Rent an Apartment in France for Indian Students: Essential Steps and Tips for a Smooth Move

Finding a good apartment in France is a big deal for Indian students gearing up for studies abroad. Indian students should budget around €800 (about ₹72,000) per month in Paris and between €400–€600 (₹36,000–₹54,000) in other cities for student apartments or shared flats. Colocation (shared apartments) is popular not just for saving money, but also for meeting people and easing into French life.

You’ll have choices: private studios, shared flats, or university-managed dorms. Most housing platforms and agencies offer round-the-clock support and plenty of listings, so you can compare and book with less hassle.

Sure, the rental process in France can feel overwhelming at first, but with the right info and some patience, Indian students can land a place that suits their needs. If you want a deep dive into costs, apartment types, and step-by-step help, check out this entire housing guide that focus on international students in France.

Road-Map to Rent an Apartment in France for Indian Students

The French rental scene takes a bit of planning and paperwork no way around that. Knowing how to search, what to prepare, and how to pick the right type of flat really helps you settle in without too much drama.

Online Search To Property Visit

Most students kick off their search online think Leboncoin, SeLoger, or student-focused housing sites. Listings usually have photos, rent details, and info on required documents.

Virtual tours are handy, but if you’re in France, go see the place in person. Check for mold, broken windows, or anything that looks off. Don’t forget to ask whether utilities are included sometimes they’re not, and that can add up.

Colocation (group housing) is a student favorite. It’s social and cuts costs. Start chatting with landlords early, especially in cities like Paris, Lyon, or Toulouse it’s competitive. A quick intro about yourself (in French, if you can manage) can make a good impression.

Rental File (Dossier) & Application

French landlords want a dossier (rental file) before they’ll even consider you. For Indian and other international students, the basics usually include:

• Passport or ID

• University admission letter

• Guarantor info (if you have it)
  

Having a French guarantor is common, but not always required. Services like Visale or GARANTME can sometimes stand in as a guarantor for internationals. Combine your documents into a single PDF to keep things neat messy files can get you rejected fast.

Send your dossier right after a viewing, because apartments go fast in student cities. Translating key documents into French can help.

Signing The Bail

If you’re accepted, you’ll sign a bail (rental contract). This covers the rent, deposit (usually one month’s rent), and who’s responsible for what. You’ll pay the deposit and first month’s rent upfront. Make sure you get an état des lieux (inventory report) at move-in it’s boring but protects you from unfair charges when you leave.

Students can apply for rental subsidies like CAF, which helps with monthly costs. For Indian students, the CAF guide for student accommodation is a good read. If you’re not confident in French, ask for an English or dual-language contract.

Apartment Types: Studio, T1, T1 Bis, T2

French apartments are labelled by size and number of rooms. Here’s a quick look:

Type	Description	Size	Best For
Studio	Single open room with kitchen/bathroom	9 - 15 m²	Solo student
T1	One main room + separate kitchen/bath	18 - 30 m²	Solo/Budget
T1 Bis	T1 with a little extra space	24 - 35 m²	Solo/Couple
T2	Two main rooms + kitchen/bath	50 - 70 m²	2 people/couple/colocation

Most international students go for studios or T1s they’re affordable and easy to find. T1 Bis gives you a bit more room for a study corner or separate bed. T2 is perfect if you want to split rent with someone.

Paris is pricey, no surprise there. Fully furnished places cost more, but you won’t have to buy furniture. Always check what’s included before you sign anything for a student residence or private apartment.

Dossier Essentials

Every student in France needs a dossier a set of documents proving who you are and that you can pay the rent. No complete dossier, no apartment. Here’s what you’ll need:

Document Type	Purpose/Example
Proof of Identity	Passport or national ID
Proof of Enrollment	University admission letter or student card
Residence Permit	French visa or titre de séjour
Financial Guarantee	Recent bank statements, French guarantor, or scholarship proof
Proof of Address	Utility bill or accommodation attestation
Tax Notice (if applicable)	French tax notice

Your proof of enrollment shows you’re actually a student in France landlords need this. You’ll also need a valid residence permit (student visa or titre de séjour) to sign a lease.

If you work part-time, landlords might want three months’ payslips or a job letter. No French guarantor? Services like GarantMe might help.

