Erasmus Mundus Housing: A New Home Every Semester
Finding an apartment every 4–6 months in cities you've never visited, in languages you don't speak, with deposits you can barely afford. This is the honest guide to Erasmus Mundus housing.
ScholarshipUnion Editorial
2 min read
Updated Oct 5, 2026
Finding Housing Every Semester
You move 2–4 times during the programme, and you search remotely in cities you've never visited. There is no separate installation allowance under the current scholarship rules: deposits, first month's rent and temporary stays all come out of the same €1,400 monthly stipend, which barely stretches to one deposit in an expensive city.
Student Dorm vs Private Rental
Most students end up choosing between university-linked student housing and the private market. Here's how they compare.
Pros: cheaper, furnished, near campus, easy move-in.
Cons: not all universities offer it, small rooms, you may need to apply months ahead, and availability for short-term stays is limited.
Pros: more options, more space, you can choose the location.
Cons: expensive, deposits of €1,000–2,000, scam risk when searching remotely, and landlords may not rent to short-term international tenants.
Scam Alert
Never pay a deposit before visiting in person. Never wire money to a private account. If a deal seems too good for the city, it is. Fake landlords create convincing copies of real listings.
Housing Tips
Contact your university housing office immediately
The moment you get your acceptance, email the international office asking about housing. Some have reserved rooms for Erasmus Mundus students, allocated first come, first served.
Connect with your cohort for flatshares
Other Erasmus Mundus students in your programme are in the same situation. Share a flat together — it's cheaper and you'll have built-in friends. Join the programme's WhatsApp or Telegram group early.
Book temporary housing for the first 2 weeks
Don't panic-sign a lease remotely. Book a hostel or Airbnb for 2 weeks, then search in person. You'll make better decisions when you can actually see the place.
Plan Your Budget
Housing costs are the biggest variable in your Erasmus Mundus budget. Get the full financial picture before you go.