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StudyinFrance

How do i plan my stay.

StudyinFrance is a website dedicated to the community of international students in France. Every year, you are more than 370,000 to come over for your studies. To make sure you settle-in smoothly , we’ve gathered all the information and resources you’ll need to plan your stay 😊

StudyinFrance - International students community

“ Our mission statement ”

StudyinFrance is committed to improving the welcoming, integration and stay of international students. We’ve got 5 primary goals , all aligned with the “ Bienvenue en France – Choose France ” vision.

To make sure your travel plans go smoothly.

To help you navigate the paperwork and administrative procedures.

To facilitate your access to student accommodation ( CROUS residences , private housing, ..).

To encourage you to learn French ( FLE ) and overcome the language barrier.

Finally, to build a community of international students, based on sharing and mutual support.

Two different ways to prepare for your international adventure

Ask for a mentor 👋

She/he will guide you throughout your stay! You will also receive a comprehensive guide , tailored to your needs: one email for each topic you choose (visa, healthcare, accommodation, etc.), with tips and resources to help you plan your time in France.

ON YOUR OWN

Navigate your way through our website 🤙

If you’d rather do it on your own, you should be able to find all the information you need. Everything is classified by theme (visa, French healthcare system, accommodation, student life, travelling…) and regularly updated .

| How does it work exactly?

| you’d rather navigate our website on your own, student visas.

Which one do you need to apply for? We help you to see things more clearly and we introduce you to Campus France .

Erasmus in France

We’ve put together all the information you’ll need to prepare your Erasmus stay. We also introduce you to the ESN Network!

Health insurances

Registering to the French health insurance is mandatory . Here is what you need to know about the French healthcare system 😊

Bank account

You’ll need a bank account for most of your administrative procedures in France. We’ve selected two free options 👍

We looked for the best mobile phone plans: unlimited calls and texts, data + SIM card for less than €15/month .

Your landlord will most likely ask you for one or two french guarantors when you apply for your accommodation.

Take out home insurance is the first thing to do when you move-in, it’s a legal requirement in France.

Student housing aid

Most French and international students can apply for a grant ( ~€150/month ) to help them pay rent ✌

We looked for the best value broadband deals that French students usually get 🤗

Electricity & gas

Let’s be clear, it’s one of the most annoying things to take care of. We tried to make it easier for you to get it done 😊

Learn French

If you’re looking to learn French, we recommend you to choose schools holding the FLE label .

Our advice for travelling in Europe and/or France (travel insurance, trip ideas , train discount cards, etc.).

About StudyinFrance

🦸‍♂️ who's behind studyinfrance.

StudyinFrance was co-founded in 2019 by two friends: Adrien and Théo . Inspired by their personal experiences abroad ( Erasmus & WHV ), Adrien and Théo created StudyinFrance with the aim of making life easier for international students. StudyinFrance is based in Lille (France), in the premises of Euratechnologies.

🤔 Is StudyinFrance free?

Yes! StudyinFrance is a website dedicated to the international student community. We encourage mutual support and sharing of experiences, so that as many students as possible can easily prepare their stay in France.

The content we publish and the resources we put online are all accessible for free .

Applying for student housing aid is the only process for which we ask for a fee, which covers the processing of the application. Although, as usual, you may also do this for free using the tutorials we have provided.

🖐 I'd like to help out, what can I do?

Help is greatly appreciated! One of the things you can do is share in your experience . We use your feedback to improve our content (tips, advice) and better help our community.

Another thing would be to volunteer in a local student association involved in welcoming international students, such as ESN ( Erasmus Student Network ). It’d be very helpful, they are always looking for staff to welcome newcomers. Plus, it’s a great way to meet people! You should find these association on social medias (Facebook or Instagram).

🔎 I couldn't find information on a specific topic, could you help me?

If you are struggling with a specific topic and cannot find anything to help you on our website, please let us know . We’ve shared our roadmap for the next few months, there is a link you can use to send your requests.

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Foreigners student in france: long-stay visa or residence card.

Verified 06 August 2021 - Directorate for Legal and Administrative Information (Prime Minister)

Concerns foreigners who are not nationals of the European Union, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Iceland and Norway

Situation of a foreigner in possession of documents authorizing him to remain in France

Formality by which a procedural document or a decision is brought to the attention of a person

Additional cases ?

For an Algerian

If you are foreigner If you want to study in France, you must first apply for a long-stay visa (VLS-TS) mention student (valid for 4 months to 1 year). After 1 year, you can apply for a temporary residence card student (valid for 1 year) or multiannual student (valid for 2 to 4 years). You are subject to resource requirements. In some cases, the residence permit can be issued automatically.

After 1 year of stay

Who is involved.

You are concerned if you come to France to pursue higher education without a residence permit for personal or family reasons (for example, resident card , residence permit   private and family life ).

You must be registered (or pre-registered):

  • in a public or private institution of higher education or initial training (university, college, etc.)
  • or a higher vocational training organization.

You must have at least  €615  per month.

But if you are in one of the following situations, the resource condition does not apply:

  • You come to France under an agreement signed between the State and a higher education institution in which you are registered
  • You passed the entrance examination to a higher education institution that has signed an agreement with the state
  • You're a French government scholar
  • Your country has signed a reciprocal agreement with France on the admission of students

Please note

if you come to France to take a competition or an entrance exam for higher education, you must apply for a short-stay student-competition visa .

Application for a long-stay visa as a student residence permit (VLS-TS)

Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement

You entered France regularly and passed a school entrance exam

You are dispensed of VLS-TS if you have entered France regularly (under short-stay visa for example).

You must apply directly for a residence card student   in the prefecture.

You have entered France regularly, you have been studying in France for at least 16 years and you are pursuing higher education

You are dispensed of the VLS-TS if you have entered France regularly (under short-stay visa for example). You also have to prove the reality and seriousness of your higher education.

You must apply directly for a residence card student   in the prefecture .

Before starting your process, you must consult the official website France-visas to find the procedure that concerns you:

France-visas - Students

Foreigners from 43 countries must apply for a visa on the Studies in France at the time of online pre-enrollment in French higher education.

Validation of the VLS-TS after arrival in France

Within 3 months of your arrival in France, you must validate your VLS-TS and pay a tax in addition to the visa fee.

The online approach makes it possible to be in regular stay and to be able to cross the border again from the Schengen area .

Validate a long-stay visa as a residence permit (VLS-TS) and pay the tax

€50 (to be paid when validating your long-stay visa as a residence permit)

Period of validity

The VLS-TS shall be issued for a period of time 4 months to 1 year .

You are concerned if you come to France to pursue higher education without a residence permit for personal or family reasons (for example resident card , residence permit   private and family life ).

The resource condition does not apply if you are in one of the following situations:

  • You come to France under an agreement signed between the State and a higher education institution, in which you are registered

Application for a student temporary residence card

You must apply for your residence card at the earliest 4 months and at the latest 2 months before the end of validity of your residence document (visa, VLS-TS or title).

It's all online.

Apply for a student residence permit

When you apply for a residence permit on the Internet, you immediately get a dematerialized certificate deposit.

You can check the status of your case at any time. You can also respond to any requests for additional information and take note of the decisions taken.

It may be necessary to go to the prefecture for a fingerprint (if it has not already been taken).

Acceptance or refusal to issue a residence card

Your request is accepted

If your application is accepted, you are summoned to the prefecture for the issue of the title.

Your request is denied

If the prefect has notified you of the refusal.

The decision of the prefect is yours notified by reasoned letter (explicit decision). Except in exceptional circumstances, such refusal shall be accompanied by a obligation to leave French territory (OQTF) setting the country to which you will be returned.

You can form a litigation before the administrative court (within 48 hours, 15 days or 30 days depending on the type of OQTF).

No reply from the prefect on your request

If the prefecture has not responded after 4 months, this is an implicit refusal.

You can then train within 2 months of this refusal:

  • One administrative appeal ( ex gratia appeal before the prefect and/or hierarchical remedy to the Minister of the Interior),
  • And/or a litigation before the administrative court

Warning  

if your receipt expires and you don't have a response from the prefecture, the processing time may be longer. In this case, you can obtain the renewal of your receipt. Find out more on your prefecture's website.

Documents to be supplied

  • Valid long stay visa (or short stay visa) "student competition" )
  • Proof of domicile less than 6 months old
  • Photograph code and valid digital signature
  • Registration produced by the educational institution (which may be a public or private higher education institution) or pre-registration
  • If you have a short-stay visa "student competition"  : certificate of successful completion of the competition or pre-admission examination
  • If you are applying for a residence card "student - mobility program" : any document produced by the institution justifying that your course is part of an EU mobility program
  • Transcripts from the previous year
  • Last degree obtained in France
  • Certificate of achievement issued by the institution
  • If you are a French government scholar or a beneficiary of European programs: justification for this situation
  • If you are a fellow in your country of origin: certificate from the paying agency of the country of origin specifying the amount and duration of the grant
  • If you work: your last 3 payslips
  • If you are taken care of by a third party: proof of identity of the third party + bank certificates of the planning of regular transfers (or certificate on the honor of payment of the sums enabling the amount of €615 / month)
  • If you have sufficient resources: bank attestation of sufficient credit balance
  • If you have been in school in France since the age of 16 and you are pursuing higher education there: school certificates
  • Full copy of birth certificate with the most recent entries
  • Passport (pages concerning civil status, validity dates, entry stamps and visas) or, if not, other supporting documents (consular certificate, identity card, consular card, etc.)

civil status documents must be accompanied by their translation into French by an accredited interpreter .

