What type of housing should you choose, where to start your search, what assistance is available to pay your rent, or what is the purpose of a guarantor? These are all questions that you are probably asking yourself when preparing to settle for your studies in France. Don't worry: we'll guide you every step of the way!
Are you looking for accommodation for your studies in France? Good news: you have lots of options! Between the student residences, the private apartments, the Roommate or even a room With a local resident, you will inevitably find the formula that suits you. Don't panic, we'll explain everything to help you make the right choice.
First tip: start your research as soon as possible.
Student housing is selling fast! Even if you don't find your ideal place right away, book temporary accommodation for your arrival. You will then be able to search for your permanent home more calmly.
Also remember to contact your school: some, in particular the Grandes Écoles, offer their own accommodations or have platforms reserved for their students.
To help you see things clearly, here are the two main options available to you:
1. Student residences and hostels
These accommodations have several advantages: often affordable rents, furnished rooms, and a friendly atmosphere that encourages meetings between students.
2. The private real estate stock
You can go through a real estate agency or rent directly from an individual. This option allows you to share a room with other students or rent a room with a local.
Renting a home in France means above all presenting a solid case and a reliable guarantor. No stress, several solutions exist!
The list of documents to be provided may vary depending on the type of housing and the requirements of the owner. But, in general, prepare copies of the following documents:
For the guarantor, four common options: a physical guarantor (parent in France or abroad), The Visale guarantee (free, managed by Housing Action), a bank guarantee (blocking an amount in the bank) or a joint guarantee system via associations or private companies.
Tips for international students : have the documents translated by a sworn translator, add a scholarship certificate or account statement, provide the university registration certificate and ask the owner for the exact list of required documents. Prepare copies and a short explanatory email — this speeds up the acceptance of the file.
A guarantor is the person who acts as guarantor for you: in other words, she undertakes to pay your rent if, one day, you can no longer do it. In France, most owners ask for a guarantor, whether you are a foreign student or a French student.
In general, the guarantor must reside in France. If you don't have one, don't worry: there are other solutions, including the device VISALE, a free rental guarantee offered by Housing Action. It allows you to rent an apartment or a room in a student residence without having a physical guarantor.
Quick advice: apply as soon as possible, even before you arrive in France. You don't need to know your address to get your eligibility certificate VISALE (also called” VISALE visa ”).
Ps: There is also the device GarantMe, a practical solution if you are not eligible for VISALE or if your landlord doesn't accept it.
The number of pieces indicated in an announcement corresponds to Number of living rooms (bedrooms, living room, dining room); the kitchen, the bathroom and the corridors are not counted. For example, a “two rooms” means that the unit includes One bedroom and A living room, as well as a kitchen and a bathroom.
To find your way around, here are the most common names and abbreviations:
Studio: unique room with a kitchenette
T2 or F2 : two-room apartment
T3 or F3 : three-room apartment
SdB : bathroom (with bath)
Shower room : bathroom (with shower)
Apt. : apartment
RDC : ground floor
Asc. : lift
TBE : very good condition
CC : charges included. The charges correspond to the additional costs for the maintenance of the building and common services (cleaning of common areas, garbage collection, etc.).
Start your research as soon as possible. Les student housing leave quickly, especially in big cities and around campuses. Even if you do not yet have all your registration confirmations, it is advisable to prepare your application and book temporary accommodation for your arrival.
Specialized online platforms
University residences : in particular those managed by the CROUS, which offer affordable rents and furnished rooms.
Private residences and student hostels: they often offer additional services (internet, laundry, gym) and a pleasant collective life. E.g.: Studapart
The private real estate stock: apartments or studios via agencies or individuals, perfect for sharing or housing At the inhabitant's house.
Specialized online platforms : Le Bon Coin , SeLoger, Studapart, Lokaviz, etc., to quickly compare several offers.
It all starts with the signing of an official document between you and your landlord: the lease or rental contract. It defines the conditions under which you can occupy the home. Here is the main information you will find there:
The amount of rent and charges, if they apply.
When the contract is signed, be prepared to pay the first month's rent and the security deposit.
Have you signed your rental contract? Bravo! You only have one step left before receiving your keys: The state of affairs with your owner. This step is essential to agree on the condition of the accommodation upon arrival.
You will go through all the documents and write down your observations in a document called an “inventory”, which you will both sign. The same procedure will be done When you leave the house, in order to check if any damage has occurred during your stay.
.svg)
.png)
