It can be challenging for foreign students to find accommodation in France, especially if you don’t speak French or have a local guarantor. We are here to help and can make the process of finding student accommodation much easier for you.
In this article, you’ll find:
- An overview of student accommodation options and costs
- How Go! Go! France can help you secure accommodation
- Answers to your questions about renting in France
Share houses
Share houses, called colocations in French, are a popular choice for students who want affordable and convenient housing. They are also a good way to meet new people.
You’ll have your own private bedroom and share spaces like the kitchen, bathroom, and living room with other students. Many share houses include utilities and Wi-Fi in the rent.
Average rent for a private room:
€500–€900 per month in Paris
€280–€600 per month in other regions
Furnished apartments
If you want more privacy and independence, a furnished apartment is a good choice. These apartments are ready to move into and usually come with a bed, desk, kitchen appliances, and basic furniture. They are ideal if you want to live alone or with a friend or partner.
Furnished apartments usually cost more, and utilities and Wi-Fi aren’t always included in the rent. However, they give you more personal space and freedom.
Average rent for a private studio:
€500–€1,100 per month in Paris
€350–€800 per month in other regions
Student residences
Student residences are often near the university campus and are affordable. They’re managed by universities or organizations like CROUS.
Rooms are assigned based on financial need, and students with scholarships or limited income get priority. Since demand is high and there aren’t many rooms, we don’t recommend relying only on this option. International students may have their applications rejected, which could leave you without housing right before your studies begin.
Average rent for a dorm room:
€200–€500 per month in Paris
€150–€450 per month in other regions
Host family
Living with a host family is a unique way to experience French culture firsthand. You’ll speak French daily, enjoy home-cooked meals, and learn about local customs and traditions. Most homestays include meals and utilities in the price. It’s a great way to improve your language skills quickly.
Our partner language schools work with a trusted network of host families, many of whom they have known for years. They make sure each student is matched with a suitable family, and most families live within 40 minutes of the school.
Average cost: €800–€1,000 per month (all included)
How Go! Go! France can help make the process easier
You can book student housing in France 100% online through our trusted accommodation partners. We make it easy, even if you don’t yet speak French, by connecting you with verified providers and offering full support throughout the process.
- No guarantor required, no complicated paperwork
- English-speaking customer support
- Secure online booking and verified listings
- Accommodation certificate for your visa application
Find and book accommodation
HousingAnywhere
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start looking for student accommodation in France?
Start looking for student housing as soon as you receive your school acceptance. Accommodation in cities like Paris and Marseille fills up quickly, so early research gives you the best options.
Where is the best place to live in France as a student?
The best place to live in France as a student depends on your lifestyle, budget, and preferences. Big cities offer convenience and opportunities, while smaller towns provide a quieter pace and lower costs. Consider climate, transport, and living expenses when deciding.
Read our city guide on how to choose the best city.
Which cities in France have the best weather for students?
It depends on what kind of weather you enjoy most! The South is known for offering the best warmest weather. In the southeast, cities like Nice, Montpellier, Aix-en-Provence, and Marseille offer a sunny Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. In the southwest, cities like Toulouse, Bordeaux, and Biarritz experience more rainfall, but still enjoy warm summers and mild winters.
Do I need a guarantor to rent student accommodation in France?
No, you don’t need a guarantor when booking through us. Our partners simplify the process, which means no need for income proof, no complicated paperwork, no guarantors, and no in-person viewings required.
How can I get a proof of accommodation for my French student visa?
You’ll receive a visa-compatible accommodation certificate from our partners after booking. This document can be used in your visa application process.
How much does student accommodation cost in France?
Accommodation costs vary depending on the city and type of housing you choose.
A student studio can cost:
・€800+ in Paris
・€700 in Lyon
・€550 in Marseille
Shared housing is usually more affordable:
・€600 per room in Paris
・€500 in Lyon
・€450 in Bordeaux
・€400 in Marseille
How much do utility bills cost in France?
Utility bills in France, including electricity, gas, water and internet, usually range between €150 and €200 per month. The exact amount depends on your apartment size, location and personal usage.
Can international students in France receive a housing allowance?
From July 1, 2026, a budget reform will make students from outside the EU, EEA, or Switzerland ineligible for housing assistance unless they have a scholarship. Students from these regions or those with scholarships will still be eligible, but the exact conditions are not yet confirmed. We will update this article as soon as official information is available.
Eligible students can apply for a housing allowance through CAF (Caisse d’Allocations Familiales).
How much is the student housing allowance in France?
The amount you can receive depends on your income, the size of your accommodation, and its location. In general, students receive between €100 and €300 per month, but the exact amount varies based on your personal situation and eligibility. From July 1, 2026, a budget reform will make students from outside the EU, EEA, or Switzerland ineligible for housing assistance unless they have a scholarship.
You can check your eligibility and get an estimate here: CAF Housing Allowance