You must pay a tax and a stamp duty  €75 by tax stamps .

if you apply for a renewal of your title after the deadline, you will also have to pay a visa fee to regularize your  €180 (except in cases of force majeure or presentation of a valid visa).

The card is valid 1 year and renewable.

Renewal (issue of a multi-annual residence card)

After 1 year presence in France on a long-stay visa as a residence permit (VLS-TS) or a temporary residence card student , you can benefit from a multi-year residence card student .

Its duration is equal to the number of years remaining in the course of study in which you are enrolled.

For example, if you have completed your 1 re year of license in France, you will receive a card valid for 2 years.

If you are studying at a large school, you will receive a card at the time of renewal covering the end of your training (until you obtain your engineering degree for example).

You must comply with the initial conditions for issuing the temporary residence card student , which means:

  • be enrolled in an institution (public or private) of initial education or training
  • and justify monthly resources at least equal to  €615 .

You have to justify the reality and seriousness of your studies. Your entire course since your entry into France is taken into account.

The real and serious nature of your studies is checked in particular by means of:

  • your attendance,
  • your test results,
  • the degrees you get,
  • explanations you provide if you change your curriculum.

a repetition per course of study does not by itself call into question the seriousness of the studies.

Request for multiannual card

  • Valid residence permit
  • If you are taken care of by a third party: proof of identity of the third party + bank certificates of the planning of regular transfers (or certificate on the honor of payment of the sums enabling the amount of €615 /month)

You need to pay  €75 ( €50 tax +  €25 stamp duty) by tax stamps .

Who can help me?

Find who can answer your questions in your region

Telephone administrative information - Allo Public Service

For more information on this topic, you can contact Allô Service Public.

Cost: free service

The informants who answer you belong to the Ministry of the Interior.

Attention: the service does not have access to users' personal files and cannot therefore provide information on their status.

The service is available at the following times:

  • Monday: 8.30am to 5.30pm
  • Tuesday: 8:30 to 12:15
  • Wednesday: 8:30 to 12:15
  • Thursday: 8.30am to 5.30pm
  • Friday: 1 p.m. to 4:15 p.m
  • Lundi  : de 08h30 à 17h30
  • Mardi  : de 08h30 à 12h15
  • Mercredi  : de 08h30 à 12h15
  • Jeudi  : de 08h30 à 17h30
  • Vendredi  : de 13h00 à 16h15

Request a call

Statute and miscellaneous references

Code of entry and residence of foreigners and right of asylum: Articles L422-1 to L422-3

Student temporary residence card

Code of entry and residence of foreigners and right of asylum: article R422-7

Withdrawal of student temporary residence card

Code of entry and residence of foreigners and right of asylum: Articles R433-1 to 433-6

Renewal of temporary residence cards

Code of entry and residence of foreigners and right of asylum: Articles R*432-1 to R432-15

Implicit refusal to issue the residence card

Code of entry and residence of foreigners and right of asylum: Articles L436-1 to L436-10

Taxes and stamp duty payable

Code of entry and residence of foreigners and right of asylum: annex 10

List of documents to be supplied: point 25

Online services and forms

Request for mobility in France of a student authorized to stay in Europe

What photo to provide for an identity document (passport, identity card...)?

Application for a residence card: what proof of residence?

Translating a document: how to find a certified translator?

Foreigner in France: how to buy a tax stamp?

Can a non-European student work in France?

What is the "student competition" short-stay visa?

Additional topics

Enrollment of a foreigner in higher education

Visas and residence cards for students

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Study Abroad in France

student travel france

Over 17,000 US students study abroad in France every year. Be the next one to choose France!  

Study Abroad Programs

Most US colleges and universities have education abroad offices that will help connect you with a study abroad or exchange program, either facilitated by your institution or through a study abroad provider.  

You may choose to study abroad for a short program in the summer or J-Term, or spend a semester or a full academic year abroad. Some programs are taught at centers or schools managed by your university or the study abroad provider organization, and your peers may be other Americans or international students. Other programs partner directly with French institutions, and students take regular courses with other French students.

Consider your academic and career plans, language acquisition objectives, and your personal goals when choosing a program that is right for you.  

Below are several US-based study abroad providers with long-standing programs throughout France. 

student travel france

Preparing for Study Abroad

See our  French Culture Primer  for resources on French books, films, music, language, cuisine, and more to enrich your study abroad pre-departure preparations.  

Pre-Consular and Student Visa Application

Study abroad and exchange programs in france may range from a few weeks, to a full academic year..

If your program of study in France is 90 days or longer, you will apply for a long-stay student visa. One of the requirements of the student visa application is completing a pre-consular Campus France application on a platform called Etudes en France, there is also an application fee.

You can read about the details of this process the Application Overview.

If your program of study in France for under 90 days and you are a US citizen, you will not be required to apply for a student visa or complete the Etudes en France pre-consular application. Citizens of other countries may still be required to apply for a visa when visiting France for under 90 days, you can learn more about this at  France-Visas . 

Scholarships

Many students who choose to study abroad may be eligible for additional funding or scholarships. we recommend seeking advice from your college or university’s education abroad office.  .

Campus France USA has also compiled an extensive list of scholarships for U.S. students in France, read more about scholarships for study abroad students on our  Grants, Scholarships & Fellowships page.  

The Higher Education Cooperation of the Embassy of France in the United States is proud to partner with the U.S. Department of State to offer the  Gilman Scholarship , providing need-based grants to support U.S. students who study abroad in France.  

student travel france

Stay connected to France after your study abroad experience

See our Life After Studying in France page for resources to help you leverage your experience in France into new opportunities for personal and professional growth. 

Everything international students need to know about student visas in France

Are you thinking about studying in france this guide to applying for a student visa in france covers the costs, paperwork and language test requirements.

Seeta Bhardwa's avatar

Seeta Bhardwa

Applying for a student visa in France

France is one of the most popular study-abroad destinations for its high-ranking universities and career opportunities for graduates.  From Paris to Marseilles, Bordeaux to Lyon, each city has its own character and offers students something new and unique.  Before moving to France, students will need to apply for a student visa. The table below explains all the most important questions that students have when applying for a visa to study in France.

More resources for studying in France

Best universities in France The cost of studying at a university in France The 10 most beautiful universities in Europe Graduate employability: top universities in France ranked by employers  A day in the life of a student in France Please note: all costs and conversion rates were correct at the time of publication. These may vary over time.

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  • Le séjour de recherche
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  • Use the "Research" portal
  • FAQ – Doing my Doctorate in France

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  • Study in a Post-Doctorate in France
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student travel france

  • Reception programmes and doctoral student associations
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The travel / Schengen visa

visa circulation schengen

The travel visa, or Schengen visa, allows former students and graduates of French higher education to stay in France and the European Union for tourism or professional reasons.

What does the travel visa, or "Schengen" visa, authorise?

The travel visa, or Schengen visa, authorises you to enter the twenty-six member states of the Schengen area as many times as you want. It allows you to stay for a cumulative total of less than 90 days within the Schengen area per six-month period. The period of validity of the travel visa varies between one and five years but may not exceed the date of expiry of the passport.

With the travel visa, you may not work ; nor may you obtain a residency permit. It is renewable, however.

Who qualifies for the travel visa?

Master's-level graduates of French higher education qualify for a travel visa if they left France after obtaining their degree.

If you have a lot of contacts in France, the travel visa allows you to come and take part in forums, attend meetings and visit your friends in France.

How to obtain a travel visa

A travel visa must be requested from the French consular authorities in your country of residence. In compliance with measures to simplify procedures for international students, the travel visa is easier and easier to obtain. In particular, the documents required have been streamlined.

Check the website of the French Consulate or Embassy in your country of residence to learn the procedures required for a travel visa.

Related contents

  • L'annuaire des ambassades et des consulats de France à l'étranger http://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/le-ministere-et-son-reseau/annuaires-et-adresses-du-ministere-de-l-europe-et-des-affaires-etrangeres-meae/ambassades-et-consulats-francais-a-l-etranger/

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Tips for Student Travel in France

Tips for Student Travel in France

Bonjour, young travelers! If you’re a student planning a trip to France, you’ve picked the right guide to embark on an unforgettable journey. With its rich culture, enticing cuisine, and historic landmarks, France is a hotspot for students. But how do you make the most of your trip without breaking the bank or missing out on essential experiences? This article is your comprehensive guide to student travel in France.

