Bordeaux

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Student Housing

Sections

1. Types of Student Housing in Bordeaux

A. University Residences (CROUS)

  • Description: Managed by CROUS (Centre Rรฉgional des ล’uvres Universitaires et Scolaires), these are government-subsidized student accommodations. They are affordable and located near universities or public transport.
  • Types:
    • Traditional Rooms: Basic single rooms with shared facilities (bathroom, kitchen).
    • Studios: Small private apartments with a kitchenette and bathroom.
    • Shared Apartments: Larger apartments shared with other students.
  • Advantages: Affordable, close to campus, and a great way to meet other students.
  • Disadvantages: High demand and limited availability.

B. Private Student Residences

  • Description: Privately managed residences designed for students. They offer modern amenities such as furnished rooms, Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and sometimes gyms or study areas.
  • Examples: Rรฉsidences like Studรฉa, Les Belles Annรฉes, or Nexity.
  • Advantages: More comfortable and modern than CROUS housing.
  • Disadvantages: Higher cost compared to CROUS.

C. Private Rentals

  • Description: Renting a private apartment or studio is an option for students who prefer independence.
  • Options:
    • Studios: Small, self-contained apartments.
    • Apartments: Larger spaces, suitable for sharing with roommates.
  • Advantages: Flexibility in location and size.
  • Disadvantages: Higher costs and additional responsibilities (utilities, maintenance).

D. Shared Accommodation (Colocation)

  • Description: Sharing an apartment or house with other students or young professionals.
  • Advantages: Cost-effective, social, and often located in central areas.
  • Disadvantages: Requires compatibility with roommates.

E. Host Families

  • Description: Living with a local family, often including meals and utilities.
  • Advantages: Immersive cultural experience and language practice.
  • Disadvantages: Less independence.

F. Short-Term Housing

  • Description: Temporary options like hostels, Airbnb, or student hotels for those who need a place while searching for long-term housing.
  • Advantages: Flexible and immediate availability.
  • Disadvantages: Expensive for long-term stays.

2. Average Costs of Student Housing in Bordeaux

  • CROUS Residences: โ‚ฌ150โ€“โ‚ฌ400/month (depending on the type of room or studio).
  • Private Student Residences: โ‚ฌ450โ€“โ‚ฌ800/month.
  • Private Rentals:
    • Studios: โ‚ฌ500โ€“โ‚ฌ700/month.
    • Apartments: โ‚ฌ700โ€“โ‚ฌ1,200/month (depending on size and location).
  • Shared Accommodation: โ‚ฌ300โ€“โ‚ฌ600/month (per person).
  • Host Families: โ‚ฌ500โ€“โ‚ฌ800/month (including meals).

Note: Costs vary depending on the location (central Bordeaux is more expensive), size, and amenities.

3. How to Apply for Student Housing

A. CROUS Residences

  1. Eligibility: You must be enrolled in a French university or higher education institution.
  2. Application Process:
    • Apply through the Dossier Social ร‰tudiant (DSE) on the CROUS website (https://www.messervices.etudiant.gouv.fr/).
    • Applications typically open in January for the following academic year.
    • Priority is given to students with financial need.
  3. Documents Required:
    • Proof of enrollment or pre-enrollment.
    • Identification (passport or ID card).
    • Proof of income (yours or your guarantorโ€™s).
    • Bank account details (RIB).
  4. Tips: Apply as early as possible due to high demand.

B. Private Student Residences

  1. Search Platforms: Websites like Studapart, Adele, or the residenceโ€™s official website.
  2. Documents Required:
    • Proof of enrollment.
    • Identification.
    • Guarantorโ€™s proof of income (if required).
    • Bank account details.
  3. Tips: Book early, as spots fill up quickly.

C. Private Rentals and Shared Accommodation

  1. Search Platforms:
    • Websites: Le Bon Coin, SeLoger, PAP, or specialized student platforms like Lokaviz.
    • Facebook groups: Look for student housing groups in Bordeaux.
  2. Documents Required:
    • Proof of enrollment.
    • Identification.
    • Guarantorโ€™s proof of income (or a guarantor service like Visale).
    • Bank account details.
    • Rental insurance (mandatory in France).
  3. Tips: Be cautious of scams and always visit the property before signing a lease.

D. Host Families

  1. Search Platforms: Websites like Homestay or through university partnerships.
  2. Documents Required: Varies by family but usually includes proof of enrollment and identification.

4. Local Considerations and Tips for Students in Bordeaux

A. Guarantor Requirements

  • Most landlords and residences require a guarantor (a person or organization that agrees to pay your rent if you cannot).
  • If you donโ€™t have a guarantor in France, you can use services like Visale (a free guarantor service for students) or private guarantor companies.

B. Housing Aid (CAF)

  • Students in France are eligible for housing assistance through CAF (Caisse dโ€™Allocations Familiales).
  • How to Apply:
    1. Create an account on the CAF website (https://www.caf.fr/).
    2. Submit your rental agreement and proof of income.
    3. Receive monthly financial aid (amount depends on your rent and income).
  • Tip: Apply as soon as you move in, as processing can take time.

C. Transportation

  • Bordeaux has an excellent public transport system (trams, buses, and bikes). Choose housing near a tram or bus line for convenience.
  • Monthly student transport pass: Around โ‚ฌ30.

D. Neighborhoods to Consider

  • Central Bordeaux: Chartrons, Saint-Michel, or Saint-Pierre (more expensive but lively).
  • Student-Friendly Areas: Talence, Pessac, or Gradignan (close to universities and more affordable).
  • Budget-Friendly Areas: Suburbs like Bรจgles or Villenave-dโ€™Ornon.

E. Cultural and Practical Tips

  • Bordeaux is a bike-friendly city; consider renting or buying a bike for daily commutes.
  • Learn some basic French phrases, as not everyone speaks English fluently.
  • Join student associations or Erasmus groups to meet other students and integrate into the community.

5. Key Resources for Finding Housing

  • CROUS Bordeaux: https://www.crous-bordeaux.fr/
  • Student Housing Platforms: Studapart, Adele, Lokaviz.
  • Private Rentals: Le Bon Coin, SeLoger, PAP.
  • Shared Housing: Facebook groups, Appartager.
  • Guarantor Services: Visale (https://www.visale.fr/).
  • Housing Aid (CAF): https://www.caf.fr/

Conclusion

Finding student housing in Bordeaux requires planning and early action, especially for affordable options like CROUS residences. Consider your budget, preferred level of independence, and proximity to your university when choosing accommodation. Take advantage of resources like CAF for financial aid and Visale for guarantor services. With its rich culture and student-friendly atmosphere, Bordeaux is an excellent place to live and study!