Just got my offer from UPC, and my hands are literally shaking with excitement! But the next big thing on the to-do list is figuring out accommodation. I’m sure many of you, like me, are torn between renting an apartment off-campus and living in a university dorm. Today, I’ll share what I’ve found out about UPC’s official dormitories from a freshman’s perspective, hoping to help you make a decision.
Main UPC Student Residences
UPC’s official student residences are primarily managed by a company called Resa. The most well-known and newest ones are probably the Aleu Residence Hall on the North Campus and the Fòrum Residence Hall next to the Besòs Campus. Both were built in recent years, have relatively modern facilities, and are top choices for most international students. I’ve focused my research on the Aleu Residence Hall because, let’s be honest, being close to the North Campus, where most engineering programs are located, is a huge plus! It’s just a few minutes’ walk to classes, which is an absolute dream.
The residence halls are fully equipped with a gym, study rooms, common kitchens, laundry facilities, and recreational areas—it feels like you can just move in with your suitcase. The main room type is a studio with a private bathroom and kitchenette. It’s not huge, but it’s got everything you need and offers complete privacy, which I absolutely love. As for the price, it’s definitely more expensive than sharing an apartment off-campus, but the trade-off is safety and convenience. Plus, utilities like water, electricity, and internet are all included, so you don’t have to deal with the hassle of setting up accounts and paying bills.
Application Process and Pros & Cons
The application process is managed almost entirely on the Resa company’s official website, and the steps are very clear. Applications for the fall semester typically open each spring, and places are in high demand. I strongly recommend that you monitor the website and apply as soon as you get your offer. Don’t wait until the last minute, as the best rooms and south-facing options might already be gone, a sentiment echoed in this student’s review of UPC!
| Feature | University Dorm | Off-Campus Rental |
|---|
| Safety | High | Depends on the area and building |
| Price | High | Flexible (wide range) |
| Social Life | Easy to meet students from all over the world | Depends on you and your flatmates |
| Convenience | Completely worry-free Very high | Lower |
If, like students at other universities such as UPCT in Spain, it’s your first year in Spain, you’re not familiar with Barcelona, or if you’re a bit like me with some “social anxiety” and a “lazy” streak, then a UPC dorm is a foolproof choice. Even though it costs an extra one or two hundred euros a month, you’re paying for peace of mind and convenience, which I think is a worthwhile investment. Are there any current residents who can share their real experiences—the good and the bad? Or if you’re also looking for a dorm, let’s connect in the comments and discuss!