Preparing for Your Trip

Visa requirements and travel documentation.

If you’re a student traveling to France from a non-European Union country, ensure you have the appropriate visa and travel documents. Investigate the regulations specific to your country and gather all the necessary documentation well in advance.

Budget Planning

Being a student traveler, budgeting is vital. Consider the cost of accommodation, food, transportation, and sightseeing. Explore options like student discounts, and travel passes to make the most out of your budget.

Accommodation

Hostels and student residences.

France offers various affordable lodging options, including hostels and student residences. Research and book in advance to secure quality accommodation within your budget.

Moreover, don’t forget about your academic responsibilities. If you want to enjoy your trip to France without any worries, check out the review at www.writingpapersucks.com/edubirdie-com-review/ . This review will provide you with the opportunity to buy a paper, freeing up some of your time so you can relax.

Home Exchange Programs

Some universities and educational institutions provide home exchange programs. Connect with local families to experience authentic French culture while staying in their homes.

Transportation Tips

Rail travel.

Investing in a Eurail Pass can be an economical way to explore different cities in France. Verify eligibility for youth discounts to save even more.

Public Transportation

Public transportation is efficient and affordable in major cities like Paris, Lyon, and Marseille. Familiarize yourself with the metro, bus, and tramway systems.

Food and Culinary Experience

Dining on a budget.

French cuisine is world-renowned, and you can enjoy it without breaking the bank. Discover local markets and bakeries for fresh produce, or try student-friendly restaurants.

Local Specialties

Take advantage of regional specialties like Ratatouille in Provence or Quiche Lorraine in the northeast. Savor the local flavors that define French culinary heritage.

Health and Safety

Health insurance and medical facilities.

Secure comprehensive health insurance that covers your medical needs during your stay. Familiarize yourself with the nearest healthcare facilities in case of emergencies.

Safety Precautions

Like any travel destination, exercise common sense and follow local safety guidelines. Keep essential documents in a safe place and remain aware of your surroundings.

Educational Opportunities in France

Universities and study programs.

France is home to some of the world’s most renowned universities. Consider applying for short courses or summer programs if your travel includes educational pursuits.

Language Schools

Language immersion schools offer an opportunity to learn French directly from native speakers. It can significantly enhance your language skills and understanding of French culture.

Workshops and Conferences

Attend workshops, conferences, or symposiums that align with your academic interests. Such experiences offer networking opportunities with professionals and fellow students.

Exploring French Regions

Paris: the capital.

Paris, known as “The City of Light,” offers many attractions, from the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre. Enjoy the city’s charming cafes, bustling streets, and vibrant art scene.

Provence: Countryside Beauty

Explore the picturesque region of Provence with its lavender fields, vineyards, and historic towns like Avignon. Consider a bike tour to truly immerse yourself in the landscape.

Brittany: Coastal Wonders

Brittany’s rugged coastline, ancient forests, and medieval towns provide a unique travel experience. Try local seafood, especially oysters, and visit iconic sites like Mont Saint-Michel.

The Alps: For Adventure Seekers

If you’re an adventure enthusiast, the French Alps offer thrilling activities like skiing, hiking, and mountain climbing. Enjoy breathtaking views and Alpine cuisine. You can also discover 7 popular travel destinations for students for better immersion.

Connectivity and Communication

Mobile and internet options.

Staying connected is essential. Research mobile and internet packages suitable for international students. Prepaid SIM cards are widely available and provide good coverage.

Emergency Contacts

Keep a list of emergency contacts, including local authorities, embassy, and medical facilities. Share your travel details with friends or family for added security.

Entertainment and Leisure Activities

Festivals and events.

France hosts various cultural festivals and events throughout the year. Participate in local festivities like Nice Carnival or Lyon’s Festival of Lights for unique experiences.

Sports and Recreation

If you’re a sports enthusiast, catch a football match or try local sports like boules. Parks and gardens offer a peaceful retreat for picnics, reading, or relaxation.

Nightlife and Socializing

Explore the nightlife in cities like Paris, Lyon, and Bordeaux. Student bars, clubs, and themed nights provide opportunities to socialize and enjoy the local entertainment scene.

Don’t forget to check out the edubirdie reviews to become more informed about using writing services and to stay on top of your paperwork.

Tips for Student Travel in France – Conclusion

A student travel trip in France is a fantastic way to immerse oneself in the country’s rich history, art, culture, and gastronomy. Following these recommendations, you can traverse cities, participate in valuable cultural activities, and make the most of your money while maintaining your safety and well-being. Prepare for an extraordinary adventure that will leave you with unforgettable memories and a profound appreciation of what France offers. Bon voyage et bon courage!

Peter

Peter is the editor of France Travel Blog. He has traveled to France many times and is ready to share the knowledge in this travel guide for France.

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Planning to study in France? Here’s what you should know

Despite the pandemic, Campus France says international students and researchers are welcome to travel to France provided they meet certain criteria. The French Agency for the promotion of higher education, international student services, and international mobility has updated its website with information for students who want to travel to the country.

According to the 2021 edition of Key Figures of student mobility by the agency, the country only witnessed a “moderate decline” in international student enrolment compared to its neighbouring European countries. Before the pandemic, France was the sixth most popular country to study in, behind Germany and Russia but ahead of Canada. The number of foreign students — 370,000 — is still growing by 23% over the last five years, but at a slower rate than the world average and competitors.

The exciting social culture in France includes the annual Bastille Day celebrations, which light up the entire city. Source: Bertrand Guay/AFP

Each of the 13 regions in metropolitan France has a rich higher education cluster. Coupled with an 80 billion-Euro Research and Innovation programme —  the biggest in Europe — the country attracts throngs of international talent thanks to its innovative scientific culture.

Despite travel complications due to the pandemic, students from sub-Saharan Africa, the Maghreb, the Middle East, and Europe in particular showed renewed desire to travel to France for studies post-pandemic. If you’re among this group of hopefuls, here are three key points to keep:

You must be vaccinated

In a post-pandemic world, a vaccine passport could be your only way to travel to France. Students who want to enter the country must produce proof of full vaccination, as well as a sworn declaration that they have been free of COVID-19 symptoms and contacts in the past two weeks. France recognises Comirnaty (Pfizer), Moderna, Johnson & Johnson, and AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccines; you will be considered safe for travel to France 28 days after getting fully vaccinated.

French elite acrobatic flying team “Patrouille de France” (PAF) flies over the Louvre Pyramid during the 21th and last stage of the 108th edition of the Tour de France cycling race, 108 km between Chatou and Paris Champs-Elysees, on July 18, 2021. Source: I. M. PEI/POOL/AFP

Know your country’s rating

Bear in mind that this vaccine rule hinges on the safety ranking of your home country. France uses a colour code: “green” countries are safest from COVID-19, while “orange” countries experience controlled transmission, and “red” countries have active circulation and variants. Check how your country is categorised before proceeding with travel plans.

Students from “green” countries may enter without vaccination as long as they have a negative PCR test from the past three days. If you come from an “orange” country, you must take an additional PCR test after a seven-day isolation period. You must also show an exempted international travel certificate and other documents justifying your travel.

Travel to France becomes more complicated if you are coming from a “red” country. You won’t be able to enter the country unless you’re vaccinated, in accordance with border measures currently in place.

You may need to self-isolate upon travel to France

Depending on where you come from, you may have to observe a seven-day isolation period at home. You must also wear a mask in crowded public spaces, and download the TousAntiCovid app on your phone to track positive cases around you. Don’t forget to validate your visa online, too. You should also register for Social Security for easy access to health provisions such as vaccines and PCR tests.

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Student Travel in France : Your Ultimate Guide

student travel france

Are you a student with a thirst for adventure and a desire to explore the vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning landscapes of France? Look no further! We’ve got you covered with this comprehensive guide to student travel in France. From navigating the bustling streets of Paris to savoring exquisite French cuisine in Lyon, we’ll equip you with all the essential information you need to make your educational journey in France an unforgettable experience.

Visa and Documentation

Before embarking on your journey to France, it’s crucial to ensure that you have all the necessary documentation in order. Here’s a checklist to get you started:

Student Visa: Depending on your nationality and the duration of your studies in France, you may need to apply for a student visa. Check with the French embassy or consulate in your home country for specific requirements.

Passport: Ensure that your passport is valid for the entire duration of your stay in France. It’s also a good idea to make photocopies of your passport and keep them in a separate location in case of loss.

Acceptance Letter: Carry a printed copy of your acceptance letter from the French educational institution you’ll be attending.

Proof of Funds: French authorities may require proof that you can financially support yourself during your stay. Have bank statements or financial support letters ready.

Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing comprehensive travel insurance to cover unexpected medical expenses or trip cancellations.

Accommodation Options

student travel france

Finding the right place to stay is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable stay in France. Here are some accommodation options to consider:

1. University Housing

Many French universities offer on-campus housing for international students. This option provides a convenient and immersive experience within the academic community.

2. Homestays

Staying with a French host family is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the local culture and improve your language skills. It’s also a chance to enjoy homemade French cuisine.

