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France is without doubt a beautiful country, and studying there can be an unforgettable experience.
Of course there will be hiccups along the way, but that’s nothing a good piece of advice can’t fix. The first step is simple: always do your homework. In this case, we’ve done it for you.
Take a look at the list below and get yourself familiar with the sort of challenges studying in France can throw at you.
1. Arrange Accommodation ASAP
Alternatively, platforms like appartager.fr and leboncoin.fr are excellent resources for students seeking accommodation elsewhere. However, it’s important to act swiftly as the best deals are often taken within moments.
Websites like these enable French residents to offer spare rooms and flat-shares to foreign students in need of housing. Be sure to carefully examine any provided pictures and pay close attention to practical details such as utilities, location, and rental costs.
2. Prepare for Administrative Hassle
The French are famous for their “we’ll-do-it-tomorrow” attitude towards bureaucracy. If you’re seeking prompt action, be prepared to endure delays. While this can be exasperating, arriving prepared can often expedite the process.
Make sure to bring extra passport photos and multiple copies of essential documents such as your birth certificate, driving license, and EHIC card.
3. Make the Most of the Culture
France is unquestionably a stunning country, and opting to study abroad here offers the opportunity to immerse yourself in local history and culture daily.
For EU citizens under 26, entry to many major museums, galleries, and historical sites is free. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to explore on a budget—grab your cameras and start adventuring!
4. Open a Local Bank Account
Prioritize opening a local bank account to prevent accumulating unnecessary foreign transaction fees and multiple ATM withdrawal charges.
Unlike in the UK, you can’t just walk into your local branch and speak with a staff member. In France, bank account inquiries are handled by appointment only. Ensure to schedule your appointment early to avoid extended waiting times.
5. Do NOT Delay Your CAF Application
You might have heard about CAF or Caisses d’Allocations Familiales from various sources.
While it may sound perplexing, the idea behind it is quite simple. CAF refers to a sum of money provided by the government to students to assist with paying for accommodation. However, despite the straightforward concept, the application process can be rather complex.
Indeed, the application process can be challenging and will undoubtedly test your French skills. The most effective approach is to initiate your application promptly after setting up your bank account.
Applying sooner increases the likelihood of receiving more money since back payments are not accepted.
6. Travel Everywhere
One of the greatest perks of studying in France is the opportunity to travel. France boasts some of the world’s most breathtaking cities, so don’t miss out on exploring!
With numerous public holidays cherished by the French, you’ll have ample chances to check off many destinations from your bucket list. Contrary to popular belief, traveling in France can be relatively affordable. If you’re aged between 12 and 27, you can acquire a Carte Jeune for just €50.
This yearly renewable pass offers discounts ranging from 25% to 60% depending on the journey and time of year.
7. Be Prepared to Work Hard
French universities adopt a work-hard-then-work-even-harder approach, rather than the work-hard-play-hard attitude seen in some other countries.
Compared to the UK, campus social life is notably reduced in France. Social events, societies, and fundraisers are not as prominent. While social calendars may vary by university, the overall expectation remains the same: students must be prepared to work diligently.
Participation in lectures and seminars with French peers is expected, requiring proficiency in note-taking skills. The grading system is standardized, with marks awarded out of 20. However, it’s uncommon to achieve scores higher than 15; even the most accomplished French students typically settle for 10/20.
Moreover, timetabling in France may require early starts, with lectures beginning as early as 8am and concluding as late as 8 or 9pm. If you’re not accustomed to early mornings, it may be advisable to prepare accordingly.
8. Be A Wise Shopper
Beware, food shopping in France can be expensive enough to strain your budget. If you’re aiming to save money while still getting high-quality groceries, consider visiting local markets.
Many towns and cities host weekly fruit and vegetable markets, typically on Saturdays or Sundays. Opting for a local street market instead of the supermarket is an excellent way to save money while indulging in fresh, locally sourced produce.
9. Don’t Expect to be Fluent Straightaway
Language learning is a gradual process that requires patience and time. Upon arriving in France, it’s normal to experience moments of forgetfulness when speaking.
Many individuals may feel frustrated with their language abilities and yearn for the familiarity of their native tongue. However, it’s important to remember that achieving fluency necessitates two essential elements: time and consistent practice.
Engage in clubs and activities, enroll in a language-learning course at your local university, or participate in volunteering opportunities in France!
10. Make Friends
Building friendships is crucial for happiness. Although it might feel intimidating to practice your French with native speakers, immersing yourself in such interactions is undoubtedly the most effective way to integrate. Embrace the experience wholeheartedly and don’t shy away from making mistakes; after all, you’ll only have this opportunity once!
