As an international student in Morocco, you are free to choose your accommodation. Some universities offer student residences in Morocco. Each university has its own system, depending on the university and the city.
But not all of them offer housing for their students, so that many have to rent a place in the vicinity of the institution. Others opt for sharing an apartment with other students, or even stay with a Moroccan family in some cases.
There are other accommodation options, which are a great alternative whether you were traveling alone or with a friend. Here you are some options of the student accommodation in Morocco:
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University student residences in Morocco
This type of university housing is for students who are enrolled in a Moroccan public university or a public institution of higher education that does not have boarding facilities, who reside outside the city of the university they are attending and do not hold any job in Morocco.
These public university residences in Morocco are places where students can get not only accommodation but in some cases food and access to other social, sports and cultural activities. Usually, these residences include several buildings, including a restaurant, a cafeteria, a library and in some cases a health care unit with emergency medicines and care supplies.
Private student residences in Morocco
If you were searching for a more independent lifestyle during your accommodation and are willing to meet other foreigners, the student residence is your perfect choice. These residences vary according to the area, location, and availability. They usually accommodate students of different ages and nationalities in the home environment. This is the most economical version of the private student accommodation.
Usually, student residences in Morocco offer shared utilities, such as kitchens and cafeterias. They also offer you the chance to practice your new language with your colleagues, even away from the classroom. Mostly, there are receptions in the residences that you can contact if you have problems or questions.
To benefit from this type of student accommodation, don’t hesitate to get in touch with your university’s administration. Some institutions like the “Grandes Écoles” have their own student housing or even their own platform where students can look for any available housing.
Privately funded student accommodation in Morocco
Alternatively, students can apply to privately funded student residences that offer the complete package (but they have to pay a higher price also, which make this option not suitable for students on a tight budget). These student residences include accommodation, gym, laundry facilities, internet access, catering for their residents.
Among the most popular of these residences, there is the Ziraoui university residences for student housing in Casablanca. It consists of two buildings with seven floors each, one for girls and one for boys. The accommodation includes a bed, desk, closet and bathroom, with access to common areas and recreation rooms. Rent is around 2,500 dirhams per month for a 19 m² single room.
For a private student accommodation in Tangier, there is “The Student House”, the very first private student residences in the city. It provides individual studios of 17 m², double studios of 24 m², and studios for students with reduced mobility. The institution’s capacity can go up to 832 beds.
Private Apartments
This is a good choice for students who want freedom and independence. The apartments in Morocco are typically furnished according to the Moroccan characteristics. They are fully equipped with kitchens and bathrooms.
Usually, the single and double rooms are available in the same apartment. Students are responsible for cooking and cleaning themselves.
In general, the apartments are without supervision and are self-catering. They are also near the local amenities, such as cafés, restaurants, shops, and bus stops.
Guesthouses and Hotels
This option is only suitable for staying for short periods, between one and four weeks, as it might be expensive for the long run. You can choose between different options. Each room has its own bathroom.
As for the hotel booking, please note that double rooms may only be booked by two students travelling together.
Rent in Morocco
Many foreign students choose to rent a house or apartment during their stay in Morocco.
The rental prices start at a very low rate. But usually, these apartments are located in low-income areas, with bathrooms that fall short of the western standards.
So, most of the expats prefer renting in the middle-class neighborhoods, where the bathroom includes a western toilet and shower.
It’s also possible to rent a room in an apartment with other students. These apartments are generally located near to universities.
When considering rental prices, you should check if this price includes utilities, such as water and electricity. Most homes in Morocco do not have heating, but heaters are available for relatively low prices. Some furnished apartments are also available, but they are more expensive.