With the start of the new academic year 2026/2027, students in several large cities in Slovakia will pay more for dormitory accommodation. Universities are raising prices, citing inflation and increased operating costs, which have not changed since 2023.
How much will a bed in a dormitory cost?
The price increase affects several key universities across the country. Although dormitories remain the most affordable housing option for students, monthly expenses will noticeably increase.
Here is the situation in some cities starting September 1, 2026:
Košice: At the Technical University of Košice (TUKE), the cost of the cheapest bed will be €85, and the most expensive will be €123 per month.
Banská Bystrica: At Matej Bel University (UMB), the cheapest place has increased from €70 to €77. The maximum price reaches €105.
Prešov: Students at the University of Prešov (PU) will pay between €75 and €85.
Trnava: At the University of St. Cyril and Methodius (UCM), prices are set in the range of €80 to €90.
Žilina: At the University of Žilina (UNIZA), accommodation costs will range from €70 to €102.
Most universities also note that the demand for dormitory places traditionally exceeds their capacity, so many students are forced to look for alternative options.
Why are prices increasing?
The main reason for the price review is the economic situation. University representatives explain that accommodation costs have not been increased for the last few years, despite significant inflation and rising energy and other utility costs.
"Compared to last year, there will be a slight price increase, which is due to the fact that accommodation prices have not been raised since 2023, despite inflation and the increase in all operating costs," explained Rastislav Ručinský, vice-rector of TUKE, to the publication HN Online.
Thus, the new tariffs are intended to cover the accumulated costs of maintaining and servicing student dormitories.
Dormitory or apartment: which is more affordable?
Even after the price increase, dormitories remain by far the cheapest option for students. The alternative – renting a room or an apartment with other students – will cost several times more.
For example, in large cities like Bratislava or Košice, the cost of renting a separate room in a shared apartment rarely drops below €250-300 per person per month, not including utilities. Renting a two-room apartment can easily exceed €700-900, which, when shared by two or three people, is still significantly more expensive than the maximum dormitory price.
Therefore, despite the increase, a place in a dormitory allows you to save at least €150-200 per month compared to the private sector. This makes it a priority choice for most students, forcing them to participate in a real race for a limited number of places every year.
