Question 1

Q1: Which phone plan should I choose as a student?

Accepted Answer

No-contract plans are the most suitable. Rates: Free Mobile (5.99 €/month, 50 GB), B&You/RED/Sosh (~10 €, 80–100 GB), Lyca Mobile (~10 €, 50 GB, international calls). Budget operators use the same network as the major operators. For calls to Africa or Asia, Lyca Mobile is very competitive.

Question 2

Q2: How do I subscribe to an internet plan (box)?

Accepted Answer

Check fibre availability at your address on ariase.com, compare offers (Free, Orange, SFR, Bouygues from ~29.99 €/month) and order online with your RIB and proof of address. Installation time: 1–2 weeks. In CROUS residences, Wi-Fi is often included in the rent.

Question 3

Q3: Is home insurance mandatory?

Accepted Answer

Yes, home insurance (assurance habitation) is mandatory for all tenants in France (law of 6 July 1989). Cost: 30–100 €/year depending on the housing. Minimum coverage: tenant's liability risks (fire, water damage, explosion). Popular providers for students: HEYME (from 24 €/year), LMDE, Luko, MAIF. Provide the certificate to your landlord every year.

Question 4

Q4: How does the university restaurant (CROUS Resto U) work?

Accepted Answer

CROUS university restaurants are open Monday to Friday (hours vary by establishment). A balanced meal costs 3.30 € for all students, 1 € for scholarship holders. Payment is via the Izly prepaid card (rechargeable on izly.fr). Find all locations and menus on crous.fr. During school holidays, opening hours may be reduced.

Question 5

Q5: What student discounts are available in France?

Accepted Answer

The main student discounts are: transport (Imagine R in Île-de-France at 392.30 €/year, city student passes), culture (museums, cinemas often -30% to -50%), SNCF Carte Avantage Jeune (49 €/year, -30% minimum on TGV), Fnac or E.Leclerc student cards. Show your student card (carte d'étudiant) systematically to benefit from discounts.

Question 6

Q6: What are the emergency numbers in France?

Accepted Answer

Emergency numbers in France: 15 (SAMU — medical emergencies), 17 (Police), 18 (Sapeurs-Pompiers — firefighters/medical emergencies), 112 (European emergency number, multilingual). For non-urgent advice: doctor on duty 116 117. On mobile: all these numbers are free and accessible without credit or SIM card.

Question 7

Q7: How does the French healthcare system work?

Accepted Answer

France has a universal healthcare system (Sécurité Sociale). As an enrolled student, you are automatically affiliated. To be reimbursed: 1) Register on ameli.fr, 2) Choose a referring doctor (médecin traitant) in sector 1, 3) Consult and pay, 4) Receive reimbursement (70%) within a few days by bank transfer. A top-up insurance (mutuelle) covers the remaining 30% and dental/optical care.

Question 8

Q8: How do I open a library account at the university?

Accepted Answer

Present your student card (carte d'étudiant) and proof of enrolment at the university library reception. Many universities offer free digital library access (e-books, academic articles). The BU Numerique (universities) and Gallica (Bibliothèque nationale de France) give free access to thousands of digital resources.

Question 9

Q9: How does public transport work in France?

Accepted Answer

Each city has its own public transport network: RATP/IDFM in Paris (metro, RER, bus, tramway), TCL in Lyon, Tisséo in Toulouse, etc. Buy a student pass from your city's transport operator with your student card. In Paris, the Imagine R pass costs 392.30 €/year (all zones). Travel by train (SNCF): Carte Avantage Jeune (49 €/year) gives -30% minimum on all TGV.

Question 10

Q10: What is the Carte Vitale and how do I get one?

Accepted Answer

The Carte Vitale is the French health insurance card. It allows healthcare professionals to directly apply your reimbursements without you needing to submit claims. Register on ameli.fr (or etudiant-etranger.ameli.fr for international students), then request your Carte Vitale with a photo. The card arrives in 2–4 months. In the meantime, download your provisional rights certificate from your Ameli account.

Question 11

Q11: Is French difficult to learn for daily life?

Accepted Answer

French is essential for daily administrative life in France. The main difficulties: bureaucratic vocabulary (préfecture, ANEF, CAF, CPAM), formal/informal registers, and the complexity of administrative forms. Resources: Alliance Française (lessons, all levels), France Langue, university French language centres (CUEF), and free online courses (Duolingo, FUN MOOC). Level B1 is sufficient for most administrative procedures.

Question 12

Q12: What are the main supermarkets for students in France?

Accepted Answer

Budget supermarkets: Lidl and Aldi (lowest prices, quality products). Mid-range: E.Leclerc, Intermarché, Carrefour Market. City centre convenience: Monoprix, Franprix, Carrefour City. Organic: Biocoop, Naturalia. For fresh, affordable produce: weekly local markets (marchés). Average monthly food budget: 150–250 €/month for a student cooking at home.

