have compiled a list of these options on our webpage. This includes:
- Pricing information (based on the 2024/25 academic year).
- Distance from the university’s main campus.
- Current availability status.
Many private complexes are still accepting bookings, and there are a range of affordable options to explore. For full details, please review the accommodation options on our webpage.
Please note our office has no oversight or influence in securing privately booked accommodation.
House shares
It is possible to find house-share accommodation at any time of the year. However, if you are interested in this option, we recommend starting your search early and being prepared to continue looking for several months. Availability tends to increase in April and May, so patience and persistence are key.
You can find house-share listings through:
Important Advice:
Before paying a deposit, always view the property in person and ensure you feel comfortable and safe before securing the tenancy.
Digs (owner occupied rentals)
Owner-Occupied Accommodation (‘Digs’)
Owner-occupied accommodation, also known as ‘digs’, is available throughout the year. However, if you are considering this option, the best time to search is during the summer months when more listings become available. You can find digs through platforms such as:
Important Considerations
Renting in an owner-occupied property is a licensee arrangement, meaning that standard tenancy rights do not apply. Because of this, it is crucial to agree on clear terms in writing before committing to this type of accommodation.
If you find a suitable option, we strongly recommend:
- Viewing the property in person.
- Meeting the homeowner to ensure the arrangement is a good fit.
- Clarifying all expectations regarding rent, house rules, and notice periods before making any financial commitment.