When it comes to choosing student accommodation, one of the most important decisions you'll need to make is whether you'd prefer to live in a shared apartment or opt for individual student housing. Each option has its advantages and disadvantages, and the decision can be a difficult one. To help you, we've put together a list of tips to help you decide which option is right for you.
Student flatsharing: a social experiment
A quick reminder: what is shared accommodation? It's a form of accommodation in which several people share the same home and common spaces such as the kitchen, living room or bathroom, while each has his or her own room.
It's a real social experience, ideal for those who like company and community life. We've listed the advantages for you:
- Shared costs: Housing costs (rent, utilities, bills) are usually shared between roommates, reducing everyone's costs.
- Companionship: Living with another person can help combat loneliness. When you live with a roommate, you're almost never alone.
- Sharing chores: With a shared flat, you can divide up household chores and housing responsibilities, making day-to-day life easier to manage.
Individual student housing, total autonomy
Choosing a single-family home offers greater independence and peace of mind. Here are the advantages:
- Privacy: you have an entire home that's entirely dedicated to you. So you can enjoy total privacy.
- Freedom: you're free to live according to your own schedule and your own rules, without having to take into account the preferences or habits of your roommates.
- Tranquility: if you need peace and quiet to study or work, a self-contained apartment can provide a quieter environment.
So how do you choose between sharing and self-catering accommodation when you're a student?
Deciding whether to share or live alone depends on your personal preferences, lifestyle and budget.
Ask yourself the right questions:
What is your level of tolerance to noise and commotion?
Do you prefer to live alone or in a community?
What's your budget and how can you best manage it?
By answering these small questions, you'll be able to make the best decision for you as a student.
What's more, several FAC-HABITAT student residences offer shared student accommodation. Don't hesitate to check out the residences available in the city of your choice!