Question 13

Q13: How does renting work in France?

Accepted Answer

Renting a private property in France involves: a written lease (contrat de location), a security deposit (one month's rent for unfurnished, two months for furnished), an entry/exit inventory of fixtures (état des lieux), and usually a guarantor (garant). International students use Visale (free, visale.fr) or Garantme (paid) as a substitute guarantor. Home insurance is mandatory from the day of entry.

Question 14

How do I enrol in a French university as an international student?

Accepted Answer

The procedure depends on your nationality. Non-EU students from the 73 covered countries use the Études en France platform from Campus France. Students from non-covered countries submit a Dossier Blanc (from abroad) or Dossier Vert (from within France). EU/EEA students use Parcoursup (L1) or Mon Master (master's).

Question 15

What is the difference between DAP and Hors-DAP?

Accepted Answer

The DAP (Demande d'Admission Préalable) is mandatory for international students in certain countries wishing to enrol in first year of a Bachelor's degree (L1) or architecture school; it requires the TCF DAP test and must be submitted before 15 December. The Hors-DAP procedure covers all other levels (L2, L3, master's, doctorate) with more flexible timelines.

Question 16

Do I need to go through Campus France?

Accepted Answer

Yes, if you reside in one of the 73 countries with the Études en France procedure (including Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia, China, India, Brazil, etc.). No, if you are an EU/EEA/Swiss national or if your country is not on the list. Check the applicable procedure with the Campus France office in your country.

Question 17

What is the CVEC and how do I pay it?

Accepted Answer

The CVEC (Contribution de Vie Étudiante et de Campus) is a mandatory contribution of 105 € (2025/2026) for all students in initial training. Pay it on cvec.etudiant.gouv.fr and download the certificate, which is required for university enrolment. CROUS scholarship holders, refugees, and Erasmus students are exempt.

Question 18

What are differentiated tuition fees?

Accepted Answer

Since 2019, French universities have applied a differentiated fee structure for non-EU international students: 2,770 € per year for a licence (Bachelor's), 3,770 € per year for a Master's, and 380 € per year for a doctorate. These rates are higher than the nominal rates paid by EU students (170 €/year for a licence). Many universities grant waivers (exonérations) based on merit or financial need — check with your target institution.

Question 19

What documents are required for the Campus France procedure?

Accepted Answer

Standard documents: valid passport, certified and sworn translations of all diplomas and transcripts, language certificates (TCF, DELF, IELTS, or TOEFL), letter of motivation, CV. Some programmes require recommendation letters. All documents in French or English. Certified translations must be done by a sworn translator (traducteur assermenté).

Question 20

What is Parcoursup and should I use it?

Accepted Answer

Parcoursup is the French national platform for applications to first-year Bachelor's (L1), BTS, and IUT programmes. EU/EEA/Swiss students use Parcoursup like French students. Non-EU students going through Campus France can also use Parcoursup in parallel for certain programmes. The platform opens in January and results are published in June.

Question 21

What is MonMaster and should I use it?

Accepted Answer

MonMaster is the national platform for applications to Master's programmes at French public universities. All students (French and international) must use MonMaster for public university Master's programmes. Applications open in February. Private schools and Grandes Écoles have their own separate admissions procedures.

Question 22

Can I apply to multiple universities at the same time?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Via the Études en France platform, you can apply to several institutions in the same dossier. Via Parcoursup, you can submit up to 10 wishes (vœux). Via MonMaster, you can apply to multiple Master's programmes. It is recommended to apply to several institutions to increase your chances of admission.

Question 23

What is an academic transcript and how should it be translated?

Accepted Answer

An academic transcript (relevé de notes) is an official document issued by your institution listing your grades and credits earned. It must be certified (original or certified copy), translated into French by a sworn translator (traducteur assermenté), and attached to your Campus France application. Some universities also accept translations in English.

Question 24

What are the French language levels required for study?

Accepted Answer

For a licence (Bachelor's): minimum B2 level (TCF score ≥ 400, DELF B2, IELTS equivalent). For a Master's: minimum C1 level recommended. The DAP specifically requires the TCF DAP, a special version designed for access to French universities. DELF and DALF are also widely accepted. Some programmes taught in English do not require French.

Question 25

What is the certificate of enrolment (certificat de scolarité)?

Accepted Answer

The certificat de scolarité is an official document issued by your French institution confirming your enrolment for the current academic year. It is required for: opening a bank account, applying for CAF benefits, obtaining a student transport pass, applying for the CVEC exemption (if applicable), and for residence permit renewal. Download it from your institution's student portal.

Question 26

Can I change my programme or institution after arriving in France?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but a change of programme may affect your residence permit. A change of institution in the same field is generally accepted. A significant change of programme (e.g. from engineering to humanities) requires justification and may be refused by the prefecture at residence permit renewal. Always inform both institutions and Campus France of any changes.

