Student housing

Housing for MA and PhD students

ISS student housing is offered through DUWO, at Dorus Rijkersplein, located just minutes from the institute. Additional housing options are available slightly outside The Hague city centre. Living with fellow students helps build strong connections and allows you to settle in quickly and focus on your studies.

Rental Periods

MA students: Tenancy agreements run until the end of the study year (December).
PhD researchers: Ten rooms are reserved, with flexible start dates (January preferred), based on availability.

Fixed-Term Tenancy

Housing contracts cannot be ended early.
MA students: Early cancellation is only possible if the programme is terminated, with approval from the ISS Director.
PhD researchers: Cancellation is only allowed if leaving the Netherlands for research, with Director’s approval.

Additional Housing Policies

Housing is available throughout the full study period.
Double rooms are reserved for couples (student and spouse); not for two students.
Children are not permitted in ISS housing.
Rental fees are based on Dutch government guidelines and range between €700–800 per month for furnished rooms.

Student Housing – Dorus Residence

ISS offers guaranteed student housing at Dorus Rijkersplein, a modern and convenient residence located just a 2-minute walk from the ISS building in The Hague. Dorus provides a comfortable and social living environment, with 125 single rooms and 10 larger double rooms suitable for couples. Each room is fully furnished and includes a private bathroom. Kitchens are shared between 5 to 8 students, encouraging a sense of community, while the residence also features a cozy common room with a TV and a laundry room for all residents. Upon arrival, a linen set, blanket, and pillow will be provided to help you settle in smoothly (See Inventory list for more information). All rooms meet ISS’s quality standards and are designed to support a pleasant and practical student experience. With its central location and welcoming atmosphere, Dorus is the perfect place to call home during your studies at ISS. Click "read more" for information on rental prices and room sizes.

Rental Prices at ISS
The monthly rent for a single room at ISS student housing (Dorus Residence) is approximately €750.* This all-inclusive price covers:

A personal rental contract
Fully furnished room
Linen set, blanket, and pillow
Access to a fully equipped shared kitchen
High-speed internet and Wi-Fi
Utilities: electricity, water, and heating
Basic insurance and municipal taxes

*This price reflects 2025 rates and is in line with common practice for furnished student housing in the Netherlands. While some students initially find the rent higher than expected, it's important to note that many lower-priced rooms in the Netherlands do not include furniture, utilities, or essential services. ISS housing is offered at cost price—we do not make any profit from student housing.

Room sizes

Single room: 16–20 m²
Couple room (two single beds): 31–32 m²

A one-time administration fee of €100 applies. This covers part of the costs for processing your housing request, preparing your tenancy agreement, and getting your room ready before arrival.

How to reserve a room at ISS

Once you confirm your arrival with the Admissions Office (for MA students) or the PhD Office (for PhD researchers), you will receive an email about accommodation 1 to 2 months before arrival. The ISS Housing Team will review your request and let you know if a room can be allocated. If approved, you’ll receive instructions on how to register for your specific room.

Tenancy Agreement, Key Collection & Payment
When your housing request is approved, you will receive a tenancy agreement—issued by DUWO for Dorus Rijkersplein or by ISS for other residences. The agreement will include payment details for the first month’s rent and a €100 administration fee. To confirm your room, you’ll need to sign the agreement and complete the payment.

Upon arrival in The Hague, you can collect your room keys from DUWO or ISS. Please note: rent for each following month must be paid in advance, before the first day of the new month, and can only be paid by bank transfer