CROUS Student Residences

CROUS student residences are public, affordable housing options for students, including many from India. They’re close to campus, cheaper than private flats, and you can usually get French housing subsidies.

What Are CROUS Residences?

CROUS places are run by regional student centers. They’re usually right near universities. Each room comes furnished bed, desk, storage, sometimes a basic kitchen. You’ll share bigger kitchens, laundry, and study areas with other students.

Most residents are students, so it’s a good spot if you want a social vibe. CROUS also helps with admin stuff and there’s staff on-site for maintenance. More details on CROUS student housing.

How To Apply On messervices.etudiant.gouv.fr

You apply online at messervices.etudiant.gouv.fr. First, make an account, then fill out the “Dossier Social Étudiant” (DSE). You’ll need ID, proof you got into a French university, and financial info. The application window is usually January to May for the next academic year.

Keep an eye on your application status on the portal. They might ask for more documents or for your top residence choices. Offers and notifications come through the same site. For the full process, check the official student accommodation page.

Typical Monthly Rent

CROUS is way cheaper than private rentals. In Paris, a studio is about €400–€450 (₹36,000–₹40,500) a month. In other cities, expect €200–€350 (₹18,000–₹31,500).

Location	Average Monthly Rent
Paris	€400–€450 (₹36,000–₹40,500)
Other Cities	€200–€350 (₹18,000–₹31,500)

Advantages And Disadvantages Compared To Private Rentals

Advantages:

• Lower rent than private flats

• Close to campus and essentials

• Simpler application

• Eligible for housing assistance

• Support from CROUS staff
  

Disadvantages:

• Limited spots, especially in big cities

• Rules about visitors, curfews, and noise

• Less privacy—lots of students

• Waiting lists are common

• Rooms can be small, fewer amenities than private flats

Private rentals give you more choice location, size, amenities, but cost more and the paperwork is trickier.

Popular Student Residence Brands in France

Private student residences are another option if you want a bit more comfort or can’t get into CROUS. Some of the best-known brands are:

• Nexity Studéa: Offers modern, well-located residences with furnished studios, WiFi, and on-site managers. Expect to pay €600–€900 (₹54,000–₹81,000) per month in Paris; a bit less in other cities.
  

• Estudines: One of France’s most popular student housing providers. They have residences all over the country, with amenities like gyms, laundry, and study rooms. Rents range from €500–€850 (₹45,000–₹76,500).
  

• Fac Habitat: Focuses on affordable, secure student housing, often near universities. Prices start around €400 (₹36,000) outside Paris.
  

• Twenty Campus: Known for flexible leases and community events. Rooms are modern and usually include utilities. Rents are typically €450–€800 (₹40,500–₹72,000).
  

These residences are pricier than CROUS, but easier to get into and offer more privacy and amenities. If you want to book ahead from India, private brands are often more flexible.

Top Do’s & Don’ts To Avoid Scams And Hidden Fees

Apartment rental scams and surprise fees are real problems for Indian students in France. Staying alert, asking questions, and double-checking details can save you money and stress down the line.

Top 7 Do’s

1. Always request a property tour, in person or via video call. You need to see for yourself that the place actually exists and matches the listing. Sometimes, what’s promised online isn’t what you get.
   

2. Double-check the landlord’s credentials. Ask for their ID and proof they own or manage the property. If they hesitate, that’s a red flag.
   

3. Use secure, traceable payment methods only. Don’t hand over cash or do wire transfers for deposits or rent unless it's a student residence brand - it’s just too risky to transfer to a private person.
   

4. Read the lease thoroughly before signing. Look out for sneaky clauses about extra charges, repairs, or how you can end the contract.
   

5. Ask for receipts for every payment. Whether digital or paper, receipts are your proof if things go sideways later.
   

6. Compare prices with similar listings. If the rent seems too good to be true, it probably is. Check sites like adele to spot scam signals in listings.
   

7. Verify the listing on multiple reputable websites. Details should match everywhere. If something’s off, it’s best to walk away.
   

Top 5 Don’ts

1. Don’t send money without a written lease. Always insist on a signed contract verbal promises mean nothing if there’s a dispute.
   

2. Don’t trust listings with vague descriptions or unprofessional photos. Stock images or generic info are classic scammer moves.
   

