Finding somewhere to stay while you are in a European country as an international student can prove to be quite difficult. It is best if you plan ahead before you reach the destination to look for a place to live. It could take some time to search for accommodation correctly according to the location of your university and the market areas, but it is always worth trying before you reach there.

In order to find accommodation, you must keep in mind that some places ask for proof of your acceptance into a university or your visa information. Here are some options you can explore to find the right type of accommodation in Europe as an international student:

Universities’ Accommodation:

Many international students live in accommodations provided by their very own universities, which are otherwise called residences. As an international student, you should contact your educational establishment to see if they offer these types of accommodations. If they do, a number of flats are reserved for international students, and you can book one of them.

This structure of student unity can prove to be rather fun and supportive, as you can become acquainted with other housemates from around the world. Living in these accommodations means that you get the best of both worlds. You get your own space and can also socialize with other people in your residence.

Dormitories:

Another good option for a freshman or international student is to stay in dormitories. Most universities offer dormitories, if not residences. Dormitory life can become a very unique experience as you will be sharing a building with a number of people from different parts of the world, walking on different paths.

Dormitories usually have a community kitchen, other community facilities like laundry rooms, and study areas. Sharing a room in a dorm could be beneficial for international students who are on a tight budget, as it splits the cost. You need to get in touch with your university to check the availability of dormitories and book one for yourself.

Flats:

If you want a sense of independence and feel like you need your own space, you cannot get that in a dormitory. In such a case, getting a flat is the answer. However, flats can vary depending on what town or city you are in for your higher studies. In some cases, you can find students like yourself who are looking for roommates.

Even if you have a roommate, they will have a separate room from yours, so you can have your privacy. However, getting a flat as an international student can prove to be quite expensive if you do not get a flatmate/ roommate. Also, getting a good deal and facilities in a flat before going to Europe is nearly impossible for international students. So, this option can be taken once you reach your destination and have made some connections or networked there to get a good deal.

Homestay:

Homestays are another great option for international students in Europe. Homestay is a type of arrangement where you book or rent a room from a family with a house in the country. Staying in a homestay can prove to be very beneficial, as you share a household with the natives and become an integrated part of the family.

This could help your interpersonal and socializing skills and could help you learn the local language and culture pretty quickly. A homestay could be a very comfortable and affordable option for international students on a tight budget.

Off Campus Accommodation:

Some universities might not run an accommodation system themselves. However, the chances are that it has an endorsement from a company that does. Off campus accommodations are usually spread across the town or city that your university is in. However, they are located in places that have easy access to your university.

This accommodation can give you a chance to meet people outside your university from all around the world, socialize with them, and learn about their cultures. These kinds of arrangements are often similar to those in on campus residence halls.