Top 10 Tips for New International Students in France
Are you a new international student in France? Or are you thinking of studying in France? Either way, you’ll want to read this post! In it, we list the top 10 tips for making your experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible. From finding housing to adjusting to the culture, we cover everything you need to know. So read on – and enjoy your time in France!
10 Tips for New International Students in France
There’s a lot to consider when moving to a new country as an international student. To make sure you have the best experience possible, here are 10 tips for adjusting to life in France:
- Stay up To Date with The Local Health Guidelines
- Find Your Accommodation
- Open a French Bank Account
- Register for Social Security
- Get to Know the Local Language
- Learn About Local Customs
- Find Out About Student Discounts
- Make Connections with Other Students
- Familiarise Yourself With The City or Town You’re Studying In
- Explore France
Stay up To Date with The Local Health Guidelines
The current pandemic means extra health guidelines to keep in mind – whether wearing a mask when in public spaces or being tested for Covid-19. Make sure you stay up to date with the local rules and regulations so that you can stay safe while enjoying your time in France. It’s important to stay informed and follow the health guidelines of your host country.
Find Your Accommodation
Finding accommodation in France can be a bit challenging, especially if you’re new to the country. It usually takes time to find a suitable place that fits your budget and location preference. Do lots of research online and ask other students for advice on where they stayed when they first arrived. It’s a good idea to start looking for accommodation for at least three months before you plan to arrive in France.
Open a French Bank Account
Access to money is essential while studying abroad, so opening a French bank account as soon as possible is important. This will make life much easier when it comes to paying bills or making transfers back home. Start researching banks before you arrive in France so that you are well-prepared with the necessary documents needed to open an account.
Register For Social Security
If you are planning to study in France for longer than three months, you will need to register for social security. This is important as it covers health expenses while you’re living there. Make sure to check the requirements and make your application as soon as possible after arriving. Moreover, be sure to keep your social security documents safe in case you need them for any other purpose.
Get To Know The Local Language
Learning French is essential for navigating everyday life in France. Even if you don’t become proficient in the language, having some basic understanding will make it much easier to get around. Consider taking classes or downloading language-learning apps to give yourself a head start. Furthermore, learning the language will also help you make new connections and better enjoy your time in France.
Learn About Local Customs
Every culture has different customs and ways of doing things, so it’s important to spend some time researching the French way of life. This will help you feel more comfortable interacting with locals or travelling around the country. Also, understanding the country’s history and different cultural events will provide you with more insight into French culture. It’s a good idea to spend some time familiarising yourself with the culture before you arrive in France.
Find Out About Student Discounts
Many places in France offer student discounts for both international and local students. Make sure to ask about these before making any purchases, as they can save you a lot of money! Moreover, some universities offer discounts on local transport and accommodation. It’s always worth checking to see if your institution has any such offers. It’s also a good idea to ask other students in your area if they know of any discounts that you can take advantage of.
Make Connections With Other Students
Making friends with other international students is one of the best ways to ensure that your experience in France is enjoyable. You can start by joining Facebook groups for international students studying in France or attending orientation events at your university. Don’t be afraid to reach out to other students and make new friends! Moreover, having a network of peers can be extremely helpful when it comes to getting advice on where to go and what to do.
Familiarise Yourself With The City Or Town You’re Studying In
When you arrive in France, take some time to explore your new city or town. Take a walk around the neighbourhood, visit local attractions, and get to know the people who live there. This will help you feel more connected to your new home and better understand the culture. It’s also a great way to make new friends! Moreover, exploring the area will give you more insight into how life works in France and help you adjust to your new home.
Explore France
Last but not least – explore! France has many fascinating places to discover, from picturesque villages to bustling cities. So find some time between studying and exploring your city or town to venture out into other regions of France. You won’t regret it, whether it’s for a weekend getaway or a weeklong vacation! It’s a beautiful way to taste the local culture, meet new people, and create priceless memories.
These are merely a few pieces of advice for studying abroad in France. Be careful to conduct your own research and seek advice from locals as well. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to have an enjoyable and memorable experience studying abroad in France.
Bottom Line
Studying in France is an amazing opportunity and should be taken seriously. Make sure you research before arriving, understand the local culture and connect with other international students. With a little bit of planning and preparation, you’ll be able to make the most out of your experience in France!
