Take a look here to see the many possible accommodation solutions according to your preferences.
- HALLS OF RESIDENCE
The CROUS (Centre Régional des Oeuvres Universitaires et Scolaires) [regional student service agency] is a public administrative institution independent from the university, and manages student accommodation on campus. University registration does not necessarily include admission into university housing.
To get accommodation in a hall of residence, you have to put together a "dossier social étudiant" (student social file) on the CROUS' website from 15 January to 30 April before the start of the academic year.
For students enrolled in an exchange programme, the accommodation request is to be made on the online application portal
- PRIVATE HOUSING
You have to fill a rental contract and an inventory of the property with the landlord. Check carefully the duration of the contract and even more so the required notice before departure (usually 1 or 3 months before the preferred departure date, depending on the type of housing).
You will also be required to pay a security deposit equivalent to one or two months' rent that will be refunded when you leave if there is no damage.
You have to find a personal guarantor (caution solidaire): someone who will pay if you stop paying rent. This person is required to live in the European Union, and will be asked for identity documents and proof of resources (last pay slips and tax notice).
You will be required to provide a certificate of rental insurance (fire, water damage...) and civil liability insurance.
- SHARED ACCOMMODATION
Flat-sharing is becoming more and more common in France, especially among young people. On top of more affordable rent, share the costs of living, internet subscription, cleaning products. And contrary to common belief, it's possible to both flat-share and be eligible for APL (Personalized Housing Assistance/financial aid)!
- ACCOMMODATION IN A HOST FAMILY
Only for students enrolled in an exchange programme (Erasmus, non-EU exchange programmes).
The families are selected by the International Central Office, who will do their best to find a family matching your preferences. Some families will provide bath towels, and you will have access to a washing machine.
You will sign a rental contract and perform an inventory of the room. You may be asked for a security deposit (equivalent to one month's rent). You will pay rent directly to your host family, at the beginning of every month.
Living with a host family requires special efforts to adapt to French life and customs. The host family's lifestyle must be taken into account, and so you will be required to sign a Good Conduct Policy.
It is not possible to change host family during your stay (except cases of force majeure).
For more details, you can check the international students' Welcome Guide:
In French: https://en.calameo.com/read/00560802966fc25be4adc
In English: https://fr.calameo.com/read/005608029fcec107fe658