3. Shared Apartments

You can explore shared apartment options with fellow students or seek accommodation through online platforms like Airbnb or Booking.com.

4. Student Residences

There are various student residences across France that cater specifically to international students. These are often affordable and provide a sense of community.

Budgeting Tips

France can be an expensive destination, but with proper budgeting, you can make the most of your experience without breaking the bank. Here are some money-saving tips:

Meal Planning: Try cooking your meals whenever possible. Local markets offer fresh ingredients, and it’s a great way to experience French cuisine on a budget.

Transportation: Invest in student transportation cards or passes for discounts on public transport. Consider walking or biking for short distances.

Student Discounts: Always carry your student ID card, as it can grant you discounts on entry fees to museums, theaters, and other attractions.

Free Activities: Take advantage of the many free events and festivals that take place throughout the year in France. Explore local parks, art exhibitions, and historical sites.

Navigating France

1. public transport.

France boasts an extensive and efficient public transportation system. From the Paris Metro to high-speed trains (TGV), getting around the country is a breeze.

2. Language

While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, learning a few basic French phrases can go a long way in enhancing your experience and connecting with locals.

France is generally a safe destination for students, but it’s essential to remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.

Cultural Experiences

Your time in France is an opportunity to immerse yourself in a rich cultural tapestry. Here are some must-visit places and experiences:

Louvre Museum: Explore the world-famous Louvre Museum and marvel at iconic works of art, including the Mona Lisa.

Versailles Palace: Visit the opulent Palace of Versailles and wander through its magnificent gardens.

French Cuisine: Indulge in delicious croissants, escargot, and a wide variety of cheeses and wines at local cafes and bistros.

Bastille Day: If your visit aligns with July 14th, don’t miss the Bastille Day celebrations, featuring fireworks and parades.

Your student journey in France promises to be an enriching and unforgettable experience. By ensuring you have the right documentation, budgeting wisely, and embracing the local culture, you’ll make the most of your time in this captivating country. Bon voyage!

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SKIP TO: Why study in France? Which city in France should you choose? How to plan your student travel to France What to bring on your trip to France How much will it cost to study abroad in France?

France’s combination of dynamic culture, amazing food and beautiful sights make it a top destination for students who study abroad.

It’s the most visited country in the world for a reason. Every world traveler knows about the allure of Paris, but France is so much more than its capital. From the beaches and glitz of Nice to the French Alps, the centuries-old architecture of Lyon to the thriving social scenes of university cities like Toulouse and Grenoble – and all those amazing museums – France is a study abroad paradise.

This guide shows student travelers how to approach their trip: from the cultural highlights, to the best cities to stay in, to the best ways to find student discounts and the best secret tips – like travel apps and what local things to buy – to have the ultimate France study abroad experience.

MORE FROM WORLD STUDENT TRAVEL

arch, alley, street

Why study in France?

Paris may dominate the country’s list of top tourism sites, but as anyone who’s studied abroad here will tell you, travel between cities is convenient and the thriving culture and gorgeous views in almost every corner of the country will make you think about extending your stay. “Culture” is a French word, after all. 

France’s headline attractions

Here’s a can’t-miss list of places you’ll want to see while studying abroad in France:

nike, louvre, paris

The Louvre: Come for the Mona Lisa, come back (for free if you’re under 18) for the famous masters. You could spend days here, and many do. (Sorry art history majors, but they won’t let you bunk here.)

versailles, france, europe

The Palace of Versailles: King Louis XIV’s royal residence is sprawling, and the gardens are jaw dropping.

bow, triumph, paris

Champs-Élysées: Tree-lined shopping, cafés and the Arc de Triomphe – this boulevard is the perfect setting to take in French culture in Paris.

mont saint michel, france, normandy

Mont Saint-Michel: A marvel in the surf, this UNESCO World Heritage Site in Normandy has both great historic and architectural significance.

notre dame, paris, france

Notre Dame Cathedral: Damaged by fire in 2019, it will be a must-tour attraction again when it fully reopens in 2024.

stone age, nature, painting

Lascaux cave paintings: This network of caves in the Southwest of France features paintings archaeologists believe are roughly 17,000 years old. The original caves have been closed to the public since 1963 over preservation concerns, but an exact replica is open to the public.

paris, bridge, musée d'orsay

Musee D’Orsay: This Paris museum is home to the largest collection of impressionist masterpieces in the world. A must-stop for international students of the arts.

eiffel tower, paris, france

The Eiffel Tower: Stop by, read a book in the shade, and take the elevator to the top. It might not be the most memorable stop on your trip, but everyone’s going to ask you if you visited The Eiffel Tower.

French food

French cuisine is considered the height of international food. And while you may be traveling on a student’s budget, it’s worth eating a few meals out to enjoy some of these world-famous delicacies. (Pro tip: If you’re only in country for a few weeks, splurge on a guided food tour of your city.) 

The culinary highlights include:

croissant, croissants, food

Bakeries are just different in France: The croissants, baguettes and other carb-rich foods will be so good you won’t regret the few pounds they add. It’s worth it to learn French just so you can pronounce the names of all the pastries with flair.

The meals that made French cuisine famous, straight from the source: Coq au vin, ratatouille, quiche Lorraine – need we say more?

wine, bottle of wine, red wine

Fine wine, a few years earlier: Some student travelers get a bonus of being able to enjoy some of the world’s best wines in France, as the drinking age is just 18 (enjoy responsibly).

Snails. Yes, snails: Don’t turn your nose up at the escargots de bourgogne. Try them at least once during your French study abroad program.

The sights of France

France isn’t just about bright lights, history and food. Natural wonders can be found from coast to coast, with sun-soaked beaches, hiking and winter sports never more than a few hours away, no matter where you decide to study.

nice, south france, big city

French Riviera/Cote d’Azur: France’s Mediterranean coastline is gorgeous. A great spot for sun, people watching and picking out your dream yacht. (Bonus: Nice is considered a great city for international students.)

château of de sully sur loire, chateau sully in the loire valley, moated castle

Loire Valley: This 170-mile stretch along France’s longest river is known for vineyards, picturesque farmland and eye-catching architecture.

mont blanc, goûter hut, refuge you goûter

Mont Blanc: If you’ve seen a picture of the Alps, it’s probably of this, the highest mountain in Western Europe. It was the site of the first Winter Olympics in 1924.

lavenders, flowers, field

Provence: Fields of lavender all the way to the horizon and ideal conditions for vineyards. You should visit for the Instagram pics alone.

rocks, ocean, waves

Brittany: This peninsula in the northwest of France features both beautiful beaches and a rugged coastline.

Improve your French language skills

If you’re concerned about learning the language, we have some good news: French is considered one of the 10 easiest languages to learn for English speakers. Most estimates say you can become fluent in less than a year, and that could be shortened to six months if you take part in an intense French language skills program.

But just in case you wait to power through your language learning app on the flight over, here are a few hints: “Merci” means thank you, “s’il vous plaît” means please and “je suis désolé means I’m sorry (for when you have to start over or give up and use Google Translate).

French culture

The biggest shock of your first few days on the ground may be to learn that French people aren’t rude. (Yep, go back and read that again. It’s true.) In fact, many abrupt exchanges between locals and foreigners can be traced back to the visitor not starting off the interaction in a friendly way. (Pro tip: Say “bonjour” or “excusez-moi” before anything else.)

And while you’re focusing on being polite, it’s a good time to talk about the predominant French attitude on life, which is less about achievements and money than it is about being in the moment and enjoying life’s small pleasures. Keep this perspective in mind if you want to fit in.

Only-in-France experiences

While you’re likely already planning to visit the most famous attractions, here are three more highlights you shouldn’t miss if the timing works out:

alpha, jet, air

Bastille Day: Expect celebrations in every corner of the country on July 14 to mark the signature event of the French Revolution.

strasbourg, christmas, street

Strasbourg’s Christmas Market: If you’re still in France during the winter holidays, the Strasbourg Christmas Market (or Christkindelsmärik) is an amazing way to spend a winter night. Nearly 2 million visitors a year take part in the great food and carnival while buying gifts to take back home

lyon, festival of lights, night

Lyon’s Festival of Lights: The Fête des Lumiérs started in 1852 with locals putting candles in their windows. It’s now a festival full of grandiose light displays attended by more than 3 million people every December to mark the Christmas season.

Which city in France should you choose?

The study abroad in France experience is as much about where you choose to live as what you choose to study. Here are six French cities with thriving international student cultures.

student travel france

Location, location, location. Lyon is home to outstanding universities, amazing food and is a short trip from both the beach and the French Alps. But you don’t have to leave the city for a unique experience. Between Lyon’s giant park (Parc de la Tête d’Or) and the Roman ruins (10% of Lyon’s is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site), there’s plenty to do when you’re not studying.

