Affordable Housing and Budgeting Tips for International Students in Paris

04/12/2024

Diagram Affordable Housing and Budgeting Tips for International Students in Paris

What question prompted the creation of this post 6 months ago

I was a student from India admitted to Emlyon Business School, Paris, and currently looking for affordable housing. Here's what I’ve explored so far:

• CROUS: Applications start in July, but I need to apply for my visa before then. It’s also quite competitive.

• Cité Universitaire: I’ve applied but heard it’s selective.

• Ecla: Noisy-le-Grand seems like a good option. I’m also using Studapart, LivinFrance, and Studéa. My priority is a clean, affordable space with basic amenities (bed, kitchen, bathroom). How much should I budget monthly for utilities, transport, and food (home cooking)? Any advice or roommate leads would be greatly appreciated.

Top Answers

1. If you're searching for housing, consider house-sharing or "logement contre services," where you get a room for free or at a low cost (10€–200€) in exchange for help or companionship. Ensemble2Generation can connect you with such opportunities. Alternatively, agencies can help secure housing if options like CROUS are unavailable, though being present for flat-hunting may be necessary.

2. If you're a master's or PhD student, here's some advice on budgeting and housing:

   - Transport: A student Navigo card costs 38€/month or less with a yearly subscription.

   - Food: Monthly groceries and meals can be managed within 170€ if you cook at home. Stick to affordable chains like LIDL and enjoy meals at university or CROUS restaurants for about 3€.

   - Housing: Renters can apply for CAF APL housing allowance, covering about half the rent, once they have a social security number. CROUS and Cité Universitaire are good options, though competitive. PhD students can explore Science Accueil for housing help.

   - Tips: Universities may offer resources or recommendations for housing services like CROUS, Cité Universitaire, or reliable third-party options like Studapart or Les Estudines, though some may be pricey.