Things You Need to Know before Studying abroad in Paris
Ah, Paris! The City of Love for many tourists, but for many students the city of infinite knowledge. As a student, moving away from home and going abroad to a university in Paris, université as the French call it, can be an exciting but daunting prospect. Well, hopefully with the following tips it will be nothing but fun!
Paperwork
Be ready for a ridiculous amount of paperwork. Before leaving home make multiple copies of every document relating to your education and life thus far. The French love the dossier, a collection of every written official document concerning your existence on this earth, and it has to be complete.
At least 8 months before heading to the City of Light, you should start searching for your dream university.
Most higher education institutions require proof of French language proficiency, typically at the B2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This certification can be obtained through the DELF B2, DALF C1, or other recognized qualifications.
You will also need a copy of your birth certificate and high school diploma (BAC), which must be translated. Once you have gathered all these documents, you will need to visit the Parcoursup website to continue the application process. Parcoursup is the official portal for students applying to the first year of higher education in France.
Living Arrangements
Once the tedious paperwork is finished, then comes the hard part: the accommodation.
Searching for accommodation in Paris can sometimes feel like looking for a needle in a haystack. However, before losing hope, here are a few tips that might make your search a bit easier.
First and foremost, prepare a strong application file. This file should be complete and include several copies so you can quickly respond to landlords’ requests. An essential document to include is a guarantor’s letter of commitment. This letter, written by your parents or another guarantor, confirms their willingness to cover your financial needs, particularly the rent, if necessary.
While you might be a student on a tight budget, your ambition and determination can make all the difference. By following these tips, you’ll improve your chances of finding a place to stay in the French capital. Good luck with your search!
Speaking of which, we recommend that you read our post on all you need to know about international guarantors for a furnished rental in Paris!
The internet will become your new best friend. Paris is pricey, but with a bit of perseverance and sacrifice (flat sharing), you’ll find your new home in no time. Remember, if you get through the selection process you’ll need to make a decision immediately, and it’s first come, first served. Fortunately, there are websites, such as Lodgis.com, here to help you find your dream studio. Besides, the agency offers a large range of furnished apartments to share in Paris!
Paris
So you’ve got into your school and settled into your new bachelor/bachelorette pad. Congratulations! Do not throw away that last copy of your dossier though, you’ll need it to open a bank account to pay for the studio and the school fees. One of the best things about Paris is that a good school is almost never expensive, and being a student comes with loads of discounts on things like transport, museums and fast-food.
Plus, if things get really tight, ALL students, including foreigners, are eligible for the CAF government aid. Isn’t life sweet?
Bienvenue à Paris, my friend!.
Are you looking for a studio in Paris?
Lodgis offers a fabulous selection of furnished apartments for rent. We offer over 7,500 properties, from studio to family apartments with period features, spacious dining and living areas, terraces, elevator access…and just about anything!
