Your Guide to Finding Student Housing in France

Finding student housing in France can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re moving to a new city for the first time.

Between competitive markets, admission results, and tight timelines, everything moves fast. The good news? With the right approach, you can secure the right student accommodation without panic.

Here’s how to find the right student residence in France, step by step.

1. Start Early — Earlier Than You Think

In major student cities like Paris, Lyon, Lille, Bordeaux or Brussels, student housing fills up quickly.

Many students wait until:

• Final admission results

• Visa confirmation

By then, the best student apartments and student residences are often already booked.

Even if you’re not 100% sure yet, start researching neighborhoods and available student housing options early. The earlier you act, the more choice (and better prices) you’ll have.

2. Know the Different Types of Student Housing

When looking for student accommodation in France, you’ll typically find four main options:

CROUS residences

Public student housing managed by the French government.Very affordable — but limited in availability and highly competitive.

Private rentals

Studios or apartments rented directly from landlords.Often require a guarantor, security deposit, utilities setup, and long-term leases.

Shared housing

Also known as colocation, this means renting a room in a shared apartment with other students.More affordable, but usually requires managing contracts and shared responsibilities yourself.

Modern student residences with services

A newer generation of student residences designed specifically for students and young professionals.

These student accommodations typically include:

• Fully furnished private rooms or studios

• Shared common areas

• Utilities included (WiFi, electricity, heating)

• Flexible lease terms

• Simplified online application

This format combines independence with convenience: no furniture to buy, no hidden costs, no complex paperwork.

At Colonies, our student residences follow this model: fully furnished, all-inclusive student housing designed to make student life easier from day one.

3. Prepare Your Rental File in Advance

In France, speed is crucial when applying for student housing.

Prepare these documents in advance:

• ID or passport

• Proof of school admission

• Guarantor documents (if required)

• Visa (for international students)

A complete file can allow you to secure a student residence within 24–48 hours (or even in a few hours with Colonies)

4. Think Beyond Just the Monthly Rent

When comparing student accommodation options, look at the total cost.

Ask:

• Are utilities included?

• Is wifi access included?

• Is the room furnished?

• How far is it from campus or public transport?

All-inclusive student residences often make budgeting easier — especially in your first year studying in France.

Special Mention: Housing During Grande École Concours Periods

If you need housing for a few days in another city to sit a Grande École concours, finding short-term student accommodation can be challenging.

These exam periods are temporary and don’t always fit traditional rental contracts.

In these situations, it’s often best to contact student residences directly.

Many modern student residences — including Colonies — may offer short, exceptional stays during concours periods, depending on availability.

If you anticipate needing temporary housing for exams, reach out early. Student residences sometimes provide flexible solutions for these specific academic situations.

Final Thought

Student housing in France is competitive — but manageable with preparation.

Start early. Understand your options. Choose simplicity when possible.

The goal isn’t just finding a room — it’s finding a student residence where you can focus, grow, and enjoy your experience in France.