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Housing

In Lyon you have three housing choices: dorm-style living, a homestay, or your own apartment. The dorms can be either part of the government-subsidized CROUS network or privately run. You begin the process for the CROUS dorms through the University of Lyon administrative enrollment prior to departure. Private dorms are secured independently. If you choose a homestay, your local UCEAP coordinator will work with you to identify your preferences prior to arrival, then provide you with a list of homestay resources for you to contact. If you choose an apartment, your local UCEAP coordinator can provide you with a list of apartments that students have rented in the past, or you can do your own research. UCEAP will automatically reserve you a room in a dormitory so you have accommodations while searching for an apartment. You may spend all or part of the first two weeks finding an apartment for the remainder of the semester.

Apartment

Living in an apartment in Lyon is an excellent way to immerse in the culture. The study center provides a list of housing resources you can use to find an apartment after arrival. 

Accommodations

  • Private or shared bedroom
  • Private or shared bathroom
  • Off campus
  • No meal plan

Live with

  • Local French students
  • International students

Commute

The distance between your apartment and campus depends on the location of your apartment. Typically it can take between 20 and 50 minutes with a combination of walking and public transportation (tram, metro, or bus).

Homestay

Living with a homestay host is an excellent way to completely immerse in the French language and culture on a daily basis. Your local UCEAP coordinator will work with you prior to arrival to identify your preferences and match you with a homestay, whom you will contact to secure your room. Host families are generally close to the city center or the university and regularly share their homes with international students. Your host will be experienced in helping you get settled and acquainted with the city. The level of interaction you have with your host depends on the arrangement and the level of interest on both sides.  

Accommodations

  • Private bedroom
  • Private or shared bathroom
  • Off campus
  • Meal plan (breakfast and dinner weekdays)

Live with

  • Local residents

Commute

An average commute is 20-50 minutes with a combination of walking and public transportation (tram, metro, or bus).

Dorm

The government-subsidized CROUS dorms and the private options provide a low-cost housing solution in Lyon. The University of Lyon has CROUS dorm rooms set aside for international students and makes it convenient for you to reserve a room. Rooms range from 9 square meter furnished singles to larger 70 square meter shared apartments. The residences also have low-cost dining facilities and host social events for students. In addition, there are 100 private residences throughout Lyon and its suburbs in varying sizes and with varying amenities to choose from to suit your needs.

Accommodations

  • Private or shared bedroom
  • Private or shared bathroom
  • Off campus
  • No meal plan

Live with

  • Local French students
  • International students

Commute

The distance between your dorm and campus depends on the location of your apartment. Typically it can take between 20 and 50 minutes with a combination of walking and public transportation (tram, metro, or bus).