Montpellier

1. Types of Student Housing in Montpellier

A. University Residences (CROUS)

• Description: Managed by the CROUS (Centre Régional des Œuvres Universitaires et Scolaires), these are affordable student accommodations located near universities or in the city center.
• Types of Rooms:
  • Single rooms with shared facilities (bathroom, kitchen).
  • Studio apartments with private facilities.
• Average Costs:
  • Single room: €150–€300/month.
  • Studio: €250–€450/month.
• Advantages:
  • Affordable and specifically designed for students.
  • Proximity to campuses.
  • Access to student services (cafeterias, study spaces, etc.).
• How to Apply:
  • Apply through the CROUS website (www.messervices.etudiant.gouv.fr).
  • Applications are part of the "Dossier Social Étudiant" (DSE) process, which must be submitted between January 15 and May 15 for the following academic year.
  • Priority is given to students with financial need or those on scholarships.
• Documents Required:
  • Proof of enrollment or pre-enrollment at a university.
  • Identification (passport or ID card).
  • Proof of income (yours or your guarantor’s).

B. Private Student Residences

• Description: These are privately managed residences offering modern, fully furnished apartments with additional amenities like gyms, laundry facilities, and study rooms.
• Examples:
  • Résidences Estudines.
  • Nexity Studéa.
  • Appart’City.
• Average Costs:
  • Studio: €400–€700/month.
  • Shared apartments: €300–€500/month per person.
• Advantages:
  • Higher comfort and better facilities than CROUS residences.
  • Flexible lease terms.
• How to Apply:
  • Directly through the residence’s website or office.
  • Early application is recommended as spaces fill up quickly.
• Documents Required:
  • Proof of enrollment.
  • Identification.
  • Guarantor’s proof of income or a rental guarantee (see "Visale" below).

C. Private Rentals

• Description: Renting an apartment or studio directly from a landlord or through an agency.
• Average Costs:
  • Studio: €400–€600/month.
  • One-bedroom apartment: €500–€800/month.
  • Shared apartment (colocation): €300–€500/month per person.
• Advantages:
  • Greater independence and choice of location.
  • Opportunity to share with other students (colocation) to reduce costs.
• How to Apply:
  • Search on platforms like Le Bon Coin, SeLoger, or PAP.
  • Use local real estate agencies for assistance.
• Documents Required:
  • Proof of enrollment.
  • Identification.
  • Guarantor’s proof of income or a rental guarantee.
  • Bank account details for rent payments.

D. Shared Accommodations (Colocation)

• Description: Sharing an apartment or house with other students or young professionals.
• Average Costs:
  • €300–€500/month per person, depending on the location and size of the property.
• Advantages:
  • Cost-effective.
  • Social environment, ideal for meeting new people.
• How to Find:
  • Websites like Appartager, Roomlala, or Facebook groups for Montpellier housing.
  • University notice boards or student associations.

E. Host Families

• Description: Living with a local family, often including meals and utilities.
• Average Costs:
  • €400–€600/month, depending on the arrangement.
• Advantages:
  • Immersive cultural experience.
  • Opportunity to practice French.
• How to Apply:
  • Use platforms like Homestay or contact local agencies.

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2. Average Costs of Living in Montpellier

• Rent: €150–€700/month, depending on the type of housing.
• Utilities (electricity, water, internet): €50–€100/month (often included in CROUS and private residences).
• Transportation: €30/month for a student TAM public transport pass.
• Groceries: €150–€250/month.
• Miscellaneous (entertainment, phone, etc.): €100–€200/month.

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3. Key Procedures and Documents for Renting

• Guarantor: Most landlords and residences require a guarantor (a person who agrees to pay your rent if you cannot). If you don’t have a guarantor in France, you can apply for the Visale guarantee (a free rental guarantee service for students).
• Rental Insurance: Mandatory for all tenants in France. Costs around €20–€50/year and can be purchased from French insurance companies like MAIF, AXA, or Allianz.
• Bank Account: You’ll need a French bank account to set up rent payments and utilities. Open an account with banks like BNP Paribas, Société Générale, or online banks like N26.

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4. Tips for Finding Housing in Montpellier

1. Start Early: Montpellier is a student-heavy city, and housing options fill up quickly, especially before the academic year starts in September.
2. Location Matters:
   • Popular student areas: Antigone, Port Marianne, Boutonnet, and the city center (Écusson).
   • Proximity to tram lines is crucial for easy access to universities.
3. Join Local Groups: Facebook groups like "Logement Montpellier Étudiant" or "Colocation Montpellier" are great for finding shared housing or last-minute deals.
4. Beware of Scams: Avoid sending money before visiting the property or signing a contract. Use trusted platforms and agencies.
5. Language Barrier: Many landlords and agencies may not speak English, so having basic French phrases or a French-speaking friend can be helpful.

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5. Financial Aid and Support for Students

• CAF Housing Allowance: Students in France can apply for housing assistance (APL or ALS) from the CAF (Caisse d’Allocations Familiales). This can reduce your rent by €50–€200/month.
  • How to Apply: Online at www.caf.fr.
  • Documents Required:
    • Rental contract.
    • Proof of income.
    • Bank account details (RIB).
• Visale Guarantee: A free service that acts as a guarantor for students without one. Apply at www.visale.fr.

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6. Local Considerations for Students in Montpellier

• Transportation: Montpellier’s tram and bus network (TAM) is efficient and student-friendly. A monthly student pass costs around €30.
• Climate: Montpellier has a Mediterranean climate, so housing with good ventilation is ideal for hot summers.
• Student Life: The city is known for its vibrant student culture, with plenty of events, bars, and cultural activities. Join student associations to integrate quickly.
• Safety: Montpellier is generally safe, but like any city, be cautious in less busy areas at night.

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By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to find and settle into student housing in Montpellier. If you need further assistance or have specific questions, feel free to ask!