Many international students wonder how to find accommodation during an internship in France.
This article explains the main options, costs, and useful tips to help make the process easier.
Finding accommodation in France during an internship can sometimes feel a bit stressful, especially for international students arriving for the first time. Housing in France can be competitive in some cities, and the administrative process may seem unfamiliar.
With the right preparation and guidance, finding accommodation during an internship in France is a smooth and rewarding experience.
In this article, we explain:
- where interns usually stay in France,
- the most common accommodation options,
- useful websites,
- average costs,
- practical tips to avoid common problems.
Start looking early!
One of the most important pieces of advice is simple:
Start your accommodation search as early as possible.
In major cities such as:
- Paris,
- Lyon,
- Bordeaux,
- Toulouse,
- Nice,
- Montpellier, etc.
housing can disappear extremely quickly, especially between:
- May and September,
- and at the beginning of the academic year.
Many students begin searching several weeks or months before arrival.
What types of accommodation are available?
International interns in France usually choose between several types of housing.
1. Student Residences
Student residences are one of the safest and simplest solutions.
These residences may be:
- public,
- university-managed,
- or private.
They often offer:
- furnished rooms,
- internet access,
- shared kitchens,
- laundry facilities,
- and lower prices than private apartments.
Some student residences are managed by:
CROUS
(the French public student housing system)
However, places can be limited, especially in large cities.
2. Shared apartments (“Colocation”)
Shared accommodation is extremely common in France.
This option allows students to:
- reduce rent costs,
- share bills,
- and meet other students or young professionals.
Many international interns choose shared apartments because they are:
- more affordable,
- flexible,
- and socially easier.
Popular websites for shared accommodation include:
- Appartager
- La Carte des Colocs
- Studapart
3. Private studios or apartments
Some interns prefer renting a private apartment or studio.
This offers:
- more independence,
- privacy,
- and personal comfort.
However, private rentals in France can sometimes be difficult for international students because landlords often request:
- proof of income,
- a guarantor,
- and administrative documents.
Rent prices vary greatly depending on the city.
Paris is by far the most expensive city in France for accommodation.
4. Temporary accommodation
Some students choose temporary housing for the first few weeks while continuing their search locally.
Temporary solutions include:
- Airbnb,
- hostels,
- hotels,
- or short-term furnished rentals.
This can reduce stress if permanent accommodation has not yet been secured before arrival.
Which documents are usually required?
French landlords and agencies often ask for several documents before accepting a tenant.
These may include:
- a valid passport,
- proof of identity,
- proof of school or university enrolment,
- a valid and current Convention de Stage,
- proof of internship compensation or income (when applicable),
- or a guarantor.
A guarantor is a person who agrees to pay the rent if the tenant cannot.
This is very common in France.
What if you don’t have a French guarantor?
Many international students don’t have family or the possibility of finding a guarantor in France.
Fortunately, some solutions exist.
VISALE guarantee
The French government offers a free guarantee system called:
It can help certain students and interns rent accommodation without a private guarantor.
Housing Assistance (APL)
Some international students may also qualify for French housing assistance called:
APL (Aide Personnalisée au Logement)
This financial support is managed by CAF (Caisse d’Allocations Familiales), the French family and housing benefits agency, and may help reduce monthly rent costs.
Eligibility depends on:
- residency status,
- accommodation type,
- and administrative conditions.
How much does accommodation cost in France?
Accommodation prices depend heavily on:
- the city,
- the type of housing,
- the neighbourhood.
Approximate monthly costs may include:
Paris
- 700€–1,200€+ for a small studio
Large cities
(Lyon, Marseille, Bordeaux, Toulouse, Nice…)
- 450–800€
Smaller cities
- 300€–500€
Shared accommodation is usually cheaper than private apartments.
Be careful of rental scams
Unfortunately, accommodation scams exist, especially online.
Be cautious if:
- the rent seems unusually cheap,
- the landlord refuses video calls,
- money is requested before any contract,
- the owner claims to be abroad.
Never send money without:
- verifying the property,
- reviewing the contract,
- confirming the identity of the landlord.
Useful tips for international interns
1. Prepare your documents in advance
French housing applications move quickly.
Having all documents ready can save valuable time.
2. Translate important documents
Some landlords may prefer French-language documents.
A simple translation can help.
3. Be reactive
Good accommodation may disappear within hours in large cities.
Reply quickly to advertisements.
4. Consider smaller cities
Internships outside Paris or large cities can provide:
- lower rent,
- less stress,
- often a better quality of life.
5. Ask your host company for help
Some organisations:
- assist interns with housing,
- provide accommodation advice,
- or know local landlords,
- some companies in the hospitality sector, often located in rural or remote areas, may be able to offer accommodation.
Some platforms to find accommodation in France
One of the most used platforms by French students:
- Verified listings,
- Rooms, studios, shared appartments.
Official platform linked to French public student housing system (CROUS).
- Affordable student residences
- Reliable listings,
- Limited availability in large cities.
Very popular for students and interns.
- Studios, colocation, student residences,
- Short and medium term rentals,
- Many listings in cities such as (Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Bordeaux, Toulouse).
General rental platforms (more choice)
LocService.fr
LeBoncoin
Locamoi
LaCartedescolocs
Colocation 40+
Professional real estate listings.
- Reliable agencies
- Higher prices
- Less risk of scams
- More formal rental process.
Direct rentals between individuals.
- No agency fees
- Good for longer stays
- Requires strong documentation
Short-term / flexible accommodation
Airbnb
- Ideal for first weeks in France,
- Fully furnished,
- Flexible durations,
- More expensive long-term.
Can interns stay in student residences?
Yes, in many cases.
Some student residences accept:
- interns,
- Erasmus students,
- and international trainees.
However, conditions vary depending on:
- the residence,
- the duration of stay,
- student status.
Is it difficult to find accommodation in France?
It depends on:
- the city,
- your budget,
- the time of year,
- your preparation.
Larger cities are generally the most competitive market. Smaller cities are often easier and cheaper.
Most students eventually find accommodation successfully, but patience and organisation are important.
Why housing preparation matters
Accommodation is one of the most important parts of a successful internship abroad.
Good housing can improve:
- daily comfort,
- financial stability,
- transport conditions,
- overall wellbeing.
Preparing early reduces stress and allows intern students to focus more fully on their internship, professional experience, and social life and cultural discovery.
As a summary…
Finding accommodation during an internship in France may seem a bit challenging. However, with preparation, flexibility, and early planning, it’s entirely possible to find suitable housing.
France offers many accommodation options for interns, including:
- student residences,
- shared apartments,
- private rentals,
- and temporary housing solutions.
The key is to:
- start early,
- prepare documents carefully,
- stay organised,
- and remain cautious with online offers.
For many students, living in France during an internship becomes not only a professional experience, but also an important personal and cultural adventure.
Explore more useful information and related articles below:
Are internships paid in France?
Can I do an internship in France without speaking French?
Can non-EU students do internships in France?
What is a Convention de Stage?