Question 27

What student associations can help me integrate?

Accepted Answer

Most French universities have international student associations (associations d'étudiants étrangers), BDE (student union), ESN (Erasmus Student Network), and welcome offices (Accueil Étrangers). The Welcome Desk at many universities centralises administrative support for international arrivals. Student associations organise integration events, city tours, language tandems, and buddy programmes.

Question 28

What is the Grande École system and how do I apply?

Accepted Answer

Grandes Écoles are elite institutions specialising in engineering (Polytechnique, CentraleSupélec, Mines Paris), business (HEC, ESSEC, ESCP), or public service (Sciences Po, ENA). Admission is highly selective: competitive entrance exams (concours) for French students, or international admission tracks (Admission sur Titre, AST). International applicants apply directly to each school with a specific dossier. Tuition fees are significantly higher than public universities.

Question 29

How do I open a bank account in France?

Accepted Answer

You will need a RIB for all administrative procedures. Required documents: passport, visa or residence permit, proof of address, and student certificate. Traditional banks (BNP, Société Générale, La Banque Postale) are recommended. Neobanks (Revolut, N26) open in 10 minutes without a French proof of address.

Question 30

What is a RIB and why do I need one?

Accepted Answer

The RIB (Relevé d'Identité Bancaire) contains your bank account details (IBAN, BIC). It is essential for receiving your CAF benefits, salary, healthcare reimbursements, and for all direct debits. Download it from your bank's app or online portal.

Question 31

What is the CVEC?

Accepted Answer

The CVEC (Contribution de Vie Étudiante et de Campus) is a mandatory contribution of 105 € (2025/2026) for all students in initial training. Pay it on cvec.etudiant.gouv.fr and download the certificate essential for university enrolment. CROUS scholarship holders, refugees, and Erasmus exchange students are exempt.

Question 32

How do I apply for APL/ALS housing benefits?

Accepted Answer

Apply online at caf.fr as soon as you sign your lease. Documents required: lease, bank account details (RIB), proof of identity, landlord information. Processing time: 1–2 months. Benefits are not retroactive — every month of delay is a lost payment. The amount depends on your rent, city, and income (typically 80–250 €/month).

Question 33

What is the CROUS scholarship and how do I apply?

Accepted Answer

The CROUS scholarship is a means-tested grant for students in financial need. Amounts range from 120 € to 1,020 €/month depending on the level (échelon 0 to 7). Apply via the DSE (Dossier Social Étudiant) on messervices.etudiant.gouv.fr between January and May. Benefits: reduced CVEC, CROUS restaurant at 1 €, priority access to CROUS housing.

Question 34

Can I work as a student in France?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Non-EU students with a valid student residence permit can work up to 964 hours per year (60% of the legal annual working time = 1,607 hours). No prior work authorisation is needed — your employer simply verifies your residence permit. The gross minimum wage (SMIC) is 12.02 €/hour in 2026.

Question 35

What is the minimum wage (SMIC) in France in 2026?

Accepted Answer

The gross SMIC (Salaire Minimum Interprofessionnel de Croissance) is 12.02 €/hour gross in 2026, equivalent to 1,823.03 € gross per month for a full-time position (35 hours/week). Students working part-time earn a prorated amount. Net take-home pay is approximately 10–10.50 €/hour after social contributions.

Question 36

What scholarships are available for international students in France?

Accepted Answer

Main scholarships: CROUS scholarship (means-tested, up to 1,020 €/month), Eiffel Excellence Scholarship (government-funded, 1,181–1,400 €/month for Master's and 1,700 €/month for doctorates), regional scholarships (varies by region), bilateral agreements (Algerian government, etc.), and scholarships from your home country or international organisations (World Bank, Aga Khan, etc.).

Question 37

Do I need to file a tax return in France?

Accepted Answer

If you have worked in France and earned income, you must file a tax return on impots.gouv.fr between April and June each year. If you earned nothing, you can still voluntarily file to obtain an avis de non-imposition (non-taxation notice), required for CAF applications, C2S, and Visale. Students under 25 may sometimes be declared as dependants on their parents' return.

Question 38

What is the Aide d'Urgence Annuelle (Emergency Annual Aid)?

Accepted Answer

The CROUS provides annual emergency aid (Aide d'Urgence Annuelle, AUA) for students in exceptional financial difficulty. Amount: 100–3,500 €. Application: directly to your CROUS with supporting documents (bank statements, proof of difficult situation). Processing: 2–3 weeks. This aid is non-repayable and is distinct from the CROUS scholarship.

Question 39

How does the Aide Flash (emergency CROUS aid) work?

