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Tips on finding accommodation when studying abroad
Последно ажурирана на Среда, 22/10/2025
Congratulations! You have been accepted to do a semester abroad in another country thanks to Erasmus+. However, you might suddenly be overwhelmed by a wave of anxiety and stress about what to do next. Which is the biggest task ahead: finding accommodation?
For many young people, the mention of “semester abroad” paired with “accommodation” can be daunting, bringing back memories of endless hours spent searching for decent housing.
But take a deep breath; finding accommodation isn’t as scary as it seems. With the right mindset, a reliable Wi-Fi connection, and a search engine, you can tackle this challenge. This article will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to secure your accommodation for your semester abroad.
Phase 1
First, you need to identify the country and university where you’ll be studying. It’s important to know your budget specifically, the maximum amount you are willing to spend on accommodation. Research the area surrounding your university and consider how far you are willing to travel for it. Check the local transportation system to understand how long it will take to commute to and from your university and nearby areas.
Phase 2
This is where the magic will happen, but don’t rush! It’s important to avoid scams. It’s highly recommended to create an Excel sheet or a table where each row represents a different accommodation website. First, check your host university’s website for accommodation information; they may offer tips or partner with specific organisations that could help facilitate your accommodation.
Here are some reliable and trusted accommodation sources you can explore:
Additionally, seek out Facebook and WhatsApp groups related to your host city or university to find potential roommates and make connections. Ensure that all the accommodations you find have a verified listing, as this adds an extra layer of protection and confirms that the website is reliable.
Once your table is complete and you have gathered all the relevant links and websites for accommodations, spend one or two hours browsing through these sites. If you find a suitable accommodation option, be sure to add the link to your table.
Phase 3
Now that your table is filled with options that fit your budget, you might be wondering which accommodation to choose. If you're having difficulty deciding, the first step is to contact the landlord for additional information about the property. Request photos, videos, and, if possible, schedule a private viewing. This will help you get a better idea of the accommodation.
If the landlord does not comply with any of these requests, it's best to avoid that option, as it may be a scam.
After you’ve messaged the landlords and narrowed down your options by thoroughly reviewing the accommodations, you can move forward with your decision.
Phase 4
As you are in your final steps of securing your accommodation, it's important to clarify what is included in the rental agreement. Ensure that the place has basic amenities such as Wi-Fi, electricity, and water.
Also, check for any hidden costs that might arise. It's important to sign a contract with the landlord to guarantee your stay and protect yourself from potential eviction during your semester abroad.
Phase 5
You have officially secured your accommodation for your upcoming semester abroad! Take a moment to give yourself a pat on the back. Enjoy your Erasmus experience and make the most of it!
Written by Eurodesk Brussels Link