In this article, we are going to guide you step-by-step on how to get CROUS housing, providing you with all the information you need to make the process easier.
Who can benefit from CROUS housing?
CROUS housing is primarily intended for scholarship students. However, students not receiving grants with modest incomes can get CROUS housing.
It should be noted that CROUS accommodations are also intended for students enrolled in a higher education institution for the first time who have not yet benefited from it.
The criteria for awarding CROUS housing are based on social and financial criteria:
- Parents' reference tax income
- The number of dependent screen children
- The distance between the family home and the establishment
- The student's family situation
Why have CROUS accommodation for a foreign student?
Many students from Algeria, Morocco and French-speaking Africa condition their arrival in France on obtaining subsidized housing, for lack of resources to rent elsewhere.
It is also worth mentioning the increasingly worrying situation of visa refusal for reason 5, which can be easily circumvented by securing a place in a CROUS residence. Indeed, CROUS offers the most reliable proof of accommodation in the eyes of consular services.
For a foreign student, having CROUS housing can have other important advantages. Here are some reasons why CROUS housing is beneficial for an international student:
Affordability: CROUS homes are generally less expensive than other housing options available. This can be especially beneficial for international students looking to keep expenses under control and save money while studying. Simplicity of the procedure: The CROUS housing application process is relatively simple and can be completed online. All you have to do is create an account on the CROUS website and fill out the Student Social File (DSE) by providing the required information. This simplicity greatly facilitates administrative procedures for foreign students who are not familiar with the French system. Social integration: Living in a CROUS university residence offers foreign students the opportunity to meet other French and international students. This promotes cultural exchange, French language learning and social integration, which can be an enriching and beneficial experience in adapting to a new environment. Services and amenities: CROUS accommodations generally offer services and amenities adapted to the needs of students. This may include common areas, study rooms, laundry rooms, internet connection, etc. These facilities facilitate the daily lives of international students by providing them with an environment that is conducive to their studies and their development. Proximity to educational institutions: CROUS university residences are often located near campuses and higher education institutions. This reduces travel times and makes it easier to access courses, libraries, and other academic facilities, which is especially convenient for international students who are not yet familiar with the region. How do I apply for CROUS housing?
To obtain CROUS housing, the student must first apply. The CROUS housing application is made online on the CROUS website of your academy. You need to take the following steps:
Create a student social file that will be used to make the request and which must be completed on the CROUS web platform Then, fill out the Student Social File (DSE): Once your account is created, you will need to fill out the Student Social File (DSE) by providing information on your family situation, your income, etc. This file will make it possible to assess your eligibility for a CROUS grant and housing. Once the application is completed, the student can apply for CROUS housing by selecting the university residences of their choice. After the request, the student must wait for a response from CROUS. If the request is accepted, the latter must confirm the request and provide the necessary documents to sign the rental contract. CROUS accommodations are awarded based on various criteria such as your social situation, your distance from your place of study, your ranking rank, etc. Processing times may vary from one academy to another, so it is advisable to apply as soon as possible.
In addition, if you do not get CROUS housing or if the deadlines are too long, there are other solutions to find affordable housing. You can explore options like:
roommate,
private student residences,
university hostels,
online platforms specialized in student rentals
companies like Studely to find housing for you at an affordable cost Obtaining CROUS housing can be a great option for students looking for affordable housing that is tailored to their needs. By following the steps mentioned earlier, you can increase your chances of getting CROUS housing.
However, it's important to keep in mind that demand can be high and processing times may vary. The key is to start your research as early as possible and to remain flexible in your options.
Happy research and happy installation!