Begin looking for accommodation as soon as you know your destination. Student cities get booked quickly, especially before the semester starts.

As a student abroad, you can choose between:

• University dorms (before searching for private accommodation do not forget to ask the host university about their dorms)
• Private dorms
• Shared flats (most common and budget-friendly)
• Student residences
• Private rooms
• Studio apartments
• Homestays

Explore different types to see what fits your budget, lifestyle, and comfort.

To avoid scams and save time, use trusted platforms with verified listings. Two widely used options are:

• Erasmus Play - https://erasmusplay.com/en/  – search engine that compares verified student housing from multiple providers.
• Erasmusu - https://erasmusu.com/en/student-housing  – large database of student rooms, shared flats, and residences, with the option to book online.

These platforms help you find accommodation safely, even before arriving in the country.

Before choosing a place, check:

• Location (distance to university and transport)
• Monthly price
• What utilities are included
• Roommates (if applicable)
• Reviews from previous students
• Contract duration and rules

Comparing several options helps you understand the normal price range in your city.

Before booking:

• Ask for recent photos or a video call
• Confirm the deposit, move-in date, and minimum stay
• Check the refund policy
• Make sure all conditions are in the contract

If something feels unclear or rushed, ask questions before paying anything.

Your host university can help you find reliable housing:

• International Relations Office
• Erasmus coordinators
• Official partner dormitories
• Student groups on Facebook or WhatsApp
• The local Erasmus Student Network section

Many students find accommodation through recommendations from former Erasmus students.

Be careful with:

• Prices far below the market average
• Landlords who refuse video tours
• Requests to pay through unsafe methods (cash apps, bank transfer to personal accounts)
• Pressure to pay quickly “or the room is gone”

Using platforms like Erasmusu and Erasmus Play already reduces these risks significantly.

If you prefer to visit in person, book a short stay (hostel, Airbnb, hotel) for a few days or a week.

This gives you time to visit apartments locally before committing long-term.