Acceptance and extension of stay in student residences and private homes

Starting on 1 July 2026, students in Slovenia can apply for subsidized accommodation in student dormitories and private residences for the academic year 2026/2027. The Ministry of Education, Science and Youth, along with the Directorate for Higher Education and Future Competences, announced this opportunity as part of a formal call for applications. This initiative aims to support students financially during their studies by providing them with affordable housing options.

For the upcoming academic year, there will be a total of 12,883 subsidized spots available. In addition to these, 32 special spots have been reserved for students who have received recognized international protection or temporary protection status. These additional slots aim to ensure that all eligible students, including those with specific legal statuses, can access housing assistance.

The amount of the subsidy varies depending on the type of accommodation chosen. For public student dormitories, dijaško-študentskih (student-dormitory) facilities, and other state-run accommodations, the monthly subsidy amounts to 41.46 euros. However, for private student dormitories and private residences, the subsidy is significantly higher, reaching 103.36 euros per month. This difference reflects the varying costs associated with different types of housing and aims to provide more substantial financial relief to students living in more expensive environments.

Students must submit their application requests via the online portal eVŠ. Applications for admission can be submitted starting from 1 July 2026. Those who submit their applications by 18 August 2026 will be placed on the first priority list for allocation of subsidized accommodation. This early submission deadline ensures that the most urgent cases are addressed first, allowing for better planning and distribution of resources throughout the academic year.

In parallel, students who wish to extend their current stay in subsidized housing also have until 18 August 2026 to submit their extension requests through the same online platform. This provision allows students already residing in subsidized accommodation to continue their stay without interruption, ensuring continuity in their educational experience.

The announcement was met with positive responses from various stakeholders within the education sector. Universities and student organizations highlighted the importance of such measures in reducing the financial burden on students, particularly those from lower-income backgrounds. Some institutions expressed hope that the increased number of available spots would alleviate long-standing issues related to housing shortages, especially in larger cities where demand often exceeds supply.

While the availability of subsidies is a significant step forward, some concerns remain regarding the adequacy of funding and the potential impact on private providers of student housing. Critics argue that while the higher subsidy for private accommodations might encourage more providers to participate, it could also lead to increased competition and potentially higher prices for non-subsidized housing. Nevertheless, the government has emphasized its commitment to expanding access to affordable housing for all students, regardless of their socioeconomic status or legal background.

Looking ahead, officials expect a high volume of applications due to the large number of available spots and the relatively generous subsidy amounts. They anticipate that the process will be managed efficiently through the digital portal, minimizing bureaucratic delays. Additionally, they plan to monitor the effectiveness of the program throughout the academic year, making adjustments as needed based on feedback from students and housing providers. This proactive approach underscores the government’s dedication to supporting students' well-being and academic success through accessible and affordable housing solutions.