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Unfortunately, in some cities, it is becoming more and more difficult to find accommodation. With so many things to sort out at your arrival and a completely new system to navigate, not having an accommodation is a stress that no one wants to experience. Let’s see how you can find your way!
Small steps you can take
- If you cannot book anything in advance, ask your IRO if the university offers accommodation on their campuses or other student facilities. Although you usually share the room with one or more people, these options are cheaper. Please consider that, in some cases, the student dorms are far from the city centre. Bear in mind connections and distance. Do not forget to ask your IRO if they have a list of verified landlords/ladies or if they rely on another local association/organisation for this service.
- Contact a local agency (they will ask for a fee though) or check some accommodation platforms. They might suit you:
- HousingAnywhere: an international booking platform where students going on an exchange or an internship abroad can sublet their room or rent a room
- Uniplaces: an online marketplace for booking student accommodations with thousands of verified properties
- ErasmusU: student housing platform and online community for students
- The Social Hub: all-inclusive student hotel options
- ESN has a partnership with Spotahome, a mid-to-long-term online booking home rental. If you have a ESNcard or you are planning to buy one, you can get 25% off the reservation fee when booking your accommodation.
- There are many Facebook groups for rentals, but the scam odds might be higher without a verification mechanism! If you go for this option search, ask for pictures, and do not send money in advance to block the room before visiting the place.
- Have a look at this resource centre by the Home project. It explains what quality labels are and why they are important for international students, tips and tricks on how to safely secure one’s accommodation and how to handle potential issues arising with the property.
Competencies
Self awareness and efficacy
Flexibility
Take the initiative
Cope with pressure
Problem solving
Learn more about the competences by visiting the Competence inventory.
How to boost your learning experience