The demand for student accommodation often exceeds the supply, making the search challenging. Start your search early on Erasmus Play, to find a verified shared flat more easily
If you choose a room far from the centre to save money, check its location and the transport connections to your university and popular areas to avoid high public transport costs.
Advantages and disadvantages of sharing a flat in Paris
Here are the main advantages and disadvantages of living in a shared flat in the French capital:
Advantages of sharing a flat in Paris
- Sharing a flat is cheaper than renting an entire place, allowing you to find accommodation in more convenient neighbourhoods closer to downtown.
- You'll have company during the grey and cloudy winter days, which can help lift your spirits.
- Living with roommates from different nationalities enriches your experience. Also, if one of your roommates is French, it's a great opportunity to practise the language!
Disadvantages of sharing a flat in Paris
- The limited availability of shared flats compared to the demand makes it hard to find one. However, the Erasmus Play housing platform can help simplify your search.
- Rooms in the centre of Paris are typically small. You should keep this in mind since your room will be the only personal space you have.
- Due to high demand, landlords often don't refurbish apartments, so they might not be well-insulated for winter.
Erasmus Apps for your exchange programme in Paris
One of the essential apps for Erasmus+ students in Paris is the one created by the European Commission. This app allows you to apply for a new Erasmus programme, validate subjects, find information on paperwork, and read experiences and advice from past Erasmus students in Paris.
How to meet people in Paris
In addition to making friends with your flatmates, here are some other ways to meet people in the French capital:
Student associations in Paris
Many universities have student organisations called Bureau des Etudiants that plan activities for students to get to know each other. There’s also the Bureau des Sports, which organises various sports activities. These associations organise parties, trips, sports events, and other activities throughout the year. You can also join ESN Paris to meet young people from other universities.
Facebook groups for Erasmus students in Paris
Several Facebook groups connect students who will be in Paris at the same time, keeping you updated on all the activities and events organised for Erasmus students. Some popular groups include ESN Paris, Paris Erasmus Life, and groups divided by academic year.
WhatsApp groups for Erasmus students in Paris
Many Facebook groups and associations also create WhatsApp groups. These groups help students introduce themselves, meet others with similar interests, and keep you informed about events and activities happening in the city.
Tips for living in a shared apartment in Paris
Here are some tips for living in a shared flat in Paris:
- Rooms can be part of shared flats, family houses, or residences. Keep this in mind when searching for a place.
- If you're looking for budget-friendly accommodation far from the centre, use Google Maps and RATP to check the public transport connections to your university and other key places. This ensures you have an easy commute to your university and other key locations.
- Winter heating can significantly increase the electricity bill. Try to reach an agreement with your flatmates on how to use heating to avoid disputes over high bills.