How to find Housing for Exchange Students in Bordeaux, France

Bordeaux is an excellent destination for an exchange, home to a respected institution like the Université de Bordeaux or the Université Bordeaux Montaigne. But securing short-term accommodation can be stressful. Landlords often hesitate to rent short-term to international students, rooms are scarce, and online rental scams frequently target students searching from abroad. However, Bordeaux remains a top-tier student city, and housing challenges shouldn't keep you from going! Scroll on to find more info about finding housing as an exchange student in Bordeaux, France.

Tips for finding accommodation for exchange students in Bordeaux

Check the resources of your host university (Université de Bordeaux, Université Bordeaux Montaigne)for dedicated exchange student housing guides. Reach out to their international offices early to inquire about reserved short-term quotas. Even if you’re not officially their student, yet, you can reach out and ask about accommodation options.

Don’t forget the website of your host city Bordeaux.Check the municipality of Bordeaux's official portals for local housing market insights, temporary residence registries, and youth housing services.

Beware of scams. A lot of exchange students resort to Facebook and other social media to find housing. While Facebook groups are widely used, they carry high scam risks. Never transfer money upfront without a verified lease, video walkthrough, or formal contract.

Leverage platforms designed specifically for exchange students, such as Exchange Rooms. They offer short-term sublets posted directly by verified fellow international students. Feel free to have a look at the available accommodation on our platform.

Essential Local Info for Bordeaux: Subsidies & Financial Support

• CAF Housing Subsidy (APL / ALS): International students in France—including exchange students—are generally eligible to apply for French government housing assistance through CAF (Caisse d'Allocations Familiales). Depending on rent and income, CAF can reimburse €100 to €200+ per month directly toward housing costs.
• Visale Guarantor Scheme: Most private landlords require a French guarantor. You can apply for Visale, a free government-backed guarantor scheme managed by Action Logement that covers rental guarantees for students under 30.
• Student Life & Location: Beyond academics at institutions like Université de Bordeaux, Université Bordeaux Montaigne, or KEDGE Business School, student life is supported by local student unions (BDE) and Erasmus+ network events. Bordeaux’s location also puts you close to Atlantic coast beaches (such as Arcachon) and world-renowned vineyard tours.

The bonus tip you might not expect

Finding housing can start with offering housing yourself. Post your available room on Exchange Rooms, Post your current room on Exchange Rooms and email the link to your host university's international office in Bordeaux. Students coming from Bordeaux to your home university can rent your space, opening up housing leads in return.

Join the Network: If you don't have a room to sublet, you can still sign up and share the platform with your home and host universities to expand the student-to-student network.

More info about Bordeaux

Bordeaux, famous for its wine and elegant architecture, is a growing hub for students. Université de Bordeaux and KEDGE Business School attract international students. The cost of living is €850–€1,300/month, with student housing at €450–€750/month (shared apartments or CROUS). Public transport is reliable: a monthly pass is €45, covering trams, buses, and bikes (VCub). Saint-Michel is a lively, affordable district, while Chartrons is upscale. Bordeaux’s student associations (like BDE) host events, and the Erasmus+ program provides support. The city’s proximity to the Atlantic coast and vineyard tours add to its appeal.

Bordeaux Overview

Category

Details

Cost of Living

€850–€1,300/month

Student Housing

€450–€750/month

Public Transport

€45/month (trams, buses, VCub)

Popular Areas

Saint-Michel, Chartrons

Student Support

BDE, Erasmus+

Exchange Rooms

Exchange Rooms can help you secure housing in Bordeaux. Search for rooms in the area or learn more and make an account!

Good luck finding housing, we’re rooting for you!