Finding a place to live abroad can feel overwhelming, but with the right strategy and trusted tools, the process becomes much easier. Here is a clear guide to help you find safe and comfortable accommodation during your Erasmus mobility.

1. Start Your Search Early

Begin looking for accommodation as soon as you receive your nomination form. Accomodations get booked quickly, especially before the semester starts.

2. Know Your Options

As a student abroad, you can choose between:

1. University dorms (before searching for private accommodation, do not forget to ask the host university about their dorms)

If you're an Ovidius University student, you can choose to live in the dormitories. The monthly rent is approx 900 RON (about 180-200 euros).

2. Private dorms
3. Shared flats (most common and budget-friendly)
4. Student residences
5. Private rooms
6. Studio apartments
7. Homestays

Explore different types to see what fits your budget, lifestyle, and comfort.

3. Use Reliable Platforms

To avoid scams and save time, use trusted platforms with verified listings. Two widely used options are:

• ErasmusU - https://erasmusu.com/en/student-housing  – a large database of student rooms, shared flats, and residences, with the option to book online.
• Erasmus Play - https://erasmusplay.com/en/  – search engine that compares verified student housing from multiple providers.

These platforms help you find accommodation safely, even before arriving in the country.

4. Compare Lots of Listings

Before choosing a place, check:

• Location (distance to university and transport)
• Monthly price
• What utilities are included
• Roommates (if applicable)
• Reviews from previous students
• Contract duration and rules

We recommend that you to choose the following zones of Constanta:

•  City Park Mall
•  Delfinariu
•  Campus (For Ovidius University students)
•  Bd. (Bulevardul) Mamaia (or Universitatea Ovidius) (For Ovidius University students)
•  Dezrobirii Street, Soveja Street, Baba Novac Street (For Naval Academy students).

! Please avoid Mamaia Summer Land, even though it's cheap (because it's outside of the city) ! 

Comparing several options helps you understand the normal price range within the city.

5. Always Verify the Details

Before booking:

• Ask for recent photos or a video call
• Confirm the deposit, move-in date, and minimum stay
• Check the refund policy
• Make sure all conditions are in the contract

If something feels unclear or rushed, ask questions before paying anything.

6. Use University Resources

Your host university can help you find reliable housing:

• International Relations Office
• Erasmus coordinators
• Official partner dormitories
• Student groups on Facebook or WhatsApp
• The local Erasmus Student Network section

During your mobility, Ovidius University offers you the option to stay in the dormitory. Ensure to fill out the form if you want to stay in the dorm. 

Many students also find accommodation through recommendations from former Erasmus students. You can consider this option as well.

7. Watch Out for Scams

Be careful with:

• Prices far below the market average
• Landlords who refuse video tours
• Requests to pay through unsafe methods (cash apps, bank transfer to personal accounts)
• Pressure to pay quickly, “or the room is gone”

Using platforms like ErasmusU and Erasmus Play already reduces these risks significantly.

8. Consider Temporary Options

If you prefer to visit in person, book a short stay (hostel, Airbnb, hotel) for a few days or a week.
This gives you time to visit apartments locally before committing long-term.