Population: 522,000

Average temperatures (high/low): July 81°F / 60°F; December 44°F / 34°F

Location: Eastern France

france, toulouse, architecture

Toulouse is an ideal study abroad city for its mix of opportunities and affordability. The city features one of the country’s largest student populations and just missed the top spot in l’Etudiant’s 2022 rankings of students’ favorite cities. The University of Toulouse (established in 1229) is one of Europe’s oldest.

Population: 498,000

Average temperature (high/low): July: 82°F / 61°F; December 50°F / 37°F

Location: Southern France

paris, france, bridge

While a weekend (or two) in Paris is a must during your study abroad trip, attending a school in the city can be a great option, too. Three of the top 10 French universities according to U.S. News and World Report are in the capital – including the highly ranked Sorbonne – along with more than six dozen museums and all the cultural landmarks we’ve already noted. 

Population: 2.1 million

Average temperature: July: 78°F / 61°F; December: 47°F / 39°F

Location: Northern France

grenoble, city, france

More than one in four people you run into in Grenoble will be a student (and more than 15% of them are in study abroad programs). The science and engineering schools here are top-notch, too. It’s the self-proclaimed “Capital of the Alps,” so hikes and winter sports are always a great option. Grenoble is also an easy city to get around, especially if you have a bike. Grenoble is a great spot if your French language skills aren’t great, too, as it’s the French city with the second-highest fluency in English.

Population: 158,000

Average temperature: July: 84°F / 60°F; December: 45°F / 30°F

nice, provence, france

This city on the French Riviera is a magnet for international students, even though it’s a pricey destination. There’s always something to do – whether it’s visiting a pop-up festival or taking in the architecture that dates back centuries – and it’s easy to navigate via bus or tram. Those with internship and post-university employment ambitions should note Nice is also close to Sophia Antipolis, one of Europe’s leading technology hubs. 

Population: 344,000

Average temperature: July: 80°F / 70°F; December: 56°F / 48°F

Location: Southeastern Coastal France

strasbourg, france, alsace

Strasbourg was French students’ favorite city in l’Etudiant’s 2022 rankings , with students noting its dedication to environmental efforts. Its academics are impressive, too: the University of Strasbourg has had three Nobel Prize winners since 2011. Politics and civics students will also know Strasbourg is home to both the European Parliament and the World Forum for Democracy. 

Population: 290,000

Average temperature: July: 78°F / 58°F; December: 42°F / 32°F

Location: Northeastern France

airport, walking, waiting

How to plan your trip to France

Falling in love with the idea of studying abroad in France is just the first step. There’s a lot of planning involved before you go on your journey. Here’s how to make program and travel selections, how to get around once you’re there, and how to stay safe.

Timing your study abroad trip correctly

While fees and cost of living certainly play a large role for most students (more on that in the next section), timing may be the greatest factor in making your study abroad experience in France a reality. Here are a few considerations:

Timeframe of attendance: While many dream of a full semester or even a year abroad, summer or January terms – or even a quarter-long program – may provide the best combination of price and feasibility.

Availability of courses: Just because you’ve chosen a timeframe doesn’t mean your ideal courses will be available. You may have to shop around for the study abroad programs that fit your goals if you’re constrained for time. The earlier you look, the better chance your student travel dreams will become reality.

Confirm you’re eligible (and that you’ll get credit)

Every student knows this game. Do you have the right credits, the right grades (GPA) or the right prerequisites to get into the program? And, once you know you’re qualified, will your study abroad course credits apply back to your current school (if you’re going with a third-party operator)?

aircraft, sunset, silhouette

Find a flight

Finding flights to study abroad in France follows roughly the same process as any other travel, with a few caveats.

Start by asking your program coordinator for advice: You’re going to hear us say that a few times in this guide, but your program coordinator has a wealth of knowledge and may be able to give you insights on flight discounts.

Sign up for frequent flier programs and alerts early: If you’re trying to score a cheap roundtrip ticket to study abroad in France, create accounts and sign up for push alerts for the airlines you’ll most likely use. If there’s a sale, they’ll tell you.

Look at student discount flight websites: Sites like ScholarTrip offer study abroad flight deals and the ability for students to pay in installments.

Find a place to stay

The most complicated part of your study abroad planning may be finding a place to live. Most schools in France have student housing, but it can be quite limited depending on where you attend. If you’re going with your current university’s program, they likely have exclusive student housing options, too. However, many students find themselves needing to find their own options. If that’s you, here are some tips to keep in mind as you start your search:

Start looking for student residences early: As you’re booking your trip to study abroad in France, talk to your program representative about how to reserve the housing you need.

Location is important: You’re there for a great time, not a long time. That means you should weigh the temptation of saving a few dollars by living farther away from the campus of your French university against the time it’ll take you to commute. (Will you be missing out by living farther away?)

Safety is important, too: Staying on your own and away from your peers? Make sure you have a good understanding of the crime situation. (More on safety below.)

tgv trains, coupled tgv, two tgv trains

How to get around in France

Travel between cities in France is mostly convenient thanks to the train system. The national railway – SCNF – isn’t always the cheapest option, but it’s often the most convenient (and you can get a discount). Trains may be your first choice for getting around Western Europe, too, depending on the length of your journey – and assuming there isn’t a labor strike. However, with almost 200 airports around the country and discount providers, air travel is also a convenient method for a long weekend somewhere else on the continent. 

You can expect robust local travel options in the cities as well. Most major cities have developed bus systems and trams, and six cities – including Paris, Lyon and Toulouse – have extensive metro systems. Taxis and rideshare apps are also generally an option (though the smaller the town, the fewer options you’ll have for cars on demand). Finally, most of the neighborhoods in the cities we mentioned were built centuries ago with walkability in mind. Do yourself a favor before you travel and map out your options. It could save you from a tricky transportation situation your first week there.

france, police, security

Safety in France

France’s cities are reasonably safe, with property crime, pickpockets and vandalism often being the largest concerns in areas frequented by students. That said, the country isn’t immune from major events like terrorist attacks or significant civil unrest. Still, students of any gender who take the same reasonable precautions they follow at home should feel safe traveling throughout France during their time studying abroad.

Emergency services contacts in France

You should research and write down local emergency services contacts before you arrive at your study abroad destination. Here’s a guide to additional safety contacts students should know:

112: The emergency hotline for police, medical and fire throughout the EU

15: Medical emergency number in France

17: Police emergency number in France

18: Fire emergency number in France

114: Deaf and hard of hearing emergency number in France (works with text and video calls)

U.S. embassy website (there are U.S. consulates in Paris, Bordeaux, Lyon, Marseille, Rennes and Strasbourg)

student travel france

What to bring on your trip to France

You’re about to embark on one of the most memorable trips of your life. But what do you pack? Here’s a quick look at the essentials you’ll need while during your study abroad program.

Clothing for a semester in France

France is the home of high fashion. And while you may not have the budget to dress in haute couture, you can blend in well and look great by following a few guides:

Winter: For winter semester, think about dressing in layers (sweaters and scarves for the win) and don’t forget to pack a warm coat.

Spring: If you’re considering study abroad programs during the spring, make sure you have a few smart casual outfits for going to events and restaurants. Wearing pants is more the norm than shorts, even on unseasonably warm days.

Don’t want to look like a tourist?: Skip the sandals and flip flops (unless you’re at the beach), baseball caps, clothes with flashy logos and workout clothes in non-workout situations.

Technology and plugs

Don’t forget your plug adapters while studying abroad! France uses Type C plugs , and those adapters are readily available for purchase across the internet. It’s also important to check any electronics you plan to bring (hairdryers, hair straighteners, etc.) to make sure they match the electrical requirements. The standard electrical voltage in France is 230V and the standard frequency is 50Hz.

Must-have mobile apps for traveling in France

If you’re like most students, your mobile device is your most important life tool. And it’ll continue to be that way during your study abroad trip. Here’s a quick guide to the must-have apps for navigating life in France while studying abroad.

SCNF Connect: It’s basically the national rail system in your pocket. And if you’re there for a semester or longer, travel apps will become an important part of your France study abroad journey.

The Fork: An important app for choosing the right French restaurant.

BlaBlaCar: A carpooling app that can save you serious money on rides between cities or even across the country.

France 24: Whether you’re a news junkie or just like to stay informed, download this and set up push alerts for major stories while in country.

WhatsApp: Stay in touch with your family and friends for free, and avoid paying international texting and data rates.

A translation app: Most phones come equipped with one of these. You might as well move it to your home screen on the flight over, because you’re going to use it a lot.

An organizing app: Whether you’re a KANBAN fan or more of a list maker, you’ll get the most out of your student travel experience if you plan ahead and stay organized.

Travel documents you need in France

Make sure you have the following travel documents on hand before you board your flight.

Passport: You need a passport that will remain valid at least three months beyond the date of departure to enter the country.

Student visa: This may be the most overlooked checklist item as students prepare to go abroad. Students need a visa covering the full length of their stay. Student visas for France are relatively easy to obtain, but you need to apply at least a month in advance. You can apply for a French student visa here . 

Driver’s license: You’ll need it if you plan on driving a car while in France.

