What is a student residence?
Finding suitable accommodation when starting university is often one of the biggest challenges—especially in cities with large student populations. Many people therefore ask themselves: What exactly is a student residence? How much does it cost? What is it like to live there? And are there alternatives that offer more comfort, independence, and flexibility?
In this article, we explain exactly what a student residence is—and show you why smartments student takes a different approach to the concept.
Definition of student residence
A student residence is a type of accommodation designed specifically for students. Most residences are run by student services, church organizations, or non-profit organizations. They are often located near universities and offer affordable accommodation, usually in the form of single rooms with shared kitchens and bathrooms.
Typical features of classic student residences:
- Affordable rent
- Room furnishings mostly simple and functional
- Shared bathrooms and kitchens
- Long waiting lists, especially at the start of the semester
- Often tied to fixed rental periods or semester cycles
Student residences therefore primarily serve the purpose of providing affordable living space – comfort often falls by the wayside.
smartments student – More than just a student residence
smartments student was developed to make everyday life easier for students – without compromising on comfort, flexibility, and amenities.
What makes smartments student different from a traditional student residence?
| Traditional student residence | smartments student | |
| Equipment | Mostly simple, often shared bathroom/kitchen | Modern and fully furnished single apartments with bathroom and kitchenette |
| Privacy | Shared rooms | Your own space – no shared living stress |
| Location | Often close to the city, but heavily used | Central locations with direct public transport connections |
| Booking | Manual application, long waiting times | Online application: Select a room and book directly |
| Budget control | Additional costs for electricity, internet, etc. | All-inclusive rent (Wi-Fi, electricity, heating included) |
| Community | Shared kitchen & hallway contacts | Study rooms, lounge, laundry room, and more |
smartments student combines the economic advantages of a student residence with the standard of living of a modern, urban living solution. smartments student is ideal for first-year students, internships, semesters abroad, or master’s programs.