Student halls of residence in Lyon

If you’re planning an exchange or a complete school year in this French city, note that many students opt for the comfort offered by student residences in Lyon. In this article we offer all the necessary information about this type of accommodation in the city, including their advantages and disadvantages, as well as details about the options available in both private and university residences. We also guide you on where to find affordable options and answer the most common questions about this type of accommodation. On y va !

Pros and cons of living in a residence in Lyon

Some of the most notable features are:

Pros of living in student dorms in Lyon

Some are found in central areas, like the district of La Presqu'île, while others are in quieter neighbourhoods such as Jean-Macé or Monplaisir, offering easy access to public transport.
Living surrounded by other students means you can live in a very fun and multicultural environment, even making friends as soon as you arrive in the French city (even if you still don't speak French yet!)
Compared to other types of accommodation, student residences, especially those at CROUS, offer more affordable rates.
They generally have common use facilities such as gyms, study rooms, and common areas, improving the quality of life of students.
They typically offer services such as Internet, laundry, and cleaning of common areas. In addition, most have security and controlled access systems.
They offer different types of rooms and studios to suit individual needs, from shared rooms to private studio apartments.

Cons of living in student dorms in Lyon

This French city welcomes a large number of students every year, so you have to request your place well in advance.
The rooms are often small, which can be uncomfortable for those who need more personal space or have a lot of belongings.
The student environment can sometimes be noisy, with social activities and students coming and going at all hours, which can make it difficult to concentrate and rest.
Many residences have strict rules regarding visiting hours, noise, and use of facilities, which can limit freedom.
In busier residences, there may be competition for the use of common facilities, such as kitchens or study rooms, especially during peak hours.

Private student residences in Lyon

Private residences in Lyon are often close to the main universities and have good access to central areas with public transportation. For example, you can find residences in neighbourhoods like La Presqu'île, Jean-Macé, La Mouche and Monplaisir.

Accommodation options vary from studio apartments to shared flats. Studios, with their own kitchen and bathroom, are typically the most private option, while shared apartments allow students to have their own bedroom but share common areas such as the kitchen and bathroom. In Lyon, some residences also offer duplex apartments for those looking for a larger space.

Private residences in this French city have some shared use spaces, like leisure and study rooms. In addition, it’s possible to find cafeterias, dining rooms or even gardens and terraces where students can relax in some of them.

The services offered typically include 24/7 security, reception, and maintenance. Additionally, some residence halls offer social activities and events to encourage interaction between students. They also often offer additional services such as laundry, linen rental, and academic tutoring programs.

CROUS Residences in Lyon

The residences offered by the CROUS (Centre Régional des Œuvres Universitaires et Scolaires) in Lyon are a popular and affordable option for students. This accommodation is subsidised by the French government, which allows local and international students access housing at affordable prices.

They’re located close to the main universities and educational centres. Because of this, they’re scattered throughout the city, including areas like Fourvière, Provinces - Chavril, Monplaisir and La Part-Dieu.

Among the different types of accommodation, these residences normally have mostly single rooms, and studio apartments to a lesser extent. The rooms are furnished and include a bed, desk, chair, and wardrobe.

CROUS residences are known for their functionality and for being economical. That is, their facilities are usually more basic than those offered by private residences, but that makes them cheaper. Although facilities may vary depending on the residence, most have shared kitchens, shared or private bathrooms (depending on room type), and some common areas such as study rooms or TV rooms.

The basic services offered include Internet access, laundry, and maintenance service. Most residences also have controlled access and security to ensure the safety of residents.

University Residences of the Jean Moulin-Lyon University 3

As we mentioned before, university residences in France are offered by CROUS. This means that the universities themselves don’t have their own residences in which students can stay. However, those offered by CROUS are usually well located with respect to the institutions' campuses.

If you want to know about accommodation near Jean Moulin University-Lyon 3, read this article.

Rent cheap student residences in Lyon

In the Erasmus Play search engine you can see a wide variety of verified and available residences for your stay in the French city. Take the opportunity to compare its characteristics, images and locations, so you can easily select the ideal one for you.

Frequently Asked Questions about student dorms in Lyon

What are the requirements to live in a student residence in Lyon?
You generally must be a student enrolled in an educational institution in the city. It’s necessary to present proof of registration, identification, and, in some cases, a financial guarantee or insurance. CROUS residences require applying for a place through their portal, with priority for students with a scholarship. For their part, private residences may require a security deposit and the signing of a rental contract.
Are there scholarships for student residences in Lyon?
Yes, in Lyon it’s possible to access scholarships for student residences. International students can use the Erasmus scholarship to cover part of their accommodation costs. Additionally, students can request the CAF (Caisse d'Allocations Familiales), an aid from the French government that subsidises rent.
Which is cheaper, a room in an apartment or a student residence in Lyon?
In general, a student residence tends to be cheaper than renting a room in a private apartment in Lyon, especially if it’s a CROUS residence, which offers subsidised rates. Residences also include services that can reduce additional expenses. However, the final cost may vary depending on the location, the type of residence or apartment and the services included in each option.
Are there female and male university residences in Lyon?
In this French city, most university residences are mixed, but there are some options that offer exclusive accommodation for women or men, generally managed by religious or private institutions.
What services do student residences in Lyon usually include?
They often include services such as high-speed Internet, 24/7 security, laundry, and maintenance. Common facilities normally have shared kitchens, study rooms, gyms, and social areas. Some residences also offer additional services such as room cleaning, social activities, and access to recreational spaces such as gardens or game rooms.