Academic documents: Any enrollment forms you need for your study abroad program.

banknotes, euro, paper money

How much does it cost to study abroad in France?

The costs to study abroad in France can vary significantly. If your university hosts programs in France, you’ll likely need to pay your regular tuition plus an additional fee that will cover your courses and administrative fees while in country (this fee sometimes covers necessities like student housing and meals, too). If you’re going through a third-party program provider, you can expect to pay anywhere from $4,000 to more than $20,000, depending on variables like program selection, length of stay and any included add-ons like student residences. With that in mind, here’s a look at how to budget for your student travel.

How to budget for your trip to France

There are a few categories every student needs to plan for when creating their study abroad budget. You can expect to exceed €1,000 in expenses a month in larger cities like Paris and Nice, whereas cities like Toulouse and Grenoble will be more budget-friendly. Here’s a list of six areas every student traveler will need to budget for:

Tuition and registration fees

Housing, if not included as part of your program (including internet, utilities, etc.)

Travel (you’re going to want to see other parts of Europe)

Food (especially while traveling, when you may not always be able to eat cheap)

Other incidental and necessary purchases

And trip insurance for those “what if” moments

What currency is used in France?

France uses the euro (€). While it’s easiest to pay with an international credit card or debit card, it’s also smart to keep a few euro notes on you when traveling around the country for cash-only situations. You can see current exchange rates here .

Discounts: How to save money in France

Study abroad expenses can add up, but there will be plenty of opportunities to save money during your student travels. Here are a few places to start in trimming your budget.

Start by asking your program leaders: Your France study abroad program leaders likely have information on local discounts you won’t find anywhere else that can save you money weekly.

Culture passes: Many French cities – like Paris, Strasbourg and Toulouse, among others – offer versions of culture passes and student cards that will get you admission to a variety of educational and entertainment experiences for a one-time or discounted fee.

Train passes: The SCNF Advantage Jeune Card is available for students ages 27 and younger and will pay for itself after just a few trips.

Bonus tip: Don’t forget a VPN. Your discounted digital student subscriptions in your home country may not work across borders. A VPN subscription can solve many of those problems.

macarons, colorful, french

What gifts do people bring back from France?

Your study abroad trip is a great opportunity to bring back unique gifts for friends and family they can’t buy anywhere else. Some great items to snag in France include:

Macaroons or chocolate from local shops: Buy these on the last few days of your trip.

Locally-made scarves: A staple of the French wardrobe in all seasons.

Exclusive wine blends: Guaranteed to get a huge smile from your favorite enthusiast.

High-end cosmetics and perfumes: These are often sold in pharmacies in France.

The Mona Lisa: Just kidding. Seriously, leave it on the wall.

How should student travelers tip in France?

Students are not expected to tip restaurant waiters or café workers in France, as any required service charges will be listed on your bill (also, they’re traditionally paid more than in the U.S.). Travelers will sometimes leave a small tip for wait staff on the occasion of exceptional service. It’s more common to leave small tips for service providers – like barbers or masseuses – or hotel valets who carry your luggage, but that’s also optional.

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From Alpine Peaks to the Riviera

Immerse yourself in French language and culture as you explore villages and cities in six regions of France. During your travels, bike to village markets and interview local fishermen, make truffles with an artisan chocolatier, savor the high culture and cuisine of Paris, surf in the Mediterranean, hike to glaciers in the Alps, and spend a week with a French host family.

This itinerary represents our best projection of the group’s schedule. However, we may implement changes designed to improve the quality of the program.

Meet your fellow high school student travelers and one or more of your leaders in New York, and fly together to Paris, France. To learn more about how we organize travel, click here.

After landing in Paris, board a train to spend five days in a traditional Breton fishing village on the remote coast of Brittany. Stay in a small family-run inn on an educational farm, and explore the area by bike. Warm up your speaking skills by working alongside local shop owners, market vendors, and artisans.

Return to Paris by train and spend six days savoring the pleasures of Parisian life and taking in the world-class glamor. Discover your favorite boulangerie, visit the world’s most renowned art collections, taste escargots at grand Art Deco brasseries once frequented by Picasso and Sartre, and cruise down the Seine River to see the city illuminated at night. Explore the neighborhoods of the Left Bank, Île de la Cité, and Montmartre, and visit our favorite local spots as well as renowned sites such as Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre, and the Musée d’Orsay.

Immerse yourself fully in French language and culture by spending a week living with a local family. Both leaders remain in the same town as students throughout the homestay, and the group gets together for excursions during the week.

Head south to Aix-en-Provence to explore this university town and take day trips throughout the region. See where van Gogh painted, visit Cézanne’s studio, and swim beneath the Pont du Gard, an ancient Roman aqueduct.

Continue south to the Mediterranean coast and relax on the sunny beaches of the Riviera in the town of Saint-Raphaël. Spend your days on the glittering sea learning to sail, surf, and tube in the warm waters. Sample seafood and peruse the waterfront night markets.

Journey to Chamonix, a mountain town renowned for its boundless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Hike through wildflower fields with panoramic views of snowcapped peaks, try canyoning through glacial streams with professional guides, or raft in the valley with the spectacular backdrop of the Alps.

Take a chartered bus to Geneva, Switzerland, and fly with your group and a leader to New York. To learn more about how we organize travel, click here.

Meet some of our featured leaders. Please note that these may not be your leaders for the program. 

France is a spectacularly diverse country, with landscapes that range from rugged Atlantic coasts to rolling hills, snowcapped Alpine peaks, and dazzling Mediterranean coves. French culture is equally varied, entrenched in local traditions, and has enchanted travelers for ages. We experience the full spectrum of contemporary life in France: the pulse of Paris’ most fashionable boulevards and the quiet majesty of pastoral castles, the rooted traditions of rural villages and the joy of Provençale markets, the vibrant palette of Mediterranean seascapes, and the humbling austerity of the Alps.

French is the official language of France, although there are over 40 regional dialects, including Norman, Provençal, Béarnais, Gascon, Limousin, Langue d’Oc, and Basque. Some regions we visit also have a local dialect.

Summers in France are generally warm and dry, and most of our days will range from 70–90°F. Occasional rains in coastal Brittany can bring 50°F maritime breezes, and periodic mountain storms in the Alps can cool temperatures to 45°F.

French cuisine is lauded as the finest in the world. In 2010, UNESCO added French gastronomy to its list of the world’s intangible cultural heritage. Each region of France has its own specialties—northern French cuisine is influenced by dairy farming and coastal Atlantic fishing, and southern French cuisine showcases Mediterranean and Italian influences.

What to Expect

Review specific program expectations here. For more general information:

The goals of this language immersion program abroad are to improve your fluency in French by building vocabulary and confidence in speaking, and to explore France’s culture through outdoor activities and interactions with locals. Each day, leaders hold dynamic conversational language lessons designed to help students let go of their inhibitions and communicate more easily. Language lessons are fun, interactive, and incorporate hands-on elements such as scavenger hunts, games, and informal interviews.

Two years of language study are required for this program. Each student signs a language pledge to speak only French during the program, not only with the many local people you meet, but also with your leaders and within your group. To learn more about our Language programs click here.

Pursue an independent project and explore an aspect of local culture of particular interest to you—set up an easel at Cézanne’s favorite lookout and paint a landscape in his style, create a recipe book with traditional recipes from your homestay family, or interview mountaineers preparing to climb Mont Blanc.

This is a physically active summer program. You can expect to participate in hiking, biking, surfing, canyoning, and walking during this program. You do not need to be at peak fitness to participate, but it is important that you have a desire to be physically active, and that you are excited about trying all activities.

Accommodations in France are varied, ranging from old world-style hotels to mountain chalets, many of which are run by welcoming families Putney has known for years. During the homestay, students will be matched with a trusted local family. Accommodations are simple and comfortable. Rooms are a mix of doubles, triples, and quads. Students have access to common and outside space at our accommodations for community meetings, working on projects, and socializing. Leaders reside together with the students throughout the program.

We begin each day with a traditional French breakfast at our residence. For lunches and dinners, we complement meals at restaurants and bistros with delicious picnics and plenty of stops at cafés and boulangeries.

This program visits a high-altitude destination. On hikes in Chamonix, we climb up above 9,000 feet/2,743 meters.

A Day in the Life: Saint-Raphaël

This program is directed by, katie bourque.

If you have questions or would like to talk further about this program, please get in touch!

Enroll in two programs & save $1,000!

$800 tuition discount + no application fee

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2024 Dates June 25 — July 27

Duration 33 days

Tuition $10,490 + airfare

Eligibility Currently* in grades 9–12 *Your grade as of the day you apply

Typical Group 16–18 students, 2 leaders

Group Flight Departs from New York

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  • College Study Abroad
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Summer in Paris

Paris

May 13 - Jun 22, 2024

3 - 4 per Session semester hours

4.5 - 6 per Session quarter hours

Eligibility

2.5 Overall GPA

Application Deadline

The application deadline has passed.

