Student housing shortage strains universities in Spain and Costa Rica

In the Basque province of Bizkaia, Spain, university residences are reaching full capacity before the new academic year begins. With roughly 2,049 places spread across ten residences and several college halls, demand from students attending the University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), the University of Deusto and other institutions outpaces supply, forcing many to seek private rentals that are increasingly scarce and expensive.

In Costa Rica, students face similarly high rental costs and strict landlord requirements, such as background checks and extensive documentation, which limit access to affordable housing. Experts call for universities to develop mixed‑financing student residences and for stronger protections on security deposits, arguing that stable housing is essential for academic success and social equity.