Strasbourg

๐ŸŽ“

Student Housing

Sections

Comprehensive Guide to Student Housing in Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg, located in the Alsace region of France, is a vibrant and multicultural city that is home to several prestigious universities, including the University of Strasbourg (Universitรฉ de Strasbourg). As a student, finding suitable housing is a critical step in ensuring a smooth transition to life in this beautiful city. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate the process of securing student housing in Strasbourg.

1. Types of Student Housing in Strasbourg

Strasbourg offers a variety of housing options for students, ranging from university residences to private rentals. Here are the main types:

A. CROUS Residences (Public Student Housing)

  • Description: CROUS (Centre Rรฉgional des ล’uvres Universitaires et Scolaires) is a government organization that provides affordable housing for students. These residences are the most budget-friendly option and are located near university campuses or in well-connected areas.
  • Types of Rooms:
    • Standard Rooms: Basic single rooms with shared bathrooms and kitchens.
    • Studios: Private rooms with en-suite bathrooms and small kitchenettes.
    • Shared Apartments: Apartments shared with other students, offering private bedrooms and shared common areas.
  • Cost:
    • Standard rooms: โ‚ฌ150โ€“โ‚ฌ250/month
    • Studios: โ‚ฌ250โ€“โ‚ฌ400/month
    • Shared apartments: โ‚ฌ200โ€“โ‚ฌ350/month

B. Private Student Residences

  • Description: These are privately managed residences specifically designed for students. They often offer modern amenities such as furnished rooms, study areas, gyms, and laundry facilities.
  • Examples: Rรฉsidences Estudines, Nexity Studรฉa, and Les Laurรฉades.
  • Cost: โ‚ฌ400โ€“โ‚ฌ800/month, depending on the location, size, and amenities.

C. Private Rentals

  • Description: Renting a room, studio, or apartment from a private landlord. This option offers more independence but can be more expensive.
  • Options:
    • Studios: Small, self-contained apartments.
    • Shared Apartments (Colocation): Renting a room in a shared apartment with other students or young professionals.
  • Cost:
    • Studios: โ‚ฌ400โ€“โ‚ฌ700/month
    • Shared apartments: โ‚ฌ300โ€“โ‚ฌ500/month per person

D. Homestays

  • Description: Living with a local family, which can be a great way to immerse yourself in French culture and improve your language skills.
  • Cost: โ‚ฌ300โ€“โ‚ฌ600/month, often including meals.

E. Temporary Housing

  • Description: Short-term options such as hostels, Airbnb, or student hotels, which are useful if you need a place to stay while searching for long-term housing.
  • Cost: โ‚ฌ20โ€“โ‚ฌ50/night for hostels; โ‚ฌ500โ€“โ‚ฌ1,000/month for Airbnb.

2. How to Apply for Student Housing

A. Applying for CROUS Residences

  1. Eligibility: You must be enrolled in a French higher education institution. Priority is given to students with financial need or those on scholarships.
  2. Application Process:
    • Create an account on the CROUS website: www.messervices.etudiant.gouv.fr.
    • Submit a "Dossier Social ร‰tudiant" (DSE) application, which includes your housing request.
    • Deadlines: Applications typically open in January and close in May for the following academic year.
  3. Documents Required:
    • Proof of enrollment or pre-enrollment in a university.
    • Identification (passport or ID card).
    • Proof of income (yours or your parentsโ€™).
    • Recent tax notice (avis dโ€™imposition) if applicable.
  4. Response Time: CROUS will notify you of your housing allocation during the summer.

B. Applying for Private Student Residences

  1. Search Platforms:
    • Websites: Studapart, Adele.org, or the residenceโ€™s official website.
    • Contact the residence directly to check availability.
  2. Documents Required:
    • Proof of enrollment.
    • Identification.
    • Guarantorโ€™s information (see below for details).
    • Proof of income (yours or your guarantorโ€™s).
  3. Tips: Apply early, as spots fill up quickly.

C. Renting from Private Landlords

  1. Search Platforms:
    • Websites: Leboncoin, SeLoger, or PAP.
    • Facebook groups for student housing in Strasbourg.
  2. Documents Required:
    • Proof of enrollment.
    • Identification.
    • Guarantorโ€™s information (a French guarantor is often required).
    • Proof of income (yours or your guarantorโ€™s).
  3. Guarantor Options:
    • A guarantor is someone who agrees to pay your rent if you cannot. Many landlords require a French guarantor.
    • If you donโ€™t have a French guarantor, you can use services like Visale (a free guarantor service for students) or Garantme (a paid service).

3. Average Costs of Living in Strasbourg

  • Rent: โ‚ฌ150โ€“โ‚ฌ800/month, depending on the type of housing.
  • Utilities: โ‚ฌ50โ€“โ‚ฌ100/month (electricity, water, internet).
  • Food: โ‚ฌ150โ€“โ‚ฌ250/month.
  • Transportation: โ‚ฌ27/month for a student tram and bus pass (CTS network).
  • Miscellaneous: โ‚ฌ50โ€“โ‚ฌ100/month.

4. Local Considerations and Tips

A. Cultural Insights

  • Language: While many people in Strasbourg speak English, learning basic French phrases will help you navigate daily life and integrate into the community.
  • Multicultural Environment: Strasbourg is a border city with a mix of French and German influences. Embrace the local culture, including Alsatian cuisine and traditions.
  • Quiet Hours: Be mindful of noise levels, especially in shared housing, as French neighbors value quiet evenings.

B. Practical Tips

  1. Start Early: Housing in Strasbourg is competitive, especially for students. Begin your search as soon as you receive your university acceptance.
  2. Visit in Person: If possible, visit the accommodation before signing a lease to ensure it meets your expectations.
  3. Understand Your Lease: French rental agreements (bail) are legally binding. Read the terms carefully, including the notice period and deposit conditions.
  4. CAF Housing Allowance: Apply for the "Caisse dโ€™Allocations Familiales" (CAF) housing benefit, which can significantly reduce your rent. Most students, including international students, are eligible.
    • Apply online at www.caf.fr.
    • Documents required: Proof of income, rental agreement, and residence permit (if applicable).

C. Transportation

  • Strasbourg has an excellent public transportation system, including trams and buses. Most student residences are well-connected to the city center and university campuses.
  • Consider getting a bike, as Strasbourg is one of the most bike-friendly cities in France.

D. Emergency Contacts

  • Police: 17
  • Fire Brigade: 18
  • Medical Emergency (SAMU): 15
  • European Emergency Number: 112

5. Adapting to Life in Strasbourg

  • Social Life: Join student organizations, Erasmus groups, or university clubs to meet people and make friends.
  • Markets and Groceries: Explore local markets like Marchรฉ de la Place Broglie for fresh produce and affordable groceries.
  • Cultural Activities: Take advantage of student discounts for museums, theaters, and cultural events. Strasbourg is home to the European Parliament and has a rich history to explore.

By following this guide, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to find and settle into student housing in Strasbourg. With its welcoming atmosphere, excellent academic institutions, and vibrant cultural scene, Strasbourg is an ideal city for students. Bonne chance!