How to Find Housing (University Dorms, Private Rentals, Agencies)

1. University Dorms (CROUS)

Perfect if you’re a student and want something affordable & close to campus.

What is CROUS?

CROUS offers student housing with:

  • Low rent (€250–€500/month)
  • Fully furnished rooms or studios
  • Prime locations near universities

How to Apply:

  • Go to www.messervices.etudiant.gouv.fr
  • Create your DSE (Student Social File) early (usually before May)
  • Choose your preferred cities (Strasbourg = Académie de Strasbourg)

Tip: Apply early – rooms go fast!

2. Private Rentals

If you want more freedom or can’t get into CROUS.

Options include:

  • Studios or apartments (solo or shared)
  • Colocations (shared flats with other students or young people)

Where to Look:

  • Studapart – partner of many universities
  • Leboncoin.fr – like Craigslist, lots of listings
  • PAP.fr – direct from owners, no agency fees
  • LocService.fr – you describe your need, owners contact you
  • LaCarteDesColocs.fr – for finding roommates

What the locals say:

“There are often roommate ads in the group ‘Étudiants Strasbourg’ if you’re not already on it

And if not, it’s not on Facebook but there are also roommate offers on ‘Le Bon Coin’ – you just have to watch out for scams on both (don’t send money in advance, etc.) – but just the usual precautions”

“Be careful – there are some scams on Facebook and LeBonCoin. Personally, I think La Carte des Colocs is the best and safest option!”

3. Real Estate Agencies

Useful if you want a professional to help, especially for long-term rentals.

Pros:

  • More secure
  • Guided help through contracts

Cons:

  • You’ll pay agency fees (often one month’s rent)
  • Might require lots of documents (French guarantor, income proof)

Tip: Look for agencies near the Strasbourg train station, Krutenau, Esplanade, or Neudorf – popular areas for students!

Bonus Options

  • Facebook Groups (but be careful of scams!):
    • “Strasbourg à Louer / Location appartement”
    • “Colocations à Strasbourg”
  • University housing boards or local cafés often have posters
  • Student unions (like AFGES) sometimes offer listings or help

What You’ll Need to Apply

Most landlords or agencies will ask for:

  • ID or passport
  • Proof of income or student status
  • A guarantor (or use VISALE – a free rental guarantee)
  • Housing insurance (after signing)

Tips for Success

  • Start looking at least 1-2 months in advance
  • Explore neighborhoods like: Esplanade (student-friendly), Neudorf, Krutenau, or Robertsau
  • Consider sharing – colocations are fun and cheaper!
  • Beware of scams (see previous tip!)

What is a T1, T2, T3 Apartment?

During your research on various Facebook groups or websites, you might come across the “T-numbers” definition. The “T” stands for “type” and the number refers to how many separate main rooms there are – not including the kitchen, bathroom, or hallway.

TypeWhat It MeansWhat You’ll Find
T11 main roomA studio: one room with bed + living + kitchenette, plus a separate bathroom
T1 bis1 main room with a separate alcoveLike a T1, but with a small extra space (for a desk, bed, etc.)
T22 main roomsUsually a bedroom + living room, plus separate kitchen & bathroom
T33 main roomsTypically 2 bedrooms + living room, great for families or colocations

Which One is Best for You?

  • T1 or studio = perfect for 1 person (student or young professional)
  • T2 = great for a couple or someone who wants a separate bedroom
  • T3 = ideal for sharing with roommates (colocation)

Important Tips:

  • Always check the square meters (m²) – a T1 could be 18m² or 35m²!
  • T2 doesn’t guarantee two bedrooms – just two total rooms
  • In Alsace, you might also see F1, F2, F3 – they mean the same as T1, T2, T3!

Image source: Crous Strasbourg

Our website has everything you need to find a safe place to live in Strasbourg: Best Websites & Facebook Groups for Housing, Tenant Rights & Contracts in France, How to Avoid Rental Scams