Karim is arriving from Morocco in September. He has an acceptance letter but no French guarantor, no eligibility for housing assistance (APL), and no housing reserved. He has two months to find a studio apartment in a city where demand outstrips supply by a ratio of 10 to 1.
Thousands of international students face this situation every year. In 2026, it’s even more complicated. The housing assistance reform has changed the rules of the game. Rents have risen by 4.12% in one year, and the best dorms are reserved as early as spring.
This guide does more than just provide information. It gives you a clear, step-by-step action plan to secure housing in France, regardless of your background or country of origin.

High school graduate? Welcome to student life