Accepted Answer

The Aide Flash is urgent emergency financial assistance from the CROUS for students in acute financial difficulty, disbursed within 72 hours. Amount: 500 €. Application: via the emergency procedure at your CROUS or university social services (SUMPPS or SCAS). No conditions on academic results. Renewable if the situation persists.

Question 40

What is an imposition notice (avis d'imposition) and how do I get one?

Accepted Answer

The avis d'imposition (or avis de non-imposition for non-taxpayers) is the annual tax assessment document issued by the French tax authority. It is required for: CAF applications, CROUS scholarship dossier, C2S/CSS application, Visale application, certain bank account openings. Obtain it on impots.gouv.fr after filing your tax return (or voluntary non-declaration for non-taxpayers).

Question 41

Can I receive state aid if I am not on a student visa?

Accepted Answer

Some CAF benefits (APL, ALS) are accessible to students with a valid residence permit regardless of visa category. CROUS scholarships are generally reserved for students regularly enrolled in an initial degree programme. Emergency aids (AUA, Aide Flash) are accessible to all students in financial difficulty enrolled in a French institution, regardless of nationality.

Question 42

How do I send money from abroad to France (for parents)?

Accepted Answer

Best options for international transfers to France: Wise (Transferwise) — competitive exchange rates, low fees (0.4–0.7%). Western Union/MoneyGram — widespread but expensive fees. SWIFT bank transfers — reliable but costly (10–30 €/transfer). Revolut — free transfers between Revolut accounts. Recommend: open a Wise account and share your French bank details with your family for the most cost-effective transfers.

Question 43

How do I register with Social Security as an international student?

Accepted Answer

Go to etudiant-etranger.ameli.fr, create an account and provide: student certificate, copy of passport, visa, birth certificate, and RIB. You will receive a provisional social security number. European students can first use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

Question 44

What is the CPAM?

Accepted Answer

The CPAM (Caisse Primaire d'Assurance Maladie) is the local body that manages your health coverage: reimbursements, issuing the Carte Vitale, rights certificates, and CSS applications. Contact it via your Ameli account, by phone on 3646, or in person at an agency.

Question 45

How do I get my Carte Vitale?

Accepted Answer

Register on etudiant-etranger.ameli.fr. After your dossier is validated, the CPAM sends a Carte Vitale application form to return with a passport photo. The card arrives in 2–4 months. In the meantime, download your provisional rights certificate from your Ameli account.

Question 46

What is a médecin traitant (referring doctor) and why is it important?

Accepted Answer

The médecin traitant is the general practitioner you declare as your primary doctor on your Ameli account. Without a declared referring doctor, your reimbursement rate drops from 70% to 30% for consultations. Declare one online on ameli.fr after your first consultation. Choose a general practitioner (médecin généraliste) in sector 1 (no excess fees) close to your home.

Question 47

How does a medical consultation work in France?

Accepted Answer

A consultation with a sector 1 general practitioner costs 26.50 € (2026 rate). With a declared referring doctor, the Sécurité Sociale reimburses 70% (18.55 €). Your mutuelle covers the remaining 30% (7.95 €). With the Carte Vitale, reimbursement is automatic within 5 days by bank transfer. Without the card, use a provisional certificate and submit claims on ameli.fr.

Question 48

What are the emergency services in France?

Accepted Answer

SAMU (emergency medical service): call 15 for medical emergencies. SMUR (mobile emergency units): on-site medical intervention. Hospital Accident and Emergency (Urgences): go to the nearest hospital for serious injuries or sudden illness. Free consultation for life-threatening emergencies. For non-urgent situations, consult a general practitioner (3.24 € co-payment without mutuelle).

Question 49

What is the CSS (Complémentaire Santé Solidaire)?

Accepted Answer

The CSS (formerly CMU-C) is a free or near-free top-up insurance (mutuelle) for people with very low incomes (below approximately 900 €/month for a single person in 2026). Scholarship students and students in precarious situations may be eligible. Apply on ameli.fr. Coverage: routine care, dental, optical, and hearing within defined ceilings.

Question 50

How do I get dental care in France?

Accepted Answer

Consult a registered dentist (chirurgien-dentiste), who must be in sector 1 or 2 to limit excess fees. A consultation costs 23–30 € (sector 1), reimbursed 70% by Sécurité Sociale. Some treatments are 100% covered (100% Santé dental care reform). For major dental work (prosthetics, implants), a mutuelle is strongly recommended to avoid very high out-of-pocket costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Daily Life FAQ for International Students in France

FAQ — University Enrollment for Students in France

Finance & Benefits FAQ for Students in France

Health & Social Security FAQ — Students in France

Housing FAQ for International Students in France

Legal Rights FAQ for International Students in France

FAQ — International Students in France

FAQ — Student Transport in France

FAQ — Visa & Residence Permit for Students in France

FAQ — Student Work in France: Rights & Procedures