Story time
How I almost ruined my first semester
Wait, let me tell you what happened…
It all started in June. With my high school diploma in hand, I felt invincible. In my head, I had all the time in the world. Finding an apartment in Paris? “Oh, that’s easy, I’ll deal with it later.” So, I went on holiday for the entire summer, completely carefree.
At the end of August, I returned from vacation to a brutal reality check. One week before the start of the semester, I had no housing…absolutely nothing. No apartment, no tiny maid’s room, not even a cot. Nothing.
Desperate, I decided to go for broke. I went to Paris in person and literally knocked on the door of EVERY student residence one by one. In the middle of this marathon, I got incredibly lucky: one of them had just had a last-minute cancellation.
But the reality is that most of my classmates weren’t as lucky, and didn’t have the energy to trek all over Paris on foot:
- Some had to settle for a shared apartment found in a rush.
- Others started the year living in Airbnbs.
- Some even almost gave up, cancelled their enrollment, and went back to live with their parents.
The lesson? Don’t make the same mistake I did. Don’t spend your summer sunbathing, thinking Paris will be waiting patiently for you!
When I arrived in the Paris region for my studies, I wasn’t just looking for a place to sleep. I wanted a real student life—something like a campus experience where I could meet people, build connections, and avoid coming home to an empty studio every evening after class. That’s why I chose a student residence.
Looking back, I truly believe it was one of the best decisions I made during my student years. Beyond just a place to stay, I found an atmosphere, a community, and friendships that defined my time in Paris. (●ˇ∀ˇ●)
If you’re still hesitating between a residence and a private rental, I recommend reading: Why choose a private Student Housing in France?
More details 〜(￣▽￣〜)
Why choose a private Student Housing in France?
Renting from a private owner can be a great option for students: it offers more freedom, sometimes more affordable rent, and a wider range of choices. Discover where to find reliable listings and how to avoid potential traps.
An international community
In Paris, students are scattered everywhere. Between commuting, internships, and classes, building a social life is complicated.
In a student residence, it’s the opposite. You live surrounded by people who are in the exact same boat as you. You meet:
- French students,
- International students,
- Erasmus exchange students from all over the world.
It’s often there that you discover new cultures, new ways of living… and maybe even pick up a few words in another language.
A real campus life!
Before end-of-semester exams, we often met in the common study rooms to revise together until late at night. We shared the stress of finals, the job search, and even the daily administrative headaches (like renewing residency permits).
But residence life isn’t just about work. It’s also about spontaneous post-exam parties, meals shared in communal kitchens, and the relaxing moments that make student years unforgettable.
And when some people can’t go home for holidays, the residence almost becomes a second family. I personally spent one Christmas with people from my residence; far from my family, but surrounded by other students in the same situation. (❤️ ω ❤️)
It changes everything! (Especially when you don’t know how to cook).
What kind of residences are there?
Student residences are no longer just “housing.” They offer coworking spaces, movie theaters, and gyms. All year long, they organize activities like sports classes, cooking workshops, and networking events.
▪ Residences with an active community:
Kley or Hife are known for regular student events (sports, workshops, outings), large common areas, cinemas, and game rooms. It’s a true living space designed for well-being and socializing—ideal if you want to meet people and have a balanced social life.
▪ Residences with a cozy vibe:
La Chocolaterie, Studea or Ecla offer a welcoming and supportive environment. These residences are usually located in quieter neighborhoods, perfect for resting after a long day. You’ll find warm common areas and authentic moments of sharing. A real home away from home.
To find housing in a residence, you can also use platforms specialized for students, such as Studapart (remember to check if your school or university has a partnership with them!).
Les 3 prochaines étapes
So, a student residence or a private housing? Whatever you decide, there are only few steps left before you can move into your new home:
○ Choose your housing – Define your must-haves and find the option that fits you best.
👉 Read: Student Housing – What criteria should you use to choose a place? (Coming soon)
○ Prepare your file – You need to convince the landlord, but more importantly, protect yourself from identity theft.
👉 Read: How to put together a student rental file and avoid scams (Coming soon)
○ Nail your viewing – Check every corner to make sure the place is legal and the landlord is honest.
👉 Read: How to have a successful viewing and avoid traps (Coming soon)
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