Student Housing in France
CROUS, the regional student services centre, has the cheapest residences, but rooms are hard to get. Private student residences, youth hostels and private flats cost more. Prices are in euros (EUR). Start early and plan a rent guarantee.
Housing Options
The main types of student housing in France.
| Accommodation Type | Average Cost | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
CROUS residences CROUS residences are run by the state, so rent is low. | About EUR 450 a month in Paris, EUR 350 a month elsewhere Low rent, close to campus. |
|
|
Private student residences Run by private companies. | Often more than CROUS |
|
|
Youth hostels Run by non-profits, often for ages 18 to 25. | About EUR 600 a month in Paris; EUR 400 elsewhere Paris costs more than other cities. |
|
|
Private flats and shared flats Rent a studio alone or share a flat (colocation). | From EUR 800 a month in Paris, EUR 400 a month elsewhere Studio prices. |
|
|
CROUS rooms are scarce
Finding and Securing Housing
Before you leave
- Apply for a CROUS room on trouverunlogement.lescrous.fr.
- Get a Visale certificate (you do not need your address yet).
- Book temporary housing if needed.
When you sign
- Pay the first month's rent and the deposit.
- Inspect the place with the landlord and note its condition.
When you leave
- Tell your landlord in writing that you are leaving, usually one month before. Send it by registered post (post with a receipt).
Reliable Platforms
trouverunlogement.lescrous.fr
CROUS residences for students who come on their own.
Lokaviz
Lists CROUS rooms and private rooms. Free to view.
Cité internationale universitaire de Paris (CIUP)
About 6,000 residents. For master's level and above, enrolled in the Paris region.
Required Documents
For off-campus housing in France, you'll typically need to provide the following documents:
- 1ID
Your ID and residence permit or long-stay visa that works as a residence permit (VLS-TS).
- 2Study proof
Student card and proof that you are enrolled for your study year.
- 3Guarantor
A guarantor's letter and ID, or a Visale certificate.
Avoiding Scams
The France rental market has its share of scams targeting international students. To protect yourself:
- Never send money before you sign a lease and talk directly with the owner or agent.
- Do not pay rent in advance.
- Be wary of rents that seem too good to be true.
Costs
Paris costs more than other cities. A studio is from EUR 800 a month in Paris and EUR 400 a month elsewhere.
Regional Cost Comparison
Higher Cost Regions
- Paris
Average studio: From EUR 800 a month
Lower Cost Regions
- Other French cities
Average studio: From EUR 400 a month
Additional Costs to Consider
Deposit
Refunded if you leave the place as you found it.
Up to 1 month's rent
Home insurance
Compulsory.
Location Considerations
Near campus
CROUS residences are close to campus.
Budget for move-in
Housing Tips
Start your search before you leave.
Book temporary housing if you have not found a place.
Look for furnished places to save on move-in costs.
Never send money before you sign a lease.
Avoid paying rent in advance.
Be careful of rents that look too good to be true.
Ask your school: some top selective schools (grandes écoles) have their own housing.
Housing FAQs
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