🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Student Life in France

Where learning meets lifestyle.

France is not just a country to study in—it’s a life-changing experience. International students in France get to explore a vibrant culture, enjoy a high standard of living, benefit from affordable education, and become part of a multicultural academic environment. Whether you’re in bustling Paris or a scenic student town like Grenoble, student life in France is rich, rewarding, and globally connected.

🌆 Living in French Cities – A World of Choice

France offers a wide variety of student-friendly cities, each with its own charm:

City Highlights
Paris Iconic landmarks, top-tier universities, endless cultural events, and career opportunities in every sector.
Lyon Known for its cuisine and commerce; home to renowned business schools and a dynamic student scene.
Toulouse Aerospace capital of Europe with a youthful population and relatively lower living costs.
Montpellier A Mediterranean city with sunshine, beaches nearby, and a thriving academic vibe.
Bordeaux Famous for wine, design schools, and a laid-back lifestyle.
Grenoble Nestled in the Alps—great for science, nature lovers, and winter sports enthusiasts.
Lille Close to Belgium and the UK, with top universities and a historic atmosphere.

🏠 Student Housing in France

You’ll find several accommodation options:

  • 🏢 CROUS Residences (Government Student Housing): Subsidized rooms, popular with international students.

  • 🏘️ Private Rentals & Shared Flats: Shared housing (colocation) is common and affordable.

  • 🏡 Homestays: Live with a French family for a cultural experience and language practice.

💸 Estimated Rent:

  • Paris: €500–€800/month

  • Other cities: €250–€500/month

🔑 Tip: Apply for housing early! Use trusted platforms like CROUS, Lokaviz, or Studapart.

💶 Cost of Living in France (Monthly Estimates)

Expense Category Cost (Avg.)
Accommodation €300–€700
Food €150–€250
Public Transport €20–€50 (student passes)
Health Insurance €100/year (basic student cover)
Internet & Utilities €30–€60
Leisure & Travel €50–€100

✅ Student Discounts: France offers extensive student discounts—cinemas, cafés, transport, museums, and even shopping!

🧑‍🎓 Campus Life – Study, Socialize, Succeed

French campuses are vibrant, inclusive, and full of opportunities:

  • 🎭 Cultural Activities: Art clubs, movie nights, international days, food fairs.

  • ⚽ Sports & Fitness: Most universities offer access to gyms, swimming pools, and team sports.

  • 🎤 Student Unions: Organize events, workshops, and trips around France and Europe.

  • 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Buddy Programs: Connect international students with locals for smoother integration.

💼 Working While Studying

France allows students to work while studying:

  • 📅 Up to 964 hours/year (roughly 20 hours/week during term)

  • 💵 Minimum wage: ~€11.65/hour (2025)

  • 💼 Internships: Often mandatory and paid, especially in engineering, business, and science programs

🚀 Tip: Even a basic level of French can significantly increase your chances of finding part-time work.

🏥 Healthcare & Student Safety

  • 🏥 Health Insurance: All students must register with the French Social Security system (free or ~€100/year).

  • 💊 Medical Services: Accessible, affordable healthcare including university health centers.

  • 👮‍♂️ Safety: France is generally very safe for students. Most universities offer emergency support and international help desks.

🌍 Embracing the Culture & Language

  • 🍷 Visit vineyards, historic towns, and UNESCO heritage sites.

  • 🗼 Climb the Eiffel Tower, explore the Riviera, or ski the Alps.

  • 🗣️ Learn French through immersive campus activities and subsidized language classes.

  • 🧳 Travel across Europe easily with France’s central location and student-friendly transport networks.

📩 Planning to Study in France?

Let Impel Overseas Consultants help you with:

  • Pre-departure orientation

  • Housing and budgeting advice

  • Student visa processing

  • Cultural integration tips

  • Scholarship & work support

🎓 Experience France beyond the classroom.
Get in touch with us today for a personalized France Student Life Guide!