Request Information

May 13 - Aug 3, 2024

Jun 24 - Aug 3, 2024

Unequivocally considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Paris is the capital of France, art, and fashion. Situated in northern France along the Seine River, the City of Light is the center of the  Île-de-France region, locally known as the région Parisienne ("Paris Region"). From its world-renowned landmarks like the Louvre Museum to the Eiffel Tower, Paris has plenty to offer you in this summer program.

Spend one six-week block (or up to two blocks) of your summer taking fascinating courses on French literature, painting, architecture, history, wine, fashion, and more at CIEE Paris. All classes are delivered in English and complemented with co-curricular activities designed to increase learning through experience and intercultural understanding.

Build Your Summer Adventure Select one or two six-week blocks at any CIEE Open Campus Block location. Stay in Paris for both blocks or go mobile and spend your second block in Berlin, Buenos Aires, Cape Town, Copenhagen, Dublin, Kyoto, London, Madrid, Monteverde, Rome, Santiago, Shanghai, Singapore, Sydney, or Yucatan. 

the louvre student paris

Unique Experiences

Personalized instruction.

Enjoy personalized instruction through small, stimulating classes tailored to your interests. And go mobile! Stay in Paris for the duration of your study abroad adventure or add another session on at another CIEE center

Explore the city of lights

in a magical city that deserves its reputation. Visit and explore contemporary, diverse, and trendy Paris

Follow the Seine’s waterways

quays, and bridges and have them transport you to breathtaking sights, such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Bastille Square

Libraries—the most of any city in the world

Film or commercial shoots in Parisian streets each day

Monuments Throughout The City

Paris

The Destination

If you’re looking to spend time in one of the world’s most prominent cultural, finance, and commerce centers, look no further than Paris. Paris is a top tourist destination, the capital of France, and the country’s most populous city. You will surely fall in love with its historic landmarks, exquisite dining, and charming architecture. CIEE wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while studying abroad. Local CIEE staff have provided details about  conditions and cultural attitudes  that students with specific identities might encounter in Paris.

The Culture

Paris

Featured Excursion

Participate in excursions to fascinating French locations - previous destinations have included Amboise, Reims, Rouen, Giverny, Chantilly, and Vaux-le-Vicomte, to name a few.

Paris

Other Excursions & Activities

  • Learn the nuances of the City of Lights through a guided walk of Paris.
  • Explore the hidden corners of Parisian culture, art, and society through weekly extracurricular activities.
  • See the Mona Lisa with your own eyes at the Louvre Museum.
  • Visit the theaters, cafés, and luxury shops of the Champs-Élysées.
  • Treat yourself to fresh baguettes and croissants at every boulangerie, and take a stroll in the gorgeous squares and parks that line the city.

Program Blogs

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Paris à la Mode - Yves Saint Laurent

Just around the corner and up the block from the Palais Galleria is Museé Yves Saint Laurent. In my opinion, Yves Saint Laurent is one of the most talented and... keep reading

  • Foreign Language
  • Fashion/Textile
  • Environment

Photo for blog post

Paris à la Mode - Palais Galleria

Palais Galleria, also known as the Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris, is located in the 16e arrondisement (district) of Paris. The moment I stepped out of... keep reading

  • Activities & Excursions

Photo for blog post

Paris à la Mode

“I always believed that style was more important than fashion. They are rare, those who imposed their style while fashion makers are so numerous.” The aforementioned quote was once said... keep reading

Housing & Meals

CIEE Paris offers diverse housing options to ensure you are comfortable in your home away from home. All housing options are located in neighborhoods around Paris or in close suburbs called ‘la petite couronne,’ with convenient access to public transportation. From apartments to residence halls, you will find your housing assignment is conveniently situated near grocery stores, city supermarkets, cafés, eateries, pharmacies, and everything else you could possibly need.  

Standard Housing : Includes a single room in a homestay or a twin room at a shared apartment or at a residence hall/hotel/aparthotel all located under 50 minutes from CIEE Paris by public transport.  

  • Homestays: Homestays feature a kitchen, living room, and bathroom shared with a host family.  
  • Shared Apartments: Shared apartments boast a kitchen, bathroom, and laundry facilities. Shared apartments with twin rooms also boast a living room.  
  • Residence Hall/Hotel/Aparthotel: If you stay in a residence hall/hotel/studio in an aparthotel, you will be housed in twin rooms, which feature a bathroom, a kitchenette, and weekly cleaning. Laundry facilities are available at cost in the facility.  

Select Housing : Includes a twin room in a shared apartment located under 20 minutes from CIEE Paris by public transport. All students living in the apartment will share a bathroom, a kitchen, and a living room. Laundry facilities are available within the apartment.  Select housing requires an additional fee.   

A note: The default criterion to assign housing is first-come, first-served; however, other factors may also be considered. If we cannot accommodate your first housing choice, we'll let you know before you arrive.

Homestays:  Host families provide breakfast daily, plus five additional meals per week.  

Residence Hall/Hotel/Aparthotel and Shared Apartments:  Meals are not included.  

Residence Hall

Paris

Shared Apartment

Paris

Students enroll in one or two six-week blocks, taking two credit-bearing courses during each block. This program gives students the flexibility to stay in Paris the entire time or spend one of the two blocks at our other Open Campus Block locations.

Students can also opt to take a Survival French course (noncredit) during a single session. All courses are taught by faculty from a range of Paris institutions and are specialists in their respective fields. In-class work is augmented with co-curricular visits to the city’s rich variety of cultural institutions and organizations relevant to the course offerings. 

Additional Requirements

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. 

Please refer to the detailed  Program Essential Eligibility Criteria .

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors.

Requirements

All students must enroll in two credit-bearing CIEE courses per block. 

Program Credit

  • One block: 6-7 U.S semester/9-10.5 quarter credits 
  • Two blocks: 12-14 U.S. semester/18-21 quarter credits 

Course Credit

  • CIEE courses: typically, 3 U.S. semester/4.5 quarter credits; 45 contact hours 
  • language courses: 3 U.S. semester/4.5 quarter credits; 60 contact hours 
  • lab courses: 4 U.S. semester/6 quarter credits; 60 contact hours 

Academic Culture

Each course is a full semester in content, covered in a six-week block, so the pace is accelerated, and the workload is demanding. Courses are designed to follow U.S. academic culture and standards. The class environment typically features a combination of traditional lecture and discussion with co-curricular excursions and activities. Heavy emphasis is placed on student participation. To avoid falling behind, students should not plan personal travel away from the city when classes are in session and plan trips for the weekends in between blocks. 

Class Format

Courses are typically for CIEE students only. Classes are scheduled Monday-Friday and meet either two, three, or four times per week. Attendance is strictly enforced both for classes and required co-curricular excursions. Students should expect an average of two hours of preparation required for each hour in class. Instruction is supported and augmented online with our learning management system, Canvas. 

The U.S. grading scale of A-F is used. Students are graded on the basis of attendance, class participation, homework, project work, presentations, and midterm and final examinations. Learning outcomes assessment is continuous through personal reflections, evaluation feedback, self-assessment, and requirements as set out in course syllabi. 

Language of Instruction

English and/or French

Course Information

Course Notes

  • Courses are listed below by block and track; course list is subject to change. Courses are delivered in English unless otherwise noted. “GI” denotes courses that are offered at multiple CIEE locations. 

Language Classes 

  • During course selection, students interested in a non-introductory language course will be required to take a language assessment to determine their proficiency level. Enrollment will be finalized on site and is based on assessment outcomes. 
  • Students can also enroll in an optional Survival French course (non-credit) during a single block. 

Summer Block I 2024

Course (GI) MGMT 3001 PAFR: Business Ethics and Leadership Language English Semester Credit 3

Course AHIS 3101 PAFR (ENG): 19th Century French Painting. From Courbet to Dada (in English) Language English Semester Credit 3

Course ANTH 3101 PAFR (ENG): Culture and Cuisine in France (in English) Language English Semester Credit 3

Course CINE 3101 PAFR (ENG): Contemporary French Cinema (in English) Language English Semester Credit 3

Course FREN 1001 PAFR: French Language - Beginning I Language French Semester Credit 3

Course FRST 3101 PAFR (ENG): Paris Collage. History, Culture, Architecture (in English) Language English Semester Credit 3

Course LITT 3101 PAFR: Paris in French Literature Language English Semester Credit 3

Course NONCR FREN PAFR: Survival French Language French Semester Credit 0

Summer Block II 2024

Course (GI) ARCH 2001 PAFR: Global History of Architecture and Cities Language English Semester Credit 3

Course AHIS 3002 PAFR (ENG): 20th Century Art History (in English) Language English Semester Credit 3

Course BUSI 3101 PAFR: Fashion and Business in France Language English Semester Credit 3

Course FREN 1002 PAFR: French Language - Beginning II Language French Semester Credit 3

Course HIST 3002 PAFR (ENG): 20th Century French History (in English) Language English Semester Credit 3

Note: This course listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party. The courses, as described, may be subject to change as a result of ongoing curricular revisions, assignment of lecturers and teaching staff, and program development. Courses may be canceled due to insufficient enrollment. "(GI)" denotes courses that originated at CIEE's Global Institutes and that are offered at multiple CIEE sites.

