Building More Student Accommodation

The Government is committed to a long-term strategy to increase the supply of purpose-built student accommodation so that cost and availability do not stop people from attending college.

Why This Matters

• More student-specific housing means less pressure on the private rental market, freeing up homes for individuals and families.
• Affordable student housing supports access to higher education.

What’s Happening

In April 2024, the Government announced €100 million investment to deliver about 1,000 new student beds.

• A new Student Accommodation Strategy 2025–2035 will soon be published. It will:
  • Set out national policy for housing full-time undergraduate and postgraduate students in publicly funded colleges.
  • Focus on increasing supply and making projects viable.
  • Provide targeted affordability supports for priority groups under the National Access Plan.

Our Goal

• Grow the supply of student accommodation without relying on the private rental market.
• Ensure housing is not a barrier to education.