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Study in France: Housing & Living Costs

Finding a student accommodation in France and more specifically in big cities like Paris, Lyon, Toulouse or Marseille can be a stressful situation, especially when you have a particular budget in mind. Overall, living cost in France is higher in the capital Paris, but quite more affordable and student friendly if you choose to study in a smaller city.

Jun 1, 2017

Finding student accommodation in France and, more specifically, in big cities like Paris, Lyon, Toulouse or Marseille can be stressful, especially when you have a particular budget in mind. Overall, living costs in France are higher in  Paris, but more affordable and student-friendly in smaller cities, like Nantes, Rouen, Grenoble, Montpellier and Lille.

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The most popular accommodation options for students in France are:

  • University Residence Halls: These student residences are managed by France’s regional centers for student services known as CROUS. They are publicly owned and are a top affordable accommodation choice among international students. Rooms in Paris are around 400 EUR and for other cities around 200 EUR.  
  • Student Residences managed by private companies: Getting student accommodation through CROUS can be competitive. If you are not able to get a room there, then private student residences should be your next option. They are a bit more expensive than CROUS but provide a range of advantages and facilities.
  • Private Apartments: Renting a studio apartment is another option if you want to live alone. However, the cost is much higher and you would be expected to pay around 800 EUR for an apartment in Paris and 400 EUR in other cities. 
  • Shared Apartments: Living costs can be significantly reduced if you decide to live in a shared apartment. Splitting the rent and utilities will save you a lot of money. Plus, you will be able to make new friends!
  • Living with a French family/Elderly resident: A very popular option in France is to live with a French family. There are families who provide lower or even free rent in exchange for assistance around the house. Is there a better way to practice French and immerse yourself in the French culture?

The living cost in France depends mostly on the city you choose to study in and, of course, your lifestyle. Studying in Paris would cost you more than in a smaller student city. On average, groceries will cost you maximum 400 EUR per month, internet connection 26 EUR per month, electricity below 50 EUR and health insurance 25 EUR per month. In any case, don’t forget to make use of your student discounts in transportation, sightseeing and eating expenses. In addition, CROUS, except accommodation, provides restaurants where you can eat for less than 5 EUR. How cool is that? 

Average living costs in France: 

Meal14 €
Coffee2,83 €
Beer6 €
Cinema Ticket10 €
Monthly Rentfrom 500 to 1300 €
Monthly Transport50 €

Study in France - Overview

Over 300,000 international students choose France as their study abroad destination every year. Click here to learn why.

Education System

Want to learn about how the higher education system works in France? France is a popular destination for a variety of students, given its diverse programs, affordable education and its culture and history. Take a minute to find out more about the structure of the education system in France!

Student Visas 

Do you need a visa to enter France to study? Learn more about the student visa process, and what you need to enter the country, depending on your citizen status. You will also be required to bring certain documents with you to passport control at the airport, which we cover as well.

Tuition Fees & Scholarships

Tuition fees for degree programs in France may vary. Both European and international students are expected to pay tuition fees in France. To cover the rest of the costs, there’s plenty of scholarship opportunities available.

Language & Culture

France is a country rich in history and culture. Find out more about what the country offers in terms of language, culture, and more!

Meet the English Requirements

Make sure you're ready to start studying abroad in France. French schools will normally want to see evidence of your English-language abilities. The TOEFL® test is the preferred test of many French schools, helping your application to stand out. Find out more about the TOEFL® test and how it can help you.

ETS, TOEFL and TOEFL iBT are registered trademarks of ETS.

Application Process

All countries have specific admissions requirements for students to gain acceptance into a university. Learn more about the ins and outs of admission to programs in France, and what you need to apply, depending on your citizenship.

Programs

Ready to look at education in France? Use our search engine to find and compare top programs in France today!

Keystone Team

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The Keystone Team is comprised of experienced educators and advisors dedicated to providing valuable resources and advice to students all over the world.