Scholarships & Grants

CIEE offers scholarships and grants annually to help students like you make your study abroad dream a reality.

Students who apply to this program are eligible for the following scholarships and grants:

  • Ping Scholarships for Academic Excellence
  • Global Access Initiative (GAIN) Grants
  • CIEE Gilman Go Global Grant
  • CIEE Stem Scholarship

To be considered, submit the CIEE Scholarships & Grants application within your CIEE program application.

Learn more about scholarships

Dates & Fees

You get more for every dollar when you study abroad with CIEE, because our high-quality programs include everything from excursions to insurance. There are no hidden charges, and no disappointing surprises when you arrive.

To help you budget, keep in mind that students are responsible for the cost of international airfare, local transportation, books and supplies, visas, and personal expenses. In addition, your college or university may charge additional fees for study abroad, or may require you to receive a transcript via CIEE's School of Record, which carries an additional fee of $500.

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Participation Confirmation = $300 *

Educational Costs = $4,453 **

Housing = $2,000

Insurance = $197

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee = $648 †

International Airfare = $1,250

Local Transportation = $160

Books & Supplies = $100

Personal expenses = $175

Optional Housing

CIEE accommodation options are detailed in the Housing section. Based on availability, Select or Select Plus Housing can be chosen during the application process for an additional fee:

Select Housing Fee = $300 ^

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

* non-refundable

** direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

† For students in homestays, families provide breakfast and 5 meals a week. For students in residence halls/apartments, you should budget approx. $388 per month for groceries if you plan on making your own meals, and more if you plan on eating out regularly.

^ first-come, first serve, based on availability

Educational Costs = $9,403 **

Housing = $4,000

Meals not included in program fee = $1,296 †

International Airfare = $2,500

Local Transportation = $320

Books & Supplies = $200

Personal expenses = $350

Select Housing Fee = $600 ^

What's Included

Pre-departure advising.

Advising before you depart to set goals and answer questions

Optional on-site airport meet-and-greet

Orientation.

Introduction to your program plus practical information about living in your host city

On-site Staff

Full-time program leadership and support in your city

Cultural and/or Co-curricular Activities

Excursions and/or study tours, travel protection.

CIEE iNext travel protection

24/7 emergency on-site support

Delphine Mauny

Delphine Mauny

Center director.

A born-and-bred Parisian, Delphine has extensive experience in international education, having worked with American high school students, college students, and adults traveling to France.

franck_le_gac

Franck Le Gac

Academic director.

Franck oversees the coordination, quality, and planning of all courses and educational programing in Paris. He is responsible for faculty staffing, finalization of syllabi, the course evaluation process, and program...

Linda Ponte

Linda Ponte

Student life manager.

With a background in intercultural communication, Linda is a key contact for students and helps participants discover and understand the French culture.

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CONTACT US Send us an email if you still have questions or need information about applying to this program.

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This entire trip honestly felt like a dream! We could not have asked for a better experience, and my kids learned and grew so much in nine days.” Katie F. Group Leader When I heard “Wow” many times during the trip, I knew that they were learning, feeling challenged, and having, as many of them said, the best experience of their life.” Mara K. Group Leader There are things in my career that make me feel like I’m doing the right thing, and this is one of them.” Jessica D. Group Leader 1 /

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IMAGES

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VIDEO

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COMMENTS

  1. Travel to France: information for international students and

    Learn how to come to France for your studies or research despite the coronavirus pandemic. Find out the latest updates on border controls, social security, isolation, visa and France Alumni network.

  2. PDF Student Visa Guidelines

    Complete a student visa application on France-Visas platform Schedule a visa appointmentat a VFS Global Center and attend appointment** Receivevisa in the mail or pickitup at a VFS Global Center afterprocessingtime of 3 to 4 weeks Travelto France Withinthe first 3 monthsfollowing

  3. The Ultimate Guide to Studying Abroad in France

    Learn why France is a top destination for international students and how to choose a program that suits your interests and goals. Find out the costs, benefits, and tips for studying abroad in France with CIEE.

  4. Student

    As of April 7, 2021, France-Visas will provide students with the possibility of sending digital copies of their supporting documents when completing their visa application online. This optional procedure will allow an accelerated process by the external service provider (ESP). This feature will at first be accessible only to applicants for long ...

  5. PDF Student Visa Guidelines

    Complete a student visa application on France-Visas platform Schedule a visa appointment at a VFS Global Center and attend appointment** Receive visa in the mail or pick it up at a VFS Global Center after processing time of 3 to 4 weeks Travel to France Within the first 3 months following arrival, register and validate visa online Register with ...

  6. StudyinFrance

    StudyinFrance is a website dedicated to the community of international students in France. It provides information and resources on visa, health insurance, accommodation, French language, travelling and more.

  7. Travelling in France

    There are about 45 airports connecting the different cities in France. From Paris Orly or Paris Charles de Gaulle, the Paris airports, you can get to Nice, Toulouse, Lyon, Marseille, Strasbourg and Bordeaux in just over an hour. There are many low-cost airlines in France. Air France also has a low-cost subsidiary, Transavia, and has created Hop ...

  8. The different types of student visas

    Learn about the different types of visas you may need to study or conduct research in France, depending on your nationality, situation and length of stay. Find out how to apply online, what documents to provide and what rights you have as a student in France.

  9. Foreigners student in France: long-stay visa or residence card

    If you are foreigner If you want to study in France, you must first apply for a long-stay visa (VLS-TS) mention student (valid for 4 months to 1 year). After 1 year, you can apply for a temporary ...

  10. Checklist. Prepare your arrival in France

    Pay your contribution to campus and student life. This is the first step to complete, before any other. It is mandatory to register in your higher education institution. You can even complete this step before coming to France. The contribution to campus and student life costs 100 euros per year.

  11. Study Abroad in France

    Learn how to choose, prepare, and apply for a study abroad program in France. Find out about scholarships, visas, and life after studying in France.

  12. Student visa for France: login to France-Visas!

    Online visa application steps. If you comply with the prerequisites, you may apply for a student visa by completing the following four steps: Complete your online visa application on France-Visas and transfer your documents; Submit in person your passport and completed form at the collection centre; Follow your online application on the service ...

  13. Everything international students need to know about student visas in

    Learn how to apply for a student visa in France depending on the duration and language of your course. Find out the costs, documents, language tests and work options for international students.

  14. The travel visa, or Schengen visa

    The travel visa, or Schengen visa, authorises you to enter the twenty-six member states of the Schengen area as many times as you want. It allows you to stay for a cumulative total of less than 90 days within the Schengen area per six-month period. The period of validity of the travel visa varies between one and five years but may not exceed ...

  15. Tips for Student Travel in France

    Learn how to plan, budget, and enjoy your trip to France as a student. Find out about visa requirements, accommodation options, transportation tips, food and culinary experience, health and safety, educational opportunities, and more.

  16. Travel to France: A guide for international students

    You must be vaccinated. In a post-pandemic world, a vaccine passport could be your only way to travel to France. Students who want to enter the country must produce proof of full vaccination, as well as a sworn declaration that they have been free of COVID-19 symptoms and contacts in the past two weeks. France recognises Comirnaty (Pfizer ...

  17. Student Travel in France : Your Ultimate Guide

    Learn how to plan your educational journey in France with this comprehensive guide. Find out about visa, accommodation, budgeting, transportation, and cultural experiences in France.

  18. How to study abroad in France

    Learn why France is a top destination for students who study abroad, from its culture, food and sights to its language and discounts. Find out the best cities, attractions, tips and tricks to plan your trip and make the most of your experience.

  19. Study Abroad Programs in France

    Typical Study Abroad Program Cost in France. Tuition fees at French public universities are quite low, making the overall cost to study abroad in France a comparatively affordable option if you directly enrol. Bachelor's degrees cost €189.10 a year, master's degrees cost €261.1, and PhDs cost €369.10. Undergraduate engineering degrees ...

  20. High School French Program

    2024 Dates. June 25 — July 27. tuition. $10,490 + airfare. View All Details. Immerse yourself in French language and culture as you explore villages and cities in six regions of France. During your travels, bike to village markets and interview local fishermen, make truffles with an artisan chocolatier, savor the high culture and cuisine of ...

  21. Summer in Paris

    Paris is a top tourist destination, the capital of France, and the country's most populous city. You will surely fall in love with its historic landmarks, exquisite dining, and charming architecture. CIEE wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while studying abroad.

  22. Student Travel & Educational Tours to France

    WorldStrides offers student travel and educational programs to France for high school and college students. Explore the culture, history and language of France with hands-on learning and accredited courses.

  23. ACIS Educational Tours

    ACIS offers educational tours for students to discover the world beyond the classroom. Find your trip to France or other destinations and learn from experienced tour managers and educators.