3. Don’t correspond only over messaging apps. A real landlord should give you a working phone number and an official email address.
   

4. Don’t ignore background checks. Skipping this can backfire if there’s an issue with the place or the landlord.
   

5. Don’t pay hidden or upfront “processing” fees. If a fee isn’t clearly explained and documented, don’t pay it.
   

Example Scam Emails And Key Warning Signs

Scam emails are usually full of bad grammar, pushy payment requests, and fuzzy details. They’re easy to spot if you know what to look for.

Sample scam email traits:

• Landlord claims to be abroad and sends an “agent” with keys

• Asks for a big deposit before you’ve seen the place

• Emails from strange, unofficial addresses

• Pushes for quick payment with promises of a discount

• Gives inconsistent or unclear property details
  

  

  Example: Rental Scam Email

  
  

French Guarantor Rule Demystified

Most landlords in France want a guarantor, especially if you’re a student from abroad. Basically, that’s someone or some company who promises to pay your rent if you can’t. For Indian students, this can be a real headache, but there are some solid options designed for internationals.

Garantme Vs Visale Comparison Table

Garantme and Visale are the top picks for Indian students needing a guarantor in France. They both do the job but in different ways here’s a quick breakdown:

Feature	Garantme	Visale
Who can apply?	International students, any nationality	Students under 31, EU/EEA and some non-EU nationals
Application process	Online, needs income proof, charges a fee	Free, needs student status and rental agreement
Landlord acceptance	Accepted by many agencies and landlords in France	French government-backed, accepted by most institutional landlords
Cost	Service fee (usually 4.5% of yearly rent)	Free
Documentation	Passport, visa, admission letter, rental details, income/bank proof	Student ID, passport/visa, landlord’s details, rental contract
Coverage	Up to €96,000 (₹8,60,000 approx.) for unpaid rent and damages	Up to 36 months’ rent (conditions apply)

Trusted Listing Sites And Student Residence Brands

Indian students looking for housing in France have plenty of online and institutional options. Safe booking platforms, well-known residence brands, and clear info about average rents can really help you avoid the usual headaches.

Top Rental Websites

Reliable online platforms make the hunt for student housing in France a lot less stressful. HousingAnywhere is a go-to for international students, with everything from private rooms to whole apartments. The booking process is secure, so you can sort things out before even landing in France.

Adele, Lodgis, and Studapart also have big selections, including shared apartments, private student residences, and studios. You can compare prices, locations, and amenities directly makes it easier to avoid scams and dodgy offers.

Most listings have photos, verified profiles, and clear terms. That’s a lifesaver if your French isn’t perfect. Facebook groups for Indian students in France or specific cities (like Paris) are also worth a look you’ll find honest advice and real experiences - But we aware of scammers and don't share any personal details or transfer money.

Average Monthly Rent In Major Cities

Rent really depends on where you live. Paris is the most expensive CROUS accommodation starts at about €400 (₹36,000) per month, and private rooms or apartments are usually €700–€1,000 (₹63,000–₹90,000) or more.

Outside Paris, cities like Lyon, Toulouse, and Lille are more affordable. CROUS rents average around €200 (₹18,000), and private flats or shared apartments are usually €400–€600 (₹36,000–₹54,000) a month.

Private student residences in big cities tend to be €600–€900 (₹54,000–₹81,000), thanks to the extra amenities. Homestays and hostels can be cheaper, but prices swing a lot depending on the provider and how long you’re staying.

Bonus Tips For Renting An Apartment In France For Indian Students

Finding a place in France isn’t just about the apartment you have to plan for paperwork, insurance, and money stuff too. Here are a few things you shouldn’t miss.

CAF Housing Aid Basics

Indian students can apply for CAF housing aid, which is a monthly subsidy from the Caisse d’Allocations Familiales (CAF) to help with rent. You need a valid lease in your name and can’t be related to your landlord. The process is all online, but you’ll need to submit proof of income, your residence permit, and the rent agreement.

The amount you get depends on your rent, the size of your place, and whether it meets certain standards. Apply as soon as you arrive processing can be slow and small mistakes might get your application rejected. The aid can be over €150 (₹13,500) per month if you qualify.

