Hi, it's Rémi! If you're a citizen of the European Union, the European Economic Area or Switzerland, and you want to study in France, the good news is that the formalities are much simpler than for students from outside Europe. But there are a few things you need to remember. Here's everything you need to know to prepare for your stay.
No visa required for European students
As a student from theEU,EEA, Switzerland,Andorra or Monaco, you don 't need a visa or residence permit to study in France. You are free to live, study, travel and work in France.
However, after 5 years of continuous legal residence, you can apply for a permanent residence permit in France. This is not compulsory, but it can facilitate certain administrative procedures (housing, employment, etc.).
How do I enroll in a school in France?
European students follow the same procedures as French students:
For the first year of a bachelor's degree :
- Application on the national Parcoursup platform, between January and March.
For a master's degree :
- Registration via the Mon Master platform, recently set up to centralize applications.
For other levels (2nd or 3rd year of bachelor's degree, doctorate, BTS, etc.):
- You need to contact the relevant establishment (university, school, IUT...) directly. Each structure has its own criteria.
Don't forget to check admission criteria and language requirements. Most courses are taught in French, except for international programs.
Documents to prepare before you arrive
Even without a visa, you need to prepare several important documents for your installation:
- A valid identity card or passport
- Proof of enrolment or pre-registration in a higher education establishment
- Proof of income: the recommended amount is at least 615 euros per month (the minimum threshold to be considered autonomous).
- Proof of accommodation: rental agreement, certificate of accommodation, hall of residence reservation, etc.
- Proof of health coverage: European health insurance card or French social security registration
These documents may also be required to obtain housing benefits, open a bank account or register for certain activities.
Health: an essential step
If you are affiliated to a social security scheme in your home country, you can use your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC ) to receive treatment in France.
If you plan to stay for more than 3 months, we strongly advise you to register with the French student social security system, via etudiant-etranger.ameli.fr. Registration is free for European students and gives you the same access to reimbursed healthcare as French students.
You can also take out a complementary health insurance plan, often offered by schools or student associations.
Working while studying
European students are free to work in France during their stay. There is no legally imposed hours quota (unlike non-EU students), as long as your job does not interfere with your studies.
Working can help you finance part of your stay, and it's also a great way to improve your French and meet new people.
Bonus: some practical tips for your installation
Open a bank account
Having a French bank account is essential to pay your rent, receive CAF benefits or your salary if you work.
Apply for housing assistance (CAF)
Yes, European students are entitled to housing assistance from the CAF (Caisse d'allocations familiales). The amount depends on the accommodation, the rent, your resources... Apply online at caf.fr.
Take advantage of student benefits
You are entitled to reduced fares for transport, museums, cinemas, university restaurants... Remember to ask for your student card as soon as you arrive.
Networking and social life
Take part in activities organized by your school, BDE (student office), Erasmus or international associations. It's the best way to meet people and integrate faster.
Learn or improve your French
Although some courses are in English, everyday life is in French. You can take FLE (French as a Foreign Language) courses offered by universities or language centers.
