Just 13% of this year’s intake of first year students live away from home, says student housing body Kences. Two years ago, 28% of new students lived in student housing.

Almost half the stay-at-home students say the government’s decision to scrap the basic grant is behind their decision to stay with their parents. Students used to get a grant of almost €270 if they lived out but that was stopped last year.

‘This is bad news for student involvement in their subject and in university life,’ Kences director Ardin Mourik said. ‘In addition, students are important for the development of city economies. This may also be damaged.’

There are also fears that students may be put off taking the course of their choice because it is cheaper to remain closer to home.

‘If you come from Middelburg and the course that suits you best is in Groningen, the distance should not be a reason to drop the idea,’ said Jan Sinnige, chairman of student union ISO told broadcaster NOS.