Compulsory Renter’s Insurance

Every student renting in France has to get renter’s insurance (assurance habitation). It covers fire, water damage, and theft. Your landlord will want to see the insurance certificate before you move in or get the keys.

It usually costs €30–€70 (₹2,700–₹6,300) a year, depending on your place. You can sign up online, which is handy when you’re new in town. Keep your insurance up-to-date if you don’t, you risk eviction or paying for repairs yourself.

Some plans include personal liability, which covers damage you might cause to the building or neighbors. There are even student-specific options for those living in Paris or other student-heavy cities.

Deposit Recovery Timeline

When you rent in France, expect to pay a security deposit (dépôt de garantie)—usually one or two months’ rent. It’s meant to cover damages or unpaid rent. The landlord has to return it (minus any justified deductions) within one-three month after you leave, as long as you didn’t damage anything.

If repairs are needed, they get two months to return the deposit. Before moving out, do a proper inspection with your landlord and take photos of everything. That way, you’ve got proof if there’s a disagreement.

To get your deposit back faster, settle all your bills, sort out any small repairs, and give the landlord your French bank account info.

Book A Free EduMox Housing-Help Call

If you're looking to rent an apartment in France for Indian students, it can get overwhelming fast. That's why EduMox offers a free Housing-Help Call a quick way to get advice tailored to your situation, from finding a room to figuring out paperwork and subsidies.

What You’ll Get From Your EduMox Housing-Help Call:

• Tips on finding affordable university residences or private flats

• Step-by-step help with rental paperwork and eligibility

• Guidance on housing subsidies like CAF
  

During your call, you can ask about rents in different cities, which documents you’ll need, and how to avoid rookie mistakes. Our Alumni who currently lives or previously lived in France also shares ways to connect with university housing offices and student groups online super useful if you’re hunting for roommates you can actually trust.

Here’s a quick look at what EduMox covers:

Support Area	Description
Accommodation Search	Shortlists safe and suitable options
Application Process	Explains documents and deadlines
Housing Rights & Subsidies	Breaks down CAF and rental rules
Problem Solving	Helps with common rental hiccups

If you want to book the free EduMox call, just head to their website and fill out the registration form. It’s smart to book early, especially if you’re planning to arrive for the fall semester.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the Popular Student Residence Brands in France?

When it comes to student housing, a few big names keep popping up. CROUS is the main public option, but private residences are everywhere too. Some of the most popular private student residence brands include Nexity, Estudines, Fac Habitat, and Twenty Campus. These companies offer rooms and studios in major cities, often with extra amenities like laundry, gyms, or social spaces. Prices start at around €500–€900 (roughly ₹45,000–₹80,000) per month, depending on the city and the type of accommodation. In Paris, expect to pay on the higher end of that range.

What are the average living expenses for international students studying in France?

If you’re in Paris, you’ll probably need €800–€1,200 (₹71,000–₹1,06,000) per month for rent, food, transport, and everything else. In cities like Lyon or Lille, you can get by with €400–€700 (₹35,000–₹62,000) monthly. Of course, it all depends on your lifestyle and where you choose to live. Here’s a cost of living overview for students if you want more details.

How do you secure CROUS accommodation in France as a student?

Getting a CROUS room means applying through the official CROUS portal. You’ll need your admission letter, ID, and proof of finances. Availability is limited, so apply early and make sure your paperwork is complete. More info here: CROUS accommodation guide.

What documents are required for Indian students to rent an apartment in France?

You’ll need your passport, visa, university admission letter or student card, proof of income or a guarantor, and housing insurance. Sometimes, landlords want a French bank account or a birth certificate with an Apostille. More details are in this CAF and rental guide for students.

Can international students find part-time jobs to support their living expenses in France?

Yes, if you’re on a long-stay student visa, you can work up to 964 hours a year. Lots of students find part-time work in shops, cafes, or offices. You don’t always need perfect French, but it helps. Keep in mind, though, that part-time earnings might only cover a portion of your living costs.

Are there any specific accommodation options for Indian students at French universities?

French universities don't really have housing set aside just for Indian students. Still, they do offer spots in international university residences, CROUS, or can help students access private listings. It's pretty common for Indian students to connect through informal groups or associations, teaming up to share apartments or find places together. That sense of community can make the